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Are you planning a trip to Gatlinburg, TN, and wondering where the closest beach is? While Gatlinburg is located in the Great Smoky Mountains, there are several beach destinations within driving distance. Whether you want to spend a day lounging on the sand, swimming in the ocean, or trying out water sports, you have plenty of options.
One of the closest beach destinations to Gatlinburg is Cherokee Lake Beach. Located in Mooresburg, TN, the beach is situated by the Cherokee Dam Campground. With over 463 miles of shoreline and 30,300 acres of water, Cherokee Lake is one of the largest in the state. The beach is perfect for families with its sandy shore, calm waters, and lifeguard on duty during peak season. If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the sun, Cherokee Lake Beach is a great option.
The closest ocean beach options are going to take you to South Carolina, near the Charleston area.
The Closest Beach to Gatlinburg TN
If you’re looking to hit the beach during your Gatlinburg vacation, you’re in luck. While there are no beaches in Gatlinburg itself, there are several options within driving distance. Here’s what you need to know about the closest beach to Gatlinburg TN.
Driving Distance
The closest lake beach to Gatlinburg TN is Douglas Lake, which is about an hour and 10 minutes away. While it’s not a traditional “beach,” it does offer plenty of opportunities for swimming, boating, and other water activities. If you’re willing to drive a bit further, you can also check out Melton Hill Park Beach in Knoxville, which is about an hour and 45 minutes away.
Water Activities
At Douglas Lake, you can enjoy a variety of water activities, including swimming, boating, waterskiing, and fishing. The lake is also surrounded by beautiful scenery, making it a great spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. If you’re looking for a designated swimming area, check out the Douglas Beach Park, which has a sandy beach and clear water.
At Melton Hill Park Beach, you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach is located on the banks of Melton Hill Lake and offers picturesque views of the surrounding nature. If you’re into water sports, you can also rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the lake on your own.
No matter which beach you choose, be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, water, and snacks. And if you’re planning to spend the whole day at the beach, consider bringing a beach umbrella or canopy to provide some shade.
Overall, while Gatlinburg may not be known for its beaches, there are plenty of options within driving distance. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water or an action-packed beach trip, you’re sure to find something that fits the bill.
Options for Beaches Near Gatlinburg TN
If you’re looking for a beach getaway from Gatlinburg, TN, you have a few options to consider. Here are some of the best beaches to visit, broken down by state:
South Carolina
South Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast. Here are three beaches to consider:
- Isle of Palms: Located just outside of Charleston, SC, this beach is perfect for families. It features a wide beach with plenty of space to spread out, and there are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby.
- Folly Beach: Also located near Charleston, Folly Beach is a popular spot for surfers. The beach is known for its waves and has a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for a relaxing day in the sun.
- Sullivan’s Island: It will take you about 5 hours and 46 minutes to get to this pristine beach, also located near Charleston.
Georgia
Georgia may not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of beaches, but it has some great options to consider:
- Tybee Island: Located just outside of Savannah, GA, Tybee Island is a great spot for families. The beach is clean and well-maintained, and there are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby.
- Barrier Island: This remote island is only accessible by boat, but it’s worth the trip. The beach is pristine and untouched, and there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.
North Carolina
North Carolina has a variety of beaches to choose from, depending on what you’re looking for:
- North Myrtle Beach: This family-friendly beach is located on the northern end of the Grand Strand. It features a wide beach with plenty of space to spread out, and there are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby.
- Outer Banks: This string of barrier islands is located off the coast of North Carolina. It’s a popular spot for surfing, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Alabama
If you’re willing to drive a bit further, Alabama has some great beach options to consider:
- Gulf Shores: This beach town is located on the Gulf of Mexico and features miles of white sand beaches. There are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, as well as opportunities for water sports and fishing.
No matter which beach you choose, be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and enjoy your time in the sun!
State Parks with Beach Access Near Gatlinburg TN
If you’re looking for a beach experience near Gatlinburg, you don’t have to travel far. There are several state parks with beach access within a reasonable distance. Here are a few options to consider:
Cherokee Lake
Cherokee Lake is located about an hour and a half northeast of Gatlinburg. The lake has over 400 miles of shoreline and is surrounded by lush vegetation, making it a beautiful spot for nature lovers. There are several parks around the lake that offer beach access, including Cherokee Dam Reservation, Panther Creek State Park, and Bean Station.
