One of the many popular outdoor activities in the Golden Isles is bike riding. Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island both have bike paths that line almost every major street. Beyond making it easy to explore without a car, these bike paths connect many of the islands’ most popular historic sites, restaurants, beaches, hotels and shops. You can even explore our many hard-packed beaches at low tide by bike to catch a glimpse of coastal wildlife and the ocean.
On St. Simons Island, over 30 miles of bike paths encircle the island including a scenic path recently constructed that connects St. Simons Island to Sea Island. For a longer less crowded ride begin near Christ Church, leading from Fort Frederica National Monument to the far north end of the island passing Frederica Park along the way. Bike mid-island, along Frederica Road to explore many shopping villages, enjoy views of Sea Palms Golf Course and stop for a bite to eat along the way. For a more leisurely ride, bike the south end of St. Simons Island through Pier Village to find our mystifying Tree Spirits, and along Ocean Boulevard to East Beach. No matter what paths you choose to bike, you are sure to see historic sites and wildlife around every bend.
On Jekyll Island, bike riders have about 25 miles of paved trails that allow for exploration of a broad range of scenery from beaches and maritime forests to the Historic Landmark District and many picnic areas that line the island. For a longer ride, the North Loop takes you along Capt. Wylly Road past the golf courses and continues through the Horton House Historic Site to the Clam Creek Picnic Area and scenic Driftwood Beach before returning along the ocean. For a shorter option, bike through the Historic District to explore the old millionaire’s club cottages, Jekyll Island Club Resort, shops on Pier Road, the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and the Jekyll Mosaic Museum. Each option offers enough sites for a full day of exploration.
We hope that on your next trip to the Golden Isles, you leave your vehicle at your accommodations or one of the many parking/picnic areas and enjoy island exploration by bicycle. If you don’t bring your own bike, you will find multiple bike rental companies such as bike the islands available for your convenience throughout the Golden Isles.