The Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN: Know The Best Getaways

Sep 20, 2023

Last Updated on: Jun 10, 2025

Travel Guides

Does Tennessee have a beach? No, it does not. 

For the longest time, I have been planning a long beach holiday. And something or else will always turn up ruining the plan. 

The kids have their exams and there are family commitments. So, our beach vacation was always limited to Douglas Lake or Cherokee Lake. 

However, I had done my research on the closest beach to me and this time, we had a long weekend. 

So our road led to Sullivan’s Island, the closest beach to Knoxville, TN. Having said that, there are many beaches near Knoxville TN. 

For example, Myrtle Beach in South Carolina is one of the most popular ocean beaches near Tennessee. We also have Folly Beach in South Carolina and Oak Island in North Carolina. 

In today’s Tour and Travel blog, we will talk about the beaches close to Knoxville TN, and tell you why they are most suitable for the ultimate Tennessee beach vacation.

What Is The Closest Beach To Knoxville Tennessee? 

What Is The Closest Beach To Knoxville Tennessee? 

Our journey to the closest beaches to Knoxville TN will start from Sullivan’s Island, as promised. 

However, before taking you on a tour of these beaches, I wanted to share the best time to visit the closest beach from Knoxville TN. 

Knoxville primarily has two tourist seasons. You can visit the closest beach to Knoxville, TN between March and June and September to November. 

So, let’s begin the ultimate Knoxville beach journey. Here we go! 

1. Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina

Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina
  • Distance from Knoxville: 380.4 Miles
  • Travel Time: 6 Hours

I was looking for ocean beaches within 6 hours of me, and I found out Sullivan’s Island. It is a barrier island with an area of around 8.91 km². 

Further, Sullivan’s Island, the closest beach to TN, stands out with its local history. It has Fort Moultrie, built in 1776 and it still tells the story of how it protected the city from the cannonball attacks of the warships. 

Moreover, Sullivan’s Island is important in the history of literature. Edgar Allan Poe was stationed at Fort Moultrie between November 1827 to December 1828.

2. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
  • Distance from Knoxville: 412 Miles
  • Travel Time: 6 Hours 46 Minutes

Sitting in Knoxville, I was looking for beaches within 7 hours of me. I found the name of Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. 

Myrtle Beach is nothing short of a fantasy island and it was once the hub of pirates. Further, Myrtle Beach is associated with the Indigenous people and roaming ghosts. 

A visit to Myrtle Beach is incomplete without exploring the Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach. Further, you must spend some time at the Myrtle Beach State Park, and Myrtle Beach Pinball Museum. 

3. Folly Beach, South Carolina

Folly Beach, South Carolina
  • Distance from Knoxville: 383 Miles
  • Travel Time: 6 Hours 35 Minutes 

Folly Beach, one of the closest beaches to Knoxville, is the ultimate destination to stay, eat, play. and explore! 

Further, life on Folly Beach revolves around outdoor activities. From a casual stroll on the beach to more adventurous activities like surfing, boating, kayaking, and biking, Folly Beach offers you the opportunity to enjoy the best beach vacation. 

Moreover, Folly Beach is a wonderful melting pot of modern entertainment and exploring wildlife. You can attend the Annual Folly Festivals and take part in birdwatching and exploring wildlife. 

Blu Restaurant And Bar, Bert’s Market, and Bounty Bar are some popular places to eat on Folly Beach. 

4. Kiawah Island, South Carolina

Kiawah Island, South Carolina
  • Distance from Knoxville: 396.5 Miles
  • Travel Time: 6 Hours 30 Minutes

Kiawah Island with a majority of marshland, is located at a distance of 6 hours and 16 minutes by car from Knoxville. 

To emphasize the adventure, let me tell you that the beach is often used for native wildlife watching!

Several locations across the beach are perfect if you are looking for wildlife spotting! The two locations popular for this purpose on the beach are Canvasback Duck Pond and Marsh Island Park.

