Looking for the perfect beach getaway that the whole family can enjoy? Look no further than St. Simons Island and Lighthouse Vacations. There’s no need to leave Fido at home when you book pet-friendly accommodations for your stay, and your pup is bound to enjoy the Golden Isles just as much as you do!
The Golden Isles beaches are among the most pet-friendly beaches on the East Coast! At the St. Simons Island areas of East Beach and Massengale Park, dogs may roam unleashed on the beach (as long as they are under your immediate observation and control). Restrictions apply to summer months from Memorial Day through Labor Day, when dogs are not permitted between 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Dogs are allowed on the beach north of the Coast Guard Station anytime. Leashed dogs are also allowed on Jekyll Island Beach at multiple locations.
When your goal is to stay dry and let Rover release some energy, he’s sure to appreciate our local parks and historic sites too, including dog parks at Frederica Park and Epworth Park as well as expansive pet-friendly spaces at Neptune Park and Gascoigne Bluff. Plenty of hiking trails in the area welcome furry explorers as well.
After a long, hard day of beaching and playing, chances are that you and your furry companion will be looking to refuel with a snack or a hardy meal. There are several restaurants on St. Simons Island with outdoor seating that welcome dogs. Just a few local favorites include: Southern Soul Barbeque, Tramici, Gnats Landing, ECHO, The Half Shell SSI, Iguanas Seafood, Sandcastle Café and Grill, Mallery Street Cafe, and Palm Coast Coffee. Cap it all off with a stop at Island Dog to treat your pal to something extra special just for them. Island Dog carriers everything from fresh baked treats, dog clothing, and leashes to dog strollers, and beach tents!
At the end of the day, return to your private beach retreat and settle in for a night of relaxation while you plan the next day’s adventures. Sounds pretty close to perfect, right? Search our pet-friendly properties below to find your perfect fit, and let’s get started on planning your getaway today!
Pet-Friendly Trip to St. Simons: The Ultimate Guide
When planning your trip to St. Simons Island, there’s no reason to leave your furry friends behind! This barrier island off the coast of Georgia has countless pet-friendly activities, from outdoor eateries to fido-friendly beaches to endless walking and biking trails.
Our pet-friendly vacation rentals are the perfect landing place during your beach getaway. With easy access to everything SSI offers, there’s nothing your four-legged friends will miss out on.
We’ve put together the ultimate guide to your St. Simons Island pet-friendly trip to get the most out of the dog days of summer (and every other season)!
St. Simons Beach Pet Rules
Dogs are allowed on the St. Simons Island beaches from Labor Day to Memorial Day or during the off-season. Dogs do not need to be leashed but must stay near their owners to be in immediate control at all times.
From Memorial Day to Labor Day, dogs are not allowed on St. Simons Island beaches from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Dogs are allowed on the beach from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m. and do not have to be leashed.
SSI beaches ask that you please pick up after your pet at any time of the day!
Saint Simons Island is home to many historical sites. And while your pet might not be able to appreciate the history, they can take in the beauty of the surroundings with you.
Visit Fort Frederica National Monument first, where you’ll tour a British military outpost and town from the 18th century. Dogs can join you as long as they are on a 6-foot leash. Water fountains are available on the grounds when your furry friend gets thirsty from all that touring.
Next, check out the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum, one of the few surviving lighthouses in Georgia. This historic site still serves the community as a navigation aid for ships while welcoming visitors to its museum to explore artifacts and exhibits. While furry friends aren’t allowed inside, they are welcome on the museum grounds.
St. Simons Island is full of green spaces for you and your pet to roam.
The St. Simons Trails System includes over 30 miles of bike paths throughout the island, giving you a front-row seat to popular spots like Sea Palms Golf Course, Pier Village, and Frederica Road. Cannon’s Point Preserve Trail is a dirt trail offering a more secluded path through marshes, forests, and historical sites.
