Planning a trip to St. Simons Island? One of the best parts of visiting this charming coastal destination is how easy it is to explore. Whether you prefer biking beneath live oaks, cruising in a golf cart, or driving between beaches and historic sites, there are plenty of convenient ways to get around.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about transportation on St. Simons Island so you can make the most of your time.
Getting to St. Simons Island
Most visitors arrive by car or fly into a nearby airport and rent a vehicle.
The closest airport is Brunswick Golden Isles Airport, located just about 20 minutes from the island. From there, you can easily pick up a rental car from Hertz or Avis for a quick and seamless transfer to your accommodations.
If you’re flying into larger airports like Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport or Jacksonville International Airport, renting a car is still a great option. Both airports are about 1 to 1.5 hours away and offer a wider range of rental providers.
Having a car is especially helpful if you plan to explore beyond St. Simons Island, including nearby Jekyll Island or the historic port city of Brunswick.
Driving on the Island
Driving around St. Simons Island is simple and stress-free. The island is relatively small, and most attractions—from beaches to restaurants and shops—are within a short drive of each other. Parking is generally easy to find, especially near popular areas like the village and public beach access points.
Biking the Island’s Scenic Paths
One of the most popular (and enjoyable) ways to get around St. Simons Island is by bike. The island features over 30 miles of paved biking and walking paths that wind through maritime forests, coastal marshes, and charming neighborhoods.
Renting a bike allows you to explore at your own pace while soaking in the island’s natural beauty. Local rental shops like Electric Coast Bikes and Monkeywrench Bicycles offer a variety of options, including standard bikes, e-bikes, and accessories for families.
Biking is especially ideal for quick trips to the beach, exploring the iconic lighthouse area, or enjoying a leisurely ride under the island’s signature oak canopies.
Golf Cart Rentals for Easy Cruising
For a fun and flexible way to get around, consider renting a golf cart. It’s a favorite option for visitors who want the convenience of a car with a more relaxed, coastal feel.
Companies like Beachside Buggies SSI Rentals make it easy to rent street-legal golf carts for getting to the beach, dining out, or exploring the island with family and friends.
Golf carts are especially popular for short distances and can make parking even easier in busy areas.
Walking Around the Pier Village Area
If you’re staying near the St. Simons Island Pier village, walking is one of the best ways to explore. This central hub is home to shops, restaurants, the pier, and scenic ocean views—all within a compact, walkable area.
The island’s flat terrain and shaded sidewalks make walking pleasant year-round, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Rideshares, Taxis & Airport Transportation
Rideshare services like Uber are available on St. Simons Island, though wait times can vary depending on the season and time of day. They’re a convenient option for short trips or evenings out when you’d prefer not to drive.
For airport transfers or more reliable scheduled transportation, services like Edward Transportation offer private rides to and from nearby airports, including Savannah and Jacksonville. This can be a great option if you’re not planning to rent a car or want a more seamless travel experience.
Choosing the Best Way to Get Around
The best way to get around St. Simons Island depends on your travel style:
- For flexibility: Rent a car for easy access across the island and nearby destinations
- For a laid-back experience: Use a golf cart for short trips and beach days
- For outdoor exploration: Take advantage of the island’s extensive bike paths
- For convenience: Use rideshares or private transportation services when needed
Many visitors find that combining a few of these options—like renting bikes for daytime exploring and using a car for longer trips—offers the ideal balance.
Start Exploring St. Simons Island
Getting around St. Simons Island is part of the experience. Whether you’re biking beneath moss-draped oaks, cruising in a golf cart, or enjoying a scenic drive along the coast, each mode of transportation offers its own unique way to take in the island’s beauty.
With so many easy and enjoyable options, you’ll spend less time worrying about logistics—and more time soaking up everything this unforgettable coastal destination has to offer.
