Spring Coastal Journey: From Georgia’s Golden Isles to the Carolinas
- stephaniemilligan4
- 5 days ago
- 14 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Our spring travels this year took us along some of the most beautiful stretches of the Southeast coast — from Brunswick, Georgia, up through the Carolinas. We revisited favorite spots, discovered new ones, and made memories with family, friends, and our travel buddy, Sierra. Each stop offered its own charm — history, beaches, and plenty of great food — making this leg of our RV journey one to remember.
Brunswick, St. Simons & Jekyll Island: Golden Isles Charm
We arrived in Brunswick, Georgia on March 19th and stayed for three nights at Coastal Georgia RV Resort, a peaceful spot surrounded by moss-draped oaks and calm ponds that made it feel like a true Southern retreat. Brunswick turned out to be the perfect home base for exploring the nearby Golden Isles, and we made the most of our stay with a few wonderful days on St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island.
St. Simons Island: History, Views & a Birthday Feast
Just a short drive from Brunswick, St. Simons Island greeted us with its laid-back coastal vibe — live oaks, quaint shops, and salty breezes that make you instantly slow down. We explored Fort Frederica National Monument, wandered the St. Simons Lighthouse, and enjoyed a healthy lunch at Sea Salt Healthy Kitchen.
That evening, we celebrated my birthday dinner at Mr. Shuck’s Seafood, toasting another year of adventures with fresh local seafood and Southern hospitality.
St. Simons Lighthouse, Fort Frederica National Monument and Birthday Meal
Jekyll Island: Beaches, Friends, and Driftwood
The next day, we headed over to Jekyll Island State Park, a beautiful blend of history, nature, and laid-back beach life. I was especially excited because we got to meet up with my college friend Heather and her husband, Tom, who spend their winters RVing nearby. Catching up under the warm Georgia sun, swapping travel stories, and laughing over lunch felt like no time had passed at all.
We met at Tortuga Jack’s, a casual beachfront spot with colorful décor, great margaritas, and a perfect ocean view. After lunch, we explored Driftwood Beach, one of the most otherworldly and photogenic places I’ve ever seen. The shoreline is scattered with massive, weathered trees that have been shaped by decades of tides and storms, creating a hauntingly beautiful landscape. It’s the kind of place where you can’t help but slow down, take photos, and just breathe it all in.
Jekyll Island State Park and Driftwood Beach
If You Go: Tips for Visiting the Brunswick & Golden Isles Area
Where to Stay: We highly recommend Coastal Georgia RV Resort in Brunswick. It’s clean, quiet, and easy to access from I-95. The spacious sites, full hookups, and peaceful lake views make it ideal for a few days of exploring the coast.
Must-See Attractions:
Fort Frederica National Monument – Rich in colonial history with shaded walking paths and interpretive exhibits.
St. Simons Lighthouse & Museum – Climb 129 steps for an unforgettable view of the island and beyond.
Driftwood Beach (Jekyll Island) – A photographer’s dream and a great place for a sunset stroll.
Good Eats:
Sea Salt Healthy Kitchen (St. Simons) – Fresh salads, grain bowls, smoothies, and locally sourced ingredients.
Mr. Shuck’s Seafood (Brunswick) – A lively, casual spot for shrimp, crab, and oysters straight from the coast.
Tortuga Jack’s (Jekyll Island) – Beachfront Mexican with ocean views and fun tiki-bar vibes.
Travel Notes: Both St. Simons and Jekyll Island are just a short drive from Brunswick, with easy parking for day trips. Jekyll Island does require a small entrance fee, but it’s worth it for the natural beauty and pristine beaches. Pets are welcome on many beaches, including Driftwood—just keep them leashed and bring plenty of water for those sandy walks!
Tybee Island & Savannah: Coastal Charm and Southern Strolls
On March 22, we packed up and moved just up the coast to River’s End Campground on Tybee Island, where we spent four nights. The campground was cozy and shaded, perfectly located for exploring both the quiet beaches of Tybee and the timeless beauty of nearby Savannah.