When it comes to parks, SSI has no shortage of options. Located on the island’s north end, Frederica Park offers a four-acre recreational area and its own nature trail, highlighting the native plants of the island. It even has a fenced dog park, where your furry friends can roam off-leash with fellow travelers.
Neptune Park and Massengale Park are two additional green spaces perfect for getting some exercise and fresh air with your four-legged friend.
The Golden Isles are home to some of the most beautiful beaches, and they are perfect for a day of fun in the sun with your furry friends.
We recommend heading to East Beach, where there is a designated spot for your dog to enjoy the water off-leash. Massengale Park also offers access to the beach, making it a great spot to enjoy both the beach and green space with your pet.
Be sure to check out the SSI beach rules depending on when you visit, as the rules change based on the time and season!
You and your pooch can’t come to SSI without visiting Island Dog. This local pet store has it all. From treats to toys to fancy accessories, you’re four-legged friend will feel like royalty while you shop.
Island Dog offers free treats and water for your pet, so it’s the perfect stop to make while you explore Pier Village. Island Dog is a short walking distance from the St. Simons Island Pier, so we recommend heading there next to get one of the best views on the island. Pets are welcome on the pier if they are on a leash.
Located inside of a former gas station, this locally-owned BBQ joint is as welcoming as it is delicious. It’s got everything you could want in a Southern food spot, from mouth-watering meats to “soulful sides” to accompany them.
Their menu features family-style options ranging from baby back ribs to beef brisket by the pound. It also features refreshing drinks, like iced tea, sodas, and cold beer.
Southern Soul BBQ has plenty of outdoor seating, making it the ideal lunch spot to enjoy with your pet.
Iguanas Seafood is a lively seafood spot that highlights fresh Gulf Coast ingredients. This is where you go in SSI to get your seafood fix, featuring staples like fried shrimp, crab cakes, and the infamous surf-n-turf.
Iguanas features a large, open-air patio with ample seating for you and your furry friend. The restaurant is in Pier Village, making it the perfect dinner spot after strolling the St. Simons Island Pier.
Located only a block from East Beach, Beachcomber BBQ & Grill is the ultimate laid-back hangout spot.
Known for their “beer, bourbon, and BBQ,” this beachside grill serves everything from slow-cooked BBQ to hamburgers to one-of-a-kind sandwiches. The bar menu is loaded with unique cocktails, beer on tap, and an extensive bourbon collection.
The patio is festive and colorful, with plenty of outdoor seating. After a fun day at East Beach, it’s just waiting to greet you and your furry best friend!
If you’re looking for an elevated dining experience where you can invite your pet along, Tramici is the place to go. This beloved Italian restaurant is known for its delicious brick-oven pizzas, authentic pasta, and extensive wine selection.
Tramici offers bistro-style outdoor seating in their courtyard for you and your furry friend to enjoy a relaxing evening. And as a bonus, pets on the patio are offered a special treat. It’s the fine dining spot that welcomes all your family members – no matter who they are!
Enjoy Your Pet-Friendly Beach Trip
We’d never want your four-legged family member to miss out on all St. Simons Island offers. And the good news is they don’t have to!
We hope our visitor’s guide gets you started on the ideal pet-friendly SSI trip! Our pet-friendly vacation rentals are waiting for you and your pets to visit. From the nearby walking trails to the pet-friendly beaches to the outdoor eateries, there’s no shortage of entertainment for your furry friends to enjoy on St. Simons Island.
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Terms & Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the beach?
Yes with restrictions:
Dogs are prohibited on the beach from the Saturday before Memorial Day through Labor Day between the hours of 9:00 am and 6:00 pm, except between Beach Access Points 1-6.
During allowable times and in non-summer months, dogs are allowed on any portion of the beach but must be within close proximity and under the immediate control of the owner/handler.
Are dogs allowed on the Pier?
Dogs are permitted on the Pier provided that they are leashed at all times.
Dog-Friendly Things To Do On St. Simons Island
Meet our dog – Ross the Bird Hunter!
