BRUNSWICK, GA

Brunswick is the gateway to the barrier islands off the Georgia coast. But don't just drive on through; be sure to spend a few days in this historic city, whose streets and squares were laid out under the same 1771 General Oglethorpe plan as Savannah's. Old Town Brunswick has a large concentration of Victorian mansions, many of which are now romantic inns, and the revitalized waterfront, with its bustling marina, is a popular attraction.

The islands, which are reached via causeway, include St. Simons, Sea Island and Jekyll and are known for their relaxed pace. In additon to world-class beaches, they boast moss-draped oaks and vast tracts of marshland that birds and other wildlife call home. Golfers flock here, too — especially Sea and Jekyll islands. And there's plenty of opportunities to go out to sea, whether it be aboard a sunset cruise, a working shrimp boat or a casino ship. There are also many excellent restaurants, serving Southern dishes like Brunswick stew and Lowcountry boil. There's even a private island reached only by boat — Little St. Simons — that can accommodate no more than 30 guests at a time in its luxury lodge.