Southern Islands Worth Visiting

Are you looking to escape to a sunny paradise with sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters?

The Southern United States is home to some of the most charming and beautiful islands in the country that offer a perfect destination for your next vacation. From Texas to Florida to South Carolina, these islands feature a variety of unique attractions, outdoor activities, and stunning natural beauty that make them worth visiting.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous trip, these Southern Islands have something to offer for everyone.

So, pack your bags and get ready to experience the beauty of these breathtaking islands.

Galveston Island, Texas

Just 50 miles from Houston is Galveston Island. According to country living, Galveston Island features one of the most charming beach towns in the country.

It’s no surprise with the various amenities, unique attractions, and mile-long sandy beaches. Unique attractions on Galveston Island include the Historic Pleasure Pier

The boardwalk features over 16 rides, carnival-like games, and quick bites. At night, the Historic Pleasure Pier lights up and plays music offering a magical experience.

Another great attraction while visiting Galveston Island is the Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark. This indoor outdoor water park spans a whole 26 miles. Now, that is one big water park!

Galveston Island State Park is another unique attraction on the Island. The park expands over 2,000 acres and features various activities such as hiking, kayaking, fishing, and bird watching.

Sanibel Island, Florida

Sanibel Island is considered to be one of the best beaches in Florida. The Island features pristine white sandy beaches where you can spend the day relaxing and swimming in the beautiful clear ocean waters.*

Another significant aspect of the beaches is the number of shells you can find along the shoreline. 

In fact, there are so many shells on the beach it is considered one of the best shelling beaches. While here, try windsurfing or sailing. 

Other attractions on the Island are picnicking, barbecuing, and hiking trails. 

Another significant aspect of Sanibel Island is it features a small-town vibe as it has many mom-and-pop shops. Thus, giving the ability to try unique restaurants and shop at local businesses.

* Water may become murky after rain and water runoff.

South Padre Island, Texas

South Padre Island features beautiful white sand and emerald-blue water

The Island has over 34 miles of beaches, allowing plenty of room for relaxing and sunbathing while watching your kids play in the sand and splash around in the beautiful ocean.

Other attractions on South Padre Island are horseback riding, ecological tours, dolphin watching and renting wave runners, and stand-up paddle boards.

Then you have the South Padre Island bird-watching boardwalkThis is great for those who like to spend time outdoors. 

While visiting South Padre Island, check out the Port Isabel Lighthouse State Historic Site, which includes a tour of the lighthouse and gives impressive views from the top.

With so much to do at South Padre Island makes it a reason we added it to our list of Southern Islands Worth Visiting.

Amelia Island, Florida

Just 30 miles from Jacksonville, Florida, is Amelia’s Island. Amelia Island features over 13 miles of pristine coastline with clear waters.

Amelia’s Island is the perfect getaway to relax by spending time on the pristine beaches while quietly sunbathing. 

Other attractions that make for an ideal therapeutic getaway are the various spas and upscale dining

Thus, making it a perfect escape from relieving stress from busy workdays.

Other great attractions on Amelia Island are the world-class resort hotels, golf courses, and shopping. 

Therefore, making Amelia Island, Florida, a perfect destination for a lavish and relaxing vacation.

Tybee Island, Georgia

Just 18 miles from Savannah, Georgia is Tybee Island. Tybee Island features more than 3 miles of Sandy beaches, making it great for sunbathing, swimming, and watching the kids play in the sand.

Tybee Island, Georgia, made our list of Southern Islands worth visiting due to the small charming beach town vibe and the vast number of outdoor attractions offered. Thus, making it a perfect vacation for couples, families, and outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the attractions offered at Tybee Island is the Tybee Lighthouse, built in 1736. Access is permitted into the lighthouse, offering spectacular views from the top.

If you are looking for something more adventurous, then the vast number of water sports may spark interest. Tybee Island offers kayak and paddleboard rentals, sightseeing tours, and the ability to experience going on a fishing charter.

St. George Island, Florida

St. George Island, Florida, is a little paradise in America. Featuring a tranquil getaway with beautiful sandy beaches and crystal clear water that is (usually) emerald green throughout the year.

