Because Albany is located in the southwest part of Georgia, it’s near many beautiful beaches on both the Gulf Coast and Eastern Atlantic. These include some of the most popular beach destinations in the United States, as well as some hidden gems. I’ll look at the most popular beaches near Albany, GA in this article.
Key Takeaway: Florida’s Gulf Coast beaches will be the shortest drive from Albany, GA, averaging a 2.5 to 3-hour drive.
Best Florida Beaches Near Albany, GA
On average, you can drive from Albany, GA to one of these Florida beaches in 2.5 to 3.5 hours. I’ll take a look at 11 of the most popular Florida beach destinations to visit for a day trip or weekend getaway.
1. Shell Point Beach, FL (Gulf Coast)
Shell Point Beach, FL is the closest beach to Albany, GA at 119 miles away, which is a 2.5-hour drive. Located on the Gulf Coast, this is a public park and beach in Wakulla County, Florida. This is a great spot for families, as the amenities include:
- Two pavilions that can be reserved ahead of time
- Restroom facilities
- Volleyball court
- Playground for kids
- Kayak launch point
- Food concessions
Drive Time from Albany, GA: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Distance from Albany, GA: 119 miles
Visitors’ Website for Shell Point Beach
2. St. George Island, FL (Gulf Coast)
The second nearest beach to Albany, GA is St. George Island, FL. This twenty-two mile barrier island is perfect for a peaceful and laid-back beach vacation. It’s less crowded than some of the surrounding beaches in Florida, which means uninterrupted beach time for families.
Drive Time from Albany, GA: 3 hours and 10 minutes
Distance from Albany, GA: 168 miles
Visitors’ Website for St. George Island
3. Panama City Beach, FL (Gulf Coast)
Panama City Beach (PCB) is about a 3-hour and 15-minute drive from Albany, GA. One of the most popular beaches in the region (and United States), PCB offers 27 miles of white, sandy beaches and beautiful turquoise waters.
Sitting in the panhandle of Florida, the water coming in from the Gulf of Mexico is warm and clear. Since it’s such a popular spot, you’ll find plenty of activities to try out:
- Rent a jet ski and cruise the clear blue waters
- Take an eco-tour or explore a state park
- Enjoy delicious dining at waterfront restaurants
Drive Time from Albany, GA: 3 hours and 15 minutes
Distance from Albany, GA: 159 miles
4. Rosemary Beach (Gulf Coast)
Rosemary Beach, Florida has an elegant, resort-like feel. It’s a great place for families or friends to relax and connect while enjoying the slow lifestyle of a beachfront town. You and the family will find pristine beaches, shopping, dining and a friendly, local feel.
Drive Time from Albany, GA: 3 hours and 20 minutes
Distance from Albany, GA: 171 miles
Visitors’ Website for Rosemary Beach
5. Miramar Beach (Gulf Coast)
Miramar Beach is a fun, beach neighborhood in the South Walton area of Florida. The vibrant community has miles of pristine beaches with white sand and blue-green waters.
In addition to the beach visits, the activities here are endless. Here are some of the attractions and entertainment you can find at Miramar Beach:
- A Bike ride along the 3-mile Scenic Highway 98 trail
- Hidden Dunes award-winning tennis facility
- Shopping at the Silver Sands Premium Outlet
Drive Time from Albany, GA: 3 hours and 35 minutes
Distance from Albany, GA: 186 miles
Visitors’ Website for Miramar Beach, FL
6. Fort Walton Beach (Gulf Coast)
Fort Walton Beach is in NW Florida, and has 26 miles of white sand beaches. Popular for beach-goers, there are 16 different neighborhoods and areas to visit.
Here are a three of the most popular beaches within the Fort Walton area:
Drive Time from Albany, GA: 3 hours and 35 minutes
Distance from Albany, GA: 197 miles
Visitors’ Website for Fort Walton Beach
7. Destin (Gulf Coast)
Destin Beach is about a 3 hour and 40 minute drive from Albany, GA. This town is the perfect place for vacationers who love to fish! It’s actually called the “world’s luckiest fishing village”.
Beyond fishing and great local seafood, there’s plenty of shopping, activities and more for the whole family at this popular beach destination.
Drive Time from Albany, GA: 3 hours and 40 minutes
Distance from Albany, GA: 192 miles
Visitors’ Website for Destin, Florida
8. Pensacola Beach, FL (Gulf Coast)
Pensacola Beach is is the perfect place to relax and explore. History lovers will enjoy the melting pot of culture they’ll find here, seen in the vibrant art, museums and more around the city. With lots of tourist attractions, it can get busy during the peak travel seasons.
