St. Simons Island

Serene & Sublime

The largest barrier island in the Golden Isles, St. Simons Island lies across the immortalized Marshes of Glynn, made famous by poet Sidney Lanier. Moss-draped oaks line the winding island streets, creating a picture-perfect image worthy of a Faulkner tale.

The island’s villages offer a charming and unique selection of shops, breathtaking St. Simons Island beaches, fascinating museums, and challenging golf courses. St. Simons Island also hosts unforgettable events and is home to a variety of arenas for outdoor adventure, with plenty of things to do like kayaking, fishing, biking, and tours.

AB Variation:

You'll also find exceptional restaurants on St. Simons Island that will give you a true taste of the island. A variety of accommodations—from friendly inns to luxurious resorts—round out the island’s warm welcome, giving it the claims to fame that have attracted vacationers and groups for generations.

Explore the variety of hotels and lodging options, discover places to stay on St. Simons Island, and view current specials and packages before booking your St. Simons Island getaway.

Centuries old live oak trees line what was once the entrance to a plantation on St. Simons Island, Georgia — The Avenue of the Oaks

A Perfect Day: St. Simons Island

Experience the charm of coastal living when you spend a day exploring the picturesque neighborhoods, quiet beaches and lively local restaurants on St. Simons Island. Visitors will find no shortage of exciting island activities, from riding beach cruisers and exploring charming historic sites to dining on fresh seafood. Plan a perfect day with…

The hard packed sands on St. Simons Island's East Beach makes it perfect for riding bikes.

A Day of Biking on St. Simons Island

Spend the day biking St. Simons Island and discover the island's top natural attractions!

St. Simons Island Pier

A visit to St. Simons Island would not be complete without a stroll along the beloved St. Simons Pier. Nestled in the heart of the Pier Village, this historic fishing pier continues to be a popular place to watch fishermen reel in their catch of the day, watch ships coming and going from the local waterways, and see spectacular sunsets. Just a quick walk along the shoreline and you'll come across another iconic St. Simons Island activity - the St. Simons Island Lighthouse.

Here are our favorite ways to experience the St. Simons Island Pier Village.

St. Simons Island Lighthouse

Come for the history and stay for the views. Climb 129 steps to the top of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse for stunning views of the St. Simons Sound. Discover little-known pieces of the island's history, and maybe even a ghost story or two.

Learn more about St. Simons Island's rich history.

Where to Eat on St. Simons Island

St. Simons Island offers a variety of dining options from fine dining to casual outdoor fare. Some of our favorite things to eat on the island? Fresh oysters, handmade pizza, award-winning barbecue, and locally-caught seafood—just to name a few. Dine casually, relax at a wine bar, or bring the kids and enjoy live music.

No matter what type of food you are looking for, St. Simons Island has a restaurant for it! Find your favorite restaurant on St. Simons Island.

Beaches on St. Simons Island

St. Simons Island is known for its magical beaches, perfect for both relaxation and adventure. A popular St. Simons Island beach with many access points and amenities like playgrounds, public restrooms, and shaded picnic areas is East Beach. When planning an upcoming beach day, make sure to take note of our tide chart for the best times to enjoy the ocean waves. For a real-time look at the shores, check out our beach webcams! The nearby Sea Island GA also offers private beach experiences.

Miles of sunny beaches are ideal for relaxing, wildlife watching, and biking on St. Simons Island, GA — Gould's Inlet, St. Simons Island

Dog-Friendly Beaches and Parks

Bring your four-legged friends along on your trip to St. Simons Island. The area is home to a variety of pet-friendly activities. Fido will love to play frisbee at Frederica Park's dog park, jump in the gentle waves at East Beach or explore the area's hiking trails. Other outdoor attractions, like Gould's Inlet, are also dog-friendly. Plus, the Golden Isles is packed with restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat with your pet in between adventures. With so many dog-friendly places to go, there's no need to part ways with your furry best friend!