St. Simons Dog & Pet Rules
• Dogs are prohibited on the beach from the Saturday before Memorial Day through Labor Day between the hours of 9:00 am and 6:00 pm, except between Beach Access Points 1-6.
• During allowable times and in non-summer months, dogs are allowed on any portion of the beach but must be within close proximity and under the immediate control of the owner/handler.
• Dogs are permitted on the Pier provided that they are leashed at all times.
Pet Friendly Nature Trails
With an abundance of trails in the Golden Isles to choose from, you and your pup will be able to stay in shape during your trip to the Golden Isles. Area nature trails are also a great way to experience the local wildlife and learn about the area’s beautiful environment.
St. Simons Island Trail System – Discover the charm of St. Simons Island via bicycle, with more than 30 miles of bike paths. You will be surrounded by beautiful mossy live oaks, marshlands, river views and ocean views along the way!
Southeast Georgia Health System Fitness Trail – Handicap accessible, the half-mile, paved trail is open daily from daylight to dusk. It curves and winds its way through a forest of live oaks, cedars, bamboo, and other native plants. Benches and fitness stations are there for you to use along the way.
Alice Richards Botanical Trail – Located within Frederica Park, the trail is where native plant species have been re-introduced to land that was once used for timber farming. The trail features a gazebo, children’s area of faerie houses and a labyrinth.
Dog Parks
Frederica Park
Located at the north end of St. Simons Island, off of Lawrence Road, Frederica Park’s dog park is the perfect place to explore with your pup. You could spend countless hours playing Frisbee, walking around or just relaxing with your furry friend. In addition to the dog park, Frederica Park also features a children’s playground, a hard surface jogging trail, picnic shelters and public restrooms.
There’s a certain excitement that comes with planning a getaway – especially when it’s a getaway to Georgia’s Golden Isles! The culture, beaches, nature, cuisine… surely, the very thought of it sends your anticipation skyrocketing, and you’re not the only one. You see that furry little mug staring at you right now as you read this? It’s the very face of loyalty, companionship, and love – and they just may be dreaming of an island escape, too!
We get it – you can’t bear to leave your buddy behind, and you shouldn’t have to. The St. Simons Island area is one of the most pet-friendly beach destinations you’ll find, and we’re happy to be an accommodating part of that welcoming culture! Snuggle up with Fido and let’s start planning your perfect pet-friendly Georgia Coast vacation!
Where To Stay
Well, that’s the easy part! Lighthouse Vacations has a variety of vacation rentals offering pet-friendly accommodations. From 2-6 bedrooms, starting as low as $99 per night, you can select the ideal vacation home for your family and itinerary. Choose from cozy island cottages and bungalows to luxury homes and condos in resort-style, oceanfront communities. on Sea Island, or top locations around St. Simons Island, including the Pier Village area. Many properties offer mesmerizing marsh or ocean views to keep your furry friend immersed in island beauty, even when you’re just lounging out “at home”.
Where To Shop
Don’t let your pup leave the Golden Isles without a stop (or two) at Island Dog! This pet-centric boutique offers treats, accessories, clothing, harnesses and matching leashes, dog strollers, backpacks, beach tents, and more. There’s even a dog bar where your pup can get some water and a snack to recharge while strolling around Pier Village. A welcome break, especially in the summer months!
Where To Eat
Several dog-friendly restaurants in the St. Simons Island area offer outdoor seating environments for a meal with a view. Here are some of the most popular spots to catch a bite and a break with your pooch:
Tramici – Neighborhood Italian eatery with indoor and outdoor seating. Offering salads, sandwiches, pasta, and pizzas, as well as an extensive wine list.
Brogen’s – Laid-back bar and grill with burgers and classic pub grub. Enjoy ocean views from the multi-level patio.
Iguanas Seafood – Surf-n-turf alongside a variety of sandwiches and burgers, and specialty entrees. Street patio seating allows dogs and water is provided for a cool-off!
