This historic Florida getaway was just named the South's best small town—see all the winners

From coastal escapes to mountain getaways, these reader-voted small towns top our 2026 South's Best Awards.

Small towns have always been special. There’s a reason they appear in the choruses of country songs and the backdrops of Hallmark movies—they have a magic that can sometimes be hard to define. What is it that makes these pockets of Southern life so unforgettable? Some may say it’s the sun-dappled streets lined with historic homes or the apple orchards hugging the scenic railway. The reasons may vary, but the beauty is always in the details. From gorgeous scenery to cultural depth, these reader-selected small towns continue to stand out as the South’s Best.

An online survey was conducted by third-party agency Proof Insights among Southern Living consumers, asking them to rate their favorite places across the South. The survey was fielded from July 9 to September 9, 2025, and had over 17,000 respondents.

01 of 20

Fernandina Beach, Florida

The jewel of Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach is well-loved for its many festivals, pristine coastline, and unique pirate-faring history. Stroll through its 52-block historic district dotted with Victorian mansions, legendary seafood shacks, and an arts scene that far exceeds expectations for a small town. When you’re ready to hit the sand and surf, you’ll find a plethora of public access points to choose from.

02 of 20

Sanibel Island, Florida

Nearly four years after Hurricane Ian, Sanibel is pressing forward and hitting new milestones. The southwest Florida island is welcoming a surge of visitors as more than 70 percent of its businesses and hotels have reopened. One thing you still won't find? High-rises. It remains an old-school beach town at its best, framed by shell-strewn shorelines and 25 miles of bike paths. Spend a morning on the sand and it won’t be long before you’ve adopted the “Sanibel Stoop,” the familiar bend of serious shell seekers.

03 of 20

Williamsburg, Virginia

Few places make you feel more lost in time than Williamsburg. The city is home to the world’s largest living history museum, but you’ll also find an undercurrent of modern culture. Wander around Merchants Square, where 100-year-old general stores share sidewalks with contemporary boutiques and trendy taprooms. Not far from town, the winding, 52-mile paved Virginia Capital Trail offers one of the most scenic bike rides in the state.

04 of 20

Southport, North Carolina

If you’ve watched Nicholas Sparks’ Safe Haven or Amazon Prime’s The Summer I Turned Pretty, you’ve likely caught a glimpse of Southport’s charm. This photogenic town is framed by scenic marshlands and towering historic oaks, but it’s more than just a pretty face. Rich in history, it’s home to landmarks like the Fort Johnston–Southport Museum and the Brunswick County Jail. In the evening, head to Waterfront Park, where the sun melts into the horizon over the Cape Fear River.

05 of 20

Anna Maria Island, Florida

This seahorse-shaped, 7-mile barrier island embodies Old Florida. Brightly painted cottages along Pine Avenue give way to pristine beaches and a bustling mix of markets and eateries. With the glittering Gulf to the west and the deep-blue Palma Sola Bay to the east, scenic views are never far. Spend time touring the waterways by boat or ease into your mornings with year-round yoga on the weekends.

06 of 20

Blue Ridge, Georgia

As one of the state’s oldest mountain towns, Blue Ridge is filled with rich history and surrounded by Georgia’s abundant natural beauty. The quaint destination, sitting along the Toccoa River, boasts a charming downtown filled with restaurants and shops. Add nearby apple orchards, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, and even a few vineyards within driving distance, and the area has all the ingredients of a beloved small town.

07 of 20

Oxford, Mississippi

This college town wears its title as the “Cultural Mecca of the South” like a badge of honor. While fall is defined by Ole Miss football and tailgates at The Grove, the city boasts literary and arts scenes that flourish all year. Book a room at The Graduate for its prime location and hip atmosphere (rooftop terrace bar included), and browse popular spots like Square Books, one of the South’s most cherished independent bookstores.

08 of 20

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama

These neighboring beaches have enjoyed a long tenure as the Yellowhammer State's most beloved vacation spot. Stretching across 32 miles of white sand abutting blue-green waters, the region lives up to Gulf Shores’ motto of “Small Town, Big Beach.” Spend your weekend by the waves, savoring fresh seafood and exploring the area’s wildlife sanctuaries.

09 of 20

Bardstown, Kentucky

The pulse of Bourbon Country is alive and well, and it’s in large part due to the charm of Bardstown. Here, you’ll find long-lived institutions alongside more distilleries than you can shake a stick at. Head to Bardstown Bourbon Company for creative takes on classic Bluegrass State foods and drinks, then explore downtown’s Museum Row for a deep dive into local history.

