4 Southern Beach Towns Perfect For A Winter Getaway

These stand-out destinations are calling your name!

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Published January 24, 2025
Courtesy Cinnamon Shores

January and February’s dreary weather with little sunshine often prohibits carefree adventures outside in nature, increasing the likelihood of slipping into a stubborn, moody funk known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

While there are several at-home interventions you could consider, why not establish an annual winter escape to chase the sunshine?

Here are four stand-out southern beach towns calling your name when you’re tired of shoveling snow and long for warm breezes:

PORT ARANSAS, TEXAS

This once-sleepy fishing town on Mustang Island has grown in popularity, welcoming over one million guests in recent years. Though many are Texans, the secret is out, and snowbirds from around the country are flocking to this warm-weather hidden gem. Pristine nature is the main attraction, with birding, fishing and an 18-mile beach that allows vehicles and bonfires.

Arrive using the causeway or free ferry, which can accommodate cars. The family-oriented community of Cinnamon Shore affords an idyllic upscale base with amenities including swimming pools, direct beach access and restaurants like Lisabella’s, where you can savor Mermaid Soup. Select from a variety of short-term rentals — from spacious homes to one-bedroom dwellings — sure to satisfy any group arrangement.

Known as “The Fishing Capital of Texas,” Port Aransas hosts headline fishing tournaments and offers plenty of fishing experiences. Afterward, devour your spoils at the town’s popular Cook Your Catch tradition at participating restaurants. Situated in the Central Flyaway, the area is a magnet for birders and wildlife photographers. Learn about local marine life at The Patton Center through free, interactive installations.

Showcasing dozens of venues, shop for trinkets at Saltwater Gypsies and eat at Tortuga’s Saltwater Grill. If you’re tired of crowds, head to the uninhabited island of San Jose for peaceful beach walks, shelling and beachcombing. It offers no services — so be sure to bring supplies.

TYBEE ISLAND, GEORGIA

A short drive from Savannah transports you to this beloved beach town, part of Georgia’s barrier islands. Since the 1800s, this tight-knit community has attracted generations of families to its shores. With an intimate footprint and unhurried streets, it has the distinction of being one of America’s most bike-friendly locations.

Select your perfect cozy home-away-from-home at Mermaid Cottages, a collection of unique pet-friendly cottages peppered across the island. Plan ahead and take Captain Derek’s dolphin-spotting excursion and watch a memorable performance at the historic Tybee Post Theater.

Check out the less-crowded Back River Beach, where you can watch the sunset on the open deck at A-J’s Dockside Restaurant. Kayak or take Crab Creek Charters to Little Tybee Island, an unspoiled nature preserve.

South Beach, a stretch of coastline on the southern end of Tybee Island, presents a buzzy setting with kids and beach play. At Tybee Pier & Pavilion, enjoy lunch at a picnic table, stroll with an ice cream or try fishing off the pier. At the island’s northern end is North Beach with surfing and jet ski rentals. Shopaholics will love the bevy of stores and history fans will swoon over Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse, plus other historic landmarks.

SEASIDE, FLORIDA

Founded over 30 years ago, Seaside is a thriving beach community showcasing an adorable town center, a walkable footprint and a commitment to sustainability. See it in action at the popular farmer’s market featuring artisanal baked goods, soaps and grass-fed beef. The air is punctuated with live music and kids frolicking in the amphitheater — truly a full-throated neighborhood event.

Winding paths and narrow streets make it easy to explore on foot from your stay at The Court, a luxe bungalow collection in the heart of town. Visit the tree-lined Ruskin Place, with an intimate courtyard surrounded by galleries, and the iconic Post Office in the middle of town — one of the most photographed in the country. Food-on-the-go can be found at food trucks offering gyros and BBQ. Bud & Alley’s offers the best sunset happy-hour experience, overlooking the water near Coleman Pavilion.

Keep everyone happy with three swimming pools, tennis courts, shopping or book a show —choosing from children’s theater, movies and concerts. When it comes to flawless beach days, consider VIP services like Club Cabana Man and Beach Bonfires for an elevated dash of magic.

ALABAMA’S BEACHES, ALABAMA

On an island blessed with 32 miles of gorgeous beaches, Alabama’s Beaches includes Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and the unincorporated area of Fort Morgan. At Gulf Shores, find an ample selection of beach houses and cottages, golf courses and long-standing restaurants, whereas the community of Orange Beach boasts more beach condo complexes, marinas, fishing charters and newer dining venues. Fort Morgan, at the island's tip, is a quieter, more rugged environment with unpopulated beaches, a historic fort and the Mobile Bay Ferry, which connects you to Dauphin Island.

For a relaxing stay, consider The Lodge at Gulf State Park, a Hilton Hotel, where nature and the environment are the core focus. You can experience outdoor terraces and plenty of nooks to take in views — be sure to visit the firepit at sunset. Two boardwalks connect guests to the beach and the surrounding park, which offers 28 miles of hiking and bike trails.

Order oysters and hear live music at the waterfront 1960s Flora-Bama Lounge, a landmark near the Florida border. DeSoto’s Seafood Kitchen is exceptional for local seafood, and psst, don’t miss Pier House’s daily happy hour deals. The Wharf is a crowd pleasin’ destination with everything from food and shopping to a Ferris wheel and laser light show.

 

Have you been to any of the above? Where do you go to escape the cold weather? Let us know in the comments below.

Kathryn Streeter is a freelance writer living in Washington, D.C. whose work has appeared in USA Today, The Washington Post, Islands, The Week and elsewhere. Learn more at KathrynStreeter.com.