The Golden Isles include the amazing tourist destinations of St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island, and Little St. Simons Island, along with the privately owned Sea Island, the nature preserves at Sapelo and Blackbeard Islands, and the vibrant city of Brunswick nestled on the outer edge of the Georgia coast.
These isles are barrier islands, meaning they protect the coastline and cities from storms, high seas, and foul weather from the Atlantic Ocean. Because of this, the city of Brunswick has become a major shipping hub, and boating, fishing, and water sports have become incredibly popular amongst the plethora of rivers, streams, marshes, and beaches throughout the area.
The Golden Isles are nestled between the cities of Savannah and Jacksonville, far from the hustle and bustle of major cities like Atlanta. They’re home to a wide variety of amazing family- and couple-friendly things to do, making them an idyllic destination for a relaxing getaway.
No matter if you are an outdoor adventurer, an indoorsy type, a beach bum, keen angler, or anything else in between, the Golden Isles have something for you. You’ll find beautiful vacation rentals from Lighthouse Vacations that suit everyone.
Here’s a full breakdown of every island in the Golden Isles, Georgia, to help you choose the perfect place to stay and plan the ultimate vacation.
1. St. Simons Island
Photo Credit: NEFLO PHOTO
St. Simons Island is the largest and most diverse of all the barrier islands along the Georgia coast. With so many incredible vacation rental homes to choose from and ease of access to other nearby islands, St. Simons is by far the best place to stay in the Golden Isles.
Things to Do on St. Simons
Lucky for you, there are plenty of great things to do on St. Simons. Here are some of our favorites.
Relive Golden Isle History at the Fort Frederica National Monument
St. Simons Island’s first settlements were built just after the state of Georgia came into existence, so it’s home to a great mix of cultures from Spanish, French, English, Native American, and African American influences.
These influences can best be seen in the huge number of cultural and historic sites that dot the island. Arguably the most famous of these is the Fort Frederica National Monument.
James Oglethorpe, the founder of the state of Georgia, commissioned the fort to help protect the vital waterways that lead into Brunswick Harbor. The fort, small but bristling with cannons, was once home to a thriving community of several hundred soldiers and their families during the mid-18th century.
Visiting this fort, one will be able to take a step back in time and see what life was like during colonial times with its combination of living history and historical artifacts. There is also a famous battle scene on Saint Simons Island linked to the fort called the Battle of Bloody Marsh.
Here, visitors can take a guided walking tour to learn about some of the most important events of the island’s early modern history. Battles fought here between the English and Spanish in 1742 ensured that the island remained in American hands and that the native tongue remained English.
Climb St. Simons Island Lighthouse for Panoramic Views
Another important historical site on St. Simons Island is the St. Simons Island Lighthouse and corresponding St. Simons Lighthouse Museum.
The lighthouse, which has become the island’s symbol, is an astounding 104 feet high and made out of whitewashed brick. Its iconic image has adorned countless paintings and postcards and is probably one of the historic landmarks you first think about when the Golden Isles come to mind.
First built in 1810, the original structure was destroyed by retreating Confederate soldiers during the Civil War to deny it to the Union. After the war, the current structure was built in the 1870s, and has stood the test of time ever since.
Taking a trip here is a must-do since its commanding views offer absolutely gorgeous pictures of St. Simons Island and the surrounding area. Taking a stop by the museum will also help teach you a thing or two about it.
Take a Docent-Led Tour at the World War II Homefront Museum
Another museum worth visiting on Saint Simons Island is the World War II Homefront Museum. During WWII, the entire Golden Isles area, but especially St. Simons Island, played a crucial role in the war effort.
From building hundreds of Liberty Ships that ferried supplies all over the world, to the numerous Naval Air Stations that hunted German U-boats, to the countless locals who served abroad and at home, the museum portrays every aspect the war had on the region.
This museum is so much more than simply looking at the exhibits and reading the placards. There are tons of local volunteers ready to share their stories of the conflict, along with interactive, family-friendly activities like learning how to identify aircraft and how Liberty Ships were built.
Find the Tree Spirits of St. Simons Island
Another great family-friendly activity is doing a scavenger hunt for the tree spirits. You heard that right: on St. Simons Island, there are ghosts that live in the trees! Well, maybe not exactly true, but it still makes for a fun day activity, especially with your children.
During the 1980s, a team of local artists began this walking art project of carving faces and figures into the bodies of live oak trees that dot the island.
The live oak is what St. Simons Island became famous for, as this type of hardwood was perfect for creating sailing vessels. The faces are supposed to represent the spirits of those lost at sea while sailing on St. Simons timber.
These faces are not ghastly, however, and are, in fact, quite beautiful. Following the map of the publicly accessible trees is a perfect scavenger hunt for a sunny day with the kids, especially during the mild spring days of March and April when it isn’t too hot for long walks.
Have a Picnic at Gascoigne Bluff
Another outdoorsy type of activity is visiting Gascoigne Bluff. The Bluff has been occupied for centuries, initially as a Native American settlement, and eventually becoming home to several plantations as well as the hardwood reserve for the US Navy, where the Navy’s six original frigates got their wood from.
Now, the area is a state park and campground with great views of the Georgia coast as well as the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors don’t need to rough it by spending the night camping but can enjoy the area by bringing picnic lunches in the park.
Those interested in history may want to visit the remains of an antebellum-era plantation that was on the land, which includes two preserved slave cabins. These quarters are open during the summer months to the public, and every other time by appointment only.
Kayak the Scenic St. Simons Island Coastline
Those seeking more of an outdoor adventure can kayak in the waterways by many of the sites we’ve already discussed, such as the Fort Frederica National Monument.
Launch your kayak at the Mackay River Boat Launch, then paddle around the Frederica River and turn back or go north if you so desire.
Go Fishing with the Locals at St. Simons Island Pier
Because of how much coastline St. Simons Island has, it is no wonder that there are plenty of great fishing and crabbing spots. At Gascoigne Bluff, the pier there is a very popular spot for both fishing and crabbing.
Another location is the St. Simons Island Pier. Here, you can mix with the locals, enjoy the views, and go fishing. Don’t worry about bringing your own equipment since you can rent it all at one of several bait and tackle shops nearby.
Just don’t forget to get your Georgia fishing license, which costs $15 for state residents and $50 for non-residents.
Admire Christ Church’s Colorful Stained Glass
At Christ Church, you can visit the Golden Isles’ oldest active church. Founded during the American Revolution, with its first services taking place in the early 1700s, Christ Church is an iconic historic landmark of the island.
Even those who aren’t religious or enticed by history will enjoy its beautiful stained glass windows.
East Beach for Sun-Soaked Water Fun
If being indoors is not really your style, bring you and your loved ones to the expansive St. Simon’s beaches.
One of our favorites is East Beach. Located on the southeast corner of the island, East Beach offers breathtaking beach views of the Atlantic Ocean. It also stretches for miles in either direction, so no matter how busy it gets, you and your family will always have a good sense of privacy.
The beach is also staffed with lifeguards and is a very safe and family-friendly environment. If you are looking for a party beach, then this one is not it!
The only downside to this beach is that parking is very limited, so unless you get there early, maybe consider walking or being patient for a spot to open up.
2. Little St. Simons Island
Contrary to the bustling seaside town that is St. Simons Island, Little St. Simons Island is a snapshot in time of what the area used to look like before humans settled the area. From St. Simons, you’ll really enjoy taking a day trip to Little St. Simons.
The 11,000-acre island was initially purchased in the early 1900s by a pencil magnate who decided that the trees on the island, though not suitable to make pencils, would be excellent for preserving the island’s wildlife.
From that day forward for the next 120 years, the island has remained a pristine nature preserve.
Things to Do on Little St. Simons
Because of its out-of-the-way nature, the island is only accessible from the boat launch at the Hampton River Marina on the north side of St. Simons Island. The island is perfect for day trips, and there is a ton to do during these fun-filled trips.
No matter whether you want to walk through the pristine salt marshes or take a bike ride along its seven miles of untouched beaches, there are plenty of tour guides to show you the wildlife, Native American artifacts, and vast wilderness.
