The largest barrier island in the Golden Isles, St. Simons Island lies across the immortalized Marshes of Glynn, made famous by poet Sidney Lanier. Moss-draped oaks line the winding island streets, creating a picture-perfect image worthy of a Faulkner tale. The island’s villages offer a charming and unique selection of shops, plus a variety of restaurants ranging from fine dining to casual outdoor fare.  Visitors and residents alike enjoy cooling down and engaging in a little outdoor recreation at Neptune Park and its Fun Zone, which includes a public pool, miniature golf and a fishing pier.

St. Simons Island is dotted with exceptional historic sites and attractions, from the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum—a working lighthouse built in 1872—to the Bloody Marsh Battle Site, where, in July 1742, British and Scottish soldiers protecting colonial Georgia defeated a larger Spanish force in a battle that helped end Spanish incursions outside Florida. Fort Frederica National Monument, which preserves archaeological remnants of the local British colony and its defense against Spain, and historic Christ Church, Frederica—one of the oldest churches in Georgia, with worship held continuously since 1736—are located on the island’s north end.  Toward the southern tip, the Maritime Center, in the restored U.S. Coast Guard Station, provides fascinating glimpses of the area’s natural evolution, while highlighting some of its maritime and military history.

Year round warm weather in the Golden Isles allows visitors to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, biking, golfing, or relaxing on East Beach. Visitors can tour the island’s historic sites on a variety of transportation options. Grab a Golden Isles Visitors Guide and tour on your own by car or rent a bike and cruise the island’s extensive bike paths. If you want to sit back and enjoy a more guided experience - try one of our tours.