Explore the Peach State: A Guide to The Best Vacation Destinations in Georgia
From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic coast, Georgia has a whole lot of Southern charm and landscape diversity. Whether you’re looking to relax in a cozy mountain cabin or soak up the sun on a sandy beach, the state offers countless ways to unwind and explore. Keep reading to uncover the best vacation destinations in Georgia and find the perfect place to stay for your getaway.
Big Canoe
Big Canoe is a private, gated community in the Blue Ridge Mountains, just an hour outside Atlanta. It features 20 miles of hiking trails, three waterfalls, and three lakes, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
Big Canoe locals and 100 Collection™ partners Deborah Joy Torrance and Wynn Jones recommend soaking up the area's natural beauty on your visit. One of their favorite activities is going off roading or walking on the Jeep trail to see the preserved historic buildings.
After a day of hiking or golfing at the Big Canoe Golf Course, stop by the Big Canoe Clubhouse for a lakeside dining experience. The menu features hand-tossed pizzas, small plates, and fine dining staples like steak.
Big Canoe Vacation Rentals
Deborah and Wynn’s Mountain Home Rentals of Georgia offers a curated collection of vacation homes in Big Canoe. Each mountain retreat provides beautiful outdoor spaces to relax, gorgeous decorations, and elevated amenities like Peloton bikes and hot tubs.
Blue Ridge
Blue Ridge, just 90 miles north of Atlanta in the Chattahoochee National Forest, features 300 miles of hiking trails, the start of the Appalachian Trail, and 100 miles of trout streams. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, wineries, breweries, and local shops.
CJ Stam, a 100 Collection™ partner and Blue Ridge local, recommends renting a boat and enjoying Lake Blue Ridge during your visit. If you're looking for a romantic experience for two, consider booking a sunset cruise with Blue Ridge Boat Rentals. This two-hour excursion features stunning sunset views and wine from local wineries.
Blue Ridge Vacation Rentals
CJ Stam and his family have been making memories in the North Georgia mountains for years. Twenty years ago, they bought and transformed their first two cabins in Blue Ridge, which led to the creation of Southern Comfort Cabin Rentals. The company now offers a variety of high-quality vacation homes, from cozy retreats to large lakefront properties.
St. Simons Island
Ranked among Travel + Leisure's Best Islands in the Continental U.S., St. Simons Island is a barrier island less than 2 hours from Savannah. Known for its historic sites and Southern Oaks draped in Spanish moss, the island offers a charming and relaxed atmosphere.
After a day on the beach, 100 Collection™ partner and St. Simons local Kris Maichle recommends visiting Golden Isles Olive Oil Market & Wine Bar. This bistro-style restaurant is the ultimate stop for foodies offering gourmet olive oils and balsamic. After exploring the store, stick around for dinner and a glass of world-class wine.
St. Simons Island Vacation Rentals
At Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals, Kris’s collection includes a range of properties from oceanfront penthouses to homes by the marsh. Each rental features beautiful views, covered porches, and private balconies.
Suches
About 80 miles north of Atlanta, Suches, Georgia, is known for its high elevation and clean mountain air, giving it the nickname "The Valley Above the Clouds." Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities at Lake Winfield Scott and the Toccoa River. It's also close to Blue Ridge and Blairsville, making it easy to explore nearby areas.
100 Collection™ partner Joni Lee recommends hiking a few local trails during your stay. One of her favorite hikes is the Slaughter Creek Trail. This nearly 8-mile loop offers varied terrain, dense foliage, and beautiful mountain views at the top.
Suches Vacation Rentals
Nestled in the North Georgia mountains, Joni’s collection at SVR Properties includes cozy cottages, large cabins, and lakeside homes. Guests can explore nearby towns and parks or relax on porches with mountain views. The homes blend rustic charm with modern amenities like game rooms, Smart TVs, and high-speed WiFi.
Tybee Island
Tybee Island is a barrier island just 20 minutes from Savannah. Offering five miles of public beaches, historic sites like the Tybee Lighthouse, and uninhabited nature preserves like Little Tybee Island, the island is a beautiful destination for both families and couples.
100 Collection™ partner and Tybee Island local Ray Anaya enjoys spending time outdoors on the island. He suggests kayaking to Little Tybee, exploring the island via bike, and waking up early to enjoy a beautiful sunrise.
Tybee Island Vacation Rentals
Ray’s Oceanfront Cottage Rentals offers a range of beachside properties, from condos and cottages to spacious beach mansions. Enjoy amenities like wrap-around porches, rooftop decks with ocean views, and private pools.