What’s more, there are two scenic observation towers in Kiawah where you will get a 360-degree view of the sea and land! 

If you are a hiker or like to bike, this beach is perfect! They have natural paths for these types of adventures.

For accommodation, there is a private 2nd story deck that you can rent to enjoy some stunning ocean views. 

There is one popular restaurant called Jasmine Porch where you can splurge on good food, especially the Low-country favorites such as shrimp and grits, she-crab bisque, fresh seafood, po’boys, and burgers!

5. Isle Of Palms, South Carolina

Isle Of Palms, South Carolina
  • Distance from Knoxville: 383 Miles
  • Travel Time: 6 Hours 30 Minutes

There is a playground for children, so this is the perfect destination if you have kids. 

There is also a picnic area, so if you plan to spend the whole day out, you can go to this beach. For accommodation, there is a single-family cottage which is well decorated!

Food is another important part of the vacation, so I suggest the Sea Biscuit Cafe! Try out the seafood omelets, shrimp, and gravy because these are the low-country options.

6. Hilton Head, South Carolina

Hilton Head, South Carolina
  • Distance from Knoxville: 411 Miles
  • Travel Time: 6 Hours 32 Minutes

You have to visit this beach for the best sunsets across the water! In a distance of 6 hours, 26 minutes from Knoxville, the coastal paradise is someplace to be visited. 

If you are planning on staying the night, there is a resort rental that you can book. You can enjoy the outdoor and indoor pool, a tiki bar, etc.

You must catch the coastal area food, especially crab cakes, sandwiches, shrimp, grits, and salads. 

7. Oak Island, North Carolina

Oak Island, North Carolina
  • Distance from Knoxville: 441.5 Miles
  • Travel Time: 7 Hours 14 Minutes

If you are looking for a scenic beach, Oak Island is the place to visit for all adventurous activities. 

Water sports are quite famous here, along with that, you can see Fort Caswell, used in the 1800s and 1900s. This is one of the beaches near Knoxville TN!

You will take 7 hours and 8 minutes to reach the beach and can visit the island lighthouse, which is situated just beside the fort. 

There is a perfect walk to enjoy Oak Island Nature Center at the beach, so if you are a nature lover, you know where to go!

Further, adventures such as kayaking are the thing to do as an outdoor adventure sport. Many family homes and rentals are at a distance of the March beach, providing incredible views across the beach.

If you visit the beach, you must try out scrumptious food items such as steak, chicken, and pasta, apart from the delicious seafood.

8. Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina
  • Distance from Knoxville: 442 Miles

The beach is a little farther from Knoxville, TN, as it takes about 7 hours and 23 minutes. 

There are three beaches in Wilmington: Kure, Carolina, and Wrightsville. All the beaches qualify as some of the best beaches near Knoxville.

Apart from common activities such as shopping and dining, there are interesting activities to perform, such as going on catamaran cruises, visiting the History Museum, and attending fairs and seasonal festivals.

The Fred and Alice Stanback Coastal Education Center organizes educational programs and treasure hunts for children. 

IIn terms of food, you will find some of the best cheeseburgers at this closest beach to Knoxville, TN! If you are a picky eater, you will find various options, from steaks to seafood platters.

9. Kure Beach, North Carolina, Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN

Kure Beach, North Carolina, Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN 
  • Distance from Knoxville: 449.5 Miles
  • Travel Time: 7 Hours 30 Minutes

The beach at Kure is beautiful, apart from the North Carolina Aquarium, which is situated at Fort Fisher. 

Significant features are located at the beach, such as a nature play area, an adventure reef, and touch tanks.

This beach is located at a distance of 7 hours and 31 minutes. 

Apart from the beach, you can also visit places such as the historical site of the Civil War Museum, the Fort Fisher State Site, beach cruises, a dog park, and a playground in front of the beach.

You cannot miss the food such as burgers, sandwiches, seafood and pasta! I am already drooling!

