[Michael 61]

As still a “newish” Villager from the western states, Florida and the Atlantic seaboard is all new territory for me. Finally decided to take a one-week road trip outside of The Bubble up the Atlantic Coast. This is a “slower” season right now, and not very crowded, especially mid-week. Started at St Augustine, then spent a night on Amelia Island. Continued on to Jekyll Island and now in Savannah for several days. Will continue on to Hilton Head and Charleston to finish out the week. Incredible beaches, scenery, and every meal has been “through the roof” good. The people have been very friendly, exuding the typical
“Southern charm”. I would encourage new Florida residents to explore this area, as it is an easy drive from The Villages.

[Carla B]

Yes, we've made that trip a few times, not by auto but by boat in the ICW (IntraCoastal Waterway). One very special place, if you missed it, is Cumberland Island Natl. Seashore. Leave your car at nearby St. Mary's, Ga. and take a boat for the short ride across the river/ICW to the island. It was formerly the home of a member of the Carnegie family, who built a mansion called "Dungeness," established a farming operation to be self-sustaining, and kept polo ponies. Mrs. Carnegie was most instrumental in building the couple's dream place. But she had to abandon it after her husband died.

Descendants of the ponies still roam free on the island. Dungeness is in ruins, the victim of arson, but you can see the magnificent bones of the structure. There is an easy walk to the seashore under twisted oaks with armadillos wandering about. And the beach is beautiful and quiet.

Another stop very worthwhile is the City of Beaufort, South Carolina. It is a charming, artsy place. We always made a point to stop there.

So glad you are enjoying your trip!

[JMintzer]

You've picked some wonderful places to visit! My middle daughter graduated from the College of Charleston, so we spent a lot of time there. Full of history, wonderful places to eat. The best Shrimp and Grits we found there was @ Fleet Landing, right on the water next to the Customs House past the old Slave Market... Some other great places to eat are Magnolias and S.N.O.B (Slightly North Of Broad).

There are also some great dive bar seafood places on Folly Beach, just outside of Hilton Head...

We also spent several 2 week summer vacations on Hilton head when the kids were younger. Beautiful place. Great if you're a golfer! A buddy of mine had a beautiful home in Wexford (one of the Hilton Head "Plantations". It was right on their lock-controlled canals. We would golf, take his boat out, hit all of the great restaurants...

I need to go back...

Savanah is also a wonderful town. Similar to Charleston, but still different. Both have plenty of historic sights (if you're into that) and great places to eat... (Are you sensing a trend?)

[Michael 61]

Originally Posted by JMintzer

You've picked some wonderful places to visit! My middle daughter graduated from the College of Charleston, so we spent a lot of time there. Full of history, wonderful places to eat. The best Shrimp and Grits we found there was @ Fleet Landing, right on the water next to the Customs House past the old Slave Market... Some other great places to eat are Magnolias and S.N.O.B (Slightly North Of Broad).

There are also some great dive bar seafood places on Folly Beach, just outside of Hilton Head...

We also spent several 2 week summer vacations on Hilton head when the kids were younger. Beautiful place. Great if you're a golfer! A buddy of mine had a beautiful home in Wexford (one of the Hilton Head "Plantations". It was right on their lock-controlled canals. We would golf, take his boat out, hit all of the great restaurants...

I need to go back...

Savanah is also a wonderful town. Similar to Charleston, but still different. Both have plenty of historic sights (if you're into that) and great places to eat... (Are you sensing a trend?)

Thanks for the shrimp and grits recommendation in Charleston - I will try and check it out - just had dinner at The Pink House in Savannah - hands down the best biscuits and best fried chicken I’ve had in my entire life!

[shaw8700@outlook.com]

Now I’ve got to go to Charleston!

[REDCART]

The better restaurants in the historic area of Charleston are usually very busy and reservations are recommended. We made a dinner reservation a week before at Hank’s Seafood, and it was absolutely memorable. We’ve taken Greyline City tours of both and prefer Charleston to Savannah.

[Furrydogmom]

Since no one mentioned St. Simons Island, I need to share a bit. I spent many vacations there and loved it. Dog friendly beach, great restaurants and shops, and laid back vibe. Highly recommended!

[bncuhler@verizon.net]

Originally Posted by JMintzer

You've picked some wonderful places to visit! My middle daughter graduated from the College of Charleston, so we spent a lot of time there. Full of history, wonderful places to eat. The best Shrimp and Grits we found there was @ Fleet Landing, right on the water next to the Customs House past the old Slave Market... Some other great places to eat are Magnolias and S.N.O.B (Slightly North Of Broad).

There are also some great dive bar seafood places on Folly Beach, just outside of Hilton Head...

We also spent several 2 week summer vacations on Hilton head when the kids were younger. Beautiful place. Great if you're a golfer! A buddy of mine had a beautiful home in Wexford (one of the Hilton Head "Plantations". It was right on their lock-controlled canals. We would golf, take his boat out, hit all of the great restaurants...

I need to go back...

Savanah is also a wonderful town. Similar to Charleston, but still different. Both have plenty of historic sights (if you're into that) and great places to eat... (Are you sensing a trend?)

Second Magnolias and Slightly North of Broad!! Fabulous food!!!

[Michael 61]

Originally Posted by JMintzer

You've picked some wonderful places to visit! My middle daughter graduated from the College of Charleston, so we spent a lot of time there. Full of history, wonderful places to eat. The best Shrimp and Grits we found there was @ Fleet Landing, right on the water next to the Customs House past the old Slave Market... Some other great places to eat are Magnolias and S.N.O.B (Slightly North Of Broad).

There are also some great dive bar seafood places on Folly Beach, just outside of Hilton Head...

We also spent several 2 week summer vacations on Hilton head when the kids were younger. Beautiful place. Great if you're a golfer! A buddy of mine had a beautiful home in Wexford (one of the Hilton Head "Plantations". It was right on their lock-controlled canals. We would golf, take his boat out, hit all of the great restaurants...

I need to go back...

Savanah is also a wonderful town. Similar to Charleston, but still different. Both have plenty of historic sights (if you're into that) and great places to eat... (Are you sensing a trend?)

I am at Fleet Landing - busy Saturday Night but snagged seats at the Raw Bar - Ordered raw oysters (I know out of season!) and shrimp and grits - so good!! I sure appreciate your recommendation - I owe you one!

[Salty Dog]

I lived in Savannah for 5 years. In the summer, the heat is unbearable. Since we lived in Savannah, we liked to go to Charleston or Myrtle Beach for quick getaways. The lowcountry and seafood there is great. If you want to golf, Myrtle Beach has dozens of courses. Best time to go is when children are in school. April-May and after Labor Day.

[JMintzer]

Originally Posted by Michael 61

I am at Fleet Landing - busy Saturday Night but snagged seats at the Raw Bar - Ordered raw oysters (I know out of season!) and shrimp and grits - so good!! I sure appreciate your recommendation - I owe you one!

[Shipping up to Boston]

Without question Charleston is one of the most underrated cities on the east coast. Many great spots already recommended but I love Santi's Mexican on Meeting Street. If you're into sports...the Charleston River Dogs (Tampa Bay Rays Class A affiliate) play at beautiful Mayor Joe Riley Park. For some reason I always walk around The Citadel as well. Just one of those perfect walking cities

[firefighter4u]

we camped on Jekyll Island a month or so ago, what a place with so much history! Here is our YouTube vlog about it!

https://youtu.be/EvK-fJFRzJE?si=CXzThu4XjBrqxg84