St. Simons Island is an island located between Savannah, Georgia, and Jacksonville, Florida, just east of Brunswick.
Visitors flock to this Golden Isle to explore its famous salt marshes, discover fascinating history, enjoy beautifully sandy stretches of coastline like East Beach and Sea Island Beach, and, of course, to have a fantastic stay in a stunning vacation home rental.
Many visitors head out onto the water to have fun in the sun, with kayaking and paddleboarding both being popular pursuits. However, if you prefer a unique thing to do and for your excitement to take place on dry land, mini golf might be the activity for you.
There are two fantastic courses to enjoy in the St. Simons area — let’s take a look at them.
Jekyll Island Miniature Golf
Address: 100 Great Dunes Ln, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
Opening hours: 10 am – 6 pm Sunday to Thursday / 10 am – 7 pm Friday & Saturday
Price: Adults $8, kids 6-10 $6, children five and under are free with a paying adult
This family-friendly mini golf spot located south of St. Simons Island on Jekyll Island makes a great day out for golfers of all skill levels. There are two mini-golf courses available: one for beginners and another for those who prefer more of a challenge. Whichever one you choose, children will love the cute obstacles — and they are certain to bring out the big kid in you, too. Each course will take approximately 40 minutes to complete, depending on your skill level (and that of the folks ahead of you).
The miniature course is located on the corner of Shell Road and Beachview Drive, which is the perfect location for a day full of family fun. Red Bug Motor’s Pizza is right next door and is a great place to grab a slice after a competitive afternoon on the golf course. Or, you can order Italian eats for takeout and head over to the nearby Great Dunes Park to enjoy an al fresco lunch on the covered picnic tables.
Bike rentals are also available nearby at Beachview Bikes. Rentals are in great condition and the friendly staff will help you find the right bikes for you and your family.
St. Simons Island Miniature Golf
Address: 550 Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island, GA 31522 (next to the SSI lighthouse)
Price: $8 per round, 10 round pass $60.00, groups $6 per person for a group of 20
Saint Simons Island’s mini golf spot is located at the Neptune Park Fun Zone. This park is one of the best of its kind in Georgia and the whole family will love this 18-hole miniature golf course. The course is nestled among palm trees that give it a tropical feel while also providing much-needed shade on those hot Glynn County summer days.
Be sure to check our St. Simons lighthouse once you’ve finished your game — it’s a great place for a group photo and the attached museum is where you can learn more about The Golden Isles’ nautical past and present. Neptune Park Fun Zone pool is one of the best places to take the family swimming and has all the thrills you’d expect from a water park including slides, water activates, and certified lifeguards around all pool areas to keep you safe while you play.
The course is open year-round but opening hours can change seasonally, so check the website or call ahead to confirm. Groups of any size are welcome, and discounted rates are available for large groups. The course is also available to rent for parties. If you live nearby, it may be wise to purchase 12-month season passes for your family. Unlimited play can be enjoyed for $225 per person, $250 for couples, or $275 per family (up to 5 people living in the same household, $25 for each additional child).
Group reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance, and all active duty U.S. Military personnel, their spouses, and children receive a 50% discount on all entry fees (military ID is required).
If you prefer full-size golf courses, you’re in luck! St Simons is home to several stunning courses set among beautiful natural landscapes. Let’s take a look at some of the top picks.
The King and Prince Golf Course
For beachfront golf, The King and Prince cannot be beaten. Offering an 18-hole championship course, this spot attracts serious golfers from all over the country. The challenging layout weaves through ancient forests and salt marshes, and the 9th hole in particular is spectacular and is overlooked by the Hampton Clubhouse. For those still working on their skills, there are two PGA instructors available for lessons on the driving range, the oversized putting green, or the short game area.
The King and Prince is the perfect option for anyone wanting a relaxing golf vacation, and the attached hotel resort is extremely luxurious. Choose to stay in one of the well-appointed rooms or a private beach villa, and take advantage of the two on-site restaurants for meals you won’t soon forget.
Frederica Golf Club
Frederica is an unforgettable golf experience set among 300 acres of breathtaking surroundings. Designed by Tom Fazio in collaboration with Sir Michael Bonallack, more than 1,100 live oaks were transplanted to tower over this picture-perfect par 72 course. The course itself delivers varying challenges thanks to its five sets of tees, broad fairways, and sharp-edge bunkers.
The clubhouse is a social hub of the local community and is the perfect place to relax after a great game out on the course. Fill up on high-quality cuisine or unwind over a handcrafted cocktail, all served by friendly and attentive staff.
Pickleball, tennis, fishing, and boating can also be enjoyed at Frederica, and six comfortable guest cottages of varying sizes can be found on-site for those who’d like to make a weekend of it.
Sea Palms Resort
Sea Palms has two courses on offer: 18 holes with a par of 71, and 9 holes with a par of 34. The course was originally designed by George Cobb and has been recently renovated to highlight its unique terrain and show-stopping views. Expect canopies of live oaks and pines, scenic salt marshes, and tropical lagoons. A light sea breeze keeps golfers cool in the hot Georgia sun.
Golf lessons are available from a team of professional golf staff, and guests can choose from private or group sessions. If you’d prefer to master your game before you tee off, head to the driving range to get into the swing of things. There is also a golf shop on-site where you can pick up the freshest golf attire and equipment as well as beverages, snacks, and light grab-and-go meals. Clubs can also be rented for the day if you don’t bring your own along.
Putt Putt Fun on St. Simons Island
As you can see, there’s plenty of opportunity for golfing fun in St. Simons. Whether you’re a pro-level golfer or just picking up clubs for the first time, you’re sure to have a great time swinging a club or two.
St Simons Island Things To Do
St. Simons is a beautiful barrier island in Glynn County, Georgia. Famous for its sandy beaches and wild salt marshland, this area is a nature lover’s dream and makes the perfect escape from surrounding big cities like Atlanta, Savannah, and Jacksonville. However, there’s so much more to do that every member of your group will enjoy spending time here.
Once you check into your vacation rental home, it’s time to explore our slice of paradise. While there most obvious of all of the things to do on St. Simons is to spend time on the beach, there’s plenty more to see and do while here. As part of the famous Golden Isles, the hype is well warranted here.
Here’s our guide to the best things to do in St. Simons Island.
Eat The Freshest Seafood
St. Simons Island is home to a flavorful array of global cuisines to entice even the most discerning foodie. Our coastal Georgia locale means that seafood reigns supreme, with the freshest catches making their way to your table in every conceivable form. Local favorites like Halyards are Frederica House your best bet for a meal to remember, or head to The Market at Sea Island if you want to cook up a feast yourself.
If you aren’t into seafood, no problem! With almost 100 delicious restaurants on the island, you’ll find a world of culinary delights for the whole family, from the traditional comforts of Southern Soul BBQ and Sal’s Neighborhood Pizzeria to fine dining at Delaney’s. Check out the “Best Fried Chicken in the Golden Isles” at Porch on Ocean Boulevard or the “Best Bloody Marys” at Mallery Street’s Sandcastle Cafe. Take your taste buds on a journey of their own with authentic Mexican, Thai, Argentinian, Chinese, French, and Japanese eateries — and top it all off with a visit to the Smallcakes Cupcakery.
Shop ’til You Drop
You can shop till you drop in the Golden Isles. From shopping sprees at the likes of Pier Village and Golden Isles Olive Co., St. Simons Island is a mecca for retail therapy. Pick up antique treasures from the Low Country Walk and Southern Picker, home décor from Dutchman’s Casual Living, or explore countless clothing and jewelry boutiques.
