The Ultimate Weekend Getaway Guide

Looking for a weekend getaway or planning a spring break trip? Relax and unwind at one of our top recommendations within a six-hour drive from Lake Sinclair. From beach resorts to nature parks, city shopping to wine-tasting tours, we've got you covered.

Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!

BEACHES

Tybee Island, Georgia

Get ready to bask in the sunshine and feel the ocean breeze on your face, because Tybee Island has five gorgeous sandy beaches just waiting for you to explore! There's something for everyone here, from hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some dolphins on a sunset tour. Plus, just a short drive away is historic Savannah, home to some of the best candy shops, breweries, and art galleries in the region. Don't forget to stop by Fort Pulaski National Monument, a fascinating Civil War-era fort, on your way there.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

If you're looking for a top-rated getaway destination, look no further than Hilton Head Island! This gorgeous locale boasts four beaches (Coligny, Islander, Driessen, and Folly Field) with lifeguards on duty during popular times of the year, making it an ideal spot for families with kids. For golf enthusiasts, the Harbour Town Golf Links is a must-see, offering stunning views from the top of the lighthouse. And if you're up for a little adventure, take a boat or passenger ferry to Daufuskie Island for even more hiking, golfing, and historical landmarks.

Grayton Beach, Florida

Looking for a picture-perfect beach with a small-town feel? Grayton Beach is calling your name! This charming locale is perfect for making memories, with plenty of local restaurants and artist shops just a short bike ride or walk away from the beach. And if you're feeling adventurous, why not check out some of the other nearby beaches, like Santa Rosa, Miramar, and Rosemary? With Destin and Panama City Beach just a 40-minute drive away, Grayton is the perfect central location for all your beach-loving needs.

CAMPSITES

Cumberland Island, Georgia

For a peaceful getaway filled with stunning natural beauty and historical landmarks, you can't beat Cumberland Island. This 36,000-acre barrier island is only accessible by private boat or passenger ferry, giving it a wonderfully secluded feel. Take a guided tour of Plum Orchard Mansion or the ruins of Dungeness Mansion for a fascinating look into the island's history, or try your hand at managed hog and deer hunts if you're a fan of hunting. And if you're up for some camping, make sure to obtain a permit before settling in at one of Cumberland's five campgrounds.

Cathedral Caverns State Park, Alabama

Looking for a natural wonder to marvel at? Look no further than Cathedral Caverns State Park! This northern Alabama locale is home to one of the world's largest stalagmites, as well as plenty of other stunning natural formations. Take a tour to learn more about these incredible caverns, or settle in for a night of camping at one of the park's close-by or backcountry campsites.

Fort Clinch State Park, Florida

Located on the breathtaking Amelia Island, Fort Clinch State Park has something for everyone, from fishing and shelling to shark teeth hunting and camping. But that's not all – Fort Clinch itself played a vital role in multiple wars, including the Civil War, Spanish-American War, and World War II. The fort's rich history is carefully preserved, offering a unique glimpse into the life of Union soldiers. And if you're looking for a luxurious getaway, Amelia Island is renowned for its stunning resorts and golf courses, making it the perfect destination for travelers of all interests.

Fall Creek Falls, Tennessee

Fall Creek State Park is home to the magnificent Fall Creek Falls, which stands at an impressive height of 256 feet – one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern United States. But that's just the beginning – visitors can also enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and a variety of special events hosted by the park's nature center, including environmental education programs, arts and crafts, movies, and live musical performances. Plus, the nearby Piney Falls, Cane Creek Falls, and Cane Creek Cascades are all worth a visit. Whether you prefer to camp in a tent or RV, or you're looking for a cozy cabin, Fall Creek State Park has got you covered.

CITIES

Atlanta, Georgia

Located just an hour and a half drive from Lake Sinclair, Atlanta has something for everyone. Museum lovers won't want to miss the High Museum of Art, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, and the MODA (Museum of Design Atlanta). And when it comes to shopping, Atlanta offers a wide range of fashion stores, including Atlantic Station, Lenox Square Mall, Phipps Plaza, and Ponce City Market. Car enthusiasts will adore The Porsche Experience Center Atlanta, and sports fans can cheer on the Braves, Hawks, Falcons, Thrashers, and United from the stands. Top Golf is a must-visit for golf lovers. If you're traveling with children, there are plenty of family-friendly attractions to enjoy, including the Georgia Aquarium, Zoo Atlanta, World of Coca-Cola, Atlanta Botanical Garden, and Six Flags Over Georgia.

