Brunswick is a lovely city on Georgia’s coast, and its proximity to the state’s Sea Islands makes it a fantastic location for a family trip. Follow these four tips to plan for a day at the beaches in Brunswick with your kids.
Find the Best Family-Friendly Beaches Nearby
You’ll find many beaches nearby Brunswick, including some excellent choices for families. Driftwood Beach is one of the highest rated, and it’s welcoming for beachgoers of all ages — including pets. Driftwood Beach is on Jekyll Island, which is a short trip via Georgia State Highway 520 that you can make in under 30 minutes. The beach is named for its lovely driftwood trees, and the area is particularly scenic as the sun rises over the Atlantic.
If you head the other direction from Brunswick and go east on the F.J. Torras Causeway, you’ll find another fantastic beach spot for families. The route will take you to St. Simons Island, which is best known for St. Simons Lighthouse and Neptune Park — a seasonal water park. Keep these attractions in mind if things get too warm and you need to spend time with kids away from the beaches.
The drive from Brunswick to the St. Simons Island city center takes less than 15 minutes. One of the best family beaches on the island is East Beach, which is also pet-friendly.
Pick the Right Hotel
When it comes to accommodations for a family trip, not all hotels are created equal. Before you book a room, make sure your Brunswick hotel is accommodating to your vacation and travel needs. Consider the location, as you may need to make a quick retreat back to your room for food or rest. Also, consider the amenities. On-site restaurants and convenience stores can be a lifesaver when traveling with children, and a hotel with spa services can enable you to treat yourself during your trip, too.
Pick a Good Spot at the Beaches
If you’re traveling with little ones, pick a good location that has amenities like public restrooms and covered areas where you can cool down or take a break if needed. If you go to Driftwood Beach, for example, pick a spot near the Clam Creek Picnic Area. For families visiting East Beach, set up for your sandy day near the showers and restrooms. You’ll find picnic spots with grills, a playground, and additional showers at nearby Massengale Park.
Visit at the Right Time
Though Brunswick and Georgia’s Sea Islands are somewhat hidden gems, the beaches are popular in the summer when school lets outs. The weather is best from March 5 to May 20 and from October 1 to December 30. The period between them can get too hot to safely enjoy time at the beach. That’s also when you can expect some of the thickest crowds.
Georgia’s Golden Isles are an amazing place for a family vacation. Whether you visit in the summer or during an off-season, follow the tips above to have a stellar time at the beach with your children.