Georgia’s Coastal Gems: From City to Swamp to Sea

Tour Dates: April 21-26, 2027
Tour Arrival: Wednesday, April 21, 2027 – Arrive at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)
Tour Departure: Monday, April 26, 2027 – Depart from Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) for Global Media Marketplace in Bentonville, Arkansas
Cities/Towns Visited: Savannah, Jekyll Island and Folkston

Discover Georgia’s coast through a journey that connects one of the South’s most historic cities, a barrier island in the Golden Isles, and the largest blackwater swamp in North America. Begin in Savannah, where rich African American and Gullah Geechee heritage, a thriving arts and film culture, and a vibrant riverfront district create a unique, and distinctly Southern, destination.

Travel south to Jekyll Island, where the focus shifts to the wildlife, pristine landscapes, and conservation efforts protecting Georgia’s coastline. Venture inland to Folkston for an unforgettable experience at the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, America’s newest and Georgia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to an estimated 15,000 alligators. Along the way, meet locals whose stories offer a deeper understanding of the communities, culture and natural wonders that give Georgia its distinct character. Throughout the journey, outdoor adventure, history, culinary experiences, arts and culture, and immersive tours introduce journalists to the local people and communities that give coastal Georgia its distinctive character.

Destination Highlights:

Savannah – “History, Culture & Creative Spirit”
Two nights in Savannah introduce travelers to a city steeped in American history with a vibrant, contemporary culture. African American and Gullah Geechee heritage add depth to the city’s story, while its food, arts and film scene, and lively riverfront district reveal the energy of a truly modern southern city. .

Jekyll Island – “Wild Beauty of the Golden Isles”
Three nights on Jekyll Island offer an immersive introduction to Georgia’s natural coast. This barrier island in the Golden Isles provides opportunities to explore pristine natural surroundings while learning about the conservation and preservation efforts helping protect its wildlife and coastal landscapes.

Folkston & Okefenokee – “Into the Wild”
Venture inland to Folkston and explore the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, the largest blackwater swamp in North America. As America’s newest and Georgia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Okefenokee offers a remarkable setting for exploring one of the south’s greatest natural wonders and a habitat for an estimated 15,000 alligators.

Culinary

Food adds another layer to the journey, connecting travelers with the flavors and communities of coastal Georgia. Culinary experiences are included as part of the itinerary, complementing the history, culture and outdoor adventures encountered along the route.

Savannah
The city’s restaurants provide another way to connect with Savannah’s distinct character and the cultural influences that have shaped this historic coastal destination.

The Golden Isles
On Jekyll Island, fresh seafood complements days spent exploring the coast, providing opportunities to experience the region through both its landscapes and local flavors.

Arts and Culture

Savannah
Savannah’s African American and Gullah Geechee heritage provides an important connection to the people and traditions that have shaped the city and surrounding coast. Its thriving arts and film culture adds a contemporary dimension to the experience.

Jekyll Island & the Golden Isles
The story of Jekyll Island is closely connected to its natural environment. Conservation and preservation efforts offer opportunities to explore how local communities are working to protect the wildlife and landscapes that make Georgia’s coastline distinctive.

Outdoor Adventure

Georgia’s Coast
Nature and outdoor adventure are central to the itinerary, with experiences that showcase the barrier islands, wildlife and pristine environments found along the Georgia coast.

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge
A day trip into the Okefenokee provides a dramatic contrast to the coast. Its vast blackwater landscape and abundant wildlife offer an immersive look at one of North America’s most remarkable natural environments.

Story Ideas

From City to Swamp to Sea: Georgia’s Coastal Gems
Follow a journey from Savannah’s historic streets to Jekyll Island’s protected coastline and the wild landscapes of the Okefenokee.
Beyond Historic Savannah: Culture, Creativity & Community
Explore Savannah through its African American and Gullah Geechee heritage, thriving arts and film culture, and vibrant riverfront.
Protecting Paradise: Conservation on Jekyll Island
Learn about the work being done to preserve the wildlife and natural beauty of one of Georgia’s Golden Isles.
Into the Okefenokee: Exploring Georgia’s UNESCO World Heritage Site
Venture into North America’s largest blackwater swamp and explore the wildlife and landscapes behind its UNESCO World Heritage recognition.
Georgia’s Wild Coast: From Barrier Islands to Blackwater Swamps
Connect Jekyll Island and the Okefenokee through a story about the remarkably different natural environments found within coastal Georgia.
The People Behind Coastal Georgia
Meet the locals whose stories provide a deeper understanding of the communities, culture and natural wonders found from Savannah to the Golden Isles and Okefenokee.
Culture and Conservation on the Georgia Coast
Explore how history, cultural traditions, wildlife and preservation come together to shape the identity of coastal Georgia.
Savannah Shapes the South
Explore this charming town that was founded by British General James Oglethorpe in 1733, is one the most historically significant African-American cities in the nation, and is currently home to the fastest-growing seaport in the United States.

Limited spots are available, and theseGlobal Week Press Trips are offered first-come, first-serve. Don’t delay – contact your recruiter today to begin your exploration of Georgia.