Drive Time from Albany, GA: 4 hours
Distance from Albany, GA: 238 miles
Visitors’ Website for Pensacola
9. Amelia Island, FL (Atlantic)
With 13 miles of white sand and coastline along Amelia Island, there are 40+ public beach access points to explore! (List of public beach access points with directions here).
With a warm climate, Amelia Island’s waters average a warm 82o Fahrenheit during summertime. There are fun activities for the whole family like:
- Surfing
- Oceanfront mini golf
- A Skate park
- Exploring the historic downtown
Drive Time from Albany, GA: 3 hours and 40 minutes
Distance from Albany, GA: 190 miles
Visitors Website for Amelia Island
10. Jacksonville Beach, FL (Atlantic)
Jacksonville Beach, FL is a great spot for a family-friendly beach vacation about 17 miles outside of Downtown Jacksonville.
There’s plenty of oceanfront entertainment at Jacksonville Beach. The large, 1,300-foot boardwalk pier is a nice fishing spot, and there are many beach-side shops and restaurants.
It’s also a short drive to the Downtown area if you’re looking for nightlife activities.
Drive Time from Albany, GA: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Distance from Albany, GA: 225 miles
11. St. Augustine, FL (Atlantic)
St. Augustine is a historic beach city on the Atlantic coast of Florida. There are many historic landmarks, gorgeous beaches and nice golf courses here.
known for its old-world charm and amazing arts and culture scene. This beach is perfect for a romantic getaway or older adults who want peace and quiet during a beach vacation. The historic Fort Matanzas National Monument is a can’t-miss site!
Drive Time from Albany, GA: 4 hours
Distance from Albany, GA: 244 miles
Top Georgia Beaches Closest to Albany, GA
12. St. Simons Island
St. Simons Island is the closest Georgia beach to Albany at 179 miles, which is a 3.5-hour drive. The drive is direct, as you travel east on US-82 E towards Brunswick.
Linked is a more detailed guide on the 4 most popular beaches at St. Simons Island.
St. Simons Island is the largest of the Golden Isles, which are comprised of:
- St. Simons Island
- Sea Island
- Little St. Simons Island
- Jekyll Island
Drive Time from Albany, GA: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Distance from Albany, GA: 179 miles
Visitors’ Website for St. Simons & The Golden Isles
13. Tybee Island, GA
Known as “Savannah’s Beach”, Tybee Island is the place to go if you want to explore great restaurants or the arts in a historic downtown after visiting the beach. It’sis only a 20-minute drive from historic Savannah’s downtown, where you can find plenty to do for the whole family:
- Amazing restaurants
- 9 rooftop bars
- Breakfast and Brunch Spots
- 20 golf championship golf courses in and around the area for the golf enthusiast
Beach Areas: Tybee Island has five main beach areas:
- North Beach
- Mid Beach
- South Beach
- Back River Beach
- Little Tybee Beach
Drive Time from Albany, GA: 4 hours and 15minutes
Distance from Albany, GA: 225 miles
Visitors’ Website for Tybee Island
South Carolina Beaches Closest to Albany, GA
14. Hilton Head Island
The closest South Carolina beach to Albany, GA is Hilton Head Island at 240 miles, which is a 4.5-hour drive.
In addition to the pristine beaches, Hilton Head has something for the whole family. It’s known for its great shopping and golf courses. And something a little different, you could take a camper to one of Hilton Head’s best RV parks.
For the Trip: Don’t forget to bring plenty of sunscreen and a sturdy beach umbrella like this one that’s wind-resistant up to 34 miles per hour.
Drive Time from Albany, GA: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Distance from Albany, GA: 240 miles
Visitors’ Website for Hilton Head
Alabama Beaches Closest to Albany, GA
15. Gulf Shores, AL
Gulf Shores is the most popular Alabama beach and resort town. In addition to the warm, emerald waters and white, sandy beaches, you’ll find lots of recreation for those who love both the outdoors and cooler indoor settings.
For outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, check out:
- Gulf Shores Fishing Pier
- Deep Sea Fishing Charters
- Gulf State Park & Campgrounds
- Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo
For those who want to enjoy the indoors, check out:
- making pottery at Sea Oat Studio
- Gulf Coast Arts Alliance
- Gulf Shores Museum
Drive Time from Albany, GA: 4 hours and 50 minutes
Distance from Albany, GA: 263 miles
Visitors’ Website for Gulf Shores, AL
Conclusion to Beaches Near Albany, GA
There are plenty of beautiful beaches to visit within driving distance of Albany, GA. If you’re looking for the shortest drive, head over to the Gulf Coast to see beaches like Shell Point or Panama City Beach, Florida.
If you’re looking for other beach recommendations, check out some of the other articles below for beaches near:
