A 3-Day Guide to Beaches in the Golden Isles
Renowned for its picturesque beaches and charming atmosphere, the Golden Isles is a remarkable stretch of Georgia’s coast brimming with sandy shores and coastal activities. Each beach offers its own unique scenery, making island hopping a popular adventure among visitors who want to discover them all. Use this itinerary as your guide to three days exploring the best beaches of Georgia’s coast.
Day 1: Beaches on St. Simons Island
Spend your first day in the Golden Isles discovering the serene shores and coastal activities on St. Simons Island.
Morning: Gould’s Inlet
Located on the northeastern tip of St. Simons Island, Gould’s Inlet is a peaceful beach access point ideal for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Grab a quick breakfast on the go from Sandy Bottom Bagels and head to the beach for incredible sunrise views. Spend the rest of your morning unwinding and connecting with the great outdoors. Calm waters also make Gould’s Inlet a great spot for fishing, kayaking, or a leisurely stroll.
Afternoon: East Beach
Spend the afternoon exploring the expansive shores and inviting waters of East Beach, the perfect family-friendly destination to soak up some sun. From swimming and picnicking to sunbathing and paddleboarding, you’ll find this beach is a popular spot for water sports as well as recreational activities. Enjoy a memorable day by the sea as you take in the fresh sea breeze. When you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the nearby St. Simons Pier Village for dinner at Brogen’s South and cool down with a sweet treat from Fuse Frozen Yogurt. Be sure to walk out onto the beloved St. Simons Pier.
Day 2: Beaches on Jekyll Island
Your second day on Georgia’s coast can be spent exploring the tranquil waters and unique beauty of Jekyll Island located just a 30-minute drive away from St. Simons Island. Keep in mind that due to being a state park, there is a $10 gate access fee.
Morning: Driftwood Beach
Start your day off with some quick fuel or baked goods from The Pantry before heading to the northern end of the island to catch the sunrise on Driftwood Beach. This more than captivating destination is well known for its otherworldly landscapes made up of large, weathered driftwood trees that create an almost surreal scene. Its striking beauty makes it a great spot for photography, however the area is also home to a variety of wildlife species including birds and dolphins.
Afternoon: St. Andrews Beach
The perfect afternoon on Jekyll Island can be spent at St. Andrews Beach, a less crowded spot that’s great for those seeking peace and solitude. This section of the beach is also popular for birding and shelling, in addition to frequent dolphin sightings as they feed along the currents at Jekyll Point. At this location you’ll find a two-story wildlife viewing platform and the iconic Wanderer Memory Trail, which commemorates the history of one of the last known ships to bring enslaved Africans to the United States. Being the only west-facing beach on Jekyll Island, this beach also provides stunning sunset views. End the day with fresh seafood and rich Southern flavors at 24 Coastal Grill.
Day 3: Beaches on Little St. Simons Island
A getaway to the Golden Isles isn’t complete without a day trip to Little St. Simons Island to explore miles of undisturbed, private beaches.
Only accessible by boat, Little St. Simons Island is a secluded gem on Georgia’s coast boasting an unspoiled and natural environment. The island’s commitment to conservation ensures its natural beauty remains intact, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
Take a day trip to the island guided by a naturalist to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and experience untouched ecosystems. Visitors can expect to see a variety of sea turtles, bird species, and even dolphins in surrounding waters. The island’s miles of private beaches are also excellent for shell collecting, as the tide typically reveals a bounty of treasures. Each day trip also includes a freshly packed picnic lunch, made from fresh ingredients grown on their on-site garden. This truly unique destination guarantees a memorable and immersive coastal experience.
To learn more about beaches along Georgia’s coast, view our complete guide to beaches.