Sandcastle Café and Grill – Exceptional breakfast buffet and lunch menus featuring seafood, burgers, and sandwiches. Dog-friendly deck with beach views.
The Half Shell – Wide assortment of seafood dishes – especially oyster selections, paired with wine, beer, and cocktails. Outdoor tables with dog-friendly seating.
Palm Coast Coffee – Perfect for a quick pick-me-up! Cafe and coffeehouse with dog-friendly outdoor seating.
Southern Soul Barbeque – Legendary bbq dishes – among the best in the south! Dogs welcome at front picnic tables and water bowls are provided. For a St. Simons Island travel guide, including Southern Soul Barbeque, click here.
Where To Play
Take A Hike
Photo Credit: goldenisles.com
There are plenty of nature trails in the area for biking and hiking with your furry counterpart. It’s the ideal way to get out and enjoy the natural beauty of the barrier islands while giving your curious pal a chance to explore a whole new world. The St. Simons Island Trail System includes more than 30 miles of scenic bike-accessible paths through forests of live oak trees and marshlands. What a way to combine your fitness and pet-friendly activities!
Bark In The Park
St. Simons Island is home to two dog parks, located at Frederica Park and Epworth Park. The Frederica Park Dog Park at the north end of St. Simons Island offers separate areas for large and small dogs, each with its own water bowl, shade, and benches for human companions. Frederica Park also features a children’s playground, jogging trail, picnic areas and public restrooms. Epworth Park near Sea Island Road features a spacious fenced-in dog run as well as a Bocce ball court, public restrooms, picnic areas, tennis courts, and pickleball courts.
The St. Simons area is home to some of the most dog-friendly beaches on the East Coast. East Beach and Massengale Park are among the top local beaches for a stroll with your pup! From Memorial Day through Labor Day, dogs are welcome to visit the sandy shores before 9:00 AM and after 6:00 PM. From Labor Day through Memorial Day, dogs are permitted on the beach at any time. While leashes are not mandatory, dogs must be under the owner’s immediate control and capable of obeying voice commands. When leashes are in use, they cannot be longer than ten feet in length. Failure to comply with regulations will result in fines. Please bring disposal bags to clean up after your pet. Trash receptacles can typically be found at public beach access points.
For more beach fun, dogs are allowed on the beach north of the Coast Guard Station anytime. Leashed dogs are also allowed on Jekyll Island Beach at multiple locations.
Kiteboarding on St. Simons: What to Know
The Golden Isles are a family of islands situated along the Georgia coast, halfway between Jacksonville, Florida, and Savannah, Georgia. As the largest barrier island in the Golden Isles, St. Simons Island is known for its picturesque natural landscape, diverse marine life, and endless beach activities.
Surfing, kayaking, fishing – St. Simons is built for water adventures. It is also a kiteboarder’s paradise. What makes it so perfect for kiteboarding? An 8 foot tidal variation that constantly transforms the beachfront and offers extensive areas of shallow, flat water and optional ramps for added excitement are all the right ingredients for a perfect day out on the water.
Staying at one of our Lighthouse Vacation rentals will put you in the center of the action, giving you access to the many beach access points nearby to enjoy your kiteboarding adventure.
Here is your guide to all things kiteboarding on St. Simons Island!
Kiteboarding is a unique water sport that combines elements of surfing, wakeboarding, paragliding, and windsurfing into one activity.
There are two essential elements: the kite and the board. Kiteboarders are harnessed to a hand-controlled kite that uses wind power to pull the board along the water. Unlike windsurfing, minimal wind speed is needed to start gliding along the water with kiteboarding. While it may sound simple, kiteboarding is considered an “extreme” sport and requires training before going out alone.
Since its creation in the 1970s, kiteboarding has evolved into a popular water activity. There are now many types of kiteboarding kites and boards, including unique combinations of both depending on the rider. Kiteboarding was officially recognized as an Olympic sport in the 2018 Summer Youth Olympics. Today, the sport of kiteboarding has an estimated 1.5 million participants worldwide.
