7 Picturesque Small Towns in the South-Atlantic for a Weekend Retreat
Are you in the market for a weekend retreat to remember? The South Atlantic region, which spans Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, offers unique cultural traits, all embodying American charm and hospitality, making its exceptional small towns a must-visit. Make sure you stop by Myrtle Beach, with its Brookgreen Gardens and Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum, as well as two picturesque nearby vineyards.
Cumberland Island, the quintessence of a retreat, is home to wilderness gems that could be your most scenically overwhelming experience yet, with pampering included, courtesy of the renowned Carnegie family. Head to Berkeley Springs, the first spa resort town in America and the first mentioned on this list. With a boardwalk in nearly every town, Carolina Beach features a vintage one with old-school amusement rides and arcades during the summer.
Berkeley Springs, West Virginia
Berkeley Springs, known as America's first spa town, is indeed "almost heaven." This beautiful and historic town is nestled in the mountainous region of West Virginia. Its healing thermal waters have been sought after by native tribes for medicinal and healing purposes for centuries. Europeans quickly became enamored with the area's mineral-rich springs, recognizing both their health and economic benefits through tourism. The Old Roman and Main Bathhouses, built in 1815, were inspired by the classical Roman design seen in the English town of Bath, marking some of the earliest efforts to capture the essence of a wellness getaway. Today, unique spas provide modern pampering experiences with services designed to relax, rejuvenate, or refresh your city-weary body.
Just a 90-minute drive from the Washington, D.C./Baltimore metro area, this town in the northeastern part of the state is alive with leisure activities, including a nationally recognized and vibrant art scene. A case in point is the Ice House Art Center, known for concerts, gallery exhibits, and lectures. Berkeley Springs' dining options range from surf-n-turf dishes, including burgers and ribs, to an array of fresh seafood at places like Lot 12 Public House, complemented by two craft breweries. Experience small-town charm through distinctive shops like Fleur de Lis Cheese Shop and the Rag Shop, or the Berkeley Springs Antiques Mall. And don't miss soaking in George Washington's Bathtub, one of the most notable attractions, which the first president greatly enjoyed.
Carolina Beach, North Carolina
Not far from Brunswick, this classic NC beach town is a beloved coastal escape at the northern end of Pleasure Island, where you can enjoy stunning views and fun experiences for every type of traveler. Offering pristine oceanfront rentals along the picturesque sandy stretch, visitors can enjoy the beach or explore the vintage boardwalk, featuring old-school amusement rides in the summer. From Carolina Beach Lake Park to the Carolina Beach Pier and Freeman Park just north, it's easy to engage in some exercise after enjoying the lively beach bars and superb seafood. Carolina Beach State Park, overlooking the Cape Fear River, offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature along the Flytrap Trail, where carnivorous plants add intrigue to your hike.
The off-the-beaten-path feel of this remote island vibe makes it seem like you're truly getting away from the crowds, with various trails, golf, and kayak paddling opportunities along the waterways. Anglers can enjoy some of the area's finest fishing spots, while those seeking entertainment can return to the boardwalk in the evening for a different vibe but the same salty air, complete with delicious pizza, ice cream, and the best boardwalk fries. From amusement rides to arcade games, shops, restaurants, and breweries are all nearby, including the highly rated Michael's Seafood Restaurant or the beachfront SeaWitch Café & Tiki Bar.
Cumberland Island, Georgia
Accessible only by a 45-minute ferry ride from St. Marys, Cumberland Island is a largely undeveloped gem that might just be the quaint, historic town escape you've been dreaming of. Home to fewer than 300 inhabitants, it offers all the amenities to keep an urbanite comfortable while rebelling against city life, making it a peaceful, welcoming retreat for families. Whether you're looking to rough it, break even, or indulge in some pampering, the Greyfield Inn is a must-visit bed and breakfast offering plush accommodations. Once the home of Thomas and Lucy Carnegie's daughter, it's steps away from the Cumberland Island National Seashore, ensuring a memorable experience.
This state's largest and southernmost barrier island boasts more than 17 miles of serene, white sandy beaches. Alongside the beauty of wild, free-roaming horses and beachfront campgrounds, visitors can enjoy nature with the convenience of restroom facilities and showers. Choose your own adventure, whether it's a morning stroll along the boardwalk, a day at the beach, or exploring the wilderness with its notable landmarks. Don't miss the scenic ruins of the Carnegies' Dungeness estate, which dates back to 1884 and was destroyed by fire in the 1950s. Visiting Plum Orchard Mansion allows guests to imagine the carefree Carnegie lifestyle, further enriched by naturalist-led tours from the inn and gourmet dining.