Spot Rare Shorebirds
Of all the naturalistic things to do here, probably the best is birdwatching. Little St. Simons Island is home to over 240 different species of birds.
There are plenty of viewing towers dotting the beaches, salt marshes, Spanish moss, and woods that encompass the island. Head out with binoculars, a camera, and an identification guide for an interesting way to spend the day.
Enjoy Kayaking and Fishing
If you get tired of birdwatching or maybe they just aren’t showing up for some reason, the island is also known as a great spot to kayak and fish.
Regardless of what you want to do, Little St. Simons Island is the perfect getaway for those nature-loving naturalists in the group who want to experience the marshland and wildlife as it was hundreds of years ago.
3. Jekyll Island
Photo Credit: Dee Browning
Jekyll Island was also once a privately owned island that the state of Georgia purchased back in 1947.
Before it became public property, the island was a private retreat for the country’s wealthiest families like the Rockefellers and Carnegies. Once the Jekyll Island Club shut down, the island has continued to live on as an amazing vacation spot for families and friends alike.
Known for low-key vacations, great beaches, and delicious restaurants, you’ll love a visit to Jekyll Island.
Things to Do on Jekyll Island
One of the things that attracted the country’s wealthiest people to make Jekyll Island their vacation spot was its pristine beaches. There are two white sandy beaches on the island, and they are both equally awesome, which is why they’re the top two things to do on Jekyll Island.
Do Outdoor Photography at Driftwood Beach
Driftwood Beach gets its name from the huge amount of driftwood that washes on its shores. This sea debris often arrives in unique colors and shapes that make it a great table centerpiece. Driftwood can also be carved into something truly special.
Though the beach is always great to visit, some say that it is best at night since one has the perfect opportunity for stargazing in an area devoid of light pollution.
Visitors should be aware that the beach is the most spacious when at low tide. The range of tide here is very significant, and at high tide the beach can be quite small and crowded. If this happens when you are here, never fear; you can head over to St. Andrew’s Beach.
Go Shelling at St. Andrew’s Beach
St. Andrew’s Beach is almost exactly like Driftwood Beach, but it does not have the same problem of a massive tidal range. No matter if you visit one or both of these beaches, shelling is a popular activity at both.
Whether you want to hunt for sand dollars, conch shells, or anything else in between, there is a seashell with your name on it waiting to be discovered.
Just be careful and do not take home shells with wildlife in them. Not only is this against the law, but it could hurt the ecosystem and ruin it for generations to come.
Play a Round of Golf
Another great outdoor activity for the whole family is a round of golf. Today, there are 54 holes across three courses: Great Dunes, Pine Lakes, and Indian Mound.
No matter whether you are a professional, amateur, or have never even hit a golf ball in your life, these golf courses cater to all skill levels and all types of groups.
Cool Off at the Summer Waves Water Park
Another great family-friendly trip is the Summer Waves Water Park. The park is chock full of rides, obstacles, and games for young children.
The park has limited operating hours, mostly during the peak summer months of June, July, and August. However, they recently did expand their weekend hours and made it possible to purchase tickets ahead of time, so you can spend less time waiting in line and more time getting soaked.
Spot Marine Life During a Dolphin Tour
For those who want to spend more time on the water than in it, there is something for you too. Jekyll Island is home to one of the world’s largest populations of dolphins.
The 90-minute dolphin tour that takes off from the Jekyll Wharf takes you around the island to see not only the dolphins in their natural habitat but numerous species of birds, too.
Go Horseback Riding Along the Coast
Those wanting to get a little more hands-on with the wildlife can do so with horseback riding.
The largest horse-riding company on the island is Three Oaks Equestrian Services. They offer a range of rides from 1 to 3 hours along the beaches, in the woods, and around their farm. The company caters to all groups of all skill levels.
Learn About Sea Turtle Observation
The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is the only institution of its kind in the state of Georgia.
Because of the huge numbers of sea turtles that make their homes and hatch their babies along the Golden Isles coastline, the center is necessary to care for and protect sick and injured turtles as well as conduct research.