Looking good on your Georgia coastgetaway is easy, thanks to convenient beachwear shops and outfitters like Ocean Motion Surf Co., Barry’s Beach Services, and Island Dive Center, as well as plenty of gift shops to pick up treats for folks back home. Hopefully, you brought along an extra suitcase for all the coastal treasures you’ll gather, but don’t worry if you failed to come prepared… you can buy luggage here, too!
Unwind in St. Simon’s Fabulous Spas
What’s an island getawaywithout a little pampering? Relax — we’ve got you covered from head to toe! Get the royal treatment at The King and Prince Resort in the south of the island, embark on the ultimate escape at Island Day Spa, or stumble upon peaceful tranquility at Serendipity Spa-lon. If you thought that St. Simons Island was your happy place before, just wait until you discover the next-level serenity you’ll tap into after a full spa treatment!
Romantic getaways are always a fine time for a couples massage, and no ‘girls trip’ excursion is complete without a little fresh-faced beauty to greet the beach or hit the town. Regardless of your vacation motivation, it only gets better with a little spa time, so pull on a fluffy robe and explore the most relaxing spots on the barrier islands.
When you visit St. Simons Island you’re bound to have the beach in your sights. We have three miles of beautiful beaches on the island, stretching from St. Simons Island Pier to East Beach, Driftwood Beach, and the Coast Guard Station.
Watersports like windsurfing, kite-surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking are popular beach pastimes for adventure seekers, while beach-combing, biking, and sunbathing occupy the landlubbers on the shorelines! The Atlantic horizon is speckled with passing boats and dolphins, greeting migratory shorebirds and sea turtles making their way to the St. Simons Island beaches. Learn more about beach regulations, facilities, and safety in our beach guide!
If birding is your thing, head to Gould’s Inlet along East Beach to catch sight of painted buntings, black skimmers, and more.
Hit the Links
St. Simons Island and the surrounding areas of Brunswick and Jekyll Island are home to a variety of scenic and challenging golf courses. Course settings range from maritime forests and salt marshes to oceanside dunes, with expansive greens in between. There are more than 200 scenic holes to be played on some of the region’s most illustrious public and private courses, making golf one of the area’s most popular outdoor activities.
From the seaside breezes of Sea Island Golf Club to the forested links of the Jekyll Island Golf Club, you’re sure to find the view to suit your mood. Explore the tradition of the Brunswick Country Club or marvel at one of Golf Digest’s “Top 100 New Courses” — Sapelo Hammock Golf Club. And you don’t have to be a seasoned pro to appreciate our courses. Lessons are available at many locations, so feel free to take a swing at something new!
Let St. Simons Serve Up Some Tennis
Tennis is one of the area’s most popular sports. From beginner to competitive pro, there’s a court with your name on it. Sea Palms features professional events and collegiate championships, while public play is available on hard courts near Pier Village at Mallery Park. Visitors can also enjoy ball fields, a playground, concessions, and picnic facilities here. Jekyll Island’s award-winning Tennis Center is a public facility offering 13 Har-tru clay courts, a pro shop, and lessons.
Speaking of lessons, the St. Simons Island Tennis Academy provides instruction for beginners, intermediates, and advanced players from USTA and USPTA-certified teaching professionals with more than 45 years of combined experience. We’re happy to serve up this guide exploring the region’s tennis facilities, so you can start working toward finding your inner ace!
Take a Ride to Remember
Photo Credit: goldenisles.com
One of the best ways to see St. Simons and the Golden Isles is by bicycle. There are more than 30 miles of island pathways to explore on St. Simons alone, and you can also discover many stunning beaches and catch a glimpse of coastal wildlife. A self-led bicycle tour is also one of the best ways to take advantage of the tree spiritsscavenger hunt — one of the top family-friendly activities that takes you on a mystical journey through oak trees draped in Spanish moss.
Nearby, Jekyll Island features about 25 miles of paved trails allowing visitors to explore the scenery, beaches, forests, and Jekyll’s Historic Landmark District. Free bike path maps are available at the Jekyll Island Welcome Center. There’s no need to bring your own bicycle when visiting St. Simons — there are a host of bike rental companies equipped to get you geared up and on the road during your stay.
Explore by Boat or Try Your Hand at Fishing
The Atlantic Ocean is calling, and we’ve got the recommendations to get you out on the water in style for family-friendly tours and excursions around the barrier islands. Explore the Golden Isles as you drive your own personal Catamaran with your knowledgeable guide from Coastal Backwater Adventures. Or, maybe you’d prefer to watch for dolphins while you leave the driving to Cap Fendig on his large passenger tour boats.
Fishing fans can lure in trout, redfish, flounder, sharks, tripletail, and more on any number of fishing charters serving Saint Simons Island, Jekyll Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island, and Cumberland Island. If a charter isn’t quite your speed, plenty of anglers swear by the pier as well. Located in Pier Village at the end of Mallery Street, the St. Simons Island Pier overlooks St. Simons Sound.
Soar Through the Skies on a Biplane Ride
If you think you’ve seen it all on St. Simons Island, why not get the lay of the land from a whole new perspective — above? Soar above the Golden Isles from the beaches to the villages on a private biplane tour, taking in panoramic views that make for inspiring photo ops. Find out more about reaching new heights in Jekyll Island, St. Simons Island, Little Cumberland Island, Sea Island, Little St Simon’s Island, and Sapelo Island in our handy guide!
Make a Splash at St. Simons Parks & Water Parks
Island residents and visitors alike love to cool off and soak up natural recreation at our community parks and water parks. The whole family will find plenty of fun things to do at Demere Park — home to the first Glynn County skate park, a multi-purpose ball field, playground, community building, and butterfly garden. Be sure to also check out the 153-acre North Glynn Recreation Complex with ballfields, a dog park, a lakeside walking trail, a kayak launch, and a fishing pier.
If you’re looking to make a splash during your stay, check out Summer Waves Water Park in Jekyll Island, or the St. Simons favorite — Neptune Park. No matter how you wish to play, our parks are the key to outdoor recreation and activity of a natural variety!
Discover Historic Sites
Since British soldier James Oglethorpe founded the Province of Georgia, the region has been making history. In fact, Coastal Georgia is where several major events took place that shaped the United States, and the island’s history is what convinces multiple tourists to buy a house in the area.
Learn about World War II at the Home Front Museum or the turning point in the Spanish conquest of Georgia at the Bloody Marsh Battle Site. Discover how the Fort Frederica National Monument served as a border against approaching Spanish invaders from Florida or marvel at the architecture of Christ Church, which was rebuilt after being partially destroyed by Union troops during the Civil War.
If American maritime history is your thing, you’re sure to appreciate the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum. The St. Simons Lighthouse is the oldest brick structure in the area, offering spectacular views as the reward for your 129-step climb.
For natural history, head to Cannon’s Point Preserve. Here you’ll discover middens on-site that date back to 2,500 BCE and plantation ruins from the 19th century.
Head Out on a Guided Tour
There’s no wrong way to see the island, but there are guided tours that make the journey even better! Dolphin tours allow you to set sail on the open waters in search of coastal Georgia’s most playful residents. This is an experience everyone can appreciate in a natural setting that encourages unpredictable encounters and lifelong memories. Learn about the spooky history of St. Simons on a ghost walk by lantern light.
