One of the best things about living in the Atlanta area is the variety of vacation destinations that are just a tank of gas (or two) away. Our geographic region is so diverse that in a few hours you can be on a sandy shore with waves lapping at your ankles, or hiking down a ridge to explore mountain fauna. Atlanta home builder Traton Homes wants to share some of these easy-to-get-to destinations:

Tybee Island

Less than a five hour drive will have you sipping a refreshing beverage on the beach in no time. Tybee Island is a great place to explore with children. From horseshoe crabs in the marsh to live sand dollars on the beach, the destination with please any child with an appetite for nature. If you have older children, rent bicycles for your trip, since the island is extremely bike-friendly. Whether you want a low-maintenance hotel room, romantic bed and breakfast, spacious rental home or even a campsite, there are plenty of accommodation types for your budget. Expect sweet southern hospitality, incredible seafood and a trip of wonderful memories on this sleepy island.

Helen

This festive Alpine village tucked away in the North Georgia Mountains is a terrific place to get away, even for a weekend. Just an hour from the northern suburbs, it is a great destination for shopping, indulging in German food and experiencing the beauty of springtime in the mountains. Unicoi State Park is just two miles outside of Helen and is an excellent place for hiking, biking boating and more. Throughout the year, the park department holds special events and tours at Unicoi. Visit the Unicoi website for a schedule.

The Florida Panhandle

There are many popular destinations along the Florida panhandle. In less than six hours, you can be in Pensacola, Fort Walton, Panama City, or any of the other coastal towns. Relax on the beach, get a thrill when you try parasailing, explore all the boardwalk areas or take a dolphin watching boat tour.

Do you have some favorite nearby vacation spots?