St. Simons Island is a small, beautiful island located on the coast of Georgia, also known as the Golden Isles. While it is vastly known for the expansive beaches and rich culture, it is also a great place for kids for a tropical getaway. 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. Check out our favorite spots to visit even with young children.
Neptune Park Fun Zone
Neptune Park is a one-stop-shop for all-day fun. The park is equipped with a large waterpark and playground as well as putt putt. Enjoy the winding waterslides or splash around in the wading pool. No matter what you choose to do at the park, you can assure that the kids will have a great time and wear themselves out.
Location: 550 Beachview Drive St. Simons Island, GA 31522
Phone:(912)279-2836
Fishing Pier
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 pier. Enjoy a nice walk over the ocean or cast your net out and catch a few blue crabs.
Location: Mallery Street St. Simons Island, GA 31522
Tree Spirits of St. Simons Island
Spend an afternoon searching for the nine different tree spirits encased in trees throughout the island. If you hit a roadblock, head over to the welcome center where you will find a map showing where all nine are hidden. This scavenger like game is great for when the weather is a little less than perfect. Children of all ages will have a great time searching for different spirits.
Christ Church
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. Children can come by and learn about the history of the church, or attend a real service and see how the modern-day church works.
Location: 6329 Frederica Rd St. Simons Island, GA 31522
Phone: (912) 638-8683
St. Simons Lighthouse Museum
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 of rare artifacts, historical photographs, and interactives designed for the whole family. The development of lighthouse technology is also traced.
Location: 610 Beachview Dr, St Simons, GA 31522
Phone: (912) 634-7090
Fort Frederica National Monument
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 park embodies a historic victory yet beauty at the same time.
Location: 6515 Frederica Rd. St. Simons Island, GA 31522
Phone: (912) 638-3639
East Beach
East Beach is one of the more popular beaches in the area and it is perfect for families. Children can build a sandcastle or learn how to stand-up paddleboard. They can enjoy biking, hiking, kayaking, or even just 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.
Location: 4202 1st St, St Simons, GA 31522
Georgia Sea Turtle Center
Explore the lives of sea turtles and other native animals through daily education programs and gallery exhibits. Glimpse into the hospital where sea turtles are treated, see our turtle patients in the rehabilitation pavilion, and learn how our research is helping sea turtles in Georgia and throughout the world! The center will be the perfect way to spend a day exploring Jekyll Island and learning how to help save the sea turtles.
Location: 214 Stable Road, Corner Of Hopkins & Stable Rd. Jekyll Island, GA 31527
Phone: (912) 635-4444
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.
Explore Cumberland Island
Cumberland Island is a natural barrier island off of the Georgia coast. It is home to the Dungeness ruins. Enjoy the serene island, or catch up with the feral horses that run free along the beach. you can spend the day with your family doing fun things like hiking, biking, or even shelling.
Address: Marys Street St Marys, GA 31558
Tour Fort King George
Located 15 miles north of Brunswick, Fort King George is a reconstructed British fort and old sawmill ruins that offer the perfect stop for history buffs and kids. You can tour the plantation house, learn about life on rice plantations, or even have a picnic.
Address: 302 McIntosh Rd, Darien, GA 31305
There are many things to do while exploring the golden isles of Georgia. From learning about the culture and history to adventuring into the great outdoors, a little St. Simons Island vacation is perfect for family travel. For a day without kids, look into a nice game of golf on the many golf courses, or a trolley tour, the lighthouse trolley tour is our favorite. Shop until you drop at pier village or wander into sea island. No matter what you decide to do you will not be disappointed.
