Where to Go to Get Out of Atlanta for the Weekend

Wondering where to go to get out of Atlanta for the weekend? While Atlanta could be a close second for the city that never sleeps, sometimes that’s exactly what you want to do – get away from it all and just relax. These are three of the top spots in Georgia to get back to what matters.

St. Simons Island – 5 hours from Atlanta

St. Simons Island is the largest of the Golden Isles and combines the best of both worlds – man-made wonders and natural splendor. You’ll find championship golf courses and quaint, Old World-styled shops. The oak trees and marshlands are adorned in Spanish Moss. Conservation is a key attribute of the area, which you’ll find most adequately on display at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. Feeling a bit indulgent? Book your stay at an all-inclusive resort on neighboring Little St. Simons. From Atlanta to St. Simons is about a five-hour drive, so rest up and head out early to enjoy.

Tybee Island – 4.5 hours from Atlanta

Another island making this list is just outside of Savannah, about 4.5 hours from Atlanta. Sandra Bullock fans – take note: when she first saw the lighthouse at the center of Tybee Island, she knew she needed to have a home here. This lighthouse no longer guides seafaring ships and is instead a museum complete with history of the island. Have some comfy shoes with you and take the 200 stairs up to the best views of the Atlantic. Contact Sundial Charters to book your own boat for a day and get out into those waters. Little Tybee Island, which is actually larger than its sister isle, is uninhabited and a great place to explore. You can scout for dolphins on your way to Little Tybee and relax ashore at the lesser-frequented Mid Beach.

Lake Oconee – 1.5 hours from Atlanta

If you have less time on your hands and want a shorter drive, the hour-and-20 it takes to get to Lake Oconee from Atlanta will have you on the road and having a blast in no time. Lake Oconee is actually a man-made lake created in the 70s thanks to a dam project. The reservoir has roughly 400 miles of lovely waterfront and is the place to bring your water toys. Don’t have any? Plenty of local shops offer jet ski and boat rentals. If you enjoy golfing, putt around Jack Nicklaus’ club, Great Waters, that he designed in 1992. Set up base camp in nearby Greensboro at the Ritz Carlton Reynolds. For a fun night out, try Oconee Brewing Company’s craft beers.

As much as the bright lights and bustle keep life interesting, sometimes you have to venture away from the city and get back to basics. Consider these weekend getaway ideas next time you can’t wait to get out of Atlanta for the weekend (or anytime).