Tybee Island has such an easygoing, small-town beach feel — the kind of place where bikes outnumber cars and flip-flops are the official footwear. We visited the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, one of Georgia’s oldest and most iconic beacons, dating back to the 1700s. Pat stayed back with Sierra while I made the climb up to the top and was rewarded with sweeping views of the coastline and marshlands, and the historic lightkeeper’s cottage nearby gave me a glimpse into what life was like for those who once tended the flame.
We spent afternoons walking the beaches, watching shrimp boats on the horizon, and biking around the pier area, where surf shops and beach cafés line the streets. Tybee has that classic coastal charm — relaxed, slightly weathered, and full of character.
Tybee Lighthouse and bike ride around the island and beach.
Savannah: Squares, History, and Southern Soul
We took two day trips into Savannah, on March 23 and 25, and it was every bit as nice as we remembered. We loved it so much the first time that we couldn’t resist coming back — this time with Sierra in tow.
Savannah is a city that feels like it was designed for wandering. We strolled along the riverfront, where cobblestone streets meet historic brick buildings, and paused often to let Sierra enjoy all the new sights and smells. The North Historic District was full of charm — live oaks draped in Spanish moss, horse-drawn carriages passing by, and the scent of Southern cooking in the air.
We explored Forsyth Park, with its grand fountain and open lawns shaded by ancient oaks, and made our way through Reynolds Square and Oglethorpe Square, each one offering its own little pocket of serenity amid the city’s rhythm. We stopped for a nice meal along the river, watching the steamboats drift by while street musicians played nearby. It was the perfect mix of history, art, and pure Southern ambiance.
Before heading back to the RV, we stopped for a brew and cider at Two Tides Brewing Company. We loved this dog-friendly establishment because of the comfy rooms inside the brewery complete with overstuffed leather couches and cute decor. We had our own private room where Sierra caught a little nap while we enjoyed our refreshments.
Sierra in Savannah
Back on Tybee: A Fort with a View
Back on the island, we made time to visit Fort Pulaski National Monument, a fascinating Civil War–era fort surrounded by marshes and tidal creeks. The massive brick walls, moats, and cannons tell the story of a time when coastal defenses were vital. We walked the grounds and marveled at how well-preserved it all was. Sierra loved the open space (and the breezy air coming off the Savannah River didn’t hurt, either!).
Fort Pulaski also has some peaceful walking trails that wind through the salt marshes — a great spot for a quiet stroll and a few photos. Standing there, you can almost feel the layers of history blending with the beauty of the coastal landscape.
Fort Pulaski National Monument
If You Go: Tips for Visiting Tybee Island & Savannah
Where to Stay: River’s End Campground & RV Park is a great choice for RV travelers — clean, well-kept sites, friendly staff, and just a short bike ride to the beach and lighthouse. It’s also one of the closest RV parks to downtown Savannah (about 20 minutes away).
Must-See Attractions:
Tybee Island Lighthouse & Museum – Climb to the top for panoramic coastal views.
Fort Pulaski National Monument – A beautifully preserved Civil War fort with trails and scenic marshland.
Savannah’s Historic Squares – Don’t miss Forsyth Park, Reynolds Square, and Oglethorpe Square for that quintessential Savannah charm.
Savannah Riverfront – Cobblestone streets, local shops, and outdoor dining with a
view.
Good Eats:
The Crab Shack (Tybee Island) – A local favorite for casual seafood and great atmosphere.
Huey’s on the River (Savannah) – Classic New Orleans–style dishes with a riverfront view.
Fox & Fig Café (Savannah) – A cozy vegan-friendly café with excellent lattes and plant-based comfort food.
Two Tides Brewing Company - cozy brewery located in an historic house with private, uniquely decorated rooms.
Travel Notes: Savannah is very dog-friendly, especially around the historic squares and Forsyth Park. Most restaurants with outdoor seating welcome pets, and walking the riverfront with Sierra was no problem at all. Parking is generally easy at River Street garages or metered spots nearby. Tybee Island’s beach areas also allow leashed pets in designated zones, so check the local signs before heading down to the sand.
Yemassee, Hilton Head & Charleston: Lowcountry Charm and Coastal Trails
On March 26, we made our way north to Thousand Trails Oaks at Point South in Yemassee, South Carolina, where we spent six relaxing nights. This campground is part of our Thousand Trails membership, and since we had stayed here before, we knew it was conveniently located for visiting nearby areas.