10. Tybee Island, Georgia: Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN

Tybee Island, Georgia: Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN
  • Distance from Knoxville: 434 Miles
  • Travel Time: 7 Hours

The beach is located at a distance of 6 hours and 55 minutes by road from Knoxville. Some of the place’s main attractions are the restaurants and the quaint little shops. 

The beach is popular for people finding their relaxing haunt near Tennessee. Considering, it is the closest beach to Tennessee!

It is a low-key beach situated just outside of Savanah! Apart from relaxing on the beach, you can also access different amenities in Savanah, such as museums, historic architecture, upscale shops, ghost tours, and other attractions perfect for family outings.

Beautiful rentals are close to the beach and a 1-minute distance from where you can enjoy some stunning visuals. 

The food available in and around the place is quite popular! One such restaurant is located near the waterfront called Bubba Gumbo.

The seafood Gumbo is their signature dish! You can also order fried fish, jambalaya, burgers, and crab cakes. They also popularly serve shrimp.

11. Simon’s Island, Georgia: Closest Beach To Knoxville, TN

  • Distance from Knoxville: 491.2 Miles
  • Travel Time: 7 Hours 32 Minutes

The beach is situated at a distance of 7 hours and 42 minutes from Knoxville, TN! The beach Oasis is a perfect place to relax, especially with all the amenities present to make your life easier. 

The Neptune Park Fun Zone here is for family attractions.

You can also find a store to rent accessories for water sports restaurants, and several shops provide you with good food and the necessary equipment for the beach vacation, such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and others.

There is one family beach rental along with its private swimming pool. The rental can host a family, which is pretty close to the lighthouse. 

You cannot miss the delicious food available on this closest beach to Knoxville, TN! Once such a restaurant opens, Porch offers fried catfish, shrimp, and fried chicken.

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Sibashree is a travel, culture, and leisure writer who has been writing since the age of 12 and professionally since 2014. With more than a decade of travel writing experience and journeys across India and several parts of the world, she brings a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective to her work. A student of English Literature and Mass Communication, Sibashree has always viewed travel as more than movement — for her, it has been a way of understanding people, cultures, and herself. Her passion for spiritual exploration has also led her to many unusual and meaningful destinations over the years. Outside of writing, Sibashree enjoys watching European cinema, reading about global politics, and reflecting on the stories hidden within everyday places.

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READ MORE things to do in Glasgow

