What Is The Closest Beach To Nashville? (10 Beaches With Guide)

Dec 8, 2022

Last Updated on: Jan 15, 2026

Travel Guides

I love beaches. But, also, I really love Nashville. So, you can guess the sad part here. The last time I went to Nashville, I had to come back dry and without a tan.

But I thought there must be some beaches close to Nashville, right?

Also, why stick to the same beaches in the Nashville area, or even in and around? Have you thought about venturing out to beaches a little farther away? 

Additionally, you can also check out the closest beach to Nashville or even some of the closest beaches near Nashville.

Additionally, Nashville is a popular tourist attraction on prestigious lists like the New York Times’ 52 Places to Go.

Also, I must say that it has a colorful history, great heritage, and architectural excellence.

However, if you want some coastal fun and some sultry sunbathing seasons, the beaches around Nashville will be your ultimate call! 

What Is The Closest Beach To Nashville? Top 10 Beaches You Can Visit

Closest Beach To Nashville

So here you are, searching for the closest beach to Nashville, TN! And here we are with a curated list featuring the best beaches near Nashville.

Also, “The Music City” is the door to cool sand and water pursuits. Let’s check out the names. 

1. Dauphin Island, Alabama: 

Dauphin Island Alabama

Dauphin Island in Alabama is fairly close to Nashville, and it will take you about 7 hours to drive to Mobile since the island is located in the southern part of Mobile. You can also fly to Mobile.

Spend time playing with the waves and collecting seashells, or take a ferry and visit the beautiful Fort Morgan to check out some dolphins.

Also, you must not miss out on other prime tourist spots nearby, like:

  • Fort Gaines, 
  • Bird Sanctuary, and 
  • The Estuarium. 

So, it is quite idyllic and a family-friendly island with beautiful attractions such as the Alabama Aquarium, Mobile Bay Ferry, and others. 

Additionally, excitement, wildlife, and southern culture are quite apparent in and around Dauphin Island, which has white sand and blue water. 

Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville 
Spring (March-May), Fall (October-November) $350 to $1,000 560 miles 

2. Gulf Shores, Alabama: 

Gulf Shores Alabama

While looking for beaches near Nashville, TN, there’s no way you can forget about the Gulf Shores in Alabama.

It’s pretty popular among tourists, especially Tennessee residents. Located only a seven-hour drive away from Nashville, the area boasts several lodging options, activities, and fresh seafood.

The area has amusement parks, entertainment zones, shopping opportunities, and more.

Plus, if you love educational activities and history, there’s much to do in this area. So just pack your bags already – because the beach awaits you! 

With its warm and soothing water, Gulf Shores also has bright white beaches. You can perform daytime activities such as dolphin-watching, hiking, and scenic cruises. 

There is an Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo and a recreation center with bumper boats called The Track, where you can visit with your family. 

Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville 
Fall (September to November) and spring (March to May) $210 7-8 hours 

Gulf Shores is about to get a Goodwill Center. The 50,000-square-foot facility in Foley will offer job and employment training to the local people.

With time, it will likely be developed as a community development center. The center is likely to open its doors in the fall of 2025. Then, it will be an added attraction to the places of interest.

3. Pensacola, Florida: 

Pensacola Florida

There are several beaches close to Nashville, but Pensacola, located in Florida, stands out because it will take you less than seven hours to drive from Nashville! 

Popular for its charming historic culture and exquisite natural beauty, Pensacola is a must-visit. Spanning over eight acres, the historic village of Pensacola is timeless.

From golfing and go-karting to other fun activities, there’s so much to do when you are bored with the beach. 

Pensacola is also known as ‘the city of five flags’ since it was passed around in History – you will spot British, French, Confederate, American, and even Spanish flags all over this charming city. 

The beach is in the panhandle of Florida, surrounded by coastline across 50-plus miles. 

There are crystal clear bay areas and emerald-green Gulf of Mexico waters; thus, when you visit the beach, you can find a vibe that mixes a bustling metropolitan center and a relaxing beach town!

Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville 
Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) $340 6 hours 39 minutes 

4. Destin, Florida: 

Destin Florida

Why aren’t you considering Destin, located in Florida? Driving to Destin from Nashville will take only around seven hours!

Destin has been a prime vacation spot for families! There are several places to eat – you could check out the popular chain dining, Whataburger! 

Then there are so many outlet stores for you to visit if you love shopping. If you are traveling with kids, then you have to check out the following places, 

  • The Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, 
  • Local Zoo, and
  • Big Kahuna Water Park (only if you travel to Destin during the summer!)

Located in northwest Florida, the area of Destin Beach is called the Panhandle! There are natural trails through the dunes of Henderson Beach State Park. There are beautiful oak and pine trees that provide shelter for wildlife.

Also, there are waterfalls, pools, tall slides, and Big Kahuna’s water park, so you can explore all these places. The emerald-green waters of the beach are breathtaking, and the geology is unique! 

Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville 
Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-November) $105 7 hours 

5. Panama City, Florida: 

Panama City Florida

It’s not like there are no beaches in Tennessee. Of course, Tennessee has beaches, but sometimes, venturing a little away from home feels so much better!

And how can you ignore Panama City, located in Florida? Famed as a destination for Spring Break, it will take you about 7.5 hours to drive to Panama City from Nashville. You can also opt for direct flights. 

The beaches span 27 miles, and Panama City has about a hundred public accesses. 

While you are in Panama City, you must visit Pier Park – you will spot several restaurants, playing areas, bungee jumping opportunities, bumper boats, sky wheels, passenger trains, and plenty of places to shop.

Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville 
Fall (September-November) and Spring (March-May) $106 7.5 to 8 hours 

6. 30A, Florida: 

30A Florida

People in the Middle Tennessee area either have or know others with bumper stickers with 30A on them. This is because 30A has now become perhaps one of the most well-known getaway spots for most residents of Nashville! And that too throughout the whole year.

30A is not your regular Nashville beach! Instead, it’s a pretty coastal highway with solid touristy spots, like, 

  • Miramar Beach, 
  • Rosemary Beach, 
  • Santa Rosa Beach, and 
  • Blue Mountain Beach.
Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville 
Spring (March-May), Fall (October-November) $105 7 hours 25 minutes 

7. Tybee Island, Georgia: 

Tybee Island Georgia

Tybee Island might not be the closest beach to Nashville, but that doesn’t mean it’s that far away – you can either drive to Tybee Island in the Savannah region or even directly fly to Savannah.

If you drive, it will take you more than eight hours; if you take a flight, it will take a little less than two hours.

An Atlantic getaway that’s historical – this is exactly what Savannah stands for! Steeped deeply in culture and history, there’s so much to see and do.

Explore the local restaurants and shopping outlets at the lighthouse near Tybee Island to make the most of your stay here. 

Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville 
Spring and summer $210 8 hours 6 mins 

8. Gulfport, Mississippi: 

While looking up the closest ocean beach to Nashville, TN, it’s impossible not to stumble upon Gulfport, located in Mississippi. The entire Mississippi coastline is unforgettable. It takes about seven hours to drive from Nashville, or you could also do something adventurous and fly to New Orleans – it will be worth the trip! 

The area boasts miles of beaches known for their beautiful sand, fun attractions, and exciting water activities. Once you are done spending time on the beach, don’t forget to check out,

  • The Gulfport children’s museum, 
  • INFINITY Science Center, a space facility by NASA, 
  • A famous aquarium, 
  • Drag racing, 
  • Waterparks, and 
  • The railroad museum. 
Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville 
March through May $200 1 hour 21 minutes 

9. Charleston, South Carolina: 

Charleston South Carolina

Move any beach in Tennessee over, because it’s time for Charleston to shine! Yes, it will take you more than 8 hours to drive to Charleston, located in South Carolina, or a flight of 1.5 hours, but who cares? It will be worth the journey.

Another coastal town in the Atlantic steeped deeply in history, this place is perfect for visiting with your family, especially kids. 