Darien, Georgia
Darien is a cozy, waterside enclave famous for its amazing seafood, earning national recognition. Combining a mild climate, history, nature, and panoramic views, the local dining hotspots feature fresh catches straight off the boat. Situated just an hour from Savannah to the north and Jacksonville, Florida, to the south, Darien appeals not just to foodies, but also to those seeking shopping, services, and boat tours for a perfect weekend retreat. Activities range from serene sightseeing paddles to dinner cruises and deep-sea fishing, offering relaxation or adventure right from the beautiful docks, against a backdrop of pristine islands and maritime forests.
Not far from Brunswick, Georgia's second-oldest planned city and a thriving port, Darien captivates visitors with beautiful scenery and activities for everyone, including an expansive waterfront park and a charming historic district. This tiny town, with access to rivers and the ocean, is also part of the Coastal Birding Trail, home to nearly 75% of the state's bird species. With miles of biking paths and hiking trails for nature watching, don't miss the historical Fort King George State Historic Site. A leisurely stroll through the historic Old Jail Arts Center and Museum, followed by a photogenic evening at the beach, is highly recommended.
Georgetown, South Carolina
Georgetown, South Carolina’s third-oldest city, offers a breathtaking weekend escape. Journey through three centuries of history along streets lined with live oaks that bear witness to its colonial past and present life. Once a thriving port of entry in the mid-1800s for the area’s planters and wealthy merchants, Georgetown’s historic district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features over 60 structures, many of which are over two centuries old. Within these historic homes, visitors will find attractions, grand old churches, and five museums along "Front Street." The charming waterfront is perfect for sunset strolls, shopping, dining, boating, and fishing.
Named “America’s Best Coastal Small Town,” Georgetown sits between Myrtle Beach and Charleston and is accessible by car via Highway 17, as well as by boat, thanks to its county airport and excellent harbor. Its charismatic personality shines through on historic and ghost tours, while its exuberant side is showcased in fun festivals, parades, and concerts. Offering some of the best photographic opportunities in the South, the town's unmistakable southern charm and hospitality invite exploration. For a memorable retreat, be sure to visit scenic plantations and the Kaminski House Museum. The Hidden Marina & Campground is a popular summer spot with easy access to historic downtown and the waterfront.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, a natural and cultural jewel, invites families, friends, and those seeking solitude to an unforgettable coastal escape. This larger town boasts an array of attractions, offering serene vacation rentals in North Myrtle Beach by the shore, and sprawling resorts near activities like miniature golf, parasailing, and the seaside amusement water park, Family Kingdom, which features a lazy river and kiddie pool. Nearby, picturesque vineyards invite visitors for tastings or BYO picnics, while racing enthusiasts will delight in the Myrtle Beach Speedway.
Whether you're drawn to horseback riding along the beach, the excitement of bungee jumping, or prefer spin and yoga classes, be sure not to miss the world-renowned sculptures at Brookgreen Gardens. For those with children, the Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum offers amusing oddities. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is perfect for a sunset stroll, featuring dining, shops, and eco-friendly YRyde pedal-assist electric bikes, making it easy to maximize even a brief visit.
Sperryville, Virginia
Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s Piedmont, at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sperryville is one of the Mid-Atlantic's most scenic locales. Founded in 1820, its historic downtown, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers a glimpse into the past. Initially part of the Northern Neck Proprietary, a land grant from King George II of Great Britain to Thomas Fairfax VI, Sperryville marries the grandeur of its royal origins with the town's natural beauty. Known for its country atmosphere, the town draws urbanites eager to explore the rural charm via trails or the nearby Appalachian Trail for backpacking adventures.
Thornton Gap and Old Rag Mountain, just a short distance away, provide stunning vistas for both casual picnickers and serious hikers. The town's historic buildings house a rich culinary scene, with fine dining at places like Three Blacksmiths offering regional cuisine. Pen Druid Brewing and Copper Fox Distillery, celebrated for their craft beverages, contribute to Sperryville's vibrant local nightlife. Situated near the Panorama entrance to Skyline Drive and Shenandoah National Park, the town serves as a gateway to adventure for visitors of all ages, with numerous bed and breakfasts, specialty shops, antique stores, and art galleries enriching the experience.
Regional Highlights
The South-Atlantic region offers a diverse array of small-town experiences, from islands and beaches to wilderness and scenic ruins. Darien shines as a national-level foodie haven, while Georgetown preserves its colonial heritage in a downtown listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offering historic and ghost tours alongside lively festivals, parades, and concerts. Berkeley Springs invites visitors to experience its Old Roman and Main bathhouses, dating back to 1815, in a setting enjoyed by the nation's first president. This rich tapestry of attractions caters to every taste, setting the stage for memorable explorations across the southern-Atlantic states.