Multiple trolley tours provide group trips to prominent historic sites and various points of interest while knowledgeable local guides share insight and Southern hospitality. If you have trouble deciding between a trolley or a boat, might we suggest land and sea tours offered by Lighthouse Trolleys? Choose your sights… or sites… and then check our guide to find the people to take you there!
Travel in Style with Golf Cart Rentals
Around here, golf carts aren’t just meant for the course. Cruise the island in a fuel-efficient style with the help of several local first-rate golf cart rental agencies. When you rent from Island Carts, you even have the added advantage of local insight in the form of a free, self-led scavenger hunt of sorts.
ISPY SSI provides a booklet of venues to check out around the island, and rewards along the way, or this website has an interactive map you can use to guide your tour. Be sure to cruise by the spectacular live oaks for a selfie to remember your trip.
On the Golden Isles, culture runs even deeper than our cuisine, history, and recreation. On any given day, you can find a venue that’s just your style to boogie the night away, belt out a tune, or simply tap your toes in time to a live performance from regional and national artists. Local pubs, restaurants, coffeehouses, and more regularly host karaoke and open mic nights, for the bolder guests who want to take part in the show.
Every summer, enjoy open-air concerts like Rhythm on the River in downtown Brunswick, Jazz in the Park at Neptune Park, and A Little Light Music on the oceanfront lawns of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. Did we mention that we also have piano bars? Our live music guide will point you in the direction of the perfect vacation soundtrack!
If you think that beach destinations are just for summer vacations, you don’t know St. Simons Island! We’re a worthy locale year-round, and original local events only add to our unique flavor and appeal.
Salute maritime history at May’s Blessing of the Fleet and October’s CoastFest, or feed your inner southerner at the Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival in September. From Brunswick Rockin’ Stewbilee in January to annual island holiday celebrations, SSI traditions are sure to become your family’s traditions as well, making our island destination and community a welcome respite year after year.
The Golden Isles communities offer a variety of educational and recreational activities for kids of all ages. During the summer season, numerous day camps and overnight camps offer unique opportunities for children to participate in specialized activities including sports, performing and visual arts, nature exploration, and more!
Learn more about the Glynn County Parks & Recreation summer camps programs, and find new skills and fun to pursue at some of the area’s top parks and venues.
There’s So Much to Do on St. Simons Island
There’s so much to do in St. Simons that our travel guide barely scratches the surface. To discover all the must-see events and activities, book your vacation to Georgia’s Golden Isles today.
Tip: Be sure to visit Golden Isles Welcome Center once you arrive to get even more hot travel tips.
Visiting the St. Simons Island Pier
The Golden Isles encompasses a stretch of islands across coastal Georgia and Florida and the mainland town of Brunswick.
Each of the four islands has its own unique seascape and level of intimacy. While Jekyll Island is known for its underdeveloped driftwood beaches and tranquil trails, Sea Island is better known for its family-friendly resorts and premier fishing, and if you’re looking to nurture your connection? The 11,000 acres are virtually untouched nature on Little St. Simon’s island will do the trick.
However, with all its amenities and some of the most magical beaches you’ll find anywhere on the East Coast, St Simon’s Island is the place to be for the best of all worlds. Full of incredible eateries, bars, and activities, you’ll never be short on things to explore.
The center point of the city is the St. Simons Island Pier. Bustling with visitors and locals on any given day, it is a fascinating place to people-watch, fish, and explore the surrounding beach. This is why you should put a visit to the pier on your “must-do list” when staying at a Lighthouse vacation home.
About St. Simons Island
Approximately half the size of Manhatten and 12 miles long and three miles wide, St. Simons is the second longest of Georgia’s barrier islands and the biggest of the Golden Isles. It is a popular vacation home destination with a year-round residential community giving it a local feel. In the island’s center, you’ll find Pier Village, a downtown hub full of shopping, restaurants, and historic sites. It is also where you will find the iconic St. Simons Island Pier along East Beach.
As the social hub of St. Simon’s Island, the pier is teeming with both wildlife and human life and jets out protectively over the beach from above. It hosts a myriad of activities, from fishing to crabbing to sunset ice cream and romantic evening strolls.
Originally built in the 1800s, the St. Simons Island Pier was first used as a transportation hub for the island. Used primarily for cargo ships to transport goods, the area around the pier began attracting merchants and fishermen. The pier was expanded throughout the 20th century to meet the growing needs of the island, accommodating larger ships and offering more fishing opportunities.
Today, this fishing pier is embedded in the larger Pier Village community. The same spirit of the original merchants and fishermen lives on today as visitors fish, shop, and gather together in this historic part of St. Simons Island.
The pier is a one-stop shop to cast a line. Common catches include trout, flounder, and redfish. The area is ready to host your fishing adventure for the day with bait shops on hand, gear rentals, and tray tables and water hoses available along the pier railings to prepare your bait and clean your catch.
Guests do need a permit to fish off the pier. You can head to St. Simons Bait & Tackle for your permit and fishing supplies.
Entrance: $8/per round with discounts for larger groups.
The St. Simons Island Pier is connected to Neptune Park, an oceanfront park lined with 100-year-old live oaks. The Neptune Park Fun Zone provides many family-friendly experiences, from picnic areas to a public pool and playground.
In the center of the Fun Zone lies a mini golf course, an 18-hole putt-putt course fit for all ages. This golf course is unlike anywhere else, with an incredible view of the St. Simons shoreline. Neptune Park provides public restrooms and plenty of picnic tables, offering the perfect spot to wind down after your St. Simons beach day.
Entrance: $12 for adults and $6 for kids 6 to 12 years old.
Located just a few steps from the pier, St. Simons Lighthouse Museum is a popular historic site along the coast. This island lighthouse was originally built in 1872 and is one of only five surviving lighthouses in Georgia.
Visitors can climb the 129 steps of the lighthouse for an unbelievable view of the Georgia coast. The lighthouse also houses a museum complete with artifacts, interactive exhibits, and educational programs to explore the history of Coastal Georgia.
Have a St Simons Beach Day
Photo Credit: wallpaperflare.com
Located on the south end of East Beach, St. Simons Island Pier is one of the many access points to the island beach. After taking a stroll along the pier, you can head straight to the water to enjoy a day of sunbathing, shelling, kiteboarding, and even riding a bike along the hard pack sand.
East Beach is dog friendly, and with access to public restrooms at neighboring Neptune Park and plenty of lunch spots nearby, it is the perfect family-friendly spot to land for your beach day.
Barbara Jean’s is a family-owned restaurant in the heart of the village area. Serving Southern cuisine with a coastal twist, you will find delicious salads, sandwiches, and soups that highlight seafood ingredients here. And you don’t want to miss out on their fresh bread baked daily, including their infamous sweet jalapeno cornbread.
Located on Mallery Street, just a short walk from the pier, it’s the perfect spot for a midday lunch before an afternoon fishing adventure.
St. Simons Crepes
Address: 215 Mallery St, Suite 5, St Simons Island, GA
There is no better place to enjoy a sweet or savory snack than St. Simons Crepes. This one-of-a-kind restaurant serves a rotating menu of delicious European crepes perfect for breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon treat.
Crepe fillings range from banana and Nutella to salmon and cream cheese. No matter what your taste buds crave, there is a crepe for you here!
Palm Coast Coffee is a one-stop shop for all your food and beverage needs. This local cafe offers a relaxed atmosphere with indoor-outdoor seating. You can expect freshly-brewed coffee and an extensive menu featuring classics like eggs, waffles, and bacon for breakfast. The lunch menu boasts salads and paninis.