The center is open year-round, and it offers tours and discounts for children and senior citizens.
4. Brunswick
Brunswick, Georgia, is technically not an island, but any discussion about the Golden Isles would be remiss if it were not mentioned.
The city itself was founded in 1771 and is a major shipping and fishing industry hub. Because of its long history, the county seat and main city of Glynn County offers a variety of family-friendly and couple-oriented things to do if visiting for a day trip from St. Simons Island.
Things to Do in Brunswick
Located just across the river from St. Simons Island, Brunswick offers a ton of shopping, restaurants, and entertainment options to choose from.
Explore Boutique Shops and Galleries in the Downtown Historic District
The historic district in downtown Brunswick is chock full of things to do. It has a plethora of family-run art galleries that offer classes to all types of guests of all experience levels.
Due to the huge influx of different cultures, the city also hosts a variety of festivals year-round, so keep an eye out for events during your vacation.
Take a Guided Fishing Tour
Because of its proximity to a whole bunch of marshlands and maritime forests, there are numerous docks and inlets where families can rent a guided fishing tour.
Those not wanting to partake can also kayak in one of the many rivers, creeks, and streams that surround this coastal Georgia city.
Win Big at the Riverboat Casino
A more couples-oriented activity would be partaking in the gambling onboard Georgia’s only riverboat casino, the Emerald Princess II.
The Emerald Princess II takes people aboard around the south side of the Sidney Lanier Bridge and travels out to Jekyll Island and back.
Along the way, guests can enjoy four decks packed with hundreds of slot machines as well as roulette, Texas Hold ‘Em, dice, blackjack, and many other games.
5. Sea Island
The origin story of Sea Island is very similar to that of Jekyll Island in that it was originally bought as a private country club for some of America’s wealthiest families.
While the exclusive country club mentality is gone, the island’s owners have opened it to the public to bring the country club lifestyle to everybody.
Things to Do on Sea Island
The island is perfect both for families and couples. Connected by a causeway from St. Simons Island, Sea Island takes the best of what each island has to offer and gives you a slice of it.
Whether it is hitting a round of golf or taking a horseback ride along its beaches, the island offers a great mix of both resort and nature.
Take a Guided Nature Tour
Those wanting to see Sea Island’s natural side can book a guided tour of its salt marshes via kayak, boat, or sailboat. You can expect to see a host of wildlife, including dolphins.
Enjoy Outdoor Recreational Sports
Those that want a more country club experience can get that too. Several hotels on the island offer a variety of classes on anything from sailing to archery, and tennis and golfing. The island even sports a shooting range.
People do not have to be a guest at Sea Island resorts to take these classes; anyone can do them after paying the registration fee.
6. Cumberland Island
Photo Credit: William Silver
Cumberland Island is the southeasternmost island of the Golden Isles and the closest to the state of Florida.
Nestled adjacent to the St. Mary’s River about ten miles south of St. Simons Island as the crow flies, Cumberland Island is a nature preserve and is only accessible via boat or ferry.
Once on the island, visitors can partake in its natural beauty by cart, which are available to rent from the Sea Camp campground. Alternatively, you can simply explore on foot.
Things to Do on Cumberland Island
Either way you choose to explore the island, one of the most significant parts about it is all the sea turtles that lay their eggs there between May and October each year.
Help Protect Sea Turtles
Cumberland Island is home to the largest hatching grounds for baby sea turtles along the barrier islands. Every year, thousands of turtles lay their eggs and return when they hatch among the ten miles of untouched beaches.
The DNR also frequently solicits volunteers to help seek out and mark where turtles have laid their eggs so they can be observed and protected. Volunteering for this amazing effort is among the most rewarding things a person can do when visiting the Golden Isles of Georgia.
Book Your Trip to the Golden Isles
We’re certain you’ll love your trip to Georgia’s Golden Isles. With endless activities, a slower pace of life, and plenty of natural beauty, you’ll want to come back year after year.
Book your next vacation home on St. Simons Island for a trip you and your family won’t forget.
