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 Shenandoah National Park has many wonders that you just cannot miss. So, you can witness the beauty of Bearfence Mountain and its waterfalls and explore its endless hiking trails.   As a rich wildlife hub, it is also home to white-tailed deer, black bears, red-tailed hawks, Carolina chickadees, and many more.   So, to cut a long story short, the Shenandoah National Park has everything for everyone. Moreover, it does not matter whether you are a birder or an avid trekker.   However, one thing is certain: you can only enjoy the park to the fullest if you are camping here or at least spending nights at the local lodges. Therefore, I am sharing a brief guide about the campsites and other accommodation options in the park.   Shenandoah National Park Camping   https://www.instagram.com/p/CvPj7WmAt6a/ Shenandoah National Park offers you the best chance to sleep under the stars with its five functional campgrounds.   Further, these campgrounds are open from early spring to late fall. 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Further, with sites available on a reservation basis, this campground offers access to the following park areas.  Big Meadows  Byrd Visitor Center, and  Dark Hollow Falls  Moreover, every campsite for a tent or RV here comes with a picnic table and fire ring.   Amenities Available  Cell Phone Network No Internet Connectivity No Recycling/Trash Collection Yes, on a seasonal basis Camp Store Seasonal availability  Food Storage Lockers  Yes Ice for Sale Yes Staff on Site Available Seasonally  Amphitheater Available Seasonally  Firewood for Sale Firewood is available. However, you must strictly adhere to the park's fire and stove policy. *** Laundry Available Seasonally  Dump Station Available Seasonally  Potable Water Seasonal Availability  Shower Type Seasonal Availability (coin-operated)  *** The fire safety policies at Big Meadows Campground include using USDA-certified firewood. 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So, you will have to walk for 2 miles to Elkwallow Wayside to collect the essentials.   Amenities Available  Cell Phone Network No Internet Connectivity No Recycling/Trash Collection Yes, on a seasonal basis Camp Store No Food Storage Lockers  Yes Ice for Sale No Staff on Site Available Seasonally  Amphitheater Available Seasonally  Firewood for Sale No Laundry No Dump Station Available Seasonally  Potable Water Seasonal Availability  Shower Type No  Reservation And Fees At Mathews Arm Campground   The Mathews Arm Campground  combines reserved and first-come, first-served based sites. Further, it has standard and group campsites.   Moreover,  standard and group campsite fees are $30 and $75, respectively.   Explore More Lodging Options At Shenandoah National Park  If you don’t want to compromise on comfort, you can explore the three Shenandoah National Park lodging options for an overnight stay.   Further, these lodges are located in the prime locations of the park, and offer the best view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Moreover, they have pet-friendly accommodation. So, if you are traveling with your canine or feline friends, you can enjoy stress-free time.   Skyland Resort  https://www.instagram.com/p/CdqQODytuCm/?img_index=1 Along the Skyline Drive, the Skyland Resort offers the most comfortable accommodation options at Skyland Resort.   Further, you can enjoy the most beautiful view of the park from the Skyland Resort. Also, this resort gives you easy access to many popular hiking trails in the park.   Lewis Mountain Cabins  Are you in for some rugged experience at Shenandoah National Park with the comfort factor intact? So, why don’t you get a place at Lewis Mountain Cabins?  Big Meadows Lodge  https://www.instagram.com/p/C-DcPBOADEx/ Built with stones from the Massanutten Mountains, the Big Meadows Lodge has a natural charm and warmth. Further, residents love spending evenings here watching the sunrise and sharing their park experience.  Exploring The Unique Geology Of Shenandoah National Park     https://www.instagram.com/p/CSwssncAg6D/ The geology of Shenandoah National Park tells ancient stories that are constantly evolving. Further, you will find many types of rocks that have formed the  park’s unique geology. So, let’s have a brief understanding of these rocks.   Basement Rocks  The basement rocks of Shenandoah National Park are older than Appalachians. Further, these rocks are the foundations of the Shenandoah Blue Ridge Mountains. These rocks are also responsible for the dramatic topography of Hogback Mountain, Old Rag Mountain, and Marys Rock.   Moreover, these rocks take you back billions of years.   Greenstone Lava Flows   Have you seen the  Hawksbill and Stony Man cliffs in Shenandoah National Park? These all are formed of greenstone lava flows at least 570 million years old.   Further, these lava flows form a staircase-like topography, and you will also find flat benches here and there. Moreover, the major waterfalls in the park cut through the greenstone lava flows and plunge into canyons.   Chilhowee Metasedimentary Rocks  These rocks come from the shores of an ocean older than the Atlantic. Further, these rocks form the park’s steep slopes and rugged terrain. Moreover, you will find these rocks in the Southern District of the park.   Further, they have transformed under pressure and have formed cliffs like the Calvary Rocks, Rocky Mountain, and Blackrock South. In addition, these rocks have formed many boulder fields.   Shenandoah National Park At A Glance  Location: Virginia, United States  Area: Around 198,000 Acres  Highest Point: Hawksbill Mountain (1,234 Meters)  Visitor Centers: Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, Harry F. Byrd, Sr. Visitor Center, and Mobile Visitor Center  Hiking Trails: 500 Miles  Moreover, Shenandoah National Park is home to more than 50 mammal and 190 bird species with amphibians, reptiles, fish, and insects. Further, this park has more than 12 waterfalls.   So, camping in the park will be a truly amazing experience. However, plan a trip to the park in the spring or fall to have the best experience of the wildlife flora and fauna.  However, the park has multiple entrance gates, and the route directions could be clearer. So, get a detailed idea from the park authority about the entrance gate and route based on your location.    Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. Traveling On A Budget: Tips For Affordable Adventures. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego.

