Here, while “nightlife” might include quite a few happy hours and late-night bites, it’s well rounded to include live music, ocean breezes, and even unique events – not quite what you’d expect from a quiet island town. But you do have to know where to find it! Explore our local tips on where to enjoy your evenings on into the night in the Golden Isles:
Happy Hours, Craft Brews & Cocktails
When it comes to nightlife, sometimes it’s best to stick to the tried and true – cocktails and craft brews (not to mention late-night dining!). Here are some of our favorite places for classic happy hours, craft brews and cocktails:
Brogen’s North
In a nutshell: If you’re looking for a classic Southern bar, Brogen’s North is your place! With a quieter location amidst the oaks up north on St. Simons and a slightly livelier location down south near Pier Village, you can’t go wrong with this classic.
Why it’s special: Brogen's has two great locations, one with an ocean view!
Dorothy's Cocktail & Oyster Bar
The upscale Dorothy’s Cocktail & Oyster Bar on St. Simons Island serves raw fresh seafood and another coastal cuisine alongside many other wonderful dishes. Dorothy’s has a large focus on craft cocktails, both original and classics. With great service, delicious seafood, and an enjoyable ambiance, this is a must-try spot for cocktail lovers.
Why it's special: A selection of dishes offered on the menu were inspired by the chef and his wife's travels to Southeast Asia, so here you will find cuisine unique to the Golden Isles.
1509 Brunswick
In a nutshell: In our opinion, 1509 is a must-try spot for dinner and drinks located in Downtown Brunswick. It’s the perfect nighttime destination for a cocktail, especially if you're looking for a more classy and formal ambiance.
Why it’s special: 1509 is Brunswick's only rooftop restaurant! Delight in incredible scenic views of the city's downtown as you enjoy your drink and chat with family or friends.
Tortuga Jack’s
In a nutshell: The only oceanfront restaurant and bar on Jekyll Island, Tortuga Jack’s offers a 3,000-square-foot tiki bar and deck from which to enjoy your late-night bites and brews, complete with gorgeous weather and ocean views as the sun goes down.
Why it’s special: Not only is this bar’s patio one of the only ways to enjoy Jekyll Island ocean views with a cocktail in hand, but it’s also pet-friendly, so you can enjoy our coastal nightlife without leaving your furry friend at home!
Harry's Lounge
In a nutshell: Located in The Westin on Jekyll Island, Harry's lounge is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day with a craft beer, a "Crafted at Westin" signature cocktail or a glass of wine. Casual yet refined, Harry's Lounge also serves a full dinner menu.
Why it's special: Enjoy views of the stunning Jekyll Island shoreline as you enjoy your meal or drink.
The Wharf
In a nutshell: Located on the Jekyll Island Historic District pier, this river-view beachy hangout is the best place to enjoy open-air dining (with Southern favorites such as peel & eat shrimp, hushpuppies, fried chicken & more) in an unmatched location over the water.
Why it’s special: The Wharf is the only on-the-water bar and restaurant to boast gorgeous views of the sunset on Jekyll – and it’s especially fun when there’s a live band playing!
Driftwood Bistro
In a nutshell: This locally owned restaurant has been serving the locals and visitors of Jekyll Island Southern cuisine and hand-crafted cocktails for 12 years! Its classic signature sides are old family recipes of the owners and staff, some favorites are the OG’s Fried Okra, Lynn’s Squash Casserole, and Augusta’s Bread Pudding!
Why it's special: Driftwood Bistro offers a full-service bar featuring cocktails, frozen drinks, and beers that you can enjoy with your made from scratch, Lowcountry meal.