Luckily, since the Island does not boast a big-name brand hotel or have many tourist attractions keeps the beaches from getting as crowded as other well-known islands in Florida. Therefore, making it a great beach to go shelling and swimming peacefully.

Other attractions to explore is the St. George Island Lighthouse and the Cricket River Lighthouse. Then there is the Saint Vincent National Wildlife Refuge, an undeveloped island accessible by boat. How cool is that! Then there is the East Slough Overlook, a scenic hiking destination perfect for nature lovers.

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Hilton Head Island features 12 miles of white sandy pristine beaches. In addition to the beautiful shorelines, Hilton Head Island also offers coastal scenery. 

Giving that small coastal town vibes, making it a great way to spend time with the family or a romantic getaway with the one you love.

In addition to the beaches, Hilton Head Island is known for its world-class golf courses. However, if golfing is not your thing, there are plenty of other attractions on the Island.

Attractions include the Island Winery that has a tasting room and is a great place to relax while enjoying the company of others. 

Then there is the Hayward House Museum and Welcome Center, which has guided tours of an 1841 Historic home. These are just a few of the many attractions that Hilton Head Island offers.

Solomons Island, Maryland

Unlike the destinations above, Solomon’s Island does not have a public beach. However, the Island offers a waterfront setting making it an excellent place for boating and enjoying seafood by the ocean.

While here, come up and enjoy some of the unique attractions the area has to offer. Attractions include the Calvert Marine Museum, Drum Point Lighthouse, and Cove Point Lighthouse. 

Each of these attractions features a little bit of history within the Island, allowing one to learn more about Solomon’s Island.

Jekyll Island, Georgia

Jekyll Island is great for walking along the beach’s shorelines to watch the sunrise or sunset. Jekyll island is known for its natural beauty and the 10 miles of shorelines.

Furthermore, Jekyll Island offers one of the most unique beaches in America, Driftwood Beach. Driftwood Beach is almost like a scene from another world. 

The beach features massive driftwood and trees that lie along the beachfront.

Other beaches on the Island are the Jekyll Island State Park, Jekyll Island Ocean View Beach Park, and Saint Andrew’s Beach.

In addition to beaches, Jekyll Island offers several unique attractions that include Georgia’s Sea Turtle Center, Mosaic, Turtle Island Museum, and Mistletoe Cottage. 

If coming with family, check out Summer Raves, a water park that is fun for the entire family.

Full List of Southern Islands Worth Visiting

  1. Galveston Island, Texas
  2. Sanibel Island, Florida
  3. South Padre Island, Texas
  4. Amelia Island, Florida
  5. Tybee Island, Georgia
  6. St. George Island, Florida
  7. Hilton Head South Carolina
  8. Solomons Island, Maryland
  9. Jekyll Island, Georgia

Southern Islands Worth Visiting

About Author, Sara Elizabeth
Writer, Amora V Lifestyle
Co-Owner of Elizabeth Besich Boutique

Sara is a writer for Amora V Lifestyle and is Co-Owner of Elizabeth Besich. Sara previously worked as a Marketing Manager and has her Master’s from Lindenwood University.

Sara studies everything of interest, from psychology, recipes, finances, mental health, and travel, thriving to find happiness and to live a good life.

When not learning, Sara loves all things outdoors, food, and hanging around great company. Furthermore, Sara loves spending time with family, who she is blessed to have in her life.

Note from the author: Through my articles, I hope to bring you joy and peace and that you enjoy it!

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this travel blog are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of any organizations mentioned or affiliated with. The information provided in this blog is accurate and up-to-date to the best of the author’s knowledge, but readers are advised to do their own research and confirm any information before making travel plans or decisions. The author is not responsible for any loss, injury, or inconvenience sustained by readers while traveling based on the information provided in this blog. Travel at your own risk and always prioritize your safety and well-being. Any reviews or comments written are the subjective opinion of an Amora V Lifestyle member and not Amora V Lifestyle. Amora V Lifestyle performs occasional checks on commentary left by users. It’s worth mentioning that we may also use comments in our articles. By posting a comment, you are giving us permission to use it in our content. Please check out Privacy Policy and Terms of Use for full disclosure. 

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