St. Simons Island is the largest of the southern Georgia barrier islands, part of a region known as the Golden Isles. The location is renowned for its beaches, balmy weather, and museums. Historic landmarks on this sea island include the Fort Frederica National Monument and the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. The lighthouse has been working since 1872, making it a focal point of the island’s history.
The island celebrates Independence Day every year with a fireworks spectacular and family-friendly activities, making a July visit a must-do. Whether you’re a coastal Georgia resident or looking for a new out-of-town adventure, a 4th of July St. Simons Island trip will be memorable. Book your holiday stay with Lighthouse Vacations, and continue reading to discover more about St Simons Island’s July 4th celebrations.
St. Simons Island Sunshine Festival
- Website: goldenisles.com/4th-of-july-celebrations
- Address: 215 Mallery St, St Simons Island, GA
- Date/time: July 4, 2025, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
The Sunshine Festival is the star of the island’s 4th of July events. The family fun and festivities take place in downtown St. Simons Pier Village every year, accompanied by food trucks and capped off by the famous St. Simons Island fireworks show.
Sunshine Festival 5K Run
The 4th of July festivities start early on St. Simons Island. The entire family can get their 7 a.m. run on during the Sunshine Festival 5K. Or sleep in a little and take the kids to the 1-mile fun run at 8 a.m. The 5K race begins and winds through the Spanish moss-lined streets of a residential neighborhood, where homeowners with the most beautiful landscapes are recognized with an award.
4th of July Golf Cart Parade
If golf and parades are your game, catch the Golf Cart Parade at 2:30 p.m. If you’d like to participate, please decorate a golf cart and join the procession. The parade goes through scenic Pier Village, so you won’t want to miss it!
Fireworks Over Pier Village
The celebration’s finale is the real showstopper! Head to the shoreline along Neptune Park by 9 p.m. to watch the spectacular fireworks display. You are welcome to bring chairs and blankets to sit on. There is also free parking available, plus it doesn’t cost anything to watch the sky light up in red, white, and blue!
After the fireworks, the live music starts up. Stick around and relax to the sounds under the night sky or enjoy the music as you walk back to your car.
What to Know Before You Go
If you want to catch the fireworks, be aware of a few key things.
Arrive early to these events to find the best viewing spots. The fishing pier and the southern portion of Mallory Street will be closed to traffic. This includes vehicles and people who want to walk through. The pier and street will close down on the morning of July 4th.
A portion of Neptune Park will also be sectioned off, and all tents must be taken down by 7 p.m. to avoid fire danger.
Public safety officials will be on hand throughout the day, with lifeguards and police officers patrolling beaches and lifeguard boats in the ocean. No traffic will be allowed east of Mallory Street and Butler Avenue. Beachview Drive and 12th Street will also be closed. Police officers will be stationed at major intersections to assist with traffic direction.
Room 114 of the Casino Building will house a lost and found area, as well as provide emergency medical care. Room 108 will be designated for lost children and their parents.
Beyond the Fireworks: Discover More July Delights on St. Simons Island
While the Fourth of July celebrations are a dazzling highlight, St. Simons Island offers a wealth of activities throughout the entire month of July. Embrace the warm coastal breeze and explore the island’s charm, history, and natural beauty.
1. Climb the St. Simons Lighthouse
Ascend the 129 steps of this active 1872 lighthouse for panoramic views of the island and the shimmering Atlantic. The adjacent Keeper’s Dwelling houses a fascinating museum, offering a glimpse into the island’s maritime past.
2. Explore Fort Frederica National Monument
Step back in time to 1736 at this historic site, where General James Oglethorpe established a fort to defend colonial Georgia. Wander among the archaeological remnants and imagine life in this early British settlement.
Embark on a unique scavenger hunt to find the whimsical faces carved into the island’s live oak trees. Grab a map from the Welcome Center to guide your adventure.
3. Embrace the Outdoors and Coastal Beauty
The island boasts miles of beautiful beaches, including East Beach and Massengale Beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, shelling, or simply relaxing by the ocean. For family fun, head to Neptune Park Fun Zone, featuring a public pool, mini-golf, and a fishing pier.
Want to stay active? Take a self-guided bike tour! With over 20 miles of paved bike paths, exploring St. Simons Island on two wheels is a fantastic way to see the sights. Bike rentals are readily available.
Finally, don’t leave the island without exploring the island’s diverse ecosystems at Cannon’s Point Preserve, a 600-acre wilderness area with maritime forests, tidal creeks, and archaeological sites. Guided nature walks are also available on Jekyll Island, a short trip away.
Get Ready to Celebrate Independence Day on St. Simons Island
A 4th of July celebration on St. Simons Island is a great way to make memories with family and friends. There is something for everyone to enjoy throughout the weekend, including the incredible sunsets along the beach!
All of these events make this one of the best times to visit St. Simons Island, so don’t miss the opportunity to spend a memorable holiday on this beautiful and historic island with fun activities to suit every taste. Book your stay with Lighthouse Vacations for a 4th of July you won’t forget.