Heading into the afternoon, Palm Coast Coffee becomes a wine and beer hub where visitors can enjoy a drink on the deck after a long day in the sun. It’s got a little of everything and is the perfect spot to relax no matter the time of day.
If you’re searching for a dinner spot along the pier, look no further than The Half Shell. The Half Shell is a family-friendly, casual restaurant serving dinner on the weekdays and both lunch and dinner on the weekends.
They are known for their extensive Seafood menu featuring fresh catches from fish to shrimp to crab. They also have an oyster bar with a rotating list of raw oysters. And you don’t want to miss out on their specialty cocktails, including one-of-a-kind oyster shooters! The Half Shell offers an authentic Coastal Georgia restaurant experience, from appetizers to aperitifs.
Located a few blocks from the pier on Mallery Street, Savannah Bee Company is a long-time favorite shop in the SSI community. While the store has many locations, Savannah Bee Company was founded by a St. Simons Island local resident.
The store features local honey in many forms, providing interactive stations from tastings to testing skin-care products to try the variety of honey products. The staff offers a fun and knowledgeable look into honey products, helping customers choose the best local honey! Savannah Bee Company doubles as a gift store with many local items and even has a kid’s section for kids to learn how honey is made.
Southeast Adventures Outfitters is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Located on Mallery Street in Pier Village, the store has outdoor equipment, including clothing, gear, water bottles, hammocks, and more.
The shop is special because it doubles as a hub for kayak and boat tours throughout SSI. Tours range in location, length, and tide. Visitors can stop in the shop to learn more and book a tour. The shop even has kayaks for sale if you want to buy your own!
The Live Oak Shop features locally-made handcrafted items inside the Golden Isles Welcome Center. The Live Oak Shop features a variety of items, ranging from jewelry to fine art to kids’ toys. Each item represents the talent of the arts community in St. Simons Island and offers a unique souvenir for visitors to bring home with them.
The Welcome Center has plenty of helpful information about the neighboring islands in Glynn County and all that the Golden Isles have to offer. It’s a great spot to help visitors get the most out of their stay.
Enjoy the St. Simons Pier
The pier offers a tranquil setting to immerse yourself in all the Georgia coast offers. Just beyond the pier, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly activities, restaurants, and watersports at East Beach. Let Lighthouse Vacations host you at one of our luxurious rental homes while you explore St. Simons Island!
A Visitor’s Guide to East Beach, St. Simons
There are over 110 miles of pristine beaches along coastal Georgia from Jekyll Island all the way up to Tybee Island. The Golden Isles are known for preserving the natural landscape of their coastline, giving visitors a unique beach experience.
Saint Simons Island is no exception. Nestled along the island’s Eastern shore, East Beach is the island’s most popular beach destination. The coast is lined with tall dunes, hard-packed sand, and breathtaking ocean views. On any given day, you will find locals and tourists relaxing, fishing, boating, and swimming along the coast.
Many of our vacation homes are right along East Beach, making walking or cycling to your beach day easy. With endless activities to enjoy, you’ll have your pick of oceanfront adventures.
We’ve done the hard work and created a visitor’s guide so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy all this St. Simons Island beach has to offer!
Historic Coast Guard Station: 4100 First St. Simons Island, GA
Massengale Park: 1350 Ocean Blvd.St. Simons Island, GA
Gould’s Inlet: Fifteenth Street, Bruce Drive, St. Simons Island, GA
There are multiple beach access points along East Beach, making it easy for visitors to head to their fun day in the sun.
Historic U.S. Coast Guard Station Access Point
The most popular access point is the Historic U.S. Coast Guard Station. This access point has free parking, public restrooms, and a concession stand in the summer. It offers visitors a populated, family-friendly destination to enjoy their beach experience.
Massengale Park Access Point
South of the Coast Guard Station is Massengale Park, another 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
Gould’s Inlet is another popular 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, there are over 30 public beach access points along the St. Simons Island beach stretch. Visitors can walk, bike, or drive to these access points. No matter how you choose to get to the beach, we guarantee it will be a worthwhile visit.
Chances are you are visiting St. Simons Island to enjoy an easy-going beach vacation. There is no better way to do that than lounging oceanside with no responsibilities, including packing all of your beach gear! Guests can rent an umbrella and chairs from Barry’s Beach Service by the day. They are located in front of the King and Prince Beach Resort and the Beach Club.
If you prefer a more tranquil setting, head to Gould’s Inlet, where there are fewer crowds and more natural surroundings. Gould’s Inlet is also home to the best beach bird-watching on the island. The best time for bird sightings is high tide in the afternoon.
If you prefer to get in the water, Island Dive Center offers scuba and snorkeling lessons right off of East Beach’s shore. You’ll also find plenty of visitors wading into the water to nearby sand bars. Be sure to exercise caution, as the tide can change quickly.
If you’re a seashell collector, you will love strolling the East Beach coast hunting for treasures. From sand dollars to moon snails, there is a large variety of seashells to collect along coastal Georgia.
We recommend checking the tide chart before your shelling activity, as low tide offers the best time to go hunting. It is illegal to collect live shells in Georgia, so make sure to read the local shelling guide before you start collecting!
There are plenty of local shops and restaurants along East Beach. Visitors can enjoy an upscale lunch with a beach view at Echo St. Simons, located inside the King and Prince Beach Resort.
Head south along East Beach, and you’ll find Pier Village, a downtown hub of eateries and shops perfect for a midday stroll. Enjoy popular spots like Barbara Jean’s and Mallery Street Cafe for lunch. Visit St. Simons Crepes for dessert. Pick up a souvenir at one of the many local gift shops before returning to the beach.
Visit the Fun Zone at Neptune Park
If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity right along East Beach, Neptune Park is the place to be. Neptune Park Fun Zone is home to a year-round 18-hole miniature golf course right along the beach. The Fun Zone pool is also open for the whole family to enjoy during the summer.
The park also has an on-site concession stand that visitors can enjoy while lounging by the pool.
For the history-buffs, East Beach offers the opportunity to visit two popular museums that pay homage to the coast’s significant history.
The World War II Homefront Museum is right next to the historic U.S. Coastguard Station along the beach. The museum is housed in what was originally known as the St. Simons Coast Guard station at East Beach. Built in 1936, the building originally acted as a watch station to rescue swimmers and boats in distress off the Atlantic coast and now has interactive exhibits.
Guests can also visit St. Simons Lighthouse Museum, located near Pier Village, where you’ll get a deep dive into the history of coastal Georgia.
What makes East Beach special is its hard-packed sand, which is perfect for biking along the beach. The biking beach path runs along the Southern to Northern tip of the beach, allowing bikers to explore the beautiful scenery along the whole shore.
Visitors can start their ride at St. Simons Island Pier Village and make their way up to Gould’s Inlet for the beach path or veer off to one of the many local biking trails along their ride.
East Beach Rules and Safety
Lifeguards are present at East Beach during the summer, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. They are stationed at the U.S. Coast Guard Station and Massengale Park daily from 11 am-4 pm. We advise swimming at your own risk and exercising caution in the water.
During the summer, a Warning Flag system alerts beach goers of hazardous conditions. You can also access the NOAA Tide Charts for up-to-date information on tide predictions. We recommend staying up to date on the tide so that you can come prepared for your beach activities.
East Beach is pet-friendly during the off season. However, pets are prohibited from East Beach South to the Pier during the summer between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Glass and rigid plastic containers are also prohibited year-round. Visitors can access a complete list of beach rules here.
