When I was growing up in Atlanta, vacation meant just one thing. Going to the beach. Every year we’d pack up the car, and my brothers and I piled in the backseat, clothes over bathing suits, and drive south for a glorious week of sand, sun and fun. I still love going to the beach and have to feel the sand between my toes every year. Here are a few of the best beaches in the South, many of which were mentioned during my appearance on WSB Radio on “Belinda Skelton’s Atlanta Lifestyles” show.

Georgia

Greyfield Inn

This charming inn on Cumberland Island is one of the most romantic places on earth. Read more about Greyfield Inn here and here

Jekyll Island Club Hotel

Formerly a clubhouse for U.S. millionaires, Jekyll Island Club Hotel is now a charming historic property on this Georgia barrier island.

The Lodge on Little St. Simons

Only accessible by boat, Little St. Simons has miles of private beaches and wonderful nature tours.

St. Simons Island

Lots of restaurants, a fun shopping village and miles of bike paths make this island a favorite.

 Florida

Amelia Island

One of my favorite vacation spots, Amelia Island has fantastic restaurants and is close to charming Fernandina Beach. Stay at Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort or rent a condo like the one we did at Summer Beach.

Beaches of South Walton

This collection of 16 beaches along 26 miles of the Florida Panhandle are some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and there’s a beach for every personality.

The Breakers

Elegant, upscale, gorgeous with a newly renovated spa, The Breakers is an historic hotel in Palm Beach. Read more about The Breakers here.

Panama City

I grew up vacationing here and recently revisited this beautiful beach. For the blog post on Panama City, click here.

Sandestin

One of the 16 beaches of the Beaches of South Walton, Sandestin is a huge resort with accommodations of every variety.

Sandpiper Bay

The only Club Med in the United States, this all-inclusive resort near West Palm Beach has loads of activities for kids and adults.

St. George Island

A true getaway surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico and the Apalachicola Bay, where you’ll find the best oysters in the world.

North Carolina

Brunswick Islands

This collection of five barrier islands offers a selection of several charming, retro beaches and towns.

Crystal Coast

The most beautiful sunsets I’ve ever seen and plenty of activities, including climbing lighthouses and seeing wild horses, make this a wonderful place to visit. Read more about the Crystal Coast here.

Best Beaches in South Carolina

Hilton Head Island

Here you’ll find more than 250 restaurants, more than 20 championship golf courses and 12 miles of beach.

Isle of Palms

Stay at the beautiful Wild Dunes Resort or rent a beach house on this island outside of Charleston.

Kiawah Island

A golfers’ paradise, Kiawah Island condos, homes and hotels where you can stay or splurge for luxurious Sanctuary Hotel.