Brunswick

The mainland, port city of Brunswick on the Georgia coast is the gateway to the barrier islands of St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island — better known as the Golden Isles.

The town of Brunswick is laid out in a formal grid similar to Savannah's, with city streets and squares still bearing their colonial names. Explore the historical area, which is enjoying a renaissance and features shops, restaurants and beautiful homes reflecting a variety of styles dating from 1819.

Docked at the wharf, the array of shrimp boats are ready to trawl the local waters — evidence of the area's rich seafood industry. Try your hand at shrimping aboard the Lady Jane, the only shrimp vessel on the East Coast that has been certified to carry passengers offshore. Sample the catch of the day at one of the fine restaurants.

Mary Ross Waterfront Park and the adjacent Brunswick Landing Marina play host to a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. Some of the annual events include the Brunswick Rockin' Stewbilee, the Rhythm on the River concert series, and the Mayfair, previously known as Blessing of the Fleet. The 1899 Ritz Theatre hosts live music performances, films and other entertainment.

There are no beaches in Brunswick, but there are opportunities for kayking, surfing and sailing, as well as fishing charters and dolphin tours. Plus, getting to the beautiful, sandy beaches of the Golden Isles from Brunswick is a cinch by car, taxi or boat. The town's location on the Georgia coast offers up many scenic walking and biking paths, including in Marshes of Glynn Overlook Park.

The Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK) is the hub for reaching the area by plane, with direct flights from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.