If you’re anything like me, the ocean is calling your name during the summer. If a week-long beach trip isn’t possible for you this summer, you’re in luck! Chattanooga is a great location in terms of beaches. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can leave town on a Friday afternoon and be at the coast in six hours! That’s the perfect distance for a weekend getaway to get your toes in the sand. Here’s a list of the beaches closest to the Scenic City.
15 Beaches Close to Chattanooga
Tybee Island
Tybee Island, on the coast of Georgia, is the closest beach to Chattanooga, clocking in at 5 hours and 49 minutes away. Tybee is a beautiful little beach town on the Atlantic that has everything a beachcomber could want. It’s got great food, a beautiful lighthouse, and it’s just down the road from Savannah. It’s the perfect place to spend a few days this summer.
Pensacola, Florida
Pensacola, Florida comes in at 5 hours and 55 minutes away from Chattanooga. This Panhandle spot is known for its white sand beaches and clear water. With its heavy ties to the Navy, your family will love to check out this cool beach city.
Hilton Head, South Carolina
Hilton Head, South Carolina clocks in at 6 hours and 5 minutes from Chattanooga. This island on the Atlantic is a great spot for families. There are nature trails, alligators, great food, and beautiful scenery. If you’re a golfer, it’s also a great spot to play 18 holes.Â
Santa Rosa Beach, FloridaÂ
Santa Rosa Beach, Florida is 6 hours and 13 minutes away from Chattanooga. This little gem is on the famous 30A, and is known for its natural beauty. It’s been boasted as one of the best beach towns for families to enjoy.
Destin, Florida
Destin, Florida comes in at 6 hours and 15 minutes away from Chattanooga. Even though it’s in Florida, it’s definitely doable for a weekend getaway. Known for its beautiful clear water, Destin is a destination where the whole family would be happy. It’s also a great place to fish. Â
Dauphin Island, Alabama
Dauphin Island, Alabama is 6 hours and 17 minutes away from Chattanooga. If you’re a fan of the Gulf Coast and a quiet seaside town, Dauphin Island would be the perfect place for you. It has some of the best sunsets I’ve ever seen, and is known for its fishing.
Orange Beach, Alabama
Orange Beach, Alabama is 6 hours and 23 minutes from Chattanooga. It’s situated on the Gulf, and is a great place to take your family. Besides having a beautiful beach, it’s full of mini-golf, arcades, and go-kart tracks to keep your thrilled seekers entertained.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Gulf Shores, Alabama is 6 hours and 24 minutes away from Chattanooga. It’s another great spot on the Gulf, and it caters more to families than Tybee or Dauphin Island do. It has a great pier, golf, and kid friendly dining options that will make the whole family happy!
St. Simons Island
St. Simons Island is 6 hours and 35 minutes from Chattanooga. It’s a great family island off the coast of Georgia. It’s known for its golfing and beautiful Live Oak trees. There are plenty of great restaurants, and a lighthouse to explore as well.
Panama City Beach
Panama City Beach is on the Gulf Coast of Florida and clocks in at 6 hours and 41 minutes from Chattanooga. Once known as a spring breaker’s playground, Panama has worked to clean up its image and become a fun place for families to vacation.
Jekyll Island, Georgia
Jekyll Island, Georgia is 6 hours and 44 minutes from Chattanooga. It is a beautiful spot off the coast of Georgia. The barrier island is full of nature trails and spectacular views. It’s a quieter town, but with it being close to St. Simmons Island, there’s plenty to do within driving distance.
Jacksonville, Florida
Jacksonville, Florida is 6 hours and 55 minutes from Chattanooga. This city on the Atlantic gives you the best of both worlds: a big city and the beach. Your family definitely won’t get bored here!
Ameila Island
Amelia Island is just past the Georgia line in Florida. It clocks in at 7 hours and 8 minutes from Chattanooga. This quiet island has uncrowded beaches, open outdoor spaces, and plenty of nature for your family to enjoy.
Fernandina Beach
Another great place close to Amelia Island is Fernandina Beach. It also clocks in at 7 hours and 8 minutes away. It’s known for its easy living and laid back lifestyle. It has great golf, great restaurants, and great shopping.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is 7 hours and 26 minutes from Chattanooga. This is the ultimate getaway from the entire family! There are endless options when it comes to food and family entertainment. This is also a great place to look for seashells. If you have a golfer in your family, they will be in heaven here.
I hope you’re able to take advantage of one of these great locations and enjoy the sun and saltwater this summer!
