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🌴 How to Get to Sea Island, Georgia From Chicago [2025–2026 Guide]

Sea Island is 730 miles from Chicago. Driving takes 11–12 hours ($90–$130 fuel). Flights to Jacksonville or Brunswick take 3–4 hours ($200–$400). Local transfers add 30–60 minutes.

Sea Island, Georgia, is a luxury coastal resort destination known for its beaches, golf courses, and scenic marshlands. Traveling from Chicago requires a combination of driving or flights plus local transfers. This 2025–2026 guide provides detailed travel options, costs, and durations to plan your trip efficiently.

🚗 Driving From Chicago to Sea Island

Driving gives travelers flexibility and scenic opportunities along the way.

The distance is approximately 730 miles, taking 11–12 hours via I-65 South to I-10 East and US-17 South, depending on traffic.
Fuel costs range $90–$130, depending on your vehicle, with tolls along the route adding a few extra dollars.
The drive passes through major cities like Nashville, Birmingham, and Jacksonville, offering opportunities for sightseeing, meals, and rest stops along the way.
Driving is ideal for families or groups carrying beach gear, golf clubs, or other recreational equipment.

✈️ Flights to Sea Island

Sea Island does not have a commercial airport. The closest airports are Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK), and Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV).
Flight Duration: Direct flights from Chicago O’Hare (ORD) take approximately 3–4 hours, depending on the airport.
Cost: Round-trip airfare ranges $200–$400, depending on season and airline.
After landing, travelers need car rentals, hotel shuttles, or taxis to reach Sea Island, typically 30–60 minutes drive depending on airport.

🚌 Bus Options

Greyhound and regional bus lines run from Chicago to Jacksonville, which is the nearest major bus hub.
Travel Time: Buses take approximately 18–20 hours, including stops and transfers.
Cost: Tickets range $100–$150 per person, making buses a budget-conscious but lengthy option.
From Jacksonville, a rental car, shuttle, or taxi is needed to reach Sea Island, approximately 60–70 miles south.

🚖 Local Transfers

Hotel Shuttles: Most Sea Island resorts provide complimentary or paid shuttle services from nearby airports.
Car Rentals & Taxis: Rental cars are convenient for exploring the island and nearby Golden Isles. Taxis or rideshares cost $50–$80 from Brunswick or Jacksonville.
Biking & Walking: Sea Island is pedestrian-friendly with bike rentals available, ideal for exploring beaches, golf courses, and nature trails.

🌞 Best Time to Visit Sea Island

Spring (March–May): Warm temperatures, ideal for golfing, beach activities, and outdoor events.
Summer (June–August): Hot and humid; perfect for swimming and resort amenities but expect higher prices.
Fall (September–November): Pleasant weather and fewer crowds; ideal for relaxing outdoors and exploring local scenery.
Winter (December–February): Mild temperatures; quieter season with lower accommodation rates but fewer water activities.

📝 Travel Summary Table

Travel Mode	Duration	Cost (per person)	Notes
Driving (Chicago → Sea Island)	11–12 hours	$90–$130	Flexible, scenic, allows stops and carrying beach or recreational gear.
Flight + Car/Hotel Shuttle	3–4 hours + 30–60 min	$200–$400 + $50–$80	Fastest and most convenient; airport transfer required.
Bus + Car/Taxi	18–20 hours	$100–$150 + $50–$80	Budget-friendly but time-consuming; requires shuttle or taxi from Jacksonville.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How far is Sea Island from Chicago?
Approximately 730 miles, or 11–12 hours driving.

Q2: What’s the fastest way to get there?
Flying to Jacksonville or Brunswick and taking a shuttle or rental car to Sea Island is fastest.

Q3: Can I take a bus from Chicago to Sea Island?
Yes, buses go to Jacksonville; additional travel by car or shuttle is needed to reach Sea Island.

Q4: How much does it cost to drive to Sea Island?
Fuel typically costs $90–$130, plus tolls if applicable.

Q5: When is the best time to visit Sea Island?
Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather; summer is hot but ideal for beach and water activities.

✅ This 2025–2026 Chicago to Sea Island guide covers all travel options, costs, and durations, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey to one of Georgia’s most luxurious coastal destinations.