Tucked away on the Georgia coast, the Golden Isles is home to some of the most beautiful and Insta-worthy spots on the Atlantic. Visitors and romantics alike have been traveling to the area for hundreds of years in search of a serene setting, breathtaking scenery and a feeling of solitude that draws couples even closer together.
The Golden Isles is undoubtedly one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to planning a wedding. Here, you’ll find dozens of beachfront, historic, romantic and luxurious venues with helpful teams ready to make your special day absolutely perfect.
Whether you’re looking to host your wedding in the Golden Isles, or simply have your engagement pictures taken while you’re on vacation, these are our top five favorite and most Instagrammable spots for the perfect photos.
Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island
What Makes It So Dreamy: Easily one of the most popular (and beautiful!) beaches in the Golden Isles, Driftwood Beach is the result of years of erosion, leaving behind gorgeous weathered trees that line this stretch of beach. It’s incredibly dramatic at sunrise and it’s totally worth the early wake up call!
Where to Find It: The southern end of Jekyll Island, right off of Beachview Drive between Clam Creek Picnic Area and Villas by the Sea Resort.
Insider Tip: Check the tides before you plan your visit!
Jekyll Island Historic District
What Makes It So Dreamy: This was once the winter playground for some of America’s most elite families. The “cottages” that adorn this 240-acre historic district were built in the late 1800s and early 1900s, and create the perfect timeless backdrop for photos with their perfectly manicured gardens and unique architecture.
Where to Find It: Riverview Drive, near the Jekyll Island Club Resort.
Insider Tip: Plan a date after your photos and enjoy a waterfront meal at The Wharf, or rent bikes and ride around Jekyll Island!
Avenue of the Oaks, St. Simons Island
What Makes It So Dreamy: This beautiful lane formed by a seemingly-endless tunnel of centuries-old live oak trees on St. Simons Island. Avenue of the Oaks’ sprawling branches filled with picturesque Spanish moss create an ultra-romantic scene that looks like it came straight out of The Notebook. Eat your heart out, Nicholas Sparks.
Where to Find It: 100 Retreat Avenue, St. Simons Island.
Insider Tip: The Avenue of the Oaks is especially beautiful after a rainy day. Resurrection ferns that live on oak tree branches unfurl and turn a gorgeous shade of green after a rain shower.
Wesley Memorial Gardens, St. Simons Island
What Makes It So Dreamy: The Wesley Memorial Gardens are located on the north end of St. Simons Island, a more secluded spot on the island. It’s tucked away amongst untouched maritime forests, the beloved Christ Church and Fort Frederica National Monument. An 18-foot Celtic cross sits at the middle of the garden and is surrounded by benches practically begging for a photo-op.
Where to Find It: Adjacent to Wesley United Methodist Church, 6510 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island.
Insider Tip: Visit during early Spring to take advantage of the 4,000 azaleas in bloom!
Historic Downtown Brunswick
What Makes It So Dreamy: Historic Downtown Brunswick was founded in the late 1700s, and many of the original buildings reflect the unique Victorian architecture of that time period. Whether you’re strolling hand-in-hand in one of the Signature Squares or walking past Old City Hall or the Historic Ritz Theatre on Newcastle Street, your photos will be a timeless classic.
Where to Find It: Newcastle Street, Brunswick.
Insider Tip: Don’t forget to stop by Mary Ross Waterfront Park at sunset for some gorgeous shots near the marina and shrimp boats!
Planning Your Beach Wedding
And when you’re ready to plan your perfect Georgia coast wedding, we have plenty of tools and resources to help make your big day everything you’ve ever dreamed of!
Images provided by: John Krivec Photography (first image) & Brooke Roberts Photography