If you love visiting historical spots, you have to visit Fort Sumter. And that’s not all! Pamper yourself with some spa time and some golfing, while your kids can enjoy the children’s museum and the aquarium. 

You will also get to see some world-class restaurants, sandy beaches, and cobblestone paths.

The easiest way to enjoy South Carolina is to dip your toes in the white sand and enjoy the beautiful weather.

It is perfect for frolicking, as you can walk across the sand and visit the lighthouses. The beaches are wild, you gotta have a towel and sturdy shoes to enjoy your best!

Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville 
spring (March-May) and fall (October) $124.58 9-10 hours 

10. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina: 

Myrtle Beach South Carolina

It is not the closest beach to Nashville if you have a packed itinerary. It will take you about nine hours to drive to Myrtle Beach, but it’s so worth the drive.

We say keep at least three to four days in hand while going to Myrtle Beach in South Carolina!

From cheering the baseball team and Pelicans, riding the gigantic Ferris wheel, visiting New South Brewing MicroBrewery, or even having a night out at some local dinner theater, there’s so much to do here. 

Myrtle Beach has a subtropical climate, with 86 golf courses and 1800 restaurants to visit. The Myrtle Beach Area Fact Sheet states that around 17 million people visit Myrtle Beach annually. If you plan to visit the beach, you can take your family to the Kingdom amusement park. 

If you love adventure, the SkyWheel is the way to go, considering it is one of the tallest Ferris Wheels in the world. 

Best Time To Visit Estimated Cost Driving/flying hours from Nashville 
June through August $129 9 hrs 26 min 

In 2024, Myrtle Beach was the top trending destination for the Memorial Day weekend in the USA, according to Booking.com reports.

TripAdvisor also featured it as the second-most coveted destination for the Memorial Day weekend 2024. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Check out the most frequently asked questions related to the closest beach to Nashville, mentioned below.

1. What is the closest beach to Nashville by car? 

The beach that would be closest to Nashville would be Panama City Beach, Florida, and would take about 450 miles. A car ride would take around 7-8 hours, and this beach would be the most preferred by people from Nashville. 

2. Are there any ocean beaches within driving distance from Nashville? 

Yes. Even Nashville, which is a mainland city, has some Gulf Coast Beaches within a day’s drive. These places include Panama City Beach, Destin, Gulf Shores, and Orange Beach, and can be reached within a time frame of 7-9 hours.

3. Why is Panama City Beach the best option from Nashville? 

What’s also distinct about Panama City Beach is that it offers: 
• Shorter transport time to the beaches 
White sand beaches and warm Gulf waters 
• Numerous options of places to visit, as well as accommodations, that are suitable for families 
• Easy access by major highways 
All these features make this a most preferable spot for people in Nashville who love to visit beaches. 

4. What is the closest beach to Nashville that one could go to over a weekend? 

Concerning a weekend getaway, Panama City Beach is the most accessible destination in terms of the drive. Furthermore, others prefer the Gulf Shores in Alabama because of its longer drive to the destination. 

5. Are there any beaches in Nashville that are not close to an ocean?

Yes. If you like lake beaches, then you find that you are in the Nashville area, so you do have some options, such as Percy Priest Lake and Old Hickory Lake. There are sandy beaches and swimming areas. 
Dawkins

6. How far is Destin, Florida, from Nashville? 

Destin is about 470-480 miles from Nashville. It will take about 8 hours to drive there. Destin is well-known for its “emerald-green waters.” It also has a lot of activities for families. 

7. What is the best beach for families in the Nashville area? 

Panama City Beach and Destin: These are also ideal destinations to consider when traveling with family. The destinations are famous for their calm waters, amusement parks, dolphin tours, and the availability of resorts and vacation homes. 

8. Is there a less crowded beach near Nashville? 

Yes. Alabama: Gulf Shores and Orange Beach offer fewer visitors than some popular beaches in Florida, especially during the regular year. This would be an awakening for visitors looking for an uninhabited vacation spot. 