Charleston, South Carolina

As you wander down the cobblestone roads of Charleston and pass by antebellum homes, it becomes clear that Charleston is the perfect getaway for history buffs. Caw Caw Interpretive Center, Charles Towne Landing, Children's Museum of the Lowcountry, Fort Sumter, Gibbes Museum of Art, Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art, North Charleston Fire Museum, Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, and Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum are just a few of the many historical and educational sites to explore in Charleston. Once you've learned enough about the area, we suggest exploring the downtown district. Here, you can buy local goods and artwork at the Charleston City Market and visit the South Carolina Aquarium. At sunset, you’ll want to book a harbor tour to see the most beautiful view!

Nashville, Tennessee

Deemed the Music City, Nashville is a country music fan’s dream getaway destination.

You can visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, Johnny Cash Museum, and enjoy a show at the Grand Ole Opry. To tour the city, there are double-decker bus tours, trolley tours, the Jack Daniel's Distillery Bus Tour, and Skyline Guided Kayak Tours. Add a hint of Ancient Greece to your getaway weekend by seeing the Nashville Parthenon. The complete replica of the original ancient temple opened in 432 BC stands at the center of Centennial Park. When it comes to dinner plans, there’s no better way to dine in Nashville than on the General Jackson Showboat. As it travels along the Cumberland River, you can enjoy great food and live music.

WINERIES

The Wine Tasting Capital of Georgia (Dahlonega, Georgia)

Nestled in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains, Dahlonega is filled with premier wining and dining experiences, scenic views, fresh mountain air, live music and outdoor festivals. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or a novice, taking a trip to the “Wine Tasting Room Capital of Georgia” is the perfect getaway for you. Considered the Heart of Georgia Wine Country, Dahlonega is well known for its award-winning wineries. You can tour the regional vineyards by driving along the Dahlonega Wine Trail or walking the Dahlonega Wine Walk. Before you hit the tasting rooms, make sure to purchase a $5 wine glass from the Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Visitors Center. This glass allows you to receive two wine tastings for $2.75 at the many participating tasting rooms in downtown Dahlonega.

Swan Creek Wine Trail (North Carolina)

Swan Creek Vineyard Association consists of 5 excellent wineries located within 5 miles from one to another. The Swan Creek Wine Trail is in a prime location! Only an hour or less drive from High Point, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Boone and Charlotte, the Swan Creek Wine Trail is in a prime location! In this region, which rests in the foothills of the Brushy Mountains, vinifera wine grapes flourish due to the mineral-rich, schist-like soil. The Vineyards of Swan Creek offer award-winning French and Italian varietal wines, local blends, scenic views and friendly people. If someone in your party prefers a glass of whiskey, Windsor Run Cellar also runs a distillery, along with its vineyard and winery.

Terra Marique Wine Trail (North Florida)

Currently, Florida is home to 24 independently-owned Certified Farm Wineries. Along the Terra Marique Wine Trail, you can visit ten of them! In order for a winery to be certified, it must own or manage at least ten acres of vineyards as well as be open to the public for tasting tours and sales for 30 or more hours per week. Florida’s wine-making history dates all the way back to the 16th century! In the late 1500s, The French Huguenots made wine from native Muscadine grapes, which became the first record of winemaking in the New World. Throughout the Terra Marique Wine Trail, Muscadine wine remains a sweet staple, but they additionally serve dry wines, sparkling wines, and a range of different reds and whites as well as Exotic or citrus fruit wines. If you plan on taking this trail, get ready to try something new!

We hope our recommendations help you plan your next weekend trip! If you liked this post, make sure to check out our Ultimate Day Trip Guide for one-day adventures. Let us know in the comments below what your dream getaway destination is!

Best wishes,

The LSL Team