Spring Break 2021

Spring is finally in the air again! The coastal South is home to many of the nation’s greatest spring break destinations—and is welcoming travelers after a year-long winter. Visitors are sure to find that same Southern hospitality rings true as ever, from Myrtle Beach down to Daytona.

Written by: Lauren Flemming • Photography: D. Paul Graham and Miranda Osborn

A Guide To → Tybee Island // Kiawah Island  // Daytona Beach // Cumberland Island // Myrtle Beach

Tybee Island, Georgia

Let your hair down and embrace your inner beach bum on this ultra laid-back island. Only a 30-minute drive from downtown Savannah, Tybee Island is the perfect escape. Authentic and eccentric with a “come as you are’’ attitude, this island is ideal for those who truly love the beach goer lifestyle. Duck in and out of local shops, kayak Little Tybee and get to almost anywhere you’re going by bike (okay, or golf cart). visittybee.com

Hotel Tybee

Hotel Tybee is an historic installation in Tybee Island accommodations. It opened its doors in 1889 and has been carrying that same old-school tradition of hospitality ever since. With 208 rooms, two pools and beach access, guests have access to everything they need for oceanfront fun. hoteltybee.com

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Oceanfront Cottage Rentals

This rental company represents a collection of properties that perfectly embody the local charm visitors seek when visiting Tybee Island. Stacye and Lannie Jarrell of Oceanfront Cottage Rentals specialize in creating the perfect balance of island authenticity and luxury lifestyle, whether renters are looking for a family compound or intimate bungalow. oceanfrontcottage.com

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Tybee Island Inn 

This cottage-style bed-and-breakfast captures the casual beach town lifestyle of Tybee Island  while offering boundless Southern hospitality. Guests gush over the Southern-style homemade breakfast and enjoy close proximity to the North Beach Lighthouse, only two blocks away. tybeeislandinn.com

Tybee Surf Lessons 

Surfing on Tybee Island can’t exactly be described as “shredding the gnar”; however, it is a great place to get your feet wet. The forgiving waves make the perfect conditions for beginners to learn some skills or seasoned surfers to host a social hour in the sea. tybeesurflessons.com

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Tybee Post Theater

Escape the scorching Georgia heat and duck into the Post Theater. Originally constructed by the U.S. Army as a theater for soldiers at Fort Screven, the theater was later restored after a devastating fire by the Friends of Tybee Theater and now hosts a schedule of performances and films. Tybeeposttheater.org

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Tybee Pier & Pavilion

Tybee Pier and Pavilion is a tradition that dates back to 1891 and—while the original pier succumbed to fire—is still the go-to meet-up spot for locals and visitors alike. Enjoy live music while throwing a few casts or pack a picnic for friends. Come as you are and enjoy the good vibes!

 

North Beach Bar & Grill 

North Beach is perhaps the most popular beach on Tybee Island and North Beach Bar & Grill is its lifeblood. The colorful indoor-outdoor beachside restaurant is outfitted with a newly constructed pavilion and tiki bar. Belly up to this local watering hole and enjoy casual cuisine with a Caribbean flair. northbeachbarandgrill.net

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AJ’s Dockside

On the flipside, AJ’s Dockside overlooks Tybee Creek and is a great place to catch a sunset meal. Enjoy strong drinks and delicious food—especially the crab legs—and if the water is tempting enough, rent a paddleboard or a kayak while you’re at it.  ajsdocksidetybee.com

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Huc-A-Poo’s 

Huc-A-Poo’s is the exception to the other pizza joints on Tybee (locals know what we mean). The customizable pies are the perfect way to refuel after a day spent cooking in the sun and splashing in the waves. Grab a cold beverage and embrace your inner beach bum at this laid-back dive bar. hucapoos.com

Tybee Cottage Art Gallery

A drive around Tybee is like driving to see neighborhood Christmas lights, but year-round. Eccentric (and delightfully excessive) decorations are a defining feature of the island. As a co-op of talented local artists, Tybee Cottage Art Gallery captures the essence of this carefree expression. facebook.com/TybeeCottageArtGallery

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Fish Art Gallerie

A must-do on the island. The quirky maritime ethos is on full display through the rows of hand-made wares and decorations by artist Ralph Douglas Jones, who has an uncanny ability to craft just about anything into a fish. There is no better place to collect a memento of Tybee Island. facebook.com/fishartgallerie

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Seaside Sisters

Find beach-inspired housewares, hostess gifts and hilarious whatnots at this not-your-average beach town gift shop. The Seaside Sisters promise to make you giggle, blush, laugh out loud and pray that your stay on Tybee could last just a bit longer—how could one resist! seasidesisterstybee.com