Located on Tybee Island, Georgia Kiteboarding offers a wide range of services for the aspiring kiteboarder.
Georgia Kiteboarding provides 2-hour kiteboarding lessons that are tailored to each individual. Lessons start on the ground, where you’ll learn the basic foundations of kiteboarding. Once you move to the water, lessons take place in flat, shallow waters, which are optimal for learning.
Georgia Kiteboarding also sells kiteboarding gear and wing foiling gear to ensure you have everything you need once you finish lessons.
Golden Isles Kiteboarding
Golden Isles Kiteboarding offers kiteboarding lessons for those looking to learn the foundations of this water sport.
Robb VanWie, the owner of Golden Isles Kiteboarding, is a certified instructor with over 12 years of experience in kiteboarding. He typically recommends 2-3 lessons for beginners looking to kiteboard. Lesson one involves learning the correct terminology, weather patterns, safety rules, and more. In lesson two, you will work in shallow waters to get up on the board. By lesson three, you’re up and cruising, learning how to navigate the wind.
East Beach is the most popular public beach on St. Simons Island for good reason. This lively beach is the epitome of coastal Georgia: tall dunes, hard-packed sand, and pristine oceanfront views at every turn.
On any given day, you’ll find locals and visitors enjoying the many activities that East Beach offers. East Beach provides the backdrop for a wide range of beach activities, from kayaking to shell collecting to wading to sandbars.
Pet Friendly
East Beach is also one of the pet-friendly beaches on island, with restrictions during the summer months. Dogs are prohibited between 9 am and 6 pm, except between Access Points 1 and 6.
All the Info: Coastal Wind Sports
Coastal Wind Sports offers a range of helpful information for kiteboarders on its website. Before you head out, they provide regional weather information, including current wind conditions. They also offer information on local and regional tides. While they are based in Jekyll Island, their information is also helpful for those kiteboarding in St. Simons Island.
East Beach Access Points
Historic U.S. Coast Guard Station Access Point
Address: 4100 1st St. Simons Island, GA
The most popular access point is the Historic U.S. Coast Guard Station. This access point offers free public parking, public restrooms, and a concession stand in the summer. It’s the perfect home base for your kiteboarding adventures.
Massengale Park Access Point
Address: 1350 Ocean Blvd., St. Simons Island, GA
South of the Coast Guard Station, you’ll find Massengale Park, another public beachfront access. The park offers a playground, shaded picnic areas, public restrooms, and two public access points to East Beach.
Gould’s Inlet Access Point
Address: Fifteenth Street, Bruce Drive, St. Simons Island, GA
Gould’s Inlet is another well-known beach access point. Gould’s Inlet is a Wildlife Beach Area located at the northern tip of East Beach. Here, you will find people bird-watching, fishing off of the fishing pier, and enjoying a peaceful oceanside stroll. There is more limited parking here.
All in all, over 30 public beach access points fall along the St. Simons Island beach stretch.
Kiteboarding really is dependent on the weather conditions that day. Be sure to check the wind, wave, weather, and tide conditions in St. Simons Island the day you plan to board. You can find all the information here.
More than likely, you will end up in the water a time or two during your kiteboarding trip! Wear a thick wetsuit to ensure you stay warm if you find yourself floating for a long time. For beginners, it’s also helpful to wear a floatation jacket.
There’s nothing worse than getting to the beach and realizing you don’t have all of your kiteboarding gear. Make a checklist of all of your gear before heading out for the day. You’ll need:
Yes, kiteboarding involves a lot of preparation and practice. But, at the end of the day, what matters most is that you enjoy your time on the water. Know your limits, get the adequate training you need, and then get ready to enjoy the process!
Kiteboard and Stay on St. Simons Island
St. Simons Island is the perfect place to participate in countless beach activities, from kayaking to surfing to sailing. But perhaps the most unique water activity to try while you’re here is kiteboarding!