This time around, we decided to take a day trip to Hilton Head Island, since we had skipped it on our last visit. The drive was easy, and the island had such a clean, upscale coastal feel — beautiful bike paths, manicured landscaping, and those iconic live oaks everywhere you look.
We spent the afternoon walking around the harbor, admiring the boats and lighthouse views, and then stopped at the Stoney Baynard Ruins, the remains of an early 19th-century plantation home. The weathered tabby walls, surrounded by mossy trees, gave it such an atmospheric, almost mysterious feel — like stepping into another century.
Of course, we couldn’t leave without a little beach time for Sierra. We found a quiet stretch of sand where she could run, dig, and feel the ocean breeze in her fur. Watching her race along the shoreline was pure joy — one of those simple, happy moments that make travel so special.
Trip to Hilton Head Island
A Day in Charleston
On March 30, we took a day trip to Charleston, one of our favorite Southern cities. We had visited before, but this time was extra special because Sierra came along.
Charleston’s historic charm never gets old — the pastel homes along Rainbow Row, the cobblestone streets, and the grand architecture around every corner. Sierra seemed to love the attention; she posed for photos in front of a few of the historic buildings, turning heads and making friends wherever she went.
We wandered through the French Quarter and Battery area, soaking in the old-world atmosphere and snapping photos of the flower-filled window boxes and wrought-iron balconies. It’s a city that blends history and beauty so seamlessly that every turn feels like a postcard.
By late afternoon, we headed back to our campground in Yemassee, tired but content, with sandy paws and full hearts.
Charming Charleston
If You Go: Tips for Visiting Yemassee, Hilton Head & Charleston
Where to Stay: Thousand Trails Oaks at Point South in Yemassee is a quiet, convenient stop right off I-95. It’s shaded, pet-friendly, and a great central location for day trips to Hilton Head, Beaufort, and Charleston.
Must-See Attractions:
Hilton Head Island – Great for walking, biking, and beach time with pets (many beaches allow dogs during off-peak hours).
Stoney Baynard Ruins – A peaceful historic site surrounded by live oaks, perfect for a short walk or photo stop.
Charleston Historic District – Don’t miss Rainbow Row, the Battery promenade, and the city’s many garden-lined streets.
Good Eats:
Skillets Café & Grill (Hilton Head) – Laid-back spot for breakfast or lunch, with outdoor seating.
Fleet Landing Restaurant (Charleston) – Waterfront seafood with scenic harbor views and dog-friendly patio seating.
Brown Dog Deli (Charleston) – Great sandwiches and salads, plus pet-friendly outdoor tables.
Travel Notes: Both Hilton Head and Charleston are about an hour’s drive from Yemassee, making them easy day trips. The region is very dog-friendly, with plenty of walking paths, pet-welcoming outdoor restaurants, and shaded parks. Just keep an eye on beach hours for dogs, which can vary by season.
Myrtle Beach: Sand, Shells & Seaside Strolls
On April 1, we made our way north to Ocean Lakes Family Campground in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where we spent seven nights. We had stayed here a couple of years ago and loved it so much that we knew we had to come back. The campground is one of the largest oceanfront RV parks in the country, and it really has everything — beach access, wide paved roads perfect for biking, friendly staff, and that fun, coastal energy that makes Myrtle Beach so unique.
The best part? The beach was just steps away from our campsite. We spent lazy mornings walking along the sand, collecting shells, and watching the waves roll in. Sierra absolutely loved the beach — her tail wagged nonstop as she raced through the surf digging and playing in the sand.
We walked the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk several times, both during the day and in the evening. By daylight, it’s full of beachgoers, shops, and ocean views; at night, it comes alive with lights, music, and the sound of waves crashing just beyond the pier. It’s one of those places that captures the fun, carefree side of coastal living.
One afternoon, we drove down to Pawleys Island, a quieter and more natural stretch of coastline. We wandered the beach looking for shells — a relaxing change of pace from Myrtle Beach’s buzz. The soft sand, dunes, and driftwood made it feel wonderfully peaceful.
We also took Sierra to Riverfront Park in Conway, a beautiful spot along the Waccamaw River. It was the perfect place for a stroll under shady trees, with boardwalk paths and scenic views of the river. She loved exploring the trails (and greeting everyone who stopped to say hi).