Cheatham Lake
Cheatham Lake is located about three hours west of Gatlinburg. The lake has over 320 miles of shoreline and is a popular spot for fishing and boating. Cheatham Lake Wildlife Management Area is a great place to access the lake’s beach. The park also has several walking trails for those who want to explore the area.
Old Hickory Lake
Old Hickory Lake is located about three hours west of Gatlinburg near Nashville. The lake has over 440 miles of shoreline and is surrounded by beautiful scenery. Old Hickory Beach is a great place to access the lake’s beach. The park also has several picnic areas and walking trails.
Rock Island State Park
Rock Island State Park is located about two hours west of Gatlinburg. The park is known for its beautiful waterfalls and scenic views. The park’s beach is located on the Caney Fork River and is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. The park also has several hiking trails for those who want to explore the area.
Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, these state parks with beach access near Gatlinburg offer something for everyone. So pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and head out to one of these beautiful spots for a day of fun in the sun.
Beaches with Amenities Near Gatlinburg TN
If you’re looking for a beach near Gatlinburg, TN, with amenities, you’re in luck. There are several options within a reasonable driving distance that offer more than just sand and water. Here are some of the beaches with amenities near Gatlinburg, TN.
Picnic Areas
Many of the beaches near Gatlinburg, TN, have designated picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal with family and friends. Some of these areas are equipped with tables and grills, while others are more basic. Here are some of the beaches with picnic areas:
- The Pines Recreation Area
- Melton Hill Park Beach
- Center Hill Lake
Boat Ramps
If you’re looking to take your boat out on the water, you’ll want to visit a beach with a boat ramp. Here are some of the beaches near Gatlinburg, TN, with boat ramps:
- Douglas Lake
- Center Hill Lake
- Norris Dam State Park
Picnic Tables
If you’re looking for a beach with plenty of picnic tables, you’re in luck. Here are some of the beaches near Gatlinburg, TN, with plenty of picnic tables:
- The Pines Recreation Area
- Melton Hill Park Beach
- Cove Lake State Park
Gift Shops
If you’re looking for a souvenir to remember your beach trip, you’ll want to visit a beach with a gift shop. Here are some of the beaches near Gatlinburg, TN, with gift shops:
- Douglas Lake
- Center Hill Lake
- Norris Dam State Park
Water Parks
If you’re looking for a beach with a water park, you’ll want to visit a beach with a water park. Here are some of the beaches near Gatlinburg, TN, with water parks:
- Douglas Lake
- Center Hill Lake
- Norris Dam State Park
Tennis Courts
If you’re looking for a beach with tennis courts, you’ll want to visit a beach with tennis courts. Here are some of the beaches near Gatlinburg, TN, with tennis courts:
- Center Hill Lake
- Norris Dam State Park
Dog Parks
If you’re looking for a beach where you can bring your furry friend, you’ll want to visit a beach with a dog park. Here are some of the beaches near Gatlinburg, TN, with dog parks:
- The Pines Recreation Area
- Melton Hill Park Beach
- Cove Lake State Park
Remember to check the specific beach’s website for more information on amenities, rules, and regulations before visiting.
Best Beaches Near Gatlinburg TN
If you’re looking for a quick getaway from Gatlinburg, TN, there are several great beach options within driving distance. Here are some of the best beaches that you can visit:
Hilton Head
Hilton Head, SC is a popular spot for beachgoers from all over the country. With over 12 miles of beautiful sandy beaches, there’s plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sun. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, Hilton Head also offers plenty of other activities, such as golfing, biking, and kayaking.
Folly Beach
Located near Charleston, SC, Folly Beach is a popular place for locals and tourists alike. With over six miles of sandy beach, there’s plenty of space to enjoy the sun and surf. The beach also offers plenty of other activities, such as fishing, boating, and surfing.
When it comes to finding the best beaches near Gatlinburg, TN, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to relax or a popular place to soak up the sun, there’s something for everyone. Consider your options and choose the best beach for you!
Getting to the Beach Near Gatlinburg TN
If you’re planning a trip to Gatlinburg but want to add some beach time to your itinerary, you’re in luck. There are several great beaches within driving distance of Gatlinburg, TN. Here’s how to get there:
Major Airports
The closest major airport to Gatlinburg is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), located in Knoxville, TN. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to your chosen beach destination. Other nearby airports include Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) in North Carolina and Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) in Tennessee.