If you’ve always wanted to try kiteboarding, you’ve come to the right place. Our Lighthouse Vacations rentals are conveniently located next to East Beach, where you can enjoy kiteboarding with breathtaking views. With local lessons nearby, there’s nothing stopping you.
Happy kiteboarding!
Visiting Massengale Park, St. Simons
St. Simons Island is known for having some of the best beaches among the Golden Isles. The Coastal Georgia island boasts 3 miles of continuous beaches that offer a range of oceanfront activities, from boating to bird-watching to lighthouse touring!
With many of our vacation rentals nearby, it’s easy to take advantage of all that Massengale Park offers. There are many public beach access points, but Massengale Park might be the most popular of all. Located along East Beach, the park offers way more than just beach access.
This is everything you need to know about visiting this gem of a green space on St. Simon’s Island.
Amenities: The park offers a free parking lot, public restroom facilities, an outdoor shower, and a picnic area.
Hours: Open daily from 7 am to 10 pm.
The property where Massangale Park is located was once owned by Sea Island Company, who donated it to Glynn County in 1955 to turn it into a public park. The park doubles as both a green space for visitors and locals to enjoy and one of the main beach access points on St. Simons Island. It also provides access to the southern end of East Beach, a popular beach area.
Massengale Park is the perfect spot to enjoy a midday picnic. The park has a designated shaded picnic area with free grills, picnic tables, and benches for picnicking with ocean views.
St. Simons is a very pet friendly island, and Massengale Park is the perfect atmosphere for your furry friend to let out some energy! They can enjoy running around the park or nearby East Beach, which is also pet-friendly and a great beach to enjoy with your dog!
The park is open to pets year round except for Memorial Day through Labor Day, when hours are restricted between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm. In off-season months, dogs are allowed on any portion of the beach as long as they are under the owner’s immediate control.
Massengale Park is also home to a playground. It’s got slides, swings (including an infant swing), and more for kids of all ages to enjoy. Where else do you get a playground with a beach view?
There are beach rental services next to the park, where you can hire umbrellas, chairs, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards. Massengale Park lends easy access to splash in at popular points like East Beach.
Of course, the beach is the most popular activity to enjoy at Massengale Park! With plenty of parking and easy access to East Beach, Massengale Park is the perfect spot to start your fun day in the sun.
If you want to explore more of the beach, head north from Massengale Park, and you’ll find the Coast Guard Station, an entrance to East Beach known for its hard-packed sand and pet-friendly atmosphere. Head south and discover the St. Simons Island Pier, famous for its low-tide fishing adventures.
Address: 1226 Ocean Blvd STE 1, Saint Simons Island, GA
Price Point: $$
Just a quick walk from Massengale Park, Barrier Island Brewing is a local brewery that offers craft beer and a delicious food menu.
Their small bites menu is perfect after a day in the sun, featuring popular items such as fried cheese curds, beer cheese dip, and stuffed pretzel board. Entrees include classic American favorites like burgers and sandwiches. And they’ve got a dessert menu too! With a lively atmosphere and outdoor seating, it’s the perfect spot to walk to after enjoying Massengale Park.
If you are looking for someone else to do the grilling, head on over to Beachcomber BBQ & Grill, just one block from Massengale Park. Colorful patio seating and the smell of BBQ will greet you as soon as you round the corner.
You can’t go wrong with their many BBQ options between the brisket, pulled pork, burgers, and ribs. It’s the ideal spot to enjoy a cold beer and delicious grub after a day at the beach!
Right across Ocean Boulevard lies Fiddlers, a casual yet upscale restaurant known for its rustic atmosphere, open-air atmosphere, and incredible menu.
The menu features a range of local seafood dishes, from crab cakes to fried seafood platters to blackened redfish. They’ve got craft beer and a range of cocktails, too. Beloved by locals and visitors alike, people come for the atmosphere and stay for the delicious cuisine.
Just a few steps from Massengale Park is one of St. Simons Island’s most popular dining spots. ECHO is the island’s only oceanfront restaurant. This Southern coastal cuisine hot spot is known for its locally sourced seafood ingredients, signature cocktails, and coastal outdoor dining atmosphere.
