As a beachside retreat, Tybee Island brings together old and new – clapboard cottages and Bermuda- precisely that soft blend of natural marshes and Atlantic shoreline, modest history and seaside playground that makes Tybee a celebrated family vacation destination. At the south end of the island, the pier and pavilion stretches into the Atlantic, tempting people watchers and fishermen intent on capturing the ‘fish story’ catch of the day. And the authentically refurbished lighthouse and five-acre grounds and outbuildings remind us of her role in guiding mariners to the Savannah River for nearly 300 years. It is precisely that soft blend of natural marshes and Atlantic shoreline, modest history and seaside playground that makes Tybee a celebrated family vacation destination.

Locals can’t compete with crimson sunsets, wading herons or silky sand dunes; but they roll out dining hospitality, shopping convenience and fun modes of transportation. You’ll find casual waterside restaurants and loftier southern inn-style fare, with fried green tomatoes every bit as popular as delicious servings of fresh fish. You’ll want to join the line-up at The Breakfast Club for mouth-watering omelets and southern grits. Wander to shops and galleries, along the marshes and shoreline in a fun, open air Tybee Cruiser. They’re eco-friendly, electric transportation to liven your tour around the island– but be sure to make a reservation. Just 18 miles and 20 minutes away, Savannah offers a virtual silver platter of Southern heritage, arts, entertainment and exceptional dining. Gather family and friends and plan a lovely day of exploring cobblestone streets, shaded historic squares and parlor-room hospitality! Be sure to include the City Market for a remarkable mix of artist lofts, musical entertainment, boutique shopping and more.

To get a true sense of the beauty of Kiawah Island venture to Marsh Island Park where you’ll be rewarded with stunning scenic views atop the Marsh Island Lookout Tower of the Kiawah River, saltwater marshes, and island hammocks. For animal lovers, don’t miss the Heron Park Nature Center where you can participate in nature tours and programs, birding walks, butterfly walks, and alligator walks. Bird admirers love the Great Egret Rookery, a spot where you can typically see several dozen of the magnificent white birds in trees over a lagoon. For an exceptional picnic area head to Beachwalker Park, which has a wide boardwalk that winds through palmettos, oaks, and pines. Golf on Kiawah Island is not just any recreation amenity, it’s a way of life. There are five championship courses on the island highlighted by the Pete Dye designed Ocean Course site of the 1991 Ryder Cup matches and 2007 Senior PGA Championship. In 2012, the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island Golf Resort will host the 94th PGA Championship. Other courses to play include the Jack Nicklaus designed Turtle Point and Gary Player designed Cougar Point courses.