The Ultimate Weekend Getaway Guide
Are you looking for some weekend fun away from Lake Oconee? With numerous options within a six-hour drive, you can explore gorgeous beaches, tranquil campsites, vibrant cities, and renowned wineries. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, we have plenty of recommendations for your dream destination.
So why wait? Read on to discover the perfect getaway spot for your next weekend trip away from Lake Oconee!
We also have a few daytrip options for you as well in our “The Ultimate Day Trip Guide”!
Beaches
Grayton Beach, Florida
Located in the Gulf of Mexico, Grayton is a quaint beach town situated between famous tourist destinations Destin and Panama City Beach. Despite its smaller size, Grayton offers an authentic local experience with a range of activities and attractions. Visitors can explore the charming streets by bike or foot and discover unique artist shops and restaurants, such as the popular Pickle Factory and Hurricanes. For nature lovers, Grayton Beach State Park provides opportunities for camping, paddling, fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation. Additionally, Grayton serves as an excellent base for beach hopping, with Santa Rosa, Miramar, Rosemary, Destin, and PCB all within reach for day trips during your weekend getaway. Click here to learn more about Grayton, Florida!
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
With its stunning beaches and diverse range of activities, it is no wonder that Hilton Head is such a popular getaway destination. Whether you are looking for a romantic escape, a fun-filled trip with friends, or a family vacation, Hilton Head has something for everyone. Start your day by enjoying a breathtaking sunrise on the pristine white sand beaches. If you have children with you, rest assured that lifeguards are on duty at the popular beaches. Golf enthusiasts will not want to miss the chance to play at the prestigious Habour Town Golf Links. For a unique adventure, take a trip to Daufuskie Island, only accessible by boat or ferry. This hidden paradise offers a variety of activities including hiking, exploring historical landmarks, visiting a community farm, perusing art galleries, and more. Hilton Head truly has it all. To learn more about Hilton Head Island, click here.
Tybee Island, Georgia
Tybee Island, a short 20-minute drive from Savannah, Georgia, offers five picturesque beaches that are ideal for a wide range of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching. History enthusiasts will be delighted by the chance to explore the historic Fort Pulaski National Monument, which dates back to the 1800s. To make your visit even more unforgettable, consider booking a sunset dolphin tour in the evening, a popular activity that the entire family will enjoy. To learn more about Tybee Island, click here.
CampSites
Cumberland Island, Georgia
Cumberland Island, Georgia's largest and southernmost barrier island, offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors. With miles of undeveloped beaches and the chance to spot wild animals, it is a dream destination for nature enthusiasts. Accessible only by passenger ferry or private boat, the island's historical sights are another draw. The ruins of Dungeness Mansion and the still-standing Plum Orchard Mansion, built for the Carnegie family in the 19th century, are must-see attractions offering guided tours. The Ice House Museum and The First African Baptist Church also offer self-guided tours. For hunting enthusiasts, the island offers hog and deer hunts from October to January, with various hunting types available. As for accommodation, Cumberland Island boasts five campgrounds, all requiring permits. To learn more about camping at Cumberland Island, click here.
Cathedral Caverns State Park, Alabama
Visitors to Cathedral Caverns State Park in northern Alabama will be awe-struck by the stunning natural wonders found within its 493 acres of land. Guided tours offer the chance to explore the caverns and witness the incredible size of one of the world's biggest stalagmites. For those wanting to experience the park's beauty for longer, there are various camping options available, including close-by and backcountry campsites, as well as primitive tent camping areas. To learn more about Cathedral Caverns State Park, click here.
Fall Creek Falls, Tennessee
Fall Creek Falls, located in Fall Creek State Park, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. With 29,800 acres of land, the park is one of Tennessee's largest state parks. The star attraction is the impressive waterfall, standing at an impressive 256 feet high, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern United States. In addition to its natural beauty, Fall Creek Falls offers a range of activities for visitors. The nature center hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as environmental education programs, arts and crafts, movies, campfires, games, and live musical performances. If you're looking to explore more waterfalls, Piney Falls, Cane Creek Falls, and Cane Creek Cascades can also be found within Fall Creek State Park. Whether you prefer camping or staying in cabins, the park provides a range of accommodations, including tent and RV campsites, as well as backcountry camping options. Plan your next getaway trip to Fall Creek Falls and immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of this Tennessee gem. To learn more about Fall Creek Falls, click here.
