Visiting Southern and Coastal Georgia

Southern Georgia features nearly 100 miles of coastline along the Atlantic seaboard. Both the Savannah and the St Marys Rivers empty into the Atlantic Ocean along the Georgia Coast. Historic Savannah, sits near the coast close to Skidaway Island State Park. Known for its history and architecture, Savannah is famous for its beautiful city squares filled with gardens, fountains and monuments. Near Savannah, Tybee Island is home to the first southern Atlantic lighthouse, the Tybee Island Light Station. The Okefenokee Swamp is also a major draw in Southern Georgia. With over 400,000 acres of canals and waterways full of lilypads and lined with cypress tress draped in moss, it is an adventure for any traveler.

Richmond Hill, southwest of Savannah on Interstate 95, hosts one of Coastal Georgia's most popular events. The 2010 Great Ogeechee Seafood Festival in mid-October, draws visitors from across the southeast to sample the amazing seafood and entertainment. With two stages featuring live entertainment, a midway with carnival games and rides, a car show and a spectacular fireworks show to top off Saturday Night – there is fun for the entire family. The Best Western Richmond Hill Inn is perfect to make the festival a weekend getaway. With complimentary breakfast in the morning and warm cookies in the evening you will feel right at home.

The world famous Crab Shack on Tybee Island kicks off the 2010 Tybee Island Pirate Fest in October. The 6th annual event begins at the Crab Shack with the Buccaneer Ball featuring live music and a costume contest. Stick around for the weekend and enjoy the Pirate Victory Parade, more live entertainment and the Thieves Market. Kids will have special activities, so leave no-one behind. The Best Western Central Inn, The Best Western Savannah Gateway and the Best Western Savannah Historic District offer quality accommodations and reasonable rates at locations within 15 miles of Tybee Island. Enjoy the Pirate Fest and your favorite Savannah sites.

The Holidays are a special time in Southern Georgia with many special events and activities. The Savannah Downtown Garden Club with host the 39th Annual Victorian Tea in December 2010. Tour one of the grand historic homes of Savannah and enjoy tea along with music and treats. This is held in conjunction with the Holiday Tour of Homes. St Mary's in the south coast area hosts the Christmas Candlelight Tour of Homes. See the area's historic homes decorated for the holidays.

If you are worried about a few extra holiday pounds, plan for the Enmark Savannah River Bridge Run. You can run, walk or crawl, whatever it takes to have fun and participate. The 2010 December race includes a 1/4 mile kids run, 5K and 10K. The fun part is the costume contest and post-race party – you never know what you will see on the course, but it's guaranteed fun for all.