Welcome to beautiful Saint Simons Island, a hidden gem along the south Georgia coast. Nestled between Jekyll Island and Little St. Simons Island (collectively known as ‘the Golden Isles’), this little slice of paradise is a haven for couples seeking a relaxing beach retreat.
Recent accolades include the Conde Nast Travelers’ “The Best U.S. Islands” and Travel + Leisure Magazine’s “Favorite Romantic Towns”—and after experiencing St. Simons for the first time it’s not hard to imagine why this small but mighty barrier island checks all of those boxes.
In particular, St. Simons Island is the perfect destination for romantic getaways. Small and quiet, St. Simons lacks the bright lights and big amusements of larger beach destinations—but don’t think that there’s nothing to do to occupy your time. World-class golf and fresh coastal cuisine are two of the biggest draws, in addition to outdoor exploration and enjoying some rest and relaxation with loved ones.
Enjoy our roundup of romantic things to do on St. Simons Island, and start planning your picturesque island getaway.
Best Activities For Couples
Visit the St. Simons Island Lighthouse
Situated at the southern tip of the island, the famous lighthouse is one of the most recognizable landmarks along the Georgia coast. Originally built in the 1800s, the current lighthouse is 104-feet tall and was recently renovated and restored to its original glory. Today, visitors can visit the lighthouse and the attached lighthouse museum to get an inside look at the history and functionality of the structure. If you’re up to it, climb the 120+ steps to the top of the lighthouse tower and take in sweeping views of the surrounding coastline and marsh.
The St. Simons Island Lighthouse is located at: 101 12th Street, St. Simons Island, GA 31522
Call (912) 638-4666 or visit https://www.coastalgeorgiahistory.org/visit/plan-your-visit/ for more information.
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Walk the St. Simons Pier
For a simple and serene retreat, take a walk along the St. Simons Island Pier. Open 24/7 for visitors, this free attraction is an island favorite among visitors and locals alike. The pier itself is the heart and focal point of the Pier Village, which consists of a collection of local restaurants and shops. Fishing is a popular activity during the day, and you’ll likely encounter fishermen (and women) enthusiastically reeling in local trout, redfish, flounder, and more. If you want to try your hand at a local catch, be sure to swing by the St. Simons Bait & Tackle shop to stock up on supplies and a local fishing permit. Or, for a more relaxing excursion, pencil in a sunrise or sunset walk to avoid the midday crowds.
The St. Simons Island Pier is located at: 100 Mallery St, St Simons, GA 31522
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Tour St. Simons Island
There’s no better way to get out and about on the island than with a guided tour! St. Simons offers no shortage of fun and creative ways to explore every inch of the scenic shoreline.
For land exploration and a historic overview of the area, check out one of the island’s trolley tours. St. Simons Trolley Island Tours adds a touch of nostalgia to their business with a vintage, 1930’s trolley. The 90-minute drive-by tour includes 36 points of interest and a walking tour of the Christ Church Churchyard and historic live oak trees. If you prefer air conditioning, check out the 90-minute trolley tour offered by Saint Simons Colonial Trolley Tours, which boasts 86 points of interest and stories for each spot along the way.
If an adventure is what you crave, check out an island boat tour. Many aren’t aware—Georgia is home to more than 30% of the total marshland acreage across the entire East Coast. This impressive marshland supports more than 500,000 acres of creeks, rivers, and waterways that are home to thousands of species, including the famous bottlenose dolphins. Get up close and personal with these friendly mammals with a dolphin tour. Lighthouse Trolleys and St. Simon Dolphin Tours are two great area providers. Or, for a truly romantic touch, book a sunset wine cruise with String of Pearls where you can relax, unwind, and take in the scenery with a glass (or two!) of your favorite fermented fruit.
For an efficient self-guided tour, rent a few bikes and explore the island at your leisure. Two Brothers Bike Shop and Island Bicycle are two top bike rental providers, with prices starting at only $25 per day (with discounts for multi-day rentals).
Book a Tee Time
Looking for a little friendly competition? If so, golf is a great way to explore the island and get in a little physical activity. St. Simons Island is home to a handful of world-class golf courses that are meticulously maintained throughout the year.
Top-rated area golf courses include:
- Seaside Golf Course
- Retreat Golf Course
- Ocean Forest Golf Club
- Sea Palms Golf Club
- The King and Prince Beach Golf Course
Aside from standard golf courses, the island is also home to The Driftwood 18 hole putting course and Sea Island Golf Performance Center.
Relax and Unwind with a Spa Day
There’s nothing more relaxing or indulgent than a day at the spa, and St. Simons Island offers no shortage of luxurious retreats to pamper yourself and a loved one. From various massages and wraps to manicures, facials, and more—you can find just about anything and everything to totally spoil yourself from head to toe. Enjoy services a la carte or book a spa package that includes several services bundled together. Island Day Spa and LilyMac Spa & Boutique are two great options for guests seeking a local touch.
