St. Simons Island is a small, beautiful sea island located on the coast of Georgia, also known as the Golden Isles. While it is widely known for its expansive beaches and rich culture, it is also an ideal destination for kids to experience a tropical getaway on the Atlantic coast. From exploring historic sites to spending the day soaking up the sun, Saint Simons Island is a place where the whole family will have a great time.
Book your stay with Lighthouse Vacations, and check out our favorite things to do in St. Simons Island with kids.
1. Neptune Park Fun Zone
- Location: 550 Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island, GA 31522
- Phone: (912) 279-2836
Neptune Park is a one-stop shop for all-day fun. The park is equipped with a large waterpark , playground, and even mini golf. Enjoy the winding waterslides or splash around in the wading pool. No matter what you choose to do at the park, you can be assured that the kids will have a great time and wear themselves out.
2. FlipZone Trampoline and Fun Park
- Location: 4404 Altama Ave, Brunswick, GA 31520
- Phone: (912) 456-5115
Although located off the island in Brunswick, it’s only a quick 15-minute drive from most of our vacation rental homes. If you’re looking for a great place for your kids to have some fun and come back home tired, this is the place for you!
Ideal for a rainy day activity or on a winter day when it’s a bit too chilly to play on the beach, FlipZone has a trampoline park and arcade games.
3. Pinball Palace
- Location: 3303 Hopkins Ave, Brunswick, GA 31520
- Phone: (912) 265-9275
Another option for a great day out with your kids is to visit the Pinball Palace, also in Brunswick. Not only do they have nearly 100 pinball games, but they also offer a variety of other classic arcade games for older kids and a bounce room for younger ones. This is the perfect spot for your children to enjoy, regardless of their age. Plus, pinball is pretty fun for us parents, too!
4. Fishing Pier
Location: Mallery Street, St. Simons Island, GA 31522
There is nothing like exploring the beautiful beaches from a higher point. The St. Simons Island fishing pier is the perfect place to teach and show kids marine life. From daily anglers to visitors, there is always something going on at the St. Simons Island pier. Enjoy a nice walk over the ocean or cast your net out and catch a few blue crabs. The nearby Pier Village also offers a range of entertainment options.
5. Tree Spirits of St. Simons Island
Spend an afternoon searching for the nine different tree spirits encased in trees throughout the island. This unique scavenger hunt is a great deal of fun for the entire family.
If you hit a roadblock, head over to the welcome center, where you will find a map showing the locations of all nine. This scavenger hunt-like game is great when the weather is a little less than perfect. Children of all ages will have a great time searching for different spirits.
6. Christ Church
- Location: 6329 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island, GA 31522
- Phone: (912) 638-8683
As one of the most photographed places on the island, this historic church has been a part of the area since 1820. Partially destroyed by Union Troops during the Civil War, the scenic church offers old architecture and huge live oak trees. Your older kids can visit and learn about the church’s history, or attend a real service to see how the modern-day church operates.
7. St. Simons Lighthouse Museum
- Location: 610 Beachview Dr, St Simons, GA 31522
- Phone: (912) 634-7090
The St. Simons Island Lighthouse is on the southern tip of St. Simons Island. Explore the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum in the Keeper’s Dwelling and discover the fascinating history of Coastal Georgia through colorful exhibits featuring rare artifacts, historical photographs, and interactive displays designed for the whole family. The development of lighthouse technology is also traced.
8. Fort Frederica National Monument
- Location: 6515 Frederica Rd. St. Simons Island, GA 31522
- Phone: (912) 638-3639
Deciding Georgia’s fate in 1742, St. Simons Island was the grounds where the forces originally clashed between the Spanish and British. Fort Frederica’s troops defeated the Spanish, ensuring Georgia’s future as a British colony. Today, the archeological remnants of Frederica are protected by the National Park Service.
This is the perfect spot to take in both the natural beauty and the storied history of the island!
9. East Beach
- Location: 4202 1st St, St Simons, GA 31522
- Phone: (800) 933-2627
East Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the area, making it ideal for families. While many tourists love Driftwood Beach, East Beach is a safer place for young kids to play in the sand. Children can build a sandcastle or learn how to stand-up paddleboard. They can enjoy biking, hiking, kayaking, or simply taking a short walk on the white sand. If you are lucky, you can even come across some sea turtles.
There are many close-by bike paths, so you can take a break from the beach and explore more of the great outdoors on 2 wheels.
10. Golf Cart, Kayak, and Bike Rentals
A few of the best ways to get around the island are golf carts, bikes, and even kayaks. Explore the ocean, road, or forest by renting a bike, golf cart, or kayak. The Ocean Motion Surf Co rents many things like golf carts, beach cruisers, and bikes for the duration of your stay. Smell the salty, warm air while you pedal through beautiful terrain for a day of family fun.
11. Georgia Sea Turtle Center
- Location: 214 Stable Road, Corner Of Hopkins & Stable Rd. Jekyll Island, GA 31527
- Phone: (912) 635-4444
A delightful day trip from St. Simons Island to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island is easily achievable, offering a wonderful educational experience for all ages. Just a short drive across the causeway (approximately 30 minutes), the center provides a fascinating insight into sea turtle rehabilitation and conservation efforts.
You’ll have the chance to see various species of sea turtles up close, learn about their struggles and recovery stories, and gain a deeper appreciation for these magnificent marine creatures.
12. Explore Cumberland Island
Just an hour’s drive south to St. Mary’s for the ferry, you’ll discover a pristine barrier island of Cumberland Island.
Explore the evocative Dungeness ruins, wander through serene maritime forests, or spot the famous wild horses on the beaches. With opportunities for hiking, biking, and shell collecting, it’s a perfect active escape for the whole family. Remember to book your ferry tickets ahead of time for this unique adventure!
13. Tour Fort King George
- Address: 302 McIntosh Rd, Darien, GA 31305
- Phone: (912) 437-4770
For a captivating historical detour from your St. Simons Island getaway, consider a day trip to Fort King George Historic Site in Darien, Georgia. Located a scenic 30-40 minute drive north, this meticulously reconstructed fort was the southernmost British outpost in North America during the 18th century, offering a vivid glimpse into colonial military life.
Visitors can explore the barracks, officers’ quarters, and a museum that details the area’s rich history, from the Native Americans to the Scottish settlers. It’s an immersive educational experience for all ages, easily combined with a visit to charming Darien, and a perfect complement to your relaxing coastal vacation. Plan to visit Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Enjoy Your Beach Trip with Your Kids
There are many things to do while exploring the Golden Isles of Georgia. Only an hour drive from the bigger cities of Jacksonville, Florida, 4.5 hours from Atlanta, or an hour from Savannah, you’ll have plenty of great things to do with your kids on St. Simons Island.
From learning about the culture and history to adventuring into the great outdoors, a little St. Simons Island vacation is perfect for family travel. Book your stay at a Lighthouse Vacations vacation rental and get ready for an exciting trip.
