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Escape to the Golden Isles this spring
Presented by Golden Isles CVB
Sun, sand, and a little bit of Southern charm await. | Photos courtesy of Golden Isles CVB
Our idea of the perfect getaway includes salty breezes, scenic bike rides, and really good seafood. Sounds like it’s time to take a trip to the Golden Isles of Georgia.
Tucked along the Georgia coast between Jacksonville and Savannah, this sun-soaked destination blends natural beauty, coastal adventure, and laid-back charm in all the right ways.
Whether for a long weekend or full vacay, the isles offer the perfect coastal escape, made up of four barrier islands and a coastal city:
Each spot brings its own personality, from quiet, nature-filled escapes to lively beach towns with shopping, dining, and rich history.
Don’t forget to add outdoor adventures to your itinerary. Spend your days:
Boating
Fishing
Biking
Paddleboarding
Horseback riding
or hiking through maritime forests and along miles of shoreline
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, too — the area’s diverse ecosystems are home to everything from coastal birds to Loggerhead Sea Turtles, which begin nesting in May.
Don’t worry, if you can’t swing a trip this Spring, the islands host a slew of events all year round, celebrating food, music, and family fun, including Fourth of July celebrations, Southern Grown on Sea Island, and the Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival.
When it’s time to unwind, you’ll find accommodations ranging from luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy vacation rentals.
And wherever you stay, one thing’s guaranteed: amazing food. The Golden Isles serves up classic Southern flavors, fresh-caught seafood, and creative coastal twists that keep visitors coming back for seconds — and return trips.
Restaurants in the directory commit to sourcing at least 25% of their in-season ingredients from Certified South Carolina producers — a helpful guide if you’re picking your Valentine’s date night spot or planning meals while traveling around the state. Last year’s Midlands winner was The Mediterranean Cafe in Lexington.
Voting is open through Sunday, Feb. 22, with daily voting available in four regions, including the Midlands. Winners will be announced on Monday, March 2, and one restaurant will receive the Martin L. Eubanks Award.
Events
Events
Wednesday, Feb. 4
Valentine’s on Main | Wednesday, Feb. 4-Sunday, Feb. 15 | Times vary | Prohibition | Free
A proposed 305-space parking garage in Five Points — part of a new hotel development at Saluda and Blossom — could mean less circling the block. At least 100 spots would remain open to the public. Developers plan to use smart software to manage availability based on hotel occupancy. (WLTX)
Real Estate
Construction is underway on The Mill House at Jackson, a 280-unit apartment complex on Fort Jackson Boulevard near I-77. The $7 million project will include six residential buildings, a clubhouse, a pool, and the preservation of the site’s wetlands.
Traffic
SCDOT will host a public meeting on Phase 3C of the Carolina Crossroads project on Tuesday, Feb. 17 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the DoubleTree on Bush River Road. Attendees can view designs and ask questions about bridge replacements and I-20 widening.
Edu
The South Carolina State Fair is accepting applications for its Ride of Your Life Scholarship. High school seniors can apply through Sunday, March 15 for one of 54 $10,000 scholarships.
Network
The next Tech on Tap features Integer Technologies CEO Duke Hartman, who will share his startup journey at the Boyd Innovation Center on Thursday, Feb. 19. Doors open at 5 p.m., with networking and Q&A to follow. This session is geared toward tech professionals and aspiring founders.
Job
Richland One is offering paid summer jobs and internships for students ages 16+ from June through Friday, July 17. Opportunities include roles in Facilities, Transportation, and Nutrition Services.
Health
When most people think of a heart attack, they picture sudden, crushing chest pain or pain radiating down the left arm. While those symptoms are well known, they’re actually more common in men. For women, heart attack symptoms can look very different — and are often easier to miss.*
Wellness
Perelel’s Triple-Support Protein is a clean, doctor-founded and third party tested protein powder, with each scoop delivering 20 grams of protein, three grams of creatine, and five grams of no-bloat fiber. Support muscle, brain, and gut health with 20% off using code 6AMCITY20.*
February is about connection, from intimate dinners to catching the game with friends. Don’t let background noise get in the way. Horizon IX hearing aids use advanced German engineering for crystal-clear sound, all-day comfort, and a nearly invisible fit. No wonder 540,000+ customers love them. Start your 45-day no-risk trial.*
Plan Ahead
Catch a concert
The day is filled with live music. | Photo by COLAtoday
From Mardi Gras Columbia happening on Saturday, Feb. 14, featuring 19 local acts, to Treaty Oak Revival at Colonial Life Arena, there’s no shortage of concerts happening in the Capital City this month. Check out these events and more in our monthly Plan Ahead.
Sam Barber - The American Route Tour | Saturday, Feb. 7 | 7 p.m. | Township Auditorium | $47+ | Modern Americana with several up-and-coming songwriters opening the show.
Musical Feast | Saturday, Feb. 7 | 6:30-9 p.m. | Koger Center for the Arts | $75+ | Hear musical performances in six unique venues throughout the Koger Center, featuring Jazz, Opera, Musical Theatre, Percussion, Chamber Music, and Singer-Songwriters
Joe Russo’s Almost Dead | Friday, February 13 | 7 p.m. | The Township Auditorium | $72+ | Enjoy high-energy Grateful Dead interpretations with extended jams and improvisation front and center.
Blackberry Smoke | Friday, Feb. 20 | 7:30 p.m. | Township Auditorium | $54+ | Catch the Atlanta-based Southern rock band led by Charlie Starr returns.
The Gamecock marching band isn’t the only one getting national attention. South Carolina State University’s band is performing on BET’s Super Bowl Soulful Celebration this Saturday, Feb. 7, at 7 p.m. The program will be hosted by former Carolina Panther Cam Newton. Fun fact: SC State Bulldog and current NFL athlete Javon Hargrave will be featured.
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