The Georgia coastline ranges from the Cumberland Islands in the south to Tybee Island in the north. The distance from the Florida state line to South Carolina is 100 miles. In this stretch of waterway, you will find excellent boating regions in the Georgia towns on the water and islands that line the coast. We will work our way down from the northern end of the state and examine the best coastal towns in Georgia to live and vacation.

Savannah

Potentially more than just a Georgia town on the water, Savannah is a Georgia city on the water. Also, it is the biggest of the Georgia coastal cities. Bordering the state of Georgia and South Carolina is the city of Savannah. Savannah is the fifth largest city in the state. The city and surrounding areas are a boaters haven. 

What marinas offer transient dockage in the Savannah area:

  1. Lazaretto Creek Marina
  2. Bull River Marina
  3. Isle of Hope Marina
  4. Thunderbolt Marina

The city of Savannah is surrounded by many outlying islands with great dining options with docks; check out some of these:

  1. Vic’s on the River located in downtown.
  2. The Wylde Dock Bar just outside of downtown
  3. AJ’s Dockside situated on Tybee Island
  4. Fish Tales in the Richmond Hill area

The natural setting of the area is gorgeous, and the wildlife is tremendous; explore some uninhabited islands and bustling cities:

  1. Wassaw Island has excellent anchoring opportunities on both the north and south sides of the island. The refuge is perfect for bird watching, exploring, and sunbathing.
  2. Shark Tooth Island, which is positioned in the Savannah River, has its name for a reason. Wander the beaches, and you’ll be amazed at how many teeth are found.
  3.  The Savannah Waterfront has public dockage available. Meander down the historic cobblestone streets.

The Golden Isles

Another one of the great Georgia towns on the water is the Golden Isles. Situated in the central coastal area of the state is the Golden Isles. The Golden Isles are lovely for boaters; the travel time between St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island are shorter by boat than by car. Considering close proximity, many feel that the Golden Isles have the best coastal towns in Georgia and are noted as a top choice of Georgia beach towns.

What marinas offer transient dockage in the Golden Isles area:

  1. Golden Isles Marina St. Simons
  2. Hampton River Marina St. Simons
  3. Jekyll Harbor Marina Jekyll Island

After a day on the water, stop into one of these great waterfront restaurants for a great local meal and tasty cocktail:

  1. The Wharf located on the East River of Jekyll Island
  2. Golden Isles Marina is a short Uber ride to Mallery Street in the town of St. Simons Island. The street is lined with excellent dining.
  3. Zachry’s Riverhouse located on the East River of Jekyll Island

The islands also offer great day trips by boat:

  1. Anchor off any of the two island’s beaches for a day soaking up the sun. 
  2. Pull up Dockside at the Jekyll Island Club Resort and get caught up on the areas rich history while browsing the cottage shops.
  3. Little Saint Simons is an 11,000-acre island and is only accessible by boat. Here you will find seven miles of undeveloped beach.

St. Mary’s Georgia

A much smaller town steeped in history is St. Mary’s, Georgia. In comparison, this area is more limited in options; however, of the Georgia coastline towns, it’s worth checking out. Here is a list of the best marinas for dockage when visiting the area.

One marina offers transient dockage in the area:

  1. Lang’s Marina
  2. Saint Mary’s Town Dock (6-hour limit suitable for day trips).

While Saint Mary’s only offers one waterfront restaurant, the town dock gives you access to multiple options within walking distance:

  1. Lang’s Marina Restaurant located at Lang’s Marina
  2. Seagles Restaurant
  3. 401 West Restaurant

While you’re here, take in some local history:

  1. St. Mary’s Submarine Museum
  2. Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum
  3. Take a stroll through the Historic District, just a short walk from the public dock.

Are You Ready To Explore Coastal Towns Georgia

No matter what part of the Georgia coastline you’re visiting, history and scenery will be abundant in GA coastal towns. The saltwater off of Georgia coastal towns is teeming with porpoises, so you will almost undoubtedly see them along your cruise. While you’re in town, indulge in the local cuisine. Some favorites are shrimp and grits and Brunswick stew. Make plans ahead of time and reserve dockage, so you’re not left high and dry. Enjoy the coastal Georgia towns on the water.