9. Do you have the option of flying from Nashville to a beach location as opposed to driving? 

Absolutely. The Nashville International Airport (BNA) offers flights to neighboring beach resorts, these being Pensacola, Destin-Fort Walton Beach, and Panama City. It takes a considerably shorter time compared to traveling by road. 

10. What is the best time to come and enjoy the beaches in and around Nashville? 

The period that is considered the best time to visit the Gulf Coast Beaches in Alabama is late spring, which comprises April and May, and early autumn, which comprises September and October. 

11. Gulf Coast beaches – safe for swimming? 

In general, yes. Most of the Gulf Coast beaches have quiet waters; they’re ideal locations for swimming. Also, it must be remembered at all times that ‘flag warnings’ as well as weather be disregarded. 

12. Why do people in Nashville like the beaches of Florida or Alabama instead?

The beaches of Florida and Alabama are preferred because of the following reasons:
• Reasonable Driving Distance
• Warm tropical water, beautiful white sandy beaches. 
• World-class tourist facilities
• Top class packages for family & group holidays 

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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The Modern Estate: Las Arcas De Tolombón  Las Arcas De Tolombón is the most awarded winery in the province. It has a Siete Vacas or Seven Cows label. There is a local legend behind the name. It is about the seven cows that would appear in the desert in prosperous times. The wine you will get here is a standout. You will love the floral and crisp flavor of it, along with the sweet perfume. 4. The Boutique Stop: Finca Albarossa  Finca Albarossa exudes sheer Italian elegance with a touch of Andean ruggedness. It is a boutique winery and hotel. So, it is an excellent experience to enjoy a glass of Malbec while watching the sunrise. Thus, it completely justifies its name, Finca Albarossa, where Albarossa means the “Red Dawn.” Understanding Tucumán Wines: What To Drink?  Amanda Barnes of the South America Wine Guide often highlights that the Calchaquí Valley doesn't stop at the Salta border. She praises Tucumán for its "extreme terroir" and the preservation of the Criolla grape varieties.  Tucumán Wines are different with a diverse flavor. From the signature purple to white wines, here are the varieties you can try. 1. Torrontés  If you want the quintessential wine experience of the north, you can try Torrontés. I would rather call it the flagship white of the North. It stands out with a refreshing aroma of peach and jasmine. However, the palette of this wine is dry and refreshing. Tim Atkin, the British Master of Wines, regularly scores Northern Argentine wines highly, noting that the Torrontés from this region is the most aromatic white wine in the world.  Even if you are a red wine drinker, you must try the Torrontés here. It is the only grape variety native to Argentina, and the Tucumán expression is floral and unique.  2. High-Altitude Malbec  I was looking for an alternative to the jammy Mendoza Malbecs. The high-altitude malbec, standing on the opposite spectrum of the flavor profile, comes with a spicy and structured flavor. This wine comes from the grapes with Soun-toughened skins. So, these have a signature dark purple hue. 3. Vino Patero  Vino Patero is an experience. It has an intense, sweet, and fruity flavor. This boutique wine was made traditionally by pressing the grapes by foot. The “Patero” part in Vino Patero comes from " pata " or foot. This wine is artisanal, and it is unfiltered. Vino Patero is a frequently served beverage at the local festivals, and you will have it along with empanadas. Things To Remember For Planning Your Tucumán Wine Tour  Best Time to Visit • February/March - Harvest Season, and for the Vendimia Festivities• August - Pachamama Festival Mode of Transport• Rental Car  Vendimia festivities are a celebration of the grape harvest. The Pachamama Festival, on the other hand, is a sacred week-long celebration to sink into the local culture. You will not get any Uber services here. Buses are available, but they do not take you to the remote areas. Where To Stay On The Wine Route In Tucumán?  