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Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Just under an hour south of Charleston, the beauty of the coastal South is on full display at Kiawah Island. The abundant wildlife is well-preserved on this primarily privately owned island, making for a sublime retreat. The island boasts five championship-calibur golf courses at the renowned Kiawah Island Golf Resort. While the boys are away, the girls come out to play at the Forbes five-star spa at The Sanctuary. The resort is racking up top travel awards, making it the ideal island to unwind in low-key luxury. charlestoncvb.com/beaches/kiawah-island/

Kiawah Island Golf Resort 

Kiawah Island Golf Resort is the premier hospitality destination on the island. Most famously home to the Ocean course, the resort offers luxury hotel style rooms as well as villa and home rentals. Enjoy any of the tennis courts, three pools, five golf courses, 12 dining establishments and tranquil spa during any given stay. kiawahresort.com

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Andell Inn 

For those seeking a more intimate stay, the Andell Inn is the picture of coastal Southern tranquility. Lounge on the wrap-around porch and look out over the Andell Lake at sunrise or sunset, browse local artwork in the Great Room and enjoy access to one of the top beaches in the country. andellinn.com 

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Kiawah Island Getaways 

Perhaps the best way to experience Kiawah yet is through a true escapist-style retreat. Kiawah Island Getaways is a boutique vacation rental company that specializes in oceanfront and beachside properties, perfect for taking in the well-preserved natural splendor of the island. kiawahislandgetaways.com

 

The Spa at The Sanctuary

Kiawah Island is a destination for retreat. The Spa at The Sanctuary, of Kiawah Island Golf Resort specializes in the art of getting away. Inspired by the natural beauty of the surrounding island, treatments at The Spa are every bit as relaxing, restorative and revitalizing. kiawahresort.com/the-sanctuary-spa

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The Ocean Course 

Although the Kiawah Island Golf Resort is home to five championship-caliber courses, the Ocean Course is the most famous. Discover a chapter of golf history and play at the site of the epic “War by the Shore” Ryder Cup, or scope out the greens ahead of the 2021 PGA Championship tournament. kiawahresort.com/golf/the-ocean-course

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Kiawah Island Boat Charters

A coastal vacation is not complete without seafaring excursions. Kiawah Island Boat Charters make it easy to embark on shell-hunting excursions and private oyster roasts, or marine sightseeing rides—not to mention, catching stunning sunsets. kiawahresort.com/recreation/boat-charters 

Jasmine Porch 

Known as the “Best Downhome Cookery,” the Jasmine Porch serves certified organic, local, seasonal seafood in a true, downhome ambiance. Charleston brick walls, hewn oak floors and briny ocean air set the tone for an ultra-relaxed, eat-local meal. kiawahresort.com/dining/jasmine-porch

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Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House

A stop on the South Carolina BBQ Trail, Cherrywood BBQ & Ale House serves up top-quality meats smoked over local hardwoods, rubbed with signature seasonings and tangy, house-made sauces. The restaurant’s selection of more than 60 local, imported, draft and craft beers are the perfect complement to the authentic BBQ dishes. kiawahresort.com/dining/cherrywood-bbq-and-ale-house 

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The Atlantic Room at the Ocean Course 

The Atlantic Room is the signature seafood restaurant at the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, serving modern American cuisine with an emphasis on fresh regional catches procured through partnerships with local fishermen—all complemented by an extensive wine list of classic favorites and exciting new selections. kiawahresort.com/dining/the-atlantic-room

Freshfields Village 

Freshfields Village is Kiawah’s unique open-air dining and shopping experience within a relaxed Lowcountry setting. Browse national favorites like Lululemon, Southern Tide and Bluemercury and local boutiques and shops for authentic, upscale Southern style. freshfieldsvillage.com

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Daytona Beach, Florida

Let’s be honest: no Southern spring break list would be complete without Daytona Beach. The quintessential party destination year after year, Daytona has stood the test of time and remains one of the most sought after spring break destinations. In the wake of the turbo-charged Daytona 500, the two-month long tidal wave of spring breakers flock to the sun drenched beaches. Another popular attraction is Daytona Bike Week, set for early March 2021. Rev up your engines because the race to Daytona Beach is on!