Enjoy Your East Beach Vacation
East Beach is a coastal paradise that attracts thousands of locals and tourists to its pristine beaches and calm waters every year. With its diverse wildlife, natural beauty, and endless family-friendly activities, it’s the ideal vacation spot, no matter what your perfect beach day looks like.You can spend the entire day lounging on the beach, whether you prefer the tranquil, peaceful Northern tip or the more crowded, bustling Southern tip. For the adventurists, there are plenty of water activities, fishing, biking, and shell collecting to explore. And when you are ready for a midday break, you’ll find shopping, museums, and restaurants only a short walk away, all waiting for you on a getaway with Lighthouse Vacations.
400 Ocean Suites
400 Ocean Suites
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.
Nestled in the heart of the Pier Village, 400 Ocean Suites puts you right in the social hub of St. Simons Island!
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
400 Ocean Suites condos for rent on St. Simons Island, Georgia!
The Tastiest Restaurants on Jekyll Island
Located just across the water from St. Simons Island lies Jekyll Island, a Golden Isles coastal destination known for its unique history, long stretches of driftwood beaches, and iconic seafood-fueled food scene.
Jekyll Island was once a private island but opened publicly as a state park in 1948. Today, 60% of the island remains undeveloped as protected land. The rest of the island has become a beautiful destination for nature lovers, golf enthusiasts, and travelers who appreciate thriving historic districts.
Just a 30-minute drive from St. Simons Island through Brunswick, Jekyll Island makes for the perfect day trip from your vacation rental. This Georgia coastal town has become home to many locally-owned restaurants celebrating its seasonal produce and culinary talent.
The small island welcomes visitors year-round to enjoy tasty cuisine, magnificent ocean views, and picturesque dining atmospheres. We’ve compiled a list of the best restaurants on Jekyll Island!
Sunrise Grille is a family-owned restaurant in the heart of Jekyll Island that prides itself on celebrating the food and culture that make up the coastal community.
While they offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner, they are known for their delicious breakfast/brunch menu. Visitors can choose from breakfast sandwiches or plates, including Southern classics like biscuits and gravy, steak and eggs, and of course, cheese grits.
Sunrise Grille offers indoor and outdoor dining. The atmosphere is casual and breezy, providing visitors with a true taste of island living.
Located inside the Jekyll Island Club Resort, The Pantry is the perfect spot for a casual breakfast in a quaint cafe setting. Visitors can choose outdoor seating on the veranda or sit inside the bakery lined with French bistro-style seating.
Their breakfast menu includes fresh pastries, breakfast sandwiches, smoothies, and more. And, of course, freshly-brewed coffee! This spot is ideal for visitors who want a down-to-earth, easy breakfast in a beautiful setting. The Pantry is open seven days a week.
Pro Tip: If sweets after breakfast are your thing, head to Island Sweets Shoppe right across from The Pantry for some of the most delicious ice creams on the island!
Love Shack BBQ Shrimp & Yardbird is located inside Jekyll Market, a gourmet grocery store with multiple local eateries. Nestled in the corner of the grocery store, Love Shack might look unassuming, but it boasts the best BBQ on the island.
Its short and sweet menu offers Southern favorites like slow-cooked BBQ pork, fried shrimp and oysters, and a rotisserie chicken. It’s the perfect spot for those wanting a quick, on-the-go lunch without compromising on taste and experience.
Tortuga Jack’s is your lunch spot if you’re looking for the quintessential oceanfront dining experience. Known as the only oceanfront tiki on the Georgia coast, Tortuga Jack’s offers delicious Mexican food with a grand view.
The menu is full of Mexican classics like shrimp tacos, enchiladas, and chicken fajitas. And, of course, they are serving up margaritas on the beach daily. Come here for lunch if you want to enjoy ocean views, excellent Mexican food, and a relaxed atmosphere. They even have live music entertainment on the weekends!
An Italian restaurant beloved by locals and visitors alike, Red Bug Motors Pizza is known for its delicious made-from-scratch pizzas and cozy atmosphere. The menu includes tasty appetizers like freshly baked cheese bread and meatballs.
They have indoor and outdoor seating, giving visitors the option for open-air dining while enjoying a fresh slice of pizza for lunch.
Pro Tip: Red Bug Motors Pizza is right across from the miniature golf course on Jekyll Island, the perfect post-lunch activity to enjoy as a family.
Minutes from Driftwood Beach, Driftwood Bistro pays homage to the waters surrounding the island by offering a fresh take on low country dining. The seasonal menu frequently rotates to celebrate the flavors of the coast. The menu also boasts of signature sides passed down from family members, like OG’s fried okra or Augusta’s bread budding. With many gluten-free and vegetarian options, Driftwood Bistro is the perfect spot for all visitors to enjoy.
Don’t forget to make your way over to their bar and lounge area before dinner! Their full bar menu features hand-crafted cocktails, craft beers, and an extensive wine list.
Driftwood Bistro is open Tuesday through Saturday, and reservations are recommended.
Beach House is a locally-owned casual restaurant serving seafood classics and craft beer. The atmosphere is light and breezy, with white and turquoise walls, coastal decor, and a long bar in the center of the room for your group to gather.
They are known for their seasonal craft beer menu, frequently rotating to highlight local Georgia breweries. Located right on the water with access to the beach, Beach House is the picturesque island dinner spot.
Beach House is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Reservations for dinner are recommended.
If you’re looking for a spot to watch the sunset before heading back to St. Simons Island, The Wharf is your place. Located on the historic Jekyll Pier, The Wharf offers pet-friendly outdoor dining, an incredible Southern menu, and weekend live music. The atmosphere is lively whether you choose a spot at the inside bar or the outdoor deck covered in string lights.
A local favorite, The Wharf’s menu gives you all your classic Southern dishes with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Visitors can choose between a low country boil, Wild Georgia shrimp platter, or Creole chicken, to name a few.
The Wharf is open daily, and reservations are recommended.
The Reserve Steakhouse
Address: 110 Ocean Way, Jekyll Island, GA
Website: www.thereservejekyllisland.com
Vibe: Fine dining
Price Point: $$$
For a more upscale dining experience, visitors can head to The Reserve Steakhouse inside the Westin Jekyll Island. This modern, oceanfront steakhouse is the perfect spot to celebrate any occasion.
The dinner menu offers elevated Southern favorites such as crab cakes and Oyster Rockefeller. But, of course, the real star on the menu is their steak selection, offering cuts from filet to ribeye to the New York strip.
The Reserve is open daily, and reservations are highly recommended.
Enjoy Your Food Tour of Jekyll Island
We love that our visitors at our beachside vacation rentals can drive just 30 minutes to neighboring Jekyll Island and get a whole different taste of the Georgia coast. Whether your visit involves breakfast, lunch, or dinner (or all three!), you have many tasty restaurant options to try along the way.
With many Jekyll Island restaurants offering a front-row seat to ocean views, visitors can enjoy beach scenery and local cuisine all in one. Don’t forget to finish your trip with delicious sweets on the island, from ice cream to frozen yogurt. We hope you enjoy eating your way through the Golden Isles!
A Visitor’s Guide to Spring on St. Simons Island
As the winter months fade and spring makes its first signs of arrival in March, St. Simons Island transforms altogether.
By April, the Georgia coast is lined with blooming Azalea bushes and shorebirds filling the air. Locals emerge from sleepy wintertime to enjoy the rising temperatures and long stretches of sandy beaches that the Golden Isles offers.
