Sometimes the best things in life are free! Not all travel experiences have to cost you, especially when visiting Georgia’s coast. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly activities or just hoping to experience as much of the Golden Isles as you can during your stay, there are plenty of free Golden Isles adventures that you and your travel group can enjoy. Read on to discover the top 6 free things to do on St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island and Brunswick.
1. Hunt for the St. Simons Tree Spirits
Embark on a magical treasure hunt to find the Tree Spirits of St. Simons Island! Use your device’s GPS to check in at each Tree Spirit and gather points that can later be redeemed for prizes at our St. Simons Welcome Center. You’ll be amazed by these mystical carvings of weathered faces located in live oaks across the island, and the hunt comes at no cost to you!
Start your hunt.
2. Go to the Beach
Everything is better at the beach! The Golden Isles is known for its sparkling beaches, ideal for activities like shelling, birding, and fishing. Visit the popular East Beach on St. Simons Island and spend the day relaxing in the sand and soaking up the sun. You’ll also find free parking at all St. Simons Island beaches. Who doesn’t love a good beach day? Also on your bucket list should be discovering Jekyll Island’s iconic Driftwood Beach, where you’ll be amazed by weathered trees left behind from years of erosion. Although visiting this beach is free, there is a daily toll to visit Jekyll Island.
Discover all the Golden Isles beaches.
3. Visit Historical Attractions
One of the best free activities in the Golden Isles is taking advantage of its robust history and visiting historical sites and attractions! You never know what you’ll learn as you uncover the tales of the past. Dive into the bygone era on St. Simons Island at the Bloody Marsh Battle Site where British troops defeated Spanish troops, and Fort Frederica National Monument which was once a thriving village of colonists in the 1740s. Venture to the Wanderer Memory Trail and uncover the story of America’s last known slave ship, the Wanderer, alongside the Jekyll River.
View a full Golden Isles history itinerary.
4. Go for a Hike
Hike more and worry less! Explore the incredible landscapes of the Golden Isles on your own two feet on miles of hiking trails. Cannon’s Point Preserve consists of 608 acres of beautiful maritime forest and scenic marshes open for public exploration, as well as middens on the site dating back to 2500 BCE. Blythe Island Regional Park in Brunswick is another hiking spot, with trails ranging from beginner to intermediate. The Jekyll Island Trail System is also made up of miles of paved trails where you can stop to admire wildlife and attractions as you explore the island.
Find all the hiking spots in the Golden Isles.
5. Attend a Local Event
Meet the friendly faces of Golden Isles locals at annual festivals and events. Foodies will love the annual Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival, which celebrates the south’s love for the iconic dish. The porches of Downtown Brunswick come alive with live music and performances at Brunswick Porchfest. Downtown Brunswick also hosts a monthly First Friday event with live music, shopping and dining. Sports lovers won’t want to miss Georgia Florida Weekend on St. Simons Island. Plan your Golden Isles getaway around an event that catches your eye!
Discover all upcoming events.
6. Watch the Sunset
Named the Golden Isles for a reason, the color gold prevails in the landscapes along Georgia’s coast, and there’s no better way to end a day of adventures than by watching a gorgeous golden sunset. Epworth by the Sea on St. Simons Island creates a stunning backdrop for the sunset, as does St. Andrews Beach on Jekyll Island, since it’s the only west-facing beach in the Golden Isles. Both Mary Ross Waterfront Park and the Brunswick Landing Marina also offer incredible sunset views. With so many incredible locations, you’ll have a hard time choosing where to admire the day's end!
Find more places to watch the sunset.
You don't have to spend a lot to have a great time in the Golden Isles! Begin planning your trip by requesting a free Golden Isles Visitor Guide.