Hard Rock Hotel Daytona Beach 

Whether you’re partying like a rockstar or sleeping like a rock, there is no cooler place than the Hard Rock Hotel at Daytona Beach. Panoramic ocean views and modern luxury await along with an oceanfront pool and specialty music amenities. hardrockhotels.com/daytona-beach

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Streamline Hotel 

Fully restored with Art Deco style and elegance, the Streamline Hotel pays homage to the celebrities, race car drivers and moonshine gangsters that once sauntered the halls. The rooftop bar is the birthplace of the organization now known as NASCAR. Stay at the Streamline Hotel to add just the right amount of edge to a stay in Daytona. streamlinehotel.com

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The Shores Resort and Spa 

The Shores Resort and Spa boasts an upscale but not uptight air to their oceanfront property. Check in and hit the ground running with access to yoga sessions, surf lessons, beach Jeep trips and golf courses. shoresresort.com 

Fun Cat Sailing

Set sail in a 50-foot Catamaran named Arabella around the Ponce Inlet. Book day trips, sunset cruises and private charters for any occasion. Fun Cat Sailing is an adventurous change of scenery to days spent on the sand. sailingdaytona.com

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Kennedy Space Center 

Explore the timeline of space exploration and get an inside look at the astronaut experience through the astronaut training simulators. Get up close to out-of-this-world technology like the Mars Rover Vehicle Navigator and the Space Shuttle Atlantis on display at the Kennedy Space Center. The incredible IMAX theater brings space stories to life. kennedyspacecenter.com

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509 Lounge

If you’ve landed at Daytona Beach for spring break, chances are that nightlife is on the docket. Only a block from the beach, 509 Lounge is the premier nightlife destination, featuring VIP bottle service, a sultry cocktail lounge and tropical outdoor patio, and a hypnotic dance floor. 509lounge.com

Caribbean Jack’s 

Caribbean Jack’s is Dayton’s favorite waterfront restaurant and bar. While the atmosphere is casual, there is always someone who is ready to get the party started. Do just that with one of their iconic drinks in a take-home tiki-carved souvenir coconut cup. caribbeanjacks.com 

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Ronin Sushi & Bar 

Sushi lovers flock to Ronin Sushi & Bar, which specializes in Asian-inspired fare. The elevated ambiance is the perfect backdrop to a stylish night out. roninsushibar111.com

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Chucherías Hondureñas 

Combining modern techniques with fresh ingredients, Chef Mayra presents her personal recipes of Honduran, Caribbean and Spanish foods with passion. Experience delectable dishes such as octopus from the northern coast of Spain and conch directly from the Honduran Bay Islands at this upscale Latin restaurant. chucheriasrestaurant.com

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Angell and Phelps

The Angell and Phelps legacy began in 1925 and through years of honing recipes, the result is a labor of love. Satisfy your sweet tooth with indulgent fudge, velvety smooth chocolates and delightful candies. angellandphelps.com 

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ONE Daytona 

Conveniently located across from the International Speedway, ONE Daytona offers premier shopping and restaurants to satisfy those of all ages. One Daytona is the new epicenter of luxury lifestyle and entertainment in the area. onedaytona.com

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Sand Box Beachwear 

We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again, every beach town needs a proper surf shop. Don’t bother packing a bikini or swimsuit, Sand Box Beachwear has the best selection around. The staff will help make the perfect choice for every body type so you can take the beach in style. 386.252.0676

Cumberland Island, Georgia

Need to go off the grid and unplug completely? In these times, who doesn’t? Cumberland Island is the Southernmost barrier island off the coast of Georgia and is only accessible by boat. Take the passenger ferry from St. Marys and bring nothing more than camping gear and an explorer’s hat. Walk among mansion ruins, admire classical revival architecture and recharge at the old Sea Camp Ranger Station. Enjoy the hospitality of 9,800 acres of protected maritime forest and 17 miles of uninterrupted beaches.

National Parks Service Campgrounds

The opportunity to experience the uninhibited beauty of Georgia’s barrier islands is the reason campers seek Cumberland Island, and they come to do just that: camp. There are five campgrounds to choose from, and a small fee and permit are required to stay. After that, the only thing between you and a night under the stars is the top of a tent. recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/253730

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Greyfield Inn 

The Greyfield Inn was built in 1890 by the Carnegies and serves as the only alternative to camping on Cumberland Island. The furnishings transport guests right back to the era in which it was built—as the Carnegie family still oversees the Inn—exuding the romance and luxury of a grand hotel with the hospitality and charm of a family home. Greyfieldinn.com