10 of 20

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is ripe with entertainment, scenery, and dining as the gateway to the Smokies. Credit: The Island in Pigeon Forge

This family-friendly town always rolls out the red carpet for visitors. In the spring, Dollywood will unveil the NightFlight Expedition, an indoor coaster and its largest attraction to date. More amusement park thrills await at The Island, where the Ferris wheel offers panoramic views of the Smokies. Of course, there’s also fun to be had in nature’s playground: explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park for its scenic landscapes and waterfalls.

11 of 20

Tybee Island, Georgia

A 30-minute drive from Savannah, Tybee Island harbors a marshy, sea-oat–dotted landscape with fewer tourists and a timeless energy. The island, home to military forts and the iconic black-and-white Tybee Island Light Station, built in 1773, is a dream for history buffs and nature lovers seeking tranquility. Go birding in secluded preserves or kayak along serene waterways.

12 of 20

Blowing Rock, North Carolina

Anchoring the Blueridge Parkway as the only full-service town on route, Blowing Rock is aptly named for its most famous feature: a 4,000-foot cliff overlooking a spectacular gorge, distant peaks, and dense forests. Find more scenic views downtown, where the shops and restaurants paint an idyllic storybook scene.

13 of 20

Beaufort, South Carolina

Not to be mistaken for its North Carolina cousin, this soft-spoken Lowcountry town blends rich Gullah history with 5 miles of beaches at nearby Hunting Island State Park. Spend time wandering along the river at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park or shopping on Bay Street, and then check into a historic inn shaded by the generous arms of an ancient live oak.

14 of 20

Destin, Florida

When they say it’s always summer somewhere, they probably mean Destin. The longstanding vacation spot basks in 343 sunny days a year, perfect for lounging on white-quartz sands or marveling at nature both above and below the water. Dive in and explore sunken shipwrecks off jetties, tour the area’s many museums, or take a shopping detour through HarborWalk Village.

15 of 20

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

This resort town is often lauded for its world-class golf and accommodations, but its 12 miles of uninterrupted shoreline, and the quiet oak- and magnolia-lined streets that surround them, are every bit as magical. Explore an extensive network of bike paths for easy access to markets, bars, boutiques, and authentic Lowcountry dining spots like the Hudson's Seafood House.

16 of 20

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

With its homey Appalachian charm and affordable accommodations, Gatlinburg remains a beloved gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The hiker’s paradise is steadily expanding its family-friendly attractions, with new glass-bottomed gondolas and a Firefly Experience coming to Anakeesta later this year. In the meantime, visitors can take in dramatic views along the 680-foot-long SkyBridge.

17 of 20

Fairhope, Alabama

Populated by ethereal live oaks and pastel-colored bungalows, Fairhope’s idyllic beauty hasn’t worn thin since its founding in the late 1800s. Spend a leisurely morning wandering through the quaint downtown filled with brick-lined alleys, boutique shops, and galleries. There are plenty of opportunities for al fresco dining. In the evening, watch the sun set over Mobile Bay from the fishing pier on the bay, or cast your line for the day’s catch.

18 of 20

Fredericksburg, Texas

With the opening of its first full-service hotel, The Albert Hotel, in 2025, this historic hamlet in the heart of the Texas Hill Country continues to emerge as an up-and-coming destination. Fredericksburg still wears its German heritage on its sleeve, evident throughout Main Street architecture and a lively cluster of biergartens and long-running seasonal festivals. Wine lovers will feel particularly at home thanks to more than 100 wineries and tasting rooms scattered throughout town and the surrounding countryside.

19 of 20

St. Simons Island/Golden Isles, Georgia

Salty air, slow tides, and centuries of coastal history define Georgia’s Golden Isles, a string of four barrier islands anchored by the mainland port city of Brunswick. The southernmost Jekyll Island is a haven for sea turtle sightings, while St. Simons Island spans three centuries and is home to one of the state’s last working lighthouses. Bask in the resort comforts at Sea Island, or enjoy a quieter cottage escape at Little St. Simons Island on the northern end. Back on shore, Brunswick’s rich maritime history comes with front-row seats of shrimp boats drifting by at sunset.

20 of 20

St. Augustine, Florida

Home to impressive Gilded Age architecture and a burgeoning dining scene, America’s oldest city continues to draw visitors who appreciate the past alongside the present. Step back into the 1600s at Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, then pivot to the city’s growing craft brewery and distillery scene. A short drive across the Bridge of Lions leads to St. Augustine Beach, where long stretches of public shoreline, nature trails, and sandy-feet-friendly businesses line State A1A.