READ MORE Traveling Alone

Solo Globetrotter’s Guide: Must-Have To-Do’s For Traveling Alone

BY  Abdul Aziz Jul 28, 2023

Traveling alone can be a liberating and transformative experience. It allows you to explore the world on your terms, embrace new cultures, and discover your inner self. However, some essential preparations are necessary to make the most of your solo adventure. In this article, we will present some crucial tips for solo globetrotters to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and enriching journey. So, let's begin! Relax With A Spa Day Or Wellness Indulge in the ultimate self-care by treating yourself to a blissful spa day. Unwind with rejuvenating massages, facials, and pampering treatments that rejuvenate both body and mind. Embrace wellness activities like yoga or meditation to find inner peace and harmony during your solo journey. Take a moment to cherish the serenity of your surroundings, and don't forget to bring along your favorite self-pleasure devices like real whizzinator XXX to enhance the relaxation experience. It's the perfect way to recharge and nurture yourself while creating lasting memories of tranquility. Attend A Live Music Performance Or Theater Show Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by attending a live music performance or captivating theater show. Whether it's a lively concert or an intimate theater production, the energy and creativity of the performers will leave you enthralled. As you enjoy the artistic expressions, you'll also have the chance to connect with other attendees, fostering new friendships and shared experiences. Embrace the magic of the moment, relishing the independence of solo travel while being part of a more significant communal celebration of the arts. Attend Cultural Events Or Festivals Take part in cultural events and gatherings to get to know the soul of the place. Get involved in their cultural activities and celebrations that show who they are. Talk to the friendly people who live there. They are often eager to tell tourists about their culture and traditions. These events give you a great chance to learn about the local way of life, making your trip more than just a viewing tour and a deep cultural exchange that opens your mind. Wander Through Local Markets And Shops Discover the authentic essence of the place by meandering through bustling local markets and charming shops. Stroll along colorful stalls, sampling exotic fruits, spices, and regional delicacies. Engage in friendly haggling with vendors to find unique souvenirs and handicrafts with special memories of your solo adventure. The immersive experience of exploring these markets allows you to connect with the daily life of the locals, learning about their customs and traditions while finding joy in the simple pleasure of discovering hidden gems. Take A Scenic Hike Or Nature Walk Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and venture into the tranquil beauty of nature. Embark on a scenic hike or leisurely nature walk, immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora, and fauna. The peacefulness of nature is perfect for self-reflection and meditation, letting you feel like you are one with your surroundings. On a soul-enriching solo trip, take pictures of the beautiful views, enjoy the quiet, and let the soothing sounds of nature be your music. Share Your Travel Plan With Your Trusted Family    Share your travel plan with your trusted family. It is one of the things that you must do. Provide all the travel plan details to your family members and give them copies of essentials like ID and other important papers required for your tour and travel. It ensures taking safety measures on your side.  If you find yourself stuck in any problem, your family members can rescue you. If you find yourself in serious problems, then your family members can act to your rescue.  They can do it best only if you share your travel's nitty gritty with them. It is one of the most important requirements to put you in a safe place.  Avoid Reckless Behavior And Use Common Sense You are going alone in different places. It means you will be encountering different cultures. You can learn from different cultures, transforming you as an individual. But working on your behavioral aspects as it is can ensure your safe travel there.  If your behavior is good, you can easily get help and cooperation from a diverse group of local people. Research on the behavioral traits and local culture of that particular place. It can help you adjust yourself to the new settings easily.  Do Your Safety Research Also, conduct your research on your safety in the new place. It is a must in the new place.  While traveling in a group or in sol, you must have all the safety measures depending on the location you visit. Research the safety measures properly, and you will easily prepare a list of things you do not have.   Add them this time. You might have needed a few safety measures in your previous travel. So get them while you are moving around this time. Also, procure adequate knowledge of the organizations that govern the place. Look at their safety guidelines; you can manage your solo tours less easily.  Get Travel Insurance   If you are a regular traveler, then you must have travel insurance. It has many benefits, so travelers buy such insurance to safeguard themselves from problems. Travel insurance aims to save your travel costs if you have a delay in travel or damage to your luggage.  If you face any severe accident, travel insurance can protect you by compensating against the expensive bills and treatment costs. Life is brimmed with uncertainties, so you must have insurance against any accidents and their consequences.   While selecting travel insurance, look for the benefits they offer against the insurance coverage. Try to find out the best only then select the ones that fulfill your needs best. It is one of the ways to be on the safer side. Last Words Solo travel is a remarkable way to learn about the world and yourself. With these must-do activities, your solo expedition is bound to be an extraordinary and transformative one. So, on your next globetrotting adventure, embrace the joy of solo travel and create memories that will stay with you forever. Read Also: 5 Reasons To Consider Solo Travel A Traveler’s Guide To Lutsen The Best Tips To Travel Around The World