What Are The Top Things To Do In Glasgow? Know The Best Attractions 

BY  Sibashree Nov 22, 2023

Scotland's second city, long eclipsed by sophisticated, tourist-heavy Edinburgh, has been quietly demonstrating that it's anything but second best. Glasgow has won many accolades for its culture. From the street art-filled east end to Rennie Mackintosh's architectural achievements (except for the tragically destroyed School of Art). Are you eager to visit the hippest city in Scotland? Everything you need to know is right here. Here are the mandatory things to do in Glasgow. What Are The Things To Do In Glasgow? Glasgow in Gaelic stands for “dear green place.” And to no surprise, Glasgow is as green as it gets. It houses more than 90 parks and gardens that are woven through the city’s landscape. The Glasgow Botanical Garden is home to the largest plant collection in the UK. Here are some of the best things to do in Glasgow. Don’t miss out on your next trip. George Square George Square awaits everyone landing at Queen Street Station. 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The Necropolis The Necropolis, an exquisitely decaying cemetery with a spectacular location, is located in Glasgow's east as well. Paths wind among a variety of tall-spired mausoleums and weathered burial stones stacked up on a hill behind the historic cathedral in the heart of the city. When you reach the top of the trail, you'll be treated to breathtaking views over the city. Food And Cuisine In Glasgow Glasgow is a city that truly knows how to feed you; forget stories of deep-fried Mar Bars coupled with Irn Bru, and discover one of Scotland's most lively culinary scenes instead. Glasgow has an abundance of excellent places to stay, a thriving entertainment scene, and everything you could possibly need for a weekend getaway. Good cuisine, in fact, is a source of pride for the city's residents and a constant topic of conversation. Ask a Glaswegian where to eat, and you'll never receive a straight answer. But one thing you'll hear a lot is that the city's culinary center is located in Finnieston. The neighborhood that’s been named the hippest place to live in the UK. Of all the options, Crabshakk is unquestionably a must-see. This wonderful restaurant specializes in delicious Scottish seafood offering a rotating menu of specials and some amazing house specialties. The sizzling pan of scallops with caramelized anchovy sauce is a must-try. In addition to supporting Scottish food, The West End's enduringly well-liked Ubiquitous Chip has been setting the standard. It has been offering upscale, contemporary Scottish cuisine since 1971. One of Glasgow's most exciting culinary endeavors, Dockyard Social, is located in Finnieston as well. It is a street food market housed in a large industrial warehouse with three inspiring goals. It aims to highlight the best of the city's culinary scene, assist start-up food businesses, and support the neighborhood. This provides the most impoverished residents with professional culinary training. There are still foods to try throughout the entire city if you venture outside of Finnieston. A’Challtainn is located east of BAaD (Barras Art and Design), a hip urban area in the Barras Market. With a focus on sustainably sourced seafood from Scotland, this stunning restaurant has already won a few accolades in its brief existence. It won Best Rookie in the Glasgow culinary scene. While you're in the center, make sure to check out Paesano for their exceptional pizzas. They are masterfully charred in wood-fired ovens built in Naples using only the finest Italian ingredients. Sustainable And Green Initiatives In Glasgow In line with its Gaelic name meaning "Dear Green Place," Glasgow has pivoted toward a future defined by environmental innovation and sustainable urban spaces.  