You don’t have to travel far from metro Atlanta to experience vast natural landscapes, pristine beaches and tousled white sands.
» RELATED: 10 often-overlooked beaches near Atlanta
In fact, some of the best islands in the South are right here in the state, according to popular Southern culture magazine Southern Living.
Based on more than 22,000 online reader surveys, Southern Living created "The South's Best" awards, its first-ever listing for the best-loved places in 13 different categories, including best islands.
Two of Georgia’s Golden Isles and a Savannah island made the cut for best islands in the region.
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St. Simons Island, with its long, flat beaches, "historic architecture" and "moss-draped oaks," ranked second of the 10 islands.
Jekyll Island is the other isle on the list, coming in at No. 7.
The island is popular for its marshland, wide beaches and the nearby Georgia Sea Turtle Center.
» RELATED: A look at the luxurious Jekyll Island
The last Georgia island recognized by Southern Living is Savannah's Tybee Island, a short 30 minute drive from the popular city.
Both Jekyll Island and Savannah house two of the South's best hotels, the Jekyll Island Club Hotel and Savannah's Mansion on Forsyth Park.
» RELATED: Two Georgia hotels named the best in the South
Savannah is also home to the best inn in the South, a haunted bed and breakfast called the Foley House Inn.
» RELATED: Discover St. Simons Island
More about Georgia’s island getaways:
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