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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.
According to the NCDOT, roads + highways may remain uncleared for days after two weekends of winter precipitation — and more potentially falling today. Interstates 40 and 95 have been cleared, but local state-controlled roads may still be slushy or icy, so drive with caution (The News & Observer)
Fun Fact
As part of the Artemis II mission, NC-raised astronaut + NC State alum Christina Koch is heading to space again. Koch and three other astronauts will circle the moon and head back to Earth and could launch as early as March 6. (Axios Raleigh)
As part of its 50th season, the “Survivor” team is dropping 50 immunity idols, one in each state, and winners will attend the show’s live finale in Los Angeles. NC’s clue will drop this Friday, and like other states, will have a unique challenge. Keep an eye out for an idol in Raleigh. (Axios Raleigh)
Pets
Show a furry friend some love this February with $2.14 adoptions at the SPCA of Wake County through Valentine’s Day. All cats and dogs older than one year are eligible and ready for your love — meet the eligible bachelors + bachelorettes.
Film
A new short film from creative Darryl Jones puts Raleigh on center stage. “Tandem” is a love letter to his Triangle-born wife with cycling + gorgeous views of Umstead State Park and downtown. Catch the short film this Friday at the Rialto. (Raleigh Magazine)
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Health
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.*
Category
History
❄️ This weather’s nothing
Raleigh is anticipated a potential third snowfall for 2026. | Photo by RALtoday
It’s been a cold start to 2026, but let’s put things in perspective: Historically, Raleigh’s gotten much colder than this.
While the 919 isn’t known for its chilly weather, Raleigh has seen its fair share of below-freezing temps. Our coldest day on record was recorded at -9 degrees on Jan. 21, 1985 during a widespread freeze from a southern-shifting polar vortex.
For some context, the last time Raleigh experienced single digits was Jan. 7, 2018 with 4 degrees, and the closest we’ve come to negative in recent memory was 0 degrees on Feb. 5, 1996. Before 1985, the coldest temp on record was a comparatively toasty -2 degrees in 1899 — so be thankful for a balmy 44 degrees today.
The Buy
Merit Beauty’s Signature Lip Blush. Available in eight pigmented shades, it applies like a lightweight balm with smooth, buildable color.
I’ll be out for a few days, but my friend Patrick will be taking good care of you while I’m gone — say hi to him by sharing your most-anticipated restaurant opening this year. See you soon!