Best 8 weekend getaways from Atlanta

Chase waves, wine tastings, or waterfall hikes
The view from a patio at a condo rental in Panama City Beach, FL.

Sometimes, you don’t need a full week off to feel worlds away. Atlanta’s central location means weekend warriors have their pick of unforgettable escapes—from emerald Gulf waters and golden barrier islands to the misty peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains and vineyard-dotted countryside.

Gas up the car and let’s go.

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1. North Georgia Mountains

Drive time: ~1.5 to 2 hours

Featured vacation rental: Haley Glen

From Blue Ridge to Helen to Ellijay, the North Georgia mountains offer cozy cabins, rushing rivers, and stunning overlooks. Adventure seekers can zip-line through treetops, paddle crystal-clear lakes, trek mountain peaks, taste local wines, browse artisan shops, and camp under starlit skies.

Asheville

2. Asheville, North Carolina

Drive time: ~3.5 to 4 hours

Featured vacation rental: Hilltop Hideaway

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is known for its vibrant arts scene, craft breweries, and stunning hikes along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Tour the Biltmore Estate or enjoy the energy of downtown’s music and food scene.

Savannah, GA: Top haunted U.S. cities for a supernatural getaway

3. Savannah, Georgia

Drive time: ~3.5 to 4 hours

Featured vacation rental: Baldwin Park Retreat

Mossy oaks, cobblestone streets, and Lowcountry cuisine make Savannah an irresistible escape. Whether you’re sipping cocktails on a rooftop bar or exploring the city’s storied squares, Savannah is endlessly charming.

Large wooden pier at a sandy beach in Tybee Island, GA.

4. Tybee Island, Georgia

Drive time: ~4 to 4.5 hours

Featured vacation rental: Tybee Island Sunrise

Visit Tybee Island, just twenty minutes from historic Savannah, to swim pristine beaches, climb Georgia's tallest lighthouse, visit Civil War sites, kayak marshes, and enjoy year-round coastal adventures.

The pool area overlooking the beach at a hilton head island vacation rental.

5. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Drive time: ~4.5 hours

Featured vacation rental: Carolina Cottage

Hilton Head offers 12 miles of sandy shoreline, championship golf, and bike-friendly paths shaded by oaks and palms. It’s a polished coastal escape perfect for both romantic weekends and family adventures.

View from the deck overlooking a beach at a rental on St. George Island.

6. The Forgotten Coast, Florida

Drive time: ~5 to 5.5 hours

Featured vacation rental: Barefoot Cottages #B32

The aptly named Forgotten Coast is all about unspoiled beauty—sugar-soft sands, fresh oysters, and no high-rises in sight. Base yourself in Mexico Beach, Cape San Blas, or St. George Island and enjoy beachcombing, kayaking, and slow coastal living.

Amelia Island

7. Amelia Island, Florida

Drive time: ~5 to 5.5 hours

Featured vacation rental: 1862 Turtle Dunes

Southern charm meets Atlantic serenity on Amelia Island, where 13 miles of pristine beaches and moss-draped oaks create a postcard-worthy escape. Explore the boutiques of Fernandina Beach, paddle through tidal creeks, or enjoy a sunset horseback ride along the sand.

View of the pool as seen from the balcony at a condo rental at Reflections at Bay Pointe in Panama City Beach, FL.

8. Panama City Beach, Florida

Drive time: ~5 to 5.5 hours

Featured vacation rental: Palazzo 1006

Family-friendly, fun-filled, and sun-drenched—Panama City Beach is a classic Gulf Coast getaway. Stroll the pier, ride the SkyWheel, or just relax on the sugary shores. Bonus: the area’s restaurants and attractions make it a hit with kids and adults alike.

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