By integrating technology with its historic infrastructure, the city has become a pioneer in eco-conscious tourism. The Smart Canal: A European First A cornerstone of Glasgow’s green revolution is the North Glasgow Integrated Water Management System, better known as the "Smart Canal."  This "Europe-first" project uses sensors and cloud technology to manage water levels in the 250-year-old Forth & Clyde Canal.  Beyond preventing floods, this initiative has revitalized the northern districts, transforming the waterway into a vibrant blue-green corridor.  Today, it serves as a premier hub for low-carbon recreation, including cycling, walking, and even urban paddleboarding, effectively reconnecting the city center with its natural outskirts. The Mural Trail: Art with A Purpose Sustainability also extends to cultural preservation through the City Centre Mural Trail.  This initiative breathes new life into weathered buildings, reducing the need for intrusive construction while boosting "foot-traffic" tourism.  Must-see highlights include the towering "St. Mungo" mural by Smug, which depicts the city’s patron saint in modern clothes, and the celebrated Billy Connolly murals.  These vibrant displays have become iconic symbols of Glasgow’s digital-first tourism, encouraging visitors to explore the city’s stories entirely on foot. The New Cultural Landmarks Of Glasgow In 2026 Glasgow continues to reinvent its cultural landscape, blending historic preservation with high-energy modernism.  From the tranquil outskirts of the Southside to the industrial pulse of the West End, these landmarks represent the city’s evolving identity in 2026. The Burrell Collection: A Sustainable Masterpiece Located within the lush expanses of Pollok Country Park, the Burrell Collection has reclaimed its status as a world-class destination following a massive, multi-year refurbishment.  The museum’s award-winning glass-and-stone building is now a marvel of sustainability, designed to maximize natural light while housing over 9,000 priceless objects.  Visitors can explore an eclectic range of treasures, from ancient Chinese terracottas and Islamic carpets to evocative sculptures by Auguste Rodin.  It is a rare space where fine art and environmental design coexist in perfect harmony. SWG3: The Heart Of Modern Nightlife In the gritty-meets-glamorous district of Finnieston, SWG3 stands as the beating heart of Glasgow’s contemporary arts scene.  This sprawling industrial warehouse complex has transcended its origins to become a multidisciplinary powerhouse.  By day, it hosts "Yardworks," one of Europe’s most prestigious international graffiti festivals, turning the surrounding walls into an ever-changing outdoor gallery.  By night, it transforms into a premier music venue, hosting global DJs and underground acts that solidify Glasgow’s reputation as a UNESCO City of Music. Enjoy The Best Things To In Glasgow On Foot And Through The Oldest Underground Train System Glasgow is home to the third-oldest underground train system in the world. The majority of the city's attractions, however, are easily accessible on foot. One single loop that revolves around the inner or outer line makes it impossible to misunderstand. In 2026, the 100-year-old "Clockwork Orange" (The Subway) has recently introduced fully automated, driverless trains. It is the first of its kind in the UK. Moreover, carrying the COP26 Legacy, the city has become more pedestrian-friendly and eco-conscious following its hosting of the UN Climate Change Conference. When Celtic and Rangers, the city's Old Firm rivals, play, it's advisable to stay away from Celtic Park. It is located in the east of the city and Ibrox in the south. Almost 130 years later, one of the most bitter rivalries in sports is still incredibly bitter. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about things to do in Glasgow, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!