By the time we left, we felt completely recharged — the kind of week where the sound of the ocean lingers long after you’ve packed up the RV.
Beachtime in Myrtle Beach and Pawleys Island
If You Go: Tips for Visiting Myrtle Beach & Surrounding Areas
Where to Stay: Ocean Lakes Family Campground is a top-notch oceanfront RV resort with full hookups, direct beach access, pools, and even a golf cart rental service for cruising around. It’s family-friendly, dog-friendly, and one of the best coastal RV parks on the East Coast.
Must-See Attractions:
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk & Promenade – A lively 1.2-mile stretch of shops, arcades, restaurants, and ocean views.
Pawleys Island – A peaceful escape for shell hunting, beachcombing, and soaking up nature.
Conway Riverfront Park – A beautiful riverside park with walking trails, piers, and plenty of shade for a relaxing afternoon.
Good Eats:
Sea Captain’s House (Myrtle Beach) – Classic beachfront seafood restaurant with a view.
Croissants Bistro & Bakery (Myrtle Beach) – Great breakfast and pastries.
BisQit (Pawleys Island) – Fun, casual spot known for its creative sandwiches and milkshakes.
Travel Notes: Myrtle Beach is very pet-friendly, with many outdoor patios and several stretches of beach that allow dogs (check seasonal restrictions). Pawleys Island beaches are especially quiet and perfect for a peaceful stroll with your pup. Ocean Lakes also has a designated dog wash area, making post-beach cleanups easy.
Newport, Emerald Isle & New Bern: Bears, Beaches, and Coastal Breezes
After leaving Myrtle Beach, we continued our journey north on April 8 to Whispering Pines Campground in Newport, North Carolina, part of our Thousand Trails membership, for seven nights. It’s a peaceful wooded park and made a great base for exploring Emerald Isle and New Bern.
Emerald Isle: A Classic Carolina Beach
One of the first places we visited was Emerald Isle, known for its pristine beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. The drive there was beautiful, winding through marshlands and over causeways with sweeping water views on both sides. Once we arrived, we found a quiet stretch of sand where Sierra could run free and play in the sand. The beach was clean and calm — soft sand, gentle waves, and that unmistakable ocean breeze that makes you want to stay all day.
We spent the afternoon walking the shoreline, collecting shells, and just enjoying the simplicity of a perfect beach day. There’s something about Emerald Isle that feels slower-paced and refreshingly uncrowded — exactly what we needed after the busier Myrtle Beach area.
Emerald Isle adventure
A Day Trip to New Bern
A few days later, we took a day trip to New Bern, one of our favorite small towns in North Carolina. We had visited before and loved it so much that we wanted to return and explore even more. The town is full of history, waterfront charm, and those adorable bear statues scattered throughout the streets — each one painted with a different theme. Naturally, Sierra had to pose for photos with a few of them.
We wandered through the historic downtown, popping into boutiques and admiring the colonial-style architecture that gives New Bern its old-world feel. For lunch, we stopped at Lawson’s on the Creek, a casual waterfront restaurant with lovely views and fresh seafood. Sitting outside with the gentle breeze off the water and a happy dog at our feet was the perfect way to spend the afternoon.
By the end of the day, we were reminded why New Bern is such a special place — it’s one of those towns with a European feel, the kind of place you can’t help but return to.
New Bern Exploration
If You Go: Tips for Visiting Newport, Emerald Isle & New Bern
Where to Stay: Whispering Pines Campground (Thousand Trails) in Newport is a quiet, shaded park that’s great for relaxing and exploring the Crystal Coast. It’s about a 30-minute drive to Emerald Isle and roughly an hour to New Bern, making it an easy base for day trips.
Must-See Attractions:
Emerald Isle Beach – Clean, peaceful, and ideal for beach walks, shell hunting, and dog-friendly fun.
Downtown New Bern – Historic charm, local shops, and the famous painted bear statues scattered throughout the town.
Lawson Creek Park (New Bern) – A scenic waterfront park perfect for a stroll before or after lunch at Lawson’s.