Do you want to sleep in a vineyard? Estancia Río de Arena on Ruta 40 is the perfect place, exuding a rustic "hacienda" feel. Get out of our room, and within a minute, you will walk into the tasting room. If you need a budget option, look for Hospedajes in Amaicha del Valle. These locally run facilities are clean and authentic, and they will even guide you on which Vino Patero is the best in town. Expert Tips On The Best Tucumán Wine Tour Guide  The Sacred City of Quilmes is just 15 minutes away from the wineries. Also, the early mornings are the ideal time to explore the ruins. Do you want more such insights about exploring the wineries of Tucumán? Check out the following points. 1. Respect The Siesta Amaicha and Colalao del Valle turn into ghost towns between 1 PM and 5 PM. Most wineries shut their door during these hours. So, schedule your trip at 10 AM or after 5:30 PM. 2. Designated Driver Is Essential, And Check The Fuel Route 40 has narrow roads and even gravel. The route also often has goats/llamas and other stray animals. So, professional expertise and familiarity with local road conditions are important. Fill your tank in Tafí del Valle. There are long stretches on Route 40 without reliable gas stations between Amaicha and Cafayate. 3. Book "Los Amaichas" In Advance  The local people run "Los Amaichas. These people also work in the field. So, you must keep them informed about your arrival via WhatsApp so that a guide is available to open the cellar for you. 4. Cash Is King Smaller wineries rarely accept credit cards, and if you want to buy bottles from them, you will need to pay them in cash. Also, the ATMs in Amaicha often run out of cash. So, you have to bring a stack of Pesos from the city. 5. Try The Mistela  Along with the signature Tucuman wine, you can also try Mistela. It is a fortified wine with a very sweet taste. It is a cultural staple. So, you have to sip it slowly and savor its strong taste. 6. Get Enough Sun Protection The wineries are at a height of more than 2000 meters. So, the UV index is high, and within 10-15 minutes, you can get sunburned. So, wear a hat and sunscreen if you are doing the wine tasting outdoors. 7. Ask For The "Reserva"  In small boutique wineries like Chico Zossi, the "Reserva" bottles are often only $2-$3 more than the table wine but are aged significantly better.  Tucumán Wine Tour Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Tucumán wine tour guide. 1. Can I Visit Wineries Without A Tour?  Yes, you can go on a self-drive tour on Route 40 and explore the wineries. However, you will have to book an appointment via WhatsApp. Booking is crucial as these wineries are small, family-run operations. 2. What Is The Best Winery For Lunch?  Bodega Río de Arena near the Quilmes Ruins is the best winery for lunch. It has a hotel and restaurant on-site. You can have excellent llama meat and empanadas there.  3. How Far Is The Wine Region From Tucumán City?  The wineries are around a 3.5 to 4-hour drive from the city.On the route from the city to the wineries, you have to cross a mountain range. So, it is not your usual day trip in Argentina. It is best to plan an overnight stay in Amaicha or Tafí del Valle.  4. Is It Safe To Drive Route 307?  Route 307 is a paved and scenic route. However, it is a mountain road and has many curves. Furthermore, the road is often misty. So, you must avoid driving at night. 5. Are The Wine Tours In English?  Yes, you can attend wine tours in English in larger wineries like Las Arcas de Tolombón.  However, if you want a tour of the smaller family wineries or the community wineries, the tours will be mostly in Spanish.  6. Can I Bring Kids For The Wine Tours In Tucuman?  Yes, you can bring kids for the wine tours in Tucuman. This is where the wineries of Tucuman are different from the wine estates in Mendoza.  The Tucumán wineries are more like farms, and they are very family-friendly. In fact, Río de Arena even has a petting zoo with llamas.  7. When Is The Harvest Season In Tucuman?  Late February to March is the harvest season in Tucuman. However, it is the busiest time in the Tucuman wineries. So, you will have to book the facilities in advance.On the other hand, August is the month of the sacred Pachamama Festival. 8. Why Is The Community Winery Famous?  Bodega Los Amaichas is the first winery in Argentina and the third winery in the world owned entirely by an indigenous community. The Bodega Los Amaichas tour reflects the Diaguita worldview of "Sumak Kawsay" (Good Living).  Read Also: The Best Places To See Northern Lights In The USA: When And Where To Watch Aurora Borealis Jaffna Travel Itinerary For 5 Days: What Are The Places To Visit And Local Transport What Are The Best Places To Visit In December In The USA? Vote For Your Favorite