This is also an ideal time to book a vacation rental. There are limitless outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy between the island’s vast bike paths, year-round bird watching, and award-winning golf courses. If you’re planning a visit to St. Simons Island, we’ve created a visitor guide for you to get the most out of your spring getaway.
St. Simons Island is located on the southernmost tip of Georgia, an hour north of Jacksonville and an hour south of Savannah. The Island is a popular destination located in Georgia’s Golden Isles and renowned for its unique southern charm.
This small island has a population of around 13,000 and covers 34 square miles of picturesque coastal beauty. Known as the second largest barrier island in eastern North America, St. Simons has earned a reputation as a haven for outdoor activities.
Drawing from its stunning coastline, visitors can engage in expert fishing charters, kayak tours, surfing excursions, and more! Beyond beach activities, travelers flock to historic attractions and eco-tours.
Spring Weather on this Barrier Island
The spring temperatures vary from March to May. You can expect temperature highs to climb from the 60s in March, 70’s in April, and land in the mid-80s in May. While rainy and cloudy days mark the transition months, there are still plenty of things to do when it gets wet in St. Simons!
The sun peeks out more as the spring season progresses. Take note, the spring season is also the windiest season, especially in May.
The Tourist Season in Spring
Spring is the second-busiest tourism season on St. Simons Island, following the summer. This is because visitors migrate to the Golden Isles to enjoy their Spring Break in warmer weather.
Restaurants and businesses are open fully during these months, but crowds are not yet at their summer peak. This means visitors can enjoy all the island has to offer without the crowds that come with the summer months!
In the busy summer months on Saint Simons Island, dogs are prohibited on the beach during daytime hours. But in the off-season (Labor Day through Memorial Day), dogs can enjoy the beach with their owners anytime.
So if you’re looking to bring your furry friend along on vacation, book your spring stay from March to April!
There are 37 access points to St. Simons Island’s public beaches. Access points start at Gould’s Inlet to the north and end just south of St. Simons Island Pier. Head here for a map of all entrance points.
At the edge of the pier along the ocean lies Neptune Park, the ideal spot to enjoy hours of outdoor fun for the whole family.
Nestled in between St. Simons Island Pier and St. Simons Lighthouse, Neptune Park offers options to play, swim, and relax year-round. Open all year, the park’s 18-hole golf course is the perfect spring activity to enjoy along the water at just $8 per round.
In addition, visitors can relax under the hundred-year-old live oaks lining the park and even sometimes catch live music in the park in the evening.
The Neptune Park Fun Zone Pool opens Memorial Weekend. May visitors can access the wading pool and water gym before snacking poolside from the park’s delicious concession stand for just $8 a day.
Pro Tip: After enjoying the park, take the short walk over to St. Simons Island Museum for a history lesson on one of the landmarks of Saint Simons Island.
There are plenty of amazing day trips to explore from St. Simons island. Just north of Sea Island lies Little St. Simons Island. Accessible by boat only, Little St. Simons Island is a privately-owned, 11,000-acre conservatory of nature trails, salt marshes, vast beaches, and natural wildlife.
Visitors can book a day trip to the island to experience a taste of the pristine surroundings through a guided tour. Then, guests take a ferry through the isolated marshes to the island, where they will learn about the island’s natural history, explore the uninhabited beaches, and savor a picnic under the oak trees featuring local farmers’ produce.
Springtime is the perfect weather to enjoy one of this barrier island’s most well-loved water activities: kayaking.
While visitors are welcome to bring their own gear and kayak unguided, they can also choose to join a guided, educational tour to learn about the landscape around them.
This is a great way to explore some of the neighboring locations like Jekyll Island and Brunswick, get a front-row seat to the salt marshes, and enjoy warmer weather without plunging into the cold water!
The St. Simons Island Trolley Tour is one of the most beloved traditions of our coastal town, and it’s the perfect spring day activity.
Operating since 1993, the trolley tour is one of the best ways to experience the entire island, with over 36 points of interest along the way. In addition, guests will get the chance to see many historic sites, including Fort Frederica National Monument, St. Simons Lighthouse Museum, and the Bloody Marsh.
The main event of the trolley ride is a walking tour through Christ Church, where Charles Wesley, founder of the Presbyterian denomination, preached in the 1740s. The trolley runs daily at 11 am, and ticket information can be found here.
Spend the Afternoon in Pier Village
Pier Village is the Downtown hub of St. Simons Island. Locals and visitors love to gather in Pier Village in the spring to enjoy its shopping, entertainment, and dining options.
Visitors can stroll through the Downtown St. Simons streets, where you’ll find the Live Oak Shop, a specialty store selling locally handmade items.
If you’re visiting on the weekend, you won’t want to miss Crafts in the Village, an open-air market full of locally-made coastal art, jewelry, home decor, specialty food items, and more.
Finish your stroll with dessert at St. Simons Crepes, home to delicious cone-shaped crepes that you can enjoy on the go.
Pro Tip:Pier Village is home to some of the island’s many tree spirits! In the 1980s, a local artist carved 20 intricately-designed faces into live oaks all over the island. The carvings were lovingly named Tree Spirits, and today, visitors can hunt for these carvings on a Tree Spirits Treasure Hunt!
With ten tree spirits on the public ground throughout the island, this is the perfect spring family-friendly activity to enjoy while exploring the island.
A Special Time to Visit the Georgia Coast
There’s nothing like springtime on the Golden Isles. Between exploring the St. Simons Island beaches, taking day trips to neighboring islands, and shopping locally at Pier Village, spring visitors get a taste of the locals’ favorite things about living on the island.
The weather is perfectly amenable, the crowds are still low, and the local businesses are in full gear, just waiting for visitors to welcome. So whether you’re looking for an action-packed stay or a relaxed getaway at a prime vacation rental, we promise your spring trip to St. Simons Island will be memorable for you and your family.
The Best Bars on St. Simons Island
Despite being known for its laid-back vibe, St. Simons Island offers a diverse array of happening nightlife options nestled among its beach community.
Whether you are looking for an intimate cocktail bar, a late-night bite at a dive bar, or the chance to play a round of pool with friends and strangers, the Georgia island’s bar options offer a little bit of everything.
Address: 1226 Ocean Boulevard Suite #1, St. Simons Island
Price Point: $$
Vibe: Casual
Opened in 2019, Barrier Island Brewing is a family-owned brewery serving craft beer proudly brewed in-house. Their craft beer menu includes lagers, IPAs, wheat beers, and porters.
They also offer unique small plates like their Diver’s Scallops and Hash, Potato Chip Skillet, and Beet Hummus. Located near East Beach, Barrier Island Brewing offers a quaint coastal atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating and a full bar for guests looking to try a cocktail if beer isn’t their thing.
Golden Isles Olive Oil Wine Bar & Restaurant
Address: 306 Redfern Village, St. Simons Island
Price Point: $$
Vibe: Casual
It may seem odd to suggest an olive oil shop, Golden Isles, as a happy hour spot, but this specialty grocery store delivers more than just take-home goods.
This cozy neighborhood spot offers the chance to gather with friends over delicious seasonal food and quality wine.
Visitors can enjoy an olive oil or wine tasting over a large charcuterie board to share while enjoying the communal bar seating. The experience is inviting, educational, sophisticated, and low-key all at once. Golden Isles Olive Oil Wine Bar is the perfect place to enjoy happy hour and appetizers before dinner.