Direct Flights
While there are no direct flights from Gatlinburg to any beach destinations, you can fly to nearby cities and drive the rest of the way. For example, you can fly to Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) in Georgia and drive to Tybee Island, or fly to Charleston International Airport (CHS) in South Carolina and drive to Folly Beach.
Google Maps
One of the easiest ways to find the closest beach to Gatlinburg is to use Google Maps. Simply enter your starting location and the beach you want to visit, and Google Maps will provide you with directions and estimated travel time. You can also use Google Maps to find nearby restaurants, hotels, and attractions.
No matter which beach you choose to visit, getting there is half the fun. With a little planning, you can enjoy the best of both worlds – the mountains and the beach – on your next vacation to Gatlinburg, TN.
Things to Do at the Beach Near Gatlinburg TN
When you’re looking for a fun and relaxing day at the closest beach to Gatlinburg, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Here are some of the best things to do at the beach:
Water Activities
Cool off in the refreshing water with a variety of water activities. You can swim, paddleboard, kayak, or even rent a boat and explore the lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at water skiing or wakeboarding. There’s no shortage of water activities to keep you entertained at the beach near Gatlinburg.
Walking Trails
Take a leisurely stroll along the beach and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Many beaches near Gatlinburg have walking trails that offer stunning views of the lake or ocean. You can also explore nearby parks and nature reserves for even more hiking opportunities.
Educational Programs
Learn about the local wildlife and ecology with educational programs offered at many beaches near Gatlinburg. These programs are a great way to get a deeper understanding of the environment and the animals that call it home.
Beach Ball
Get active with a game of beach ball. This classic beach game is a lot of fun and a great way to get some exercise. You can play with friends or join a pickup game with other beach-goers.
Beach House
Rent a beach house for the ultimate beach experience. Many beaches near Gatlinburg have beach houses available for rent, so you can stay right on the beach and enjoy easy access to all the fun activities.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach or a fun-filled adventure, there’s no shortage of great things to do near Gatlinburg. So pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and get ready for a lot of fun at the beach!
Best Time to Visit the Beach Near Gatlinburg TN
When planning a trip to the beach near Gatlinburg, timing is key. The best time to visit the beach depends on what you’re looking for in a beach experience. In this section, we’ll explore two factors that should be considered when deciding when to visit the beach: Hot Sun and Natural Beauty.
Hot Sun
If you’re looking for a beach experience with hot sun, the best time to visit is during the summer months. The months of June, July, and August offer the warmest temperatures and the most sunshine. However, keep in mind that these months are also the busiest, so expect crowds and higher prices for accommodations.
If you prefer a less crowded beach experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April to May or September to October. During these months, temperatures are still warm, but crowds are thinner, and prices may be lower.
Natural Beauty
If you’re more interested in experiencing the natural beauty of the beach, consider visiting during the fall or winter months. The cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make it easier to appreciate the natural surroundings. The fall months of September to November offer the added bonus of colorful foliage in the surrounding areas.
Winter beach visits can be peaceful and serene, with the added beauty of snow and ice. Keep in mind, however, that some beach activities may not be available during the winter months.
Final Thoughts on the Closest Beach to Gatlinburg TN
You’ve discovered that Gatlinburg, TN, is not located near any ocean beaches. However, there are several lakes, swimming holes, and rivers in the area where you can cool off during the hot summer months, and some great ocean beaches within driving distance.
If you’re looking for a perfect place to spend a day with your whole family, check out the Cove Beach in Knoxville. It offers a serene atmosphere and a sandy beach for sunbathing and volleyball. The Pines Recreation Area Beach in Cullowhee is another perfect spot with powdery white sand and a roped-off swimming area.
While you won’t find any fresh seafood in Gatlinburg, you can still enjoy some delicious Southern cuisine in the small town’s many restaurants. Don’t forget to check out the historic architecture and buildings in the area, which reflect the town’s rich history.
Within a few hours drive you can be at the ocean in South Carolina or even North Carolina to enjoy a traditional beach vacation.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this look at the closest beach to Gatlinburg!
See all our Smoky Mountain posts here!
Happy Travels!
Amanda
