Visiting a FLETC Trainee? How to Spend the Weekend

If FLETC brought you to Brunswick to see someone you care about, here's the good news: you've landed on one of the prettiest stretches of the Georgia coast. Training schedules are demanding, so free time is precious — here's how to make a weekend count.

The easy win: go see the water

You're minutes from the Golden Isles — a cluster of barrier islands that are the whole reason people vacation here.

• St. Simons Island (~20–25 min) — the most accessible island: a walkable village, the iconic lighthouse, pier, shops, and casual seafood. The easiest we-only-have-an-afternoon choice.
• Jekyll Island (~30–40 min) — a quieter, more natural island (small daily entry fee to drive on). Don't miss Driftwood Beach, where weathered, sun-bleached trees make one of the most photographed beaches in Georgia — perfect for graduation photos.

If you've only got a few hours

• Walk Old Town Brunswick — historic squares, local cafés, and a laid-back small-town feel close to the Center.
• Grab a real meal. There are 100-plus restaurants within about 10 miles, heavy on Southern cooking and fresh coastal seafood.

If you've got a full day or weekend

• Make it a beach day on St. Simons or Jekyll.
• Catch the sunrise or sunset at Driftwood Beach — bring a camera.
• Time things around the tides if you're beach-walking or fishing — check the tide forecast on CityTides so you're not fighting high water.

Graduation weekend?

If you're in town for a FLETC graduation, you're not alone — it's a regular rhythm here, and worth turning into a proper coast getaway. See the graduation weekend guide and book lodging early via where to stay near FLETC.

CityTides pulls together the local stuff you'll actually want while you're here — weather and tides, what's open, local events, and a neighborly Buy & Sell board. Bookmark it for the weekend.