St. Simons Island is an east coast barrier island located in the Golden Isles off the Georgia coast. This coastal gem provides the perfect combination of ocean vibes and small town charm. While St. Simon Island is a great place to visit year-round, the summer months of June, July, and August find visitors flocking to its streets in search of the perfect spot to hunker down for some summer fun.
From perfect weather for beach days to endless outdoor activities to lots of unique historic spots to visit, little St. Simons Island comes alive in the summer months. Each summer month offers its own appeal, but perhaps the very best month to visit is August when summer fun seems to truly peak.
We’ll let you decide for yourself which month you want to visit, but to help you out, we’ve created this quick guide to St. Simon’s in August. We’ve packed it full of all the epic events and activities that make this summer month one of the best times to plan a trip.
Weather in St. Simons Island in August
The warm and humid climate this time of year makes St. Simon the perfect summer destination. Daytime temperatures range from the mid-80s to the low-90s, making it the perfect time to stake out your spot in the sand and enjoy the beach. Despite the heat, you’ll enjoy a balmy beach breeze throughout the day to cool you off between dips in the ocean.
Evening temperatures tend to be cooler and slightly more comfortable, which is perfect for taking a stroll outside and soaking up the natural beauty of the area.
Sunrise and Sunset
Summer also brings longer days to the island. The sun stretches up over the horizon around 6:45 each morning and doesn’t fall below again until 8 pm. This extended stretch of summer hours allows for more time at the beach or time to explore the many other activities you find in the area.
Best Things to Do in St. Simons Island in August
St. Simon’s in summer offers an abundance of opportunities to adventure and explore. From aquatic adventures to historical sites, you’ll find plenty of activities to keep you busy on your visit.
1. Spend the Day at East Beach
One of the best things to do in coastal Georgia is to soak up the sun on one of the many St. Simons Island beaches. Swimming and sunbathing can easily fill your whole itinerary on this island oasis getaway.
While there are a number of beaches on the island, East Beach is perhaps the most popular. Its multiple beach accesses with restrooms and proximity to shopping and dining make it convenient for visitors.
2. Try Watersports: Kayak, Kiteboard, Paddleboard, or Jet Ski
You can also take advantage of a number of aquatic adventures in St. Simon. Whether you’re hoping to zip across white caps in the open ocean or take a scenic paddle through Gould’s Inlet, you’ll find no shortage of options here. A few of the water sports you can enjoy in St. Simon include kayaking, kiteboarding, paddleboarding, and jet skiing.
3. Bicycle Around the Island
If you have a healthy fear of sharks and prefer to explore other outdoor excursions, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature here.
The St. Simon’s Island Trail System, an extensive network of bike paths, provides ample roadways for cyclists. Bike rentals can be found at Zoom Bike Rental or Island Bicycl, amongst many others.
4. Fish the Piers or Go on a Boat Charter
If fishing is more your speed, you can cast a line in a number of places in this coastal spot, from oceanside fishing piers to freshwater fishing. Those who prefer to spend their time on a putting green will also find plenty of options for golfing here such as the Sea Island Golf Club.
5. Enjoy a Family Day at Neptune Park
Neptune Park is also a popular outdoor spot for visitors. Set alongside the ocean, this park offers a fishing pier, hiking/biking trails, playgrounds, and a public pool. There’s even an 18-hole miniature golf course to enjoy.
6. Hike the John Gilbert Nature Trail
If quietly appreciating nature with a stroll along a hiking path sounds appealing, you’ll find plenty of hiking options in the area. Cannon’s Point Preserve offers scenic trails winding through some of the area’s last intact maritime forests. The John Gilbert Nature Trail is home to ancient live oak trees adorned with beautiful Spanish moss.
7. Learn About Local Wildlife
If you enjoy birdwatching, check out the Colonial Coast Birding Trail. It’s home to over 300 species of birds as well as a variety of other coastal wildlife. Those who hope to connect with the area’s coastal wildlife may enjoy a dolphin tour. There are several options for these family-friendly excursions, including some picturesque sunset cruises.
8. Get Cultured at Local Historical Sites & Museums
St. Simon’s has a rich history that can be fun to explore while visiting. You’ll find several historic sites to visit to learn the story of this southern island.
St. Simon’s Island Lighthouse and Museum
Perhaps two of the most popular sites on the island are the St. Simons Island Lighthouse and St. Simons Lighthouse Museum. This historic landmark, located in the Pier Village district, was built in 1872 and serves as a beacon to sailors approaching the coastline. Visitors can explore the museum adjacent to the library and take a peek into the maritime history of this St. Simon icon.
Fort Frederica National Monument
The Fort Frederica National Monument contains the archaeological remnants of an 18th-century fort and town. Many well-preserved ruins and buildings offer a glimpse of Colonial life on this eastern island. This historic spot was also the site of the Battle of the Bloody Marsh during the Civil War.
World War II Homefront Museum
The World War II Homefront Museum takes a look at the island’s significant contributions to the war effort during WWII. This area was an important hub in American coastal defense, and the exhibits and displays throughout this museum illustrate the impact of military and civilians during this time.
You’ll also discover hands-on activities that allow you to participate in what residents would’ve experienced during that period, providing a fully immersive historical perspective.
Christ Church Frederica
This regal Episcopal church was established in 1808. Renowned for its beautiful Gothic architecture, Christ Church Frederica has a historic presence in the area. Many notable figures, including early settlers and well-known author Eugenia Price, were laid to rest in the peaceful cemetery on the grounds. Visitors are invited to enjoy a service or simply enjoy the scenic grounds.
9. Take a Trolley Tour
If you’re trying to pack a lot into a short visit, one of the best ways to quickly experience all of these sites is by booking a trolley tour. These guided tours will drive you around the area, pointing out interesting spots in St. Simons.
They’ll even point out some of the tree spirits hidden around the island. These hand-carved works of art represent the spirits of sailors who once traveled the seas surrounding this island.
10. Learn at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center
Located on Jekyll Island, just a short 30 minute drive from St. Simon you’ll find the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. This rehabilitation facility is a safe haven for the sea turtles of Georgia’s Golden Isles. The center provides medical care to sick and injured sea turtles with the aim of releasing them back into the wild. Visitors can observe these creatures in captivity while learning about them and the conservation efforts to ensure their survival.
Where to Stay in St. Simons Island
August is the perfect time to visit St. Simon as summer crowds are slowly beginning to dwindle. You get all the benefits of the summer scenery and perfect water temps with slightly more real estate available on the beach.
All that’s left to do now is book your trip! When you’re looking for a place to stay, we here at Lighthouse Vacations offer the perfect property. Whether you’re hoping to find a place on the beach or unwind in a quieter salt marsh setting, we offer something to fit everyone’s style.
