15 Best Beaches Near Atlanta: Closest Ocean & Lake Getaways (Sorted by Drive Time)

Living in Atlanta has its perks, but let’s be honest: the traffic is brutal and the ocean isn't exactly next door. If you are craving salt water or a quick lakeside dip, you don't need to fly to the Caribbean. You just need a strategic exit plan.

I have realized that most people get stuck in the Tybee vs. Hilton Head debate and forget the pristine lakes just 45 minutes from the Perimeter. Or they drive 6 hours to a beach only to realize dogs aren't allowed.

Below is your ultimate road trip list, sorted by drive time, from quick afternoon escape to long weekend road trip.

Quick Comparison: Distance & Drive Times from Atlanta

Before you pack the cooler, check the real commitment levels here. Times assume you are leaving Atlanta after 9:30 AM to avoid the morning rush.

Closest Lake Beaches (Under 1-2 Hours)

If you don't have the energy for a 5-hour trek, these freshwater spots are your best bet. They might not have ocean waves, but they have sand, sun, and are surprisingly clean.

Acworth Beach at Cauble Park

Located on the north shore of Lake Acworth, this is arguably the closest public beach to Atlanta. It is widely known as a family favorite because the water is calm and roped off for swimmers.

There are no motorized boats allowed on this side of the lake, which makes it much safer and quieter than Lanier. You will find a white sandy beach, restrooms, and plenty of picnic spots.

• Parking Fee: Free on weekdays; $20 (card only) for non-residents on weekends during peak season (April–September).
• Pet Policy: Dogs are not allowed on the sandy beach area but are welcome in the park on a leash.
• Pro Tip: Arrive before 11:00 AM on Saturdays; the parking lot hits capacity fast.

[img src="uploads/[year]/05/acworth-beach-cauble-park-atlanta.webp cp=Families enjoying the calm water at Acworth Beach in Cauble Park during a sunny weekend near Atlanta.\]

Fort Yargo State Park Beach

Situated in Winder, this park offers a more rugged experience. The beach here is part of a 260-acre reservoir. It is less commercial than Acworth and feels more like a true escape into nature.

Beyond swimming, this is a top-tier spot for glamping. They have yurts right by the water, so you can turn a day trip into an overnight adventure without pitching a tent.

• Entrance Fee: $5 parking pass per vehicle.
• Pet Policy: Dogs are allowed on trails and campsites but strictly prohibited on the swimming beach.
• Facilities: Boat rental is available if you want to kayak or paddleboard.

Lake Lanier Islands (Margaritaville)

This is the big one. If you want action, music, and a resort-style feel, heading to Margaritaville at Lanier Islands is the move. It is not just a beach; it is an entertainment complex with a water park, restaurants, and bars.

The beach area, known as LandShark Landing, features a large stretch of white sand. It is perfect if you want to sip a cocktail while the kids run wild on the water slides.

• Cost: Access to the beach usually requires a daily admission fee (prices vary by season, approx. $15-$20 just for beach access, more for water park).
• Vibe: High energy, crowded on weekends, and loud music.

Best Ocean Beaches on the Atlantic Coast

Heading east to the Atlantic is usually an easier drive than going south to the Gulf because you largely stick to I-16.

Tybee Island, GA (Savannah’s Beach)

Tybee is the closest ocean beach to Atlanta in terms of pure mileage. It has a funky, unpretentious vibe that I love. It is not about luxury resorts; it is about seafood shacks, the pier, and the lighthouse.

South Beach is where the action is—the pier, the pavilion, and the crowds. North Beach is quieter, close to the lighthouse, and better for shell collecting.

• Drive Time: A solid 4.5 hours if you dodge rush hour in Macon.
• Parking: Strictly enforced. You will pay about $4.00 per hour via the ParkTybee app. Do not risk it; they ticket aggressively.
• Pet Policy: Strictly NO dogs on the beach year-round. If you bring Fido, he has to stay on the pavement or at the dog park.

Hilton Head Island, SC

Just across the border from Savannah, Hilton Head feels world's apart from Tybee. It is manicured, gated, and very bike-friendly. The vibe here is upscale relaxation.

The beaches are wide, flat, and packed/hard sand, which makes them perfect for biking right on the water at low tide.

• Best Public Access: Coligny Beach Park. It has excellent facilities, changing rooms, and swings, and it is right across from a plaza with restaurants.
• Pet Policy: More flexible than Tybee. Dogs are allowed on the beach, but there are restrictions between 10 AM and 5 PM during the peak summer months (Memorial Day to Labor Day).

Driftwood Beach (Jekyll Island)

For photographers and nature lovers, this is the holy grail. Located on the north end of Jekyll Island, this beach is covered in massive, weathered oak trees that have fallen into the sand. It looks like a movie set.

It is not the best beach for swimming due to the snaggy trees in the water, but for walking, picnics, and photos, it is unbeatable.

• State Park Fee: You pay a toll to enter Jekyll Island (approx. $10 daily pass).
• Pet Policy: Extremely dog-friendly! Dogs are allowed year-round on most Jekyll beaches as long as they are leashed.

Best Ocean Beaches on the Gulf Coast (Florida & Alabama)

The Gulf Coast (Panhandle) has that sugar-white sand and emerald water that the Atlantic side lacks. The trade-off is a slightly longer drive and often heavier traffic on country roads once you leave the interstate.

Panama City Beach (PCB), FL

PCB has shed some of its old college spring break reputation, but it is still lively. The water here is stunningly clear. If you want pristine beaches with plenty of shopping at Pier Park, this is your spot.

• Drive Time: Expect 5.5 to 6 hours. The route through Alabama can get slow.
• Dog Beach: PCB has a dedicated dog-friendly section (Dog Beach at Pier Park), which is a huge plus compared to other Florida beaches that ban pets entirely.

Destin & Henderson Beach State Park

Destin is famous for the Emerald Coast water. It is beautiful but traffic on Hwy 98 can be a nightmare. For a serene experience away from the high-rises, go straight to Henderson Beach State Park.

You get the same white sand but with natural dunes and privacy.

• Entrance Fee: Approx. $6 per vehicle.
• Best For: Families who want the Caribbean look without the flight.

Essential Packing List for Your Road Trip

Since you are driving from Atlanta, you have the luxury of trunk space. Do not rely on overpriced beach shops for these essentials:

• Sunpass / Peach Pass: Useful if you take Florida toll roads, though most routes to Tybee/Hilton Head don't require them.
• Cooler with Wheels: You will likely park and walk. Dragging a heavy cooler across hot sand is miserable without wheels.
• Baby Powder: The oldest local trick. Sprinkle it on sandy legs and feet before getting in the car; the sand falls right off. Crucial for keeping your car clean on the drive home.