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Southern Living's 2025 South's Best Awards

On March 11, 2025, the esteemed Southern Living magazine announced the winners of the ninth annual South's Best Awards, celebrating the finest destinations in the Southern United States. The annual survey, powered by the votes of devoted Southern Living readers, encapsulates the essence of Southern hospitality, culture, and cuisine. The full revelatory coverage will grace the April issue of the magazine, available for purchase from March 21.

Highlights from the Survey Results

This year, the survey reveals a plethora of categories showcasing the South's charm, including Best Cities, Best Beach Towns, Classic Hotels, Resorts, Beach Bars, and even a new category recognizing Top Cruises. The rankings reflect the readers' favorite places and experiences, ranging from dining establishments to scenic getaways.

Best Cities in the South

Continuing its reign as a favorite among locals and visitors, Charleston, South Carolina, has been voted as the South's Best City for the ninth consecutive year, celebrated for its rich culture, historical significance, and a culinary scene that tantalizes the taste buds. Other notable mentions in the top 10 include:
1. Savannah, GA
2. Asheville, NC
3. New Orleans, LA
4. Nashville, TN
5. Greenville, SC
6. St. Petersburg, FL
7. Chattanooga, TN
8. Atlanta, GA
9. Lexington, KY

Best Beach Towns

Making waves this year, St. Simons Island, Georgia, topped the list of Best Beach Towns, a category that encapsulates the allure of coastal life. The top beach towns list features:
1. Gulf Shores/Orange Beach, AL
2. Hilton Head Island, SC
3. Tybee Island, GA
4. Jekyll Island, GA
5. Sanibel Island, FL
6. St. Augustine Beach, FL
7. Myrtle Beach, SC
8. Fairhope, AL
9. Fernandina Beach, FL

Best Barbecue Joints

This year's awards spotlight local barbecue joints, with each state represented by its best. Some of the most notable winners include:

• - Alabama: Big Bob Gibson (Decatur)
• - Florida: Big John's Alabama BBQ (Tampa)
• - Texas: Franklin Barbecue (Austin)
• - Virginia: Pierce's Pitt Bar-B-Que (Williamsburg)

Each selection is a testament to the distinct flavors that define Southern cuisine.

Special Features and Awards

Beyond the rankings, Southern Living editors selected special distinction awards to highlight unique experiences. Vacation of the Year honors went to Outer Banks, NC, while Restaurant of the Year was awarded to Lost Isle on Johns Island, SC. The editors also compiled a list of Top New Hotels in the South, ensuring readers have fresh venues to consider for their travels.

Editor’s Insights

Sid Evans, the Editor in Chief of Southern Living, emphasized that Southern hospitality is more than just a slogan; it's an integral part of life in the South. By turning to their readership for recommendations, the awards connect community voices with the overarching narrative of Southern living. Evans noted that focusing on vacations allowed the publication to launch new categories this year, reflecting an evolving appreciation for travel and good eats in the region. "Now is the perfect time to start planning summer travel," he encouraged fellow Southerners.

Conclusion

The annual South's Best Awards certainly stir excitement among wanderers and foodies alike. Each vote recognized showcases the diverse and rich experiences found in the Southern U.S., making it an important compass for those wishing to explore the South authentically. For complete insights and methodologies behind the survey results, visit SouthernLiving.com.