Kathi Williams
The Golden Isles of Georgia has regained its top ranking in Travel + Leisure’s annual World’s Best Awards, earning the title of #1 Best Island in the Continental United States. The achievement positions the four barrier islands of St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Jekyll Island, and Little St. Simons Island as one of the nation’s most beloved coastal vacation getaways. Additionally, the Golden Isles ranked #11 among the Best Islands in the World. The recognition was earned via votes cast from Travel + Leisure readers, visitors, residents, and local businesses who celebrated the Golden Isles for its overall experience and deep sense of place. Factors that are considered by readers when evaluating destinations for the annual World’s Best Awards include natural attractions, beaches, activities and sights, restaurants and food, friendliness, and overall value. The awards are widely regarded as one of the travel industry’s most influential and respected honors.
“This honor is a meaningful reflection of what so many people already know and love about the Golden Isles, that this is an extraordinary place to visit and call home,” said Scott McQuade, President & CEO of the Golden Isles Convention & Visitors Bureau. “This recognition is a testament to our entire community, our residents, local businesses, and partners who shape the Golden Isles experience every day. We are deeply grateful to the travelers who shared their love for our destination through their votes.”
As part of its mission to elevate the Golden Isles as a nationally recognized resort destination, the Golden Isles CVB led a coordinated ‘Get Out the Vote’ campaign to expand awareness, strengthen community engagement, and drive national exposure for the destination. Designed to help the Golden Isles reclaim its place at the top, the campaign mobilized visitors, local businesses, hospitality partners, residents, and community stakeholders through targeted outreach across the Golden Isles and beyond. Of the campaign, McQuade said, “I’m incredibly proud of our whole CVB team for their work in bringing our community together for this effort, and we are especially thankful for all the hospitality partners that assisted our efforts.”
Within the past six years, the Golden Isles has received the distinction of the #1 ranking four times, with prior top spot wins in 2020, 2023, and 2024. The award also extends an impressive streak of national recognition, with the Golden Isles appearing on Travel + Leisure’s Top Ten list of Best U.S. Islands for more than a decade during the 31-year history of the World’s Best Awards.
The recognition highlights what visitors have long appreciated about the Golden Isles: a destination unlike any other, where miles of pristine beaches, centuries-old live oaks draped in Spanish moss, abundant wildlife, rich history, coastal cuisine, and a welcoming sense of place come together to create a restorative coastal escape. From exploring the historic streets of Brunswick and biking beneath the iconic tree canopy of St. Simons Island to discovering the untouched beauty of Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island and the curated experiences of Sea Island, travelers find space to slow down, reconnect, and experience the destination at an unhurried pace. From luxurious resorts and charming inns to expansive vacation rentals and campgrounds, the Golden Isles offers accommodations for every type of traveler seeking a relaxing retreat on America’s favorite getaway.
To see the entire 2026 World’s Best Awards list, visit travelandleisure.com.