Dungeness Historic Area Tour 

Originally home to the site of James Oglethorpe’s hunting lodge in 1736, Dungeness changed hands between major figures in American history, from Oglethorpe himself to Nathanael Greene, to Robert E. Lee’s father and finally the Carnegies, when the building succumbed to suspected arson. Ranger guided tours of the Dungeness Historic Area explore the remains of this large industrialist era estate, and dive into the pivotal stories of its location. nps.gov/cuis/planyourvisit/guidedtours.htm

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Amelia Adventures Cumberland Island Kayak Tour 

Book a boat tour and sunset cruise or kayak tour with Amelia Adventures and let them handle the arrangements and provide the knowledge, expertise and equipment. Explorers can sit back and soak in the beauty of the surroundings under the guidance of experienced tour guides. ameliaadventures.com

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Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

As the second fastest-growing metropolitan area in the United States, accompanied by a 60-mile stretch of pristine coastline, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina has something for everyone. Don’t expect tropical conditions, as temperatures hover in the low seventies throughout March and April; however, do expect to never be bored! Myrtle Beach is known as the “mini golf capital of the world” and also boasts over 100 full-size courses, too. Attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium, Broadway Grand Prix and several shopping outlets offer a break from the sand. Visitmyrtlebeach.com

North Beach Resort & Villas

North Beach Resort & Villas offer a variety of accommodations with one thing in common: luxury across the board. High-end villas and bungalows supplement the condo towers and seven-bedroom penthouse—known as the Bridge—overlooking the Atlantic ocean. northbeachrentals.com

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Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes

Situated within the prestigious Grande Dunes neighborhood, the Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa boasts access to nearby championship golf courses and breathtaking oceanfront views. The Hibiscus Spa and health club are the perfect complements to any Myrtle Beach excursion. marriott.com

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Marina Inn at Grande Dunes 

Experience the full grandeur of the Grande Dunes at the Marina Inn, overlooking one of the finest full-service marinas on the east coast.Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding area, the Marina Inn is a harbor of luxury ideal for all visitors. marinainnatgrandedunes.com

Broadway at the Beach

Year in and year out, Broadway at the Beach is the most visited destination in Myrtle Beach. This shopping, dining and entertainment hub is ideal for guests of all ages. Can’t-miss attractions include the Broadway Grand Prix and Topgolf. broadwayatthebeach.com

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Ripley’s Aquarium

Located within the Broadway at the Beach hub, Ripley’s Aquarium is another visitor favorite that has stood the test of time. Walk through a marine tunnel, play with penguins and even dive with sharks! ripleyaquariums.com 

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Myrtle Beach Family Golf

As the miniature golf capital of the world, Myrtle Beach offers unmatched courses. Challenge your friends or entertain the whole family. Courses like Captain Hook’s Adventure and Jurassic Golf do not disappoint! myrtlebeachfamilygolf.com 

42nd Street Bar and Grille

Known for their uncompromising, exceptional service and upscale, seafood-heavy menu, 42nd Street Bar and Grille is a Travelor’s Choice restaurant and consistently gains public five-star reviews, making it the ideal choice for an occasion meal. The inviting robin-egg blue storefront is impossible to miss! 42ndstreetbarandgrill.com

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Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville

It’s five o’clock somewhere—come to think of it, it’s always five o’clock at Margaritaville! From the permanently docked boat, Euphoria, to the Stranded on Sandbar located in a Lighthouse, Margaritaville has a boat load of character. Come for the margaritas, stay for the state of mind. margaritavillemyrtlebeach.com

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The Sea Captain’s House 

A hospitality tradition that dates back to 1930, The Sea Captain’s House has been harboring travelers for nearly a century. Another public favorite, this waterfront establishment serves fresh seafood for breakfast, lunch and dinner. seacaptains.com 

The Market Common 

Set in a beautifully designed village, the Market Common offers some of the nation’s most celebrated names in retail to charming one-of-a-kind boutiques. Stroll along tree lined avenues, dine at one of the 11 restaurants, or take in a movie at the most comfortable theater in Myrtle Beach. marketcommonmb.com

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Tsunami Surf Shop

Any respectable beach town needs a go-to surf shop. Tsunami Surf Shop has nine locations throughout Myrtle Beach and has every beach-related need covered, with essentials from boogie boards to sunscreen. Find top brands like Billabong, Ray-Ban, Oakley, Sperry Topsider, The North Face and all the rest of the best. tsunamisurfshops.com

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Tanger Outlets

Shoppers know to expect all their favorite brands and all the best deals when visiting Tanger Outlets. Tanger Outlets at Myrtle Beach are no exception; however, this shopping complex offers guests a chance to find discounts and score the deal of the year, even during spring break. tangeroutlet.com/myrtlebeach17

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