Dorothy’s is best known for two things: cocktails and raw oysters. Dorothy’s delivers both classic, timeless cocktails and one-of-a-kind originals. With specialty drink names like Gucci Wallpaper and The Last Waltz, you are in for a true treat when it comes to enjoying their creations.
The chic, sophisticated, and modern atmosphere makes it a great spot to dress up with your crew and enjoy an upscale bar scene. Their raw oyster bar makes for the perfect pairing for cocktails, whether you are looking to start here for appetizers or stay for entrees.
Located in the King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort on East Beach, ECHO St. Simon’s is a breezy restaurant delivering delicious food and cocktails with an ocean view.
If you are staying to dine, their Thai Barbeque Salmon and Wild Georgia Shrimp Tacos are divine. Their rotating specialty cocktail menus make it ideal for enjoying happy hour here any day of the week. Wine Down Wednesday offers $5 glasses of wine, while Margarita Monday allows visitors to enjoy their margarita specials.
And, of course, you won’t want to miss their live music events every Wednesday and Thursday night.
Whether you come for cocktails, oceanfront views, or live music, ECHO has a little something for everyone looking to enjoy themselves and the island.
Located in Redfern Village, Gnat’s Landing is the quintessential beach restaurant and bar that everyone knows and loves. White walls, bright-colored decor, and indoor/outdoor seating give it a breezy, coastal vibe that screams vacation.
A family-owned American restaurant, Gnat’s Landing offers classic diner food like fresh seafood, wings, bbq fries, and Mexican style nachos. They also have a specialty drink menu featuring “Gnatails,” including their famous Perfect Margarita.
Gnat’s is also known for its live events featuring local bands, its wide selection of craft beer, and providing a kid-friendly environment for the whole family to enjoy.
Brogen’s South is a staple in the SSI community. This local bar and grill have served the best hamburgers and beer selection for over 30 years to both locals and visitors. You can’t miss the large, wooden building with green-and-white striped awnings as you walk by.
It’s lively and casual all at once, offering music performances, a family-friendly atmosphere, and an extensive food and drink list. It’s the perfect place to get lost in island time and immerse yourself in the local community.
If you’re looking for a classic dive bar, you will not be disappointed when you enter Murphy’s Tavern. This local pub has been providing a spot for entertainment, games, live music, and good drinks for decades.
An island favorite, Murphy’s Tavern offers a relaxed, low-key atmosphere with pool tables, darts, beer on tap, and even an indoor fireplace! Cozy up in this local pub after dinner and enjoy drinks and games with your crew late into the night.
If you’re looking for a spot for some late-night dancing and karaoke, we recommend Castaways Lounge. Friendly bartenders, lively karaoke, pool tables, and excellent cocktails make this spot perfect for lingering with friends into the morning hours.
Opening at 9 pm most nights, it’s the spot to go after dinner to enjoy the best that SSI nightlife has to offer.
Located in Retreat Village, Ziggy’s has been a beloved destination for live music, good food, and late-night dancing for over 20 years.
It might be unassuming on the outside, but walk inside, and you’ll find that all the great dive bars are made of lines of pool tables, plenty of high-top seating, and even a tiki bar waiting for you to order your favorite drink. They also serve everyone’s favorite bar snacks, from loaded fries to buffalo wings.
Enjoy a Taste of SSI’s Nightlife Scene
No matter what bar atmosphere you enjoy most, our Georgia coastal town of St. Simons Island offers nightlife options for every visitor. Whether you are looking for a happy hour before dinner, a casual spot to drink beer and watch a game, or a late-night vibe for karaoke and dancing.
The best bars are scattered from Pier Village to Redfern Village and everywhere in between, making it easy to find exactly what you are looking for to enjoy the bar scene while staying at an SSI luxury vacation rental.
When you think of driftwood-covered sands, salty ocean air, and lounging beachgoers, you probably don’t picture the winter months. But when it comes to St. Simons Island, winter is an ideal time to visit due to mild temperatures and lower crowds.
This beach community along the Georgia coast has a permanent population of 15,000 with businesses and restaurants open year-round, making it a perfect destination spot in the winter season. With great vacation rental homes to keep you cozy indoors and plenty to do around the island, you’ll be tempted to make a winter trip to SSI an annual event.
If you’re planning a trip to St. Simons Island this winter, here is our traveler’s guide on what to expect and how to experience all that the island has to offer.
What To Expect in the Winter Months on St. Simons Island
Mild temperatures in the Winter
St. Simons Island is located on the southern tip of Georgia, about an hour south of Savannah and an hour north of Jacksonville, Florida. In the fall months of November-December, you can expect the average daily highs to run from 67-87 degrees.
The coldest time of the year in St. Simons Island is January-March, with the average high in the mid-to-lower 60’s. The temperature typically does not fall below 40 degrees during the coldest months, which leaves visitors with mild temperatures all winter long.
Lower Crowds and Seasonal Events
It’s no secret that most visitors plan their beach vacations in the warmer months. This means that you can expect fewer crowds when you visit in the winter. But don’t worry, it isn’t a ghost town either.
Instead, there is bustling activity in the winter months due to permanent residents and snowbirds, people who migrate south for the winter season. With the Golden Isles in Georgia being rated some of the best islands in the U.S. by Travel & Leisure for multiple years in a row, St. Simons Island has become a top destination for snowbirds escaping their frigid temperatures.
In addition to the year-round activity, there are seasonal events that you can only experience at this time of year. From events like the Mistletoe Market in St. Simons Island and the New Year’s Shrimp Drop in Brunswick, there are holiday activities all along the Golden Isles for you to enjoy.
Pet-Friendly Beaches
In the busy summer months on Saint Simons Island, dogs are prohibited on the beach during day-time hours. But in the off-season (Labor Day through Memorial Day), dogs are free to enjoy the beach with their owners at any time of the day. So if you’re looking to bring your furry friend along on vacation, winter is the ideal time to visit!
Outdoor Activities on St. Simons Island in the Winter
While bird watching is an activity to enjoy at any time of the year in St. Simons, the winter migration patterns offer a unique experience for visitors. Birders will discover northern gannets over the ocean, winter piping plovers on the beach, and a variety of bird species in the water.
The Golden Isles is known as a golfing destination with multiple championship golf courses along the coast. With mild winter temperatures, it’s a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like golf without battling the humidity.
On St. Simons Island, we recommend teeing up at The King and Prince Golf Course. Nestled between Spanish moss oaks and salty marshes, this 18-hole golf course is the perfect spot for golfers to enjoy scenic coastal views while perfecting their game. Complete with a restaurant and clubhouse, it’s a great day-time activity for you and your group. You can book your tee time here.
Another outdoor activity that is perfect for the milder winter months is biking. With St. Simons Island stretching 17.5 miles total, biking is a main form of transportation for locals and tourists alike.
The St. Simons Island biking trail system encircles the island, inviting visitors to bike along various scenic paths. The biking trails will take you past historic sites, beautiful beaches, restaurants and shopping, and marshland. What could be a better way to take in the full landscape of St. Simons Island than your very own biking tour?
And if you’d rather enjoy this activity with a group and an official tour guide, Bike Tours offers sunrise and midday biking tours around St. Simons Island.
If you’re looking for a cozy atmosphere on a winter day, Wake Up Coffee Company is the perfect spot. Right in the heart of Saint Simons Island, this local coffee shop offers plenty of comfortable seating, breakfast pastries and desserts, and unlimited amounts of warm drinks.
In the winter months, Wake Up Coffee serves specialty seasonal drinks such as their delicious apple pie latte or hot cocoa. Grab a coffee to go before you explore the island, or bundle up indoors with their signature mug in hand.