The property ECHO is on also offers two other casual options: The Cottage Custard & Coffee and Sea Shack Bar + Bites. Between these three spots, you will find everything you’re looking for!
Stay and Explore Massengale Park
It’s hard to find a better landing spot on your beach day than Massengale Park. The public park offers countless amenities for the whole family, from a children’s playground to multiple picnic areas to green space for your furry friends to play. With plenty of parking, free restrooms, and public beach access, Massengale Park gives you a convenient and stress-free way to enjoy East Beach on your St. Simons Island getaway.
Our St. Simons Island live webcam keeps you connected to the island 365 days a year. Check out the beautiful view of the ocean while you plan your next visit. The live webcam will be the perfect tool to help you decide what to pack just moments before you leave on your island vacation. It also works great as a security camera system. St. Simons Island is one of four barrier islands off the coast of Georgia. The other barrier islands are Jekyll Island, Sea Island, and Little St. Simons Island. St. Simons Island has an average temperature of 74°, keeping its visitors and locals nice and warm all year round.
This live webcam is located on one of Lighthouse Vacations, oceanfront rentals. Wake up each day to the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean and white sand beaches. St. Simons Island is the perfect place to hold a wedding, family reunion, graduation, or even a bachelor/ bachelorette party. Lighthouse Vacations has properties that can accommodate any of your needs.
Jekyll Island, a short 30-minute drive from St. Simons Island is an Island located off the coast of Georgia, in Glynn County. The island is one of four barrier islands of the Golden Isles consisting of Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island, St. Simons Island, and Sea Island. The four islands each offer many different things to do and places to see. If you have a spare day when you’re staying in St. Simons Island, make sure to check out Jekyll Island, you will not be disappointed. To make things easier on you, we have constructed a list of our favorite things to do on Jekyll Island.
The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is the only sea turtle education and rehabilitation facility currently in Georgia. The center offers locals and visitors the chance to learn about the turtles and see their road to recovery in action. They offer year-round indoor and outdoor programs for guests of all ages. They are open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
Many love biking throughout Jekyll Island for its scenic route of viewing all of the island’s hallmark points of interest. There are many bike trails that wind around sand dunes, beaches, and several historic sites. The bike paths will not only take you from one place to another, but it will also give you the opportunity to bike right to the Jekyll Island Historic District and see the culture and history of your bike. There are several bike rental shops around town for any size bike you may need. A few shops are Jekyll Island Bike Barn, Beachside Bike Rentals, and Jekyll Wheels.
Unlike any other, Jekyll Island Beaches take your coastal getaway over the top. The island has over 10 miles of beautiful unbothered shoreline with a variety of amenities. There are plenty of places to relax and unwind, while you take in the salty air.
Driftwood Beach is consistently chosen as one of America’s “Ten Most Romantic Beaches”. Alongside its beauty is historical roots. The beach has a beautiful ancient driftwood monument that lines the waterfront creating a breathtaking view. The beach is open year-round and is pet friendly.
The Great Dunes Beach is the most popular amongst families. The 20-acre beachfront park is easy to access and has several picnic areas. Enjoy the activities deck, play areas, and volleyball courts, or try out a game of bocce ball on the sand. This beach is open year-round and is pet friendly.
South Dunes Beach Park
Photo Credit: goldenislesweddings.org
South Dunes Beach Park is the perfect beach to visit if you are looking for a better look at the ocean. The park has an elevated boardwalk crossing 20-foot sand dunes, beach access, an observation deck, and a freshwater pond. Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming right off of the Georgia Coast.
Jekyll Island offers many different ways to explore the Atlantic Ocean. Whether it’s on the sea in a boat, on a dock, or onshore, there are plenty of ways to get in touch with your inner angler. Choose from fishing on a kayak, boat, sand, or dock. You can rent equipment at the 4-H Tidelands Nature Center, where they can also teach you how to fish. You can also opt for an adrenaline rush with an airboat ride or deep-sea fishing. Take a full or half-day trip out on the water. Jekyll Island offers many different boat and fishing tours.