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Bonus: Take a Sunrise or Sunset Beach Walk
We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the main draw of coming to an island destination—the beach! The island itself boasts over 7 miles of pristine beaches that offer plenty to explore.
Early birds can get up early to catch the sunrise and maybe even get in an early morning walk or run along the beach. Watching the beach and surrounding wildlife ‘wake up’ and come to life each morning is truly invigorating.
For a more intimate evening, head down to a beach on the other side of the island for a romantic sunset. An evening walk along the beach or dinner al fresco with ocean views is the perfect way to unwind after a busy day on the island.
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Best Restaurants For Couples
We can’t talk romance without highlighting some of the island’s top restaurants. Spend a night wining and dining with your loved one at one of these fantastic spots.
Georgia Sea Grill
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Address: 407 Mallery St, St Simons, GA 31522
Phone: (912) 638-1197
Hours: 5 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., Sunday – Thursday; 5 p.m. – 10 p.m, Friday – Saturday
Website: https://www.georgiaseagrill.com/
Locally owned and operated, Georgia Sea Grill highlights coastal Georgia flavors with a distinctive southern flair. Ideally situated in the bustling Pier Village, this restaurant and wine bar delivers an intimate and memorable dining experience. A few menu favorites include the homemade fried pimento cheese or the low country crab soup as starters followed by shrimp and grits or the featured ‘catch of the day’ as the main event. And you don’t want to miss the fresh oysters during oyster season!
Halyards Restaurant
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Address: 55 Cinema Ln, St Simons, GA 31522
Phone: (912) 638-9100
Hours: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m., Monday – Wednesday; 5 p.m. – 10 p.m., Thursday – Saturday
Website: (912) 638-9100
Creative American cuisine meets locally sourced Georgia ingredients—that’s exactly what you can expect at Halyards. This bright and airy restaurant offers extensive indoor and outdoor seating and a casual, no-frills atmosphere that highlights local flavors and fast, friendly service. The menu changes seasonally to focus on seasonal ingredients, but expect to see homemade pasta, fresh seafood, salads highlighting seasonal produce, and hand-cut chops. For a taste of the town, opt for the ‘prix fixe’ menu, which features a decadent five-course menu of chef recommended small plates.
Tramici Restaurant
Address: 75 Cinema Ln, St Simons, GA 31522
Phone: (912) 634-2202
Hours: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m., Sunday – Wednesday; 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Thursday – Saturday
Website: https://tramicirestaurant.com/
What’s more romantic than an indulgent Italian dinner? Enjoy just that, and so much more, at Tramici. This charming small town bistro offers tasty Italian-inspired treats in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Snag a seat inside to enjoy the view of the open-air kitchen or take in the sights and sounds of St. Simons on the spacious outdoor deck. Get started with the crispy calamari or antipasto and then indulge in homemade pasta like the short rib ravioli or fettuccine alfredo. Looking for something lighter? Opt for a fresh, seasonal salad or a thin and crispy woodfired pizza.
ECHO
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Address: 102 Marina Dr, St Simons, GA 31522
Phone: (912) 638-7790
Hours: 11:30 a.m. – 10 p.m., Daily
Website: https://www.echostsimons.com/
Classic coastal cuisine with sweeping oceanfront views—what more could you need? ECHO serves up simple, local cuisine in a bright and airy dining room with absolutely stunning beach views. The craft cocktails and wine list are the perfect complements to the delicate flavors of the menu, and the friendly waitstaff can help you find the perfect pair. The menu is simple and features favorites like sauteed mussels, braised beef pot roast, grilled fresh catch, and center-cut filet.
Delaney’s Bistro
Address: 3415 Frederica Rd, St Simons, GA 31522
Phone: (912) 638-1330
Hours: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Tuesday – Saturday; Closed, Sunday – Monday
Website: https://delaneysbistro.com/
Delaney’s has been a St. Simons Island favorite for over 20 years—and it’s not hard to figure out why! This elegant eatery, led by Executive Chef Tom Delaney, has become an island staple and destination for visitors seeking a high-end culinary experience. A classic chophouse, Delaney’s focuses on quality ingredients with items like crab cakes, escargot, foie gras, rack of lamb, grilled duck, and prime steaks. The award-winning wine list and decadent desserts offer perfect pairings to complete the perfect meal.
See more St. Simons Island restaurants here.
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St. Simons Island is calling your name—what are you waiting for? Whether you’re seeking a bright and airy oceanfront condo with endless Atlantic Ocean views or a convenient golf resort rental with tons of amenities, we can help you find your perfect home away from home.
Peruse our inventory of St. Simons Island vacation rentals and start planning your ideal romantic retreat!
