This summer, dip your toes in the sand and discover the South’s most beautiful beach towns. From quiet, secluded islands, to vibrant and bustling vacation hotspots, you’ll find everything you need at these gorgeous southern beaches. Relax in the small-town atmosphere of Dauphin Island, discover the rich history of Biloxi, or make the most of every minute at Orange Beach. Wherever you choose to go, you’re sure to marvel at the turquoise waters and breathtaking sunsets. 

Dauphin Island, Alabama 

Dauphin Island is a charming town located on a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico. Known for its beautiful sunsets, Dauphin Island lets you truly get away from it all with its quiet, family-friendly atmosphere and Southern hospitality. The pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and calm blue waters make this island a must-see destination. Visit the Alabama Aquarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab for exciting exhibits that highlight the key water habitats of coastal Alabama. The aquarium includes more than 100 species connected to the Alabama Watershed and features a 7,000-gallon touch pool where you can feed and pet live sting rays. Discover the unique dining options on the island, and enjoy swimming, fishing, and sunbathing on the beautiful white-sand beaches. History buffs can visit Fort Gaines, which has stood on Mobile Bay since 1861. The fort is one of the best-preserved 19th-century forts, and visitors can see actual cannons used in battle, an original blacksmith shop, a bakery, and an Officer’s Quarters building. Other popular attractions on Dauphin Island include the Audubon Bird Sanctuary, Shell Mound Park, the Arts of Dauphin Island gallery, and the Isle Dauphine Complex, which contains a golf course, the Pirate’s Bar & Grill, and an outdoor pool with live music. 
www.townofdauphinisland.org 
www.disl.edu/aquarium 

Tybee Island, Georgia 

Tybee Island is a barrier island located 18 miles east of Savannah, and it is one of Georgia’s most beloved vacation spots. This quaint island is home to over three miles of gorgeous beaches, a rich history, lively locals, and an array of outdoor activities for almost every interest. The beach town also prides itself on an authentic beach experience with an array of local restaurants and boutique shops. Climb to the top of the historic black-and-white lighthouse for a stunning view of the island. There’s even a secret beach on the island known as Back River Beach. This quiet stretch of beach located on the Tybee’s back river provides the perfect quiet escape with gentle waves and dolphins at sunset. Stroll down the iconic Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion for summertime treats from Sweet Dreams Bar & Grill, or enjoy the open waters with a dolphin tour, fishing charter, or sunset cruise. At night, take a quiet stroll on the beach and gaze at the stars, or catch a show at the historic Tybee Post Theater. 
www.tybeeisland.com 

Biloxi, Mississippi 

Biloxi has a rich history dating all the way back to the early 1800s. But this Mississippi city also boasts a plethora of modern amenities that make it a premier entertainment destination. Play a hand of blackjack or watch a live show at one of the coastal casinos. Or, have a fun day on a shrimping trip and enjoy a romantic sunset cruise on a Biloxi schooner. A unique attraction in the city is the historic Biloxi Lighthouse, which stands in the middle of a major highway! Learn even more history at the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum, featuring exhibits like marine blacksmithing, wooden boat building, and the culture of fishing in Biloxi. See alligators as you kayak the Pascagoula River Basin, and view the unorthodox pottery of George Ohr at the Ohr-O’Keefe Art Museum.  
biloxi.ms.us 

Ocracoke Island, North Carolina 

Ocracoke Island’s pristine and undeveloped coastline makes it the perfect destination for a quiet getaway. The small village of Ocracoke has a unique culture and delicious cuisine you won’t find anywhere else. Accommodations on Ocracoke Island are much different than what you might find at other vacation spots. There are no houses, hotels, or oceanfront property on most of the island, so most visitors stay in the village or the campground designated by the National Park Service. The beach is only a couple of miles from the village, and visitors can walk or obtain an off-road vehicle permit to drive directly onto the sand. Parking is also available at Lifeguard Beach, which features restrooms, showers, a boardwalk, and lifeguards on duty every day from Memorial Day to Labor Day. There are several bed and breakfasts as well as rental cottages in the village, and most of them are pet-friendly. Ocracoke Village also has several eclectic shops, art galleries, and gift shops. Relax and unwind with an outdoor yoga class or deep tissue massage. At night, you can find plenty of live music at the restaurants and bars, or embark on a spooky ghost tour for something different. 
www.visitocracokenc.com 