Horseback Riding
Photo Credit: hreeoaksfarm.org
There is nothing quite like riding horses on a family vacation, but what’s even better is riding horses on a beach on vacation. From guided tours on the beach at driftwood beach to narrated horse-drawn carriage tours of the historic landmark district, this will be a memory that lasts a lifetime. These tours can be found at the Golden Isles Carriage and Trail at Three Oaks Farm, Historic District Carriage Tours, and Driftwood Beach Rides.
The Horton House is something you may stumble upon while on a bike trail. Jekyll Island was granted to William Horton by the trustees of the colony of Georgia. After his first home was destroyed in a Spanish attack, he built his second home, the Horton House, that still stands today. The Horton House and Horton Pond still remain today open to visitors and locals to explore some of the history made on the island.
If you are not a fan of the beaches, or you are worn out from the constant fun in the sun and water, try out some of the best golf courses in the area. With the first golf course being made on the island in 1898, Jekyll Island Golf Club has been a heralded golf destination ever since. They have had several accredited visitors such as Donald Ross, Walter Travis and Joe Lee, as well as many players from all around the world. Each course is carefully constructed with very few man-made obstructions.
Splish, splash, and laugh all day long at the Summer Waves Water Park. Among the peaceful islands is this hidden gem and family attractions. It is known for its cool, refreshing water, and amazing views. Enjoy the lazy rivers, wave pools, and waterslides all day long, with the entire family. This is many families’ top things to do when they visit Jekyll Island. Try out the Pirate’s Passage while creating memories you will never forget.
Located on the Georgia Coast and Great Dunes Park are Jekyll Islands mini golf courses. These courses are great for adults and children, offering lots of fun and the option for a more advanced course for those who are wanting it. You can play all day or play one time, no matter how long you are there you will enjoy it the whole time. Enjoy one or both of the well-lit 18-hole courses with your entire family.
The Golden Isles Of Georgia has so much to offer from the beautiful oak trees swaying in the wind, to the state parks and Jekyll Island museum. However, if you are on a time limitation these are our must stop and visit list. We hope to see you soon on the island and to find the perfect vacation rental, check out our rentals.
400 Ocean Suites
Nestled in the heart of the Pier Village, 400 Ocean Suites puts you right in the social hub of St. Simons Island!
Vacation rentals at 400 Ocean Suites are fully furnished with air conditioning, free WiFi internet access, washer and dryer, and satellite or cable TV, each featuring a large bedroom, full bath, kitchen and living room with a private porch or balcony. Onsite amenities include an outdoor swimming pool.
Become part of St. Simons’ “island elite” and enjoy downtown living at its finest, with fantastic restaurants and boutique shops within walking distance of your front door, as well as the historic lighthouse, beaches, and more. Find the most popular stops nearby below, or extend your exploration to the Summer Waves Water Park and Georgia Sea Turtle Center, just 30 minutes away on Jekyll Island. For local outdoor fun, consider jet skiing and kayaking or seek out nature trails for horse riding, hiking, and bicycling nearby.
Points Of Interest Less Than A Ten-Minute Walk
Neptune Park, St. Simons Lighthouse Museum, St Simons Fishing Pier
Dining Less Than A Ten-MInute Walk
Sunset Slush, Hildy’s Pizza, Iguanas, Porch, Palm Coast, Barbara Jean’s
Points Of Interest Less Than A Ten-Minute Drive
Demere Park, Bloody Marsh Battle Site, Massengale Park, Retreat Golf Course
Dining Less Than A Ten-Minute Drive
Sea Salt Healthy Kitchen, Southern Soul Barbeque, Coastal Kitchen, ECHO St. Simons
Search 400 Ocean Suites condos for rent on St. Simons Island, Georgia.