Good Eats:
Lawson’s on the Creek (New Bern) – Waterfront dining with a laid-back vibe and delicious seafood.
RuckerJohns (Emerald Isle) – A local favorite for casual coastal fare.
Beartown Bistro & Pizza Company (New Bern) – Great for a relaxed dinner after exploring downtown.
Travel Notes: Emerald Isle beaches are dog-friendly during the off-season, and New Bern is one of the most pet-friendly towns we’ve visited — plenty of outdoor patios, walking paths, and friendly locals who loved meeting Sierra. Both towns offer easy parking and walkable downtown areas, making them perfect for a relaxed day of exploring.
Chapel Hill & Raleigh: Family, History, and Tar Heel Charm
After leaving the coast, we made our way inland on April 15 to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, where we stayed for three nights at Spring Hill Campground. The campground was peaceful and wooded, offering a nice change of pace after so many coastal stops. The main reason for this leg of our trip was to visit my niece, Ava, who’s currently attending UNC Chapel Hill.
Visiting Ava at UNC
Ava gave us a wonderful tour of the UNC campus, sharing stories about her classes, campus life, and favorite hangouts. The campus itself was beautiful — classic red brick buildings, lush green lawns, and a real sense of history around every corner. We also got to visit her sorority house, met a few of her friends and got a glimpse of her college life.
That evening, we went out for dinner at Napoli Gourmet Pizza, a cozy spot with amazing wood-fired pizzas and a fun, local atmosphere.
The next morning, we met up again for açaí bowls at Playa Bowls, a bright and cheerful café with delicious smoothie bowls. We said our goodbyes after breakfast, but it was so nice to see Ava thriving and to spend time together in her college town.
Visit with Ava at UNC Chapel Hill
Exploring Raleigh & Beyond
Another day, we ventured into Raleigh for a bit of urban exploring. We also spent time at the North Carolina Museum of Art, walking the outdoor trails and sculpture gardens with Sierra. The museum grounds were surprisingly dog-friendly, with wide open spaces and creative art installations scattered throughout.
We strolled around downtown, admired the historic architecture, and I even popped into the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences — one of the largest of its kind in the Southeast. It’s free to enter, and while I quickly explored the exhibits, Pat waited outside with Sierra. Raleigh was a pleasant surprise — walkable, clean, and full of friendly energy.
While in the area, we also explored some nearby attractions. One of the highlights for Pat was visiting the former Hillsborough Speedway, where we walked the Occoneechee Speedway Trail — a beautiful loop that winds around what was once a NASCAR track. The old grandstands and remnants of the track still remain, and Pat really enjoyed the nostalgia and racing history that surrounds the site.
Raleigh and Speedway Trail
If You Go: Tips for Visiting Chapel Hill & Raleigh
Where to Stay: Spring Hill Campground (Chapel Hill) – A quiet, wooded campground with easy access to both Chapel Hill and Raleigh. It’s a great base for exploring central North Carolina while still enjoying nature.
Must-See Attractions:
UNC Chapel Hill Campus – Beautiful architecture, historic quads, and that quintessential college-town charm.
Occoneechee Speedway Trail (Hillsborough) – A scenic hike with fascinating NASCAR history and plenty of shade.
North Carolina Museum of Art (Raleigh) – Excellent indoor exhibits and gorgeous outdoor sculpture gardens.
Downtown Raleigh & NC Museum of Natural Sciences – A walkable downtown area with free museums and plenty to explore.
Good Eats:
Napoli Gourmet Pizza (Chapel Hill) – Amazing wood-fired pizzas and great atmosphere.
Playa Bowls (Chapel Hill) – Fresh, colorful açaí bowls and smoothies with outdoor seating.
State of Beer (Raleigh) – Laid-back craft beer spot with good sandwiches and outdoor tables.
Travel Notes: Both Chapel Hill and Raleigh are dog-friendly, especially the parks and museum grounds. Occoneechee Speedway Trail is a great place to walk with pets, and Dorothea Dix Park (Raleigh) offers beautiful open fields, public art, and skyline views — perfect for a hike or picnic.
The time had come to leave the Carolinas behind and make our way north toward Virginia, where our adventures will continue. Thanks for joining us on this stretch of the journey — goodbye for now, and see you down the road!
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