Fort Clinch State Park, Florida
Amelia Island is a versatile destination, offering more than just luxurious resorts and golf courses. One of its main attractions is Fort Clinch State Park, where visitors can immerse themselves in history. Although the fort is now open for tours and appears as it did during its occupation by the Union in the Civil War, it served various purposes throughout history. From its use by the Confederacy and Union during the Civil War to its involvement in the Spanish-American War and World War II, Fort Clinch has witnessed significant events. In addition to exploring the fort, visitors can enjoy various activities at the state park, such as fishing, shelling, searching for shark teeth, and camping. To learn more about Fort Clinch State Park, click here.
Cities
Atlanta, Georgia
Located just an hour and a half drive from Lake Oconee, downtown Atlanta offers a wide variety of attractions making it the perfect getaway destination for families and individuals alike. For those traveling with children, there are numerous family-friendly options including the Georgia Aquarium, Zoo Atlanta, and the Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Art and history enthusiasts will appreciate the High Museum of Art, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, and MODA (Museum of Design Atlanta). Car enthusiasts can even visit the Porsche Experience Center Atlanta. Sports fans can support the Braves, Hawks, Falcons, Thrashers, and United, while shopping enthusiasts will enjoy the many fashion stores found at Atlantic Station, Lenox Square Mall, Phipps Plaza, and Ponce City Market. With so much to offer, Atlanta is the ideal destination for a quick and enjoyable getaway close to home.
To learn more about Atlanta, click here!
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston, with its rich history and charm, offers a multitude of museums for history enthusiasts. From the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum to the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, there is no shortage of fascinating sites to explore. Additionally, the city is home to a diverse range of cultural and art institutions, such as the Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art and the Gibbes Museum of Art. After immersing yourself in history and culture, downtown Charleston beckons with its vibrant Charleston City Market and the magnificent South Carolina Aquarium. And what better way to end a day than with a relaxing harbor tour, watching the sunset over this beautiful city? Click here to learn more about Charleston!
Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, also known as the Music City, has much to offer for country music fans. They can explore the famous Grand Ole Opry and immerse themselves in the country music culture at the Country Music Hall of Fame. For those interested in history, a unique experience awaits at the Nashville Parthenon, a full-scale replica of the ancient temple in Athens, Greece. To satisfy one's appetite, the General Jackson Showboat offers a delightful dining experience while cruising along the picturesque Cumberland River. For those looking to explore the city, Nashville provides a variety of tours, including double-decker bus and trolley tours, as well as the opportunity to visit the renowned Jack Daniel's Distillery. To learn more about Nashville, click here!
Savannah, Georgia
If you're in need of a quick weekend getaway, Savannah, Georgia should be at the top of your list. Steeped in history and known for its Southern charm, this picturesque city offers a plethora of attractions that are sure to please any traveler. Take a leisurely stroll through Savannah's historic district, adorned with beautiful antebellum mansions and cobblestone streets, or embark on a guided ghost tour to uncover the city's intriguing supernatural tales. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the serene beauty of Forsyth Park or take a riverboat cruise along the Savannah River. With its delectable cuisine, vibrant art scene, and welcoming locals, Savannah offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, making it an ideal destination to rejuvenate and create lasting memories. Click here to learn more about Savannah, Georgia!
Wineries
The Wine Tasting Capital of Georgia (Dahlonega, Georgia)
Whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend, a soothing escape, an outdoor adventure, or a wine experience - Dahlonega offers visitors an authentic getaway. With the highest concentration of wineries and vineyards in Georgia, the Dahlonega mountains are recognized as “the Heart of Georgia Wine Country”. Grape growing conditions and favorable mountainous elevations make Dahlonega and Lumpkin County the perfect place to grow and ripen a wide variety of European, French hybrids, and American winegrapes. For wine enthusiasts, the Dahlonega Wine Trail offers a unique vineyard and winery experience. Enjoy spectacular views, award-winning wines, and the opportunity to meet the local winemakers.
Swan Creek Wine Trail (North Carolina)
Visitors to the Swan Creek AVA can choose from several different tours during their trip. These tours provide an opportunity to explore and experience the unique characteristics of the region. Each tour offers insights into the diverse grape varietals and growing sites found within the AVA. As one of six distinct AVAs in North Carolina, the Swan Creek AVA represents the state's growing reputation as a serious wine producing region. The tours also allow visitors to learn about the history and geology of the area, showcasing the rich and complex wines produced from Swan Creek grapes. Whether you are a wine lover or simply curious about the world of winemaking, the Swan Creek AVA has something to offer for everyone.
If you found this post helpful for planning your next getaway away from Lake Oconee, don't forget to check out our “Ultimate Day Trip Guide” for one-day adventures. It's packed with even more recommendations and tips to help you make the most of your time away. Drop us a comment below and let us know where you like to take weekend trips – we're always looking for new ideas!
Safe Travels!
The LOL Team