Just a short drive from St. Simons Island is the city of Brunswick, a neighboring port city once dubbed the “Shrimp Capital of the World.” With a rich history dating back to the early 1800’s, Brunswick is known for its historic downtown, lively festivals, and local arts and theater culture.
Historic Downtown Brunswickoffers a wide variety of local shops and eateries for visitors to enjoy. Between antique shops, home decor, bookstores, and boutiques, there are many local spots to discover and enjoy window shopping. When you’re ready for a bite, cozy up in one of the many downtown cafes offering pastries, coffee, or dessert fit for a winter day.
St. Simons Island and the surrounding Golden Isles are brimming with historic landmarks for you to experience. Head to Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation first where you’ll learn about the culture of Georgia’s rice coast. The museum offers a brief film on the history of the plantation, family artifacts, and a nature trail leading visitors to the marsh where rice once grew.
Located on the north side of the island, Christ Church is another historic landmark where John and Charles Wesley preached before founding the Methodist denomination.
While in this area of town, finish your historic tour at Fort Frederica National Monument, which features the remnants of a fort built in the early 1700’s to protect the British colony of Georgia from Spanish raids. The park also hosts a visitor center where you can watch a film about the history of Fort Frederica.
A Warm Welcome in the Winter Season
Coastal Georgia is beautiful at all times of the year. However, winter on St. Simons Island offers visitors a unique chance to escape the weather in colder climates, embrace a slower pace of life, and experience the activities locals enjoy year-round in this small town community. If you’re planning a winter vacation, you can’t go wrong on Saint Simons Island.
Located on the west side of St. Simons, Gascoigne Bluff is an incredibly peaceful and scenic place to spend a day while vacationing on St. Simons Island.
Nowadays, the 24-acre park overlooking the Frederica River is known for its disc golf course, fishing piers, picnic areas, and idyllic southern live oak trees. The area’s history, however, goes back thousands of years and is a storied example of the many layers of conflict and conquest that make up America’s past.
While many visitors choose to spend their time in and around the beaches on the east side or golfing at Seaside Golf Course, a quick 10-minute drive will take you to a whole different side of the island where you can spend the sunrise to sunset exploring the area’s rich historical significance while you stroll along shady groves of southern live oaks.
So, if you’re looking for something unique to do and a break from the sand and the surf, we highly recommend you add in a visit to Gascoigne Bluff while staying on St. Simons Island.
The Storied Past of Gascoigne Bluff
Native Camps and Spanish Missions
For thousands of years, Native Americans used the area as a safe camping site. The unique geography offered relative shelter from the mainland and the coast.
In the 1500s, Spanish explorers arrived on the shores of St. Simons and were met with Guale Indians. Franciscan Friars settled in the area and built many missions along the Georgia coast and in Florida to convert the natives to Christianity..
Conflicts with Native Americans and the English over the next decades resulted in uprisings, attacks, and eventually the San Buenaventura Mission was burnt down. The original location of the Mission remains unknown to this day.
A Southern Keystone of British Settlement
In 1736, Gascoigne Bluff got its current name in honor of a British sea captain, James Gascoigne, of the HMS Hawk. Gascoigne sailed alongside ships of English settlers who came to the island to build Fort Frederica on the north side.
As a reward for his efforts in protecting Georgia from the Spanish, Georgia’s first governor, James Oglethorpe, granted Gascoigne a plantation on the bluff.
A Crucial Branch of Early American Defense
Later on, Gascoigne Bluff was home to a lumber mill and lumber shipping point. In 1794, the Spanish live oaks that grace the area were harvested and used to build the U.S.S. Constitution ship (known as “Old Ironsides” for its strong hull).
The southern live oak branches formed a perfect material for the ship’s bracing, which today sits in Boston Harbor. 80 years later more timber would be cut for the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge.
Cotton Plantations and a Legacy of Slavery
There are still many historical sites left that you can visit during your trip to the bluff. In the and In the 18th and 19th centuries, Sea Island cotton production took off and slave labor was used to keep up with labor demands on the plantation of James Hamilton.
Visitors today can see two of the original tabby slave cabins that workers lived in on the Hamilton plantation during this time which have been preserved. The cabins are located right by the St. Simons marina and the Epworth By The Sea conference center. The Cassina Garden Club Slave Cabins offer a window into the lives of slavery during the antebellum south era.
Top Things to do at Modern Day Gascoigne Bluff
While the bluff’s past is fascinating and you can spend a good amount of your time visiting the historic sites, the park today offers a number of family-friendly activities. Whether you are a history buff or simply out to indulge in the beauty of the area, there are lots of options.
9 holes of disc golf course through the tree line in a beginner style course which has been recently updated. Grab a buddy or make some new ones while you test your throws.
If you are more likely to be too distracted by the sight of swaying Spanish moss to properly toss a disc, you might opt to lay out on a blanket and picnic with friends or loved ones under the shady canopy.
If fitness is on your agenda, you can take advantage of the nearby nature trail and running path along the southeast side of the park. As one of the best walking trails on the island, it features workout equipment stationed throughout and you can’t beat the setting. If you still have energy, you can play a pick-up game of soccer on the park fields.
Calming tidal waters are great for kayaking and exploring the large network of tidal creeks and tributaries around the Mackay River. The Public Marina also offers affordable boat launches and dockage.
The park’s piers are also great for fishing for whiting and croaker or better yet crabbing for delicious blue crabs.
There are grills and picnic tables in designated areas in the park, so whether you catch your lunch from the river or pack it in, you have everything you need to make a cookout.
A Family-Friendly Oasis
Overall, the park is very family-friendly, quaint, quiet, and secluded. The easy access from the rest of St. Simons Island, easy parking, and well maintained bathrooms and amenities make it a perfect low-key location for family get-togethers.
If you have a special reason to celebrate while on vacation, you should consider coming to the park. It is a fun and unique location to host an informal birthday party, small wedding reception, or family reunion.
A playground for children and bike paths offer additional options for young ones. Breathe in the fresh park air and don’t forget to bring the pets! The park is pet-friendly and there is plenty of open space to roam.
Cotton candy sunsets and majestic southern live oaks make the park particularly pleasant during an evening stroll with loved ones.
The Best Time to Visit is Anytime!
Gascoigne Bluff is beautiful any time of year, but it is particularly pleasant during the cooler winter months, which might be contrary to what you thought was the best time to visit St. Simons Island.
It is also fantastic at night, especially if you are participating in the famous Tree Spirit Scavenger hunt across St. Simons. There are over 20 hand-carved figures hidden on trees throughout the island, each with their own story. Grab a map and try to locate as many as you can during their stay!
There are many festivals throughout the year. Foodies will love the St. Simons Land Trust Oyster Roast in January, the Firebox BBQ on the Bluff in October, and late April’s Golden Isles Food Truck Festival where the community serves up good food and good music for all.
In the end, the best time to visit is whenever you are staying on St Simons island! It really is a great place for all types at any time of year. There is always something to do or see for everyone.
Getting to the Park from your Lighthouse Rental
If you are heading to the park from any of the Lighthouse Vacation Rentals on the southeast side of the island, the fastest way to get to the park is to take Kings Way. Head north for 2.5 miles to Hamilton Rd, then continue on Hamilton Rd for half a mile. The park will be right on your left-hand side. You can’t miss it!
The park is free for all visitors and is open 24 hours a day, all year long and is located at 1000 Arthur J. Moore Drive on St. Simons.