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama 

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are popular summer vacation spots in Alabama, but you can beat the crowds by planning your trip for early May. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder the area is such a hit for tourists. Cool off from the summer heat by making a trip to Waterville USA, a 20-acre water park and amusement park in Gulf Shores. Attractions include 17 water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and much more. Immerse yourself in Alabama history at Fort Morgan, and take in the natural beauty of the diverse coastal ecosystems at Gulf Coast State Park. Parasail at Orange Beach or take a cruise to view majestic dolphins as they playfully skim the surface of the water. For deep-sea fishing, book an Orange Beach fishing charter for the chance to catch giant grouper. The crystal-clear waters of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach also make it an ideal place for diving and snorkeling. While Gulf Shores and Orange Beach do not have the small-town feel of areas like Dauphin Island, there is a plethora of family-friendly activities to explore. Enjoy the view from The Wharf’s Ferris Wheel, bike the trails of Gulf State Park, see wild animal species at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, or experience the calm waters of Lake Shelby by paddle boarding or kayaking. 
www.gulfshores.com 
watervilleusa.com 
www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.com 

Ocean Springs, Mississippi 

Historic Ocean Springs is known as the City of Discovery, and this colorful and sophisticated community has so much to explore. The quaint Main Street community is surrounded by centuries-old live oaks and boasts a rich history, lush landscape, and artistic flair. The Ocean Springs Art Association represents more than 300 local artists and hosts several art festivals during the year. Ocean Springs also has over 200 local shops, galleries, and restaurants dotting the shores of its white sand beaches. Board a fishing charter to catch species like Redfish, White Trout, Ground Mullet, and Flounder. After a fun day on the water, indulge in delicious local cuisine and unwind with a craft brew or wine. Be sure to purchase a piece of art from one of the local galleries as a memento of your amazing trip. 
www.downtownoceansprings.com 

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina 

Myrtle Beach is a great destination for families because there is so much to see and do. With over 60 miles of sandy beaches and a famous boardwalk, you’ll discover something new around every corner. Jam to live music, or check out some fun dinner-and-a-show options such as battles between medieval knights, murder mysteries, or a Polynesian luau. There are thousands of restaurants to choose from for a wide range of cuisines, amusement parks, an amazing aquarium, over 90 golf courses, fishing opportunities, and a full range of watersports. Explore quiet towns with coastal charm steeping in South Carolina’s Lowcountry history and culture. With fun for the whole family, this is one exciting destination everyone can enjoy! 
www.visitmyrtlebeach.com 

Corolla Beach, North Carolina 

Beautiful Corolla Beach has something you won’t find anywhere else: wild Spanish Mustangs. These graceful creatures have been part of the Corolla Beach landscape since the 1500s! Due to their protected status, interacting with the horse is not allowed. But you can learn more about the Mustangs and get some amazing photo opportunities by signing up for one of Corolla’s wild horse tours. Other attractions include the Currituck Beach Lighthouse with awesome views from the top, the Whalehead historic house museum, and the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education. Corolla’s beaches also encourage an outdoor-oriented lifestyle with fun activities like kayak tours, kiteboarding, parasailing, jet ski rentals, surfing lessons, fishing charters, miniature golf, and a bike path that connects the entire beach. This bike path makes it easy to travel from shopping areas and restaurants to other local attractions.  
corollaguide.com 

Saint Simons Island, Georgia 

Saint Simons Island is the largest of the four Golden Isles barrier islands along Georgia’s southern coast. The island is known for its white-sand beaches and salt marshes with several amenities like playgrounds, public restrooms, and shaded picnic areas. St. Simons Pier offers stunning views of nearby Jekyll Island as well as migrating whales. Other attractions in St. Simons Island include a museum that traces the history of St. Simons Lighthouse, which was rebuilt in 1872 after being destroyed in the Civil War, a variety of local boutique shops, challenging golf courses, and an abundance of Southern hospitality. A majority of commercial development is on the southern side of the island, and the northern half remains as a marsh or woodland. As a barrier island, the beaches of Saint Simons constantly shift with the tides, winds, and storms. This creates an ideal environment for spotting wildlife such as ghost crabs, sand dollars, giant horseshoe crabs, and hermit crabs. Dolphin sightings are also very common along the island’s southern coast. If you’re looking for a relaxing and quiet getaway, St. Simons Island is your ideal destination. 
stsimonsisland.com