READ MORE best national parks in arkansas

What Are The Best National Parks In Arkansas? Know Why You Will Love Them 

BY  Sibashree Sep 1, 2021

Especially, the best national parks in Arkansas, along with national museums and trails, are a must-visit to learn about the American Civil War history.  But do you know that there is only one national park in Arkansas? The National Park Service only recognizes the Hot Springs National Park.  Along with that, you can also explore the National Memorial, Arkansas Post, National River, Buffalo, the National Historic Site, Fort Smith, etc.  For the campers and the hikers, these natural parks, monuments, and sites in Arkansas are like gems. Every hiking trail has a rich history along with a mesmerizing beauty. 7 Best National Parks In Arkansas Arkansas is home to the birthplace of the 42nd President of the United States, Bill Clinton. Also, it is known as the “Natural State.”  Furthermore, the state has seen major economic success in the tourism sector.  According to a report from Arkansas Money & Politics, in 2024, the tourism spending (business and leisure) was $10.3 billion, and it was a 4% increase from 2023.  Now these national sites, monuments, and national parks of Arkansas are the pillars of such a tourism boom.  Also, I had a wonderful time at these natural wonders. So, here, I will share some important details and my experience at these places.  1. Buffalo, The National River, Best For Canoeing, Kayaking, And Stargazing Quick Facts  Established: 1st March, 1972 Flowing Distance: 135 Miles through the Ozarks  Entry: Free Camping Charges: $0-$50 As I cruised through the Ozark Mountains and saw the massive limestone bluffs, Buffalo, the first national river of America, gifted me some goosebump moments.  It is also one of the undammed rivers in America. As the Sun went down, I along with my co-travelers and I enjoyed our campfire on the Buffalo River banks.  Furthermore, the Buffalo National River bank was designated as an International Dark Sky Park (IDSP) in 2019. You can even take part in various night sky programs in the river.  Moreover, the National Park Service has made some changes to the restrooms and lighting facilities around the Buffalo River to keep the light pollution and interference minimal for dark sky observation.  2. Fort Smith National Historic Site: Best For An American Civil War History Tour Entry: Free Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM Contact Number: Voice Phone Number, (479) 783-3961 Once you visit the Fort Smith Historic Site, 80 years of history will be alive in front of your eyes.  It awaits you to tell the story from 25th December 1817, the day it was established, to 1896, the jurisdiction of Judge Isaac C. Parker over Indian Territory.  In the middle of Oklahoma and Arkansas, there are many historic buildings from the Civil War era, in the Fort Smith National Historic Site.  Also, can you believe that 86 got the verdict of execution at Fort Smith between 1873 and 1896 in the courtroom of Isaac C. Parker? The gallows are also still there.  Does not seem surprising again, thanks to the jurisdiction of Judge Isaac C. Parker, who believed and said, “Permit no innocent man to be punished, but let no guilty man escape." 3. Hot Springs: The National Park In Arkansas With Ancient Thermal Springs   Entry Fee: Free Hours Open: Visitor Center, 9 AM to 5 PM, and Hiking 24/7 Hot Springs, the national park of Arkansas, has an interesting geology, and the ancient thermal springs are the most fascinating feature of this national park.  Furthermore, it has historic bathhouses where you can heal and relax with the ultimate spa experience. Choose between the Lamar Bathhouse, Ozark Bathhouse, Hale Bathhouse, Superior Bathhouse, and many such names.  Also, remember that the bathhouse area, constructed during the period of 1892 and 1923, was designated as a National Historic Landmark District in 1987 along with the Grand Promenade.  Furthermore, along with exploring the hot springs and bath houses, you can even camp at the Gulpha Gorge Campground. The camping fee is $34 per night.  However, the most rewarding experience here is hiking through Hot Springs and North Mountain Trails, Sunset Trail, and West Mountain Trails.  4. Little Rock Central High School: National Historic Site I missed visiting the Little Rock Central High School. In 1957, this school was the epicenter of the enforcement of the African American Civil Rights. The school followed the Brown v. Board of Education. Moreover, the struggle of the Little Rock Central High School ensured that everyone around the world got opportunities for education.  5. Arkansas Post: National War Memorial Henri de Tonti established the Poste de Arkansea in 1686. Located at the Quapaw village of Osotouy, it became known as “The Post.”  There was a long struggle between Spain, France, and England for dominion over the Mississippi Valley.  The Post eventually became the first semi-permanent settlement of the French in the Lower Mississippi Valley.  Moreover, The Post is witness to the only Revolutionary War in Arkansas, in which the British partisans logged head with Spanish soldiers. It took place in 1783 and was also known as the Colbert Raid.  Again, in 1803, thanks to the Louisiana Purchase, the Post became a part of the United States. Moreover, by 1819, it was the first city to become the capital of the Arkansas Territory, and it was the largest regional city.  During the Civil War, Fort Hindman was built here to take control over the confluence of White and Arkansas Rivers. However, it was destroyed in 1863.  6. President William Jefferson Clinton Birthplace This place is the perfect definition of an American leader born in the woods, who makes some revolutionary movements. President William Jefferson Clinton was born in the Town of Hope in the Arkansas ranges. The president spent his first four years here. The property is still in good condition. Take a walk on the property. Then take a tour of the town of Hope. And feel the historical vibes of the place. 7. Trail Of Tears The historical value of the trails is pretty touching, and is remembered by the Native Indian tribes and the Cherokee people.  The Trail of tears is a historical trail that is 5,043 miles long. The track stretches from the southern Appalachian mountains to the west side. This single historical trail crosses over nine USA states. The heart-touching facts are attached to this trial. In 1830, seventeen Cherokee groups were removed from their homelands. And the painful consequences determined the fate of these people. For the remembrance of the sacrifice of the people, this historical path is called the Trail of Tears. Wrapping It Up: The best national parks in Arkansas, along with other national sites, are good travel destinations for people of all ages. If you are looking for a good travel option that has historical value. This is the best choice. For adventure-loving travelers, this is the best choice to spend the entire day on the side of the Buffalo River. You can visit the nearest places from the river banks, and all the hiking trails lead towards a town. So most often there is less chance of getting lost. But morning and daytime are the most suitable times to explore the place. So what is your next travel plan? Do not forget to share your experience with us in the comment section. Read Also: Living Your Solo Travel Dreams: 8+ Best Places To Travel Solo Female In US Unique Things To Do In Tulsa: Into The Land Of Art Deco Architecture Be Soothed And Meet History At Hot Springs National Park