Shopping on St. Simons Island

Find special trinkets and treasures at hundreds of boutiques, galleries, and shops on St. Simons Island. Meander along oak-lined sidewalks in Redfern Village, or pick out a new outfit at the Shops at Sea Island. Plan your visit around Crafts in the Village and bring home a handmade item from a local artisan.

Events on St. Simons Island

Many festivals and events are held on St. Simons Island throughout the year. Indulge in St. Simons Island food festivals like Firebox and the Red Hot Chili Cookoff. Honor St. Simons Island's history at the Georgia Sea Islands Festival and living history events at Fort Frederica. Visit during the summertime to experience Taps at Twilight and the Annual 4th of July Sunshine Festival on St. Simons Island. Find events happening on St. Simons Island.

St. Simons Island, Georgia - Things to Do, Beaches & Travel Tips

St. Simons Island, Georgia, is a scenic barrier island on the Georgia coast, where sandy beaches meet moss-draped oaks and tidal marshes. Visitors can explore historic lighthouses, stroll along charming village streets, or enjoy outdoor activities from kayaking to biking, all amid a relaxed coastal atmosphere.

What is St. Simons Island best known for?

St. Simons Island is best known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and charming coastal atmosphere. Visitors are drawn to its iconic lighthouse, scenic marshes, and moss-draped oak trees, as well as the island’s quaint village filled with shops and restaurants. With opportunities for biking, kayaking, fishing, and strolling along sandy shores, it is a place that combines natural beauty, history, and laid-back Southern charm in one picturesque setting.

What are the best things to do on St. Simons Island?

St. Simons Lighthouse and Museum – Explore the historic lighthouse and museum to learn about the island’s maritime history and enjoy panoramic views of the coast.
Beach time – Relax, swim, or sunbathe on the island’s sandy shores, including East Beach and Coast Guard Beach.
Fort Frederica National Monument – Visit the well-preserved ruins and learn about the colonial history and battles of early Georgia.
Biking and walking trails – Ride or stroll along scenic paths through oak-lined streets, marshes, and along the coastline.
Kayaking and paddleboarding – Explore tidal creeks, salt marshes, and waterways for a peaceful outdoor adventure.
Pier Village – Browse local shops, art galleries, and restaurants in this charming village near the waterfront.
Fishing and charter trips – Cast a line from the pier or book a charter for deep-sea or inshore fishing including options with On the Fly Outfitters, Anchor Excursions, and Lighthouse Fishing Charters.
Golfing – Play a round at one of the island’s scenic golf courses surrounded by marsh views and oak trees, including King & Prince Golf Club, Sea Palms, and Sea Island, all surrounded by marsh views and oak trees.
Nature tours and wildlife watching – Take guided tours to see dolphins, shorebirds, and other wildlife in their natural habitats.
Historic Christ Church Frederica – Visit this 18th-century church and its cemetery to explore the island’s rich colonial history.

Is St. Simons Island good for families / couples / outdoor lovers?

Families
St. Simons Island is ideal for families looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure. Kids can enjoy building sandcastles on the beaches, exploring the St. Simons Lighthouse and Museum, and visiting Fort Frederica to learn about history in a hands-on way. Biking, nature walks, and wildlife spotting provide safe, engaging outdoor activities for all ages.

Couples
Couples will find plenty of romantic spots on the island. Sunset strolls along the pier or beach, cozy waterfront dining in Pier Village, and quiet kayak trips through tidal creeks create intimate experiences. Historic sites and scenic trails offer charming backdrops for a peaceful, romantic getaway.

Outdoor Lovers
Outdoor enthusiasts will feel at home on St. Simons Island. The island offers extensive biking and walking trails, kayaking and paddleboarding through marshes, fishing from piers or charter boats with On the Fly Outfitters, and golfing at courses like King & Prince Golf Club, Sea Palms, and Sea Island. Birdwatching, dolphin tours, and guided nature excursions provide endless opportunities to connect with the island’s natural beauty.

How long should you stay on St. Simons Island? Quick planning guidance.

For a well-rounded visit to St. Simons Island, 2 to 4 days is ideal. This gives enough time to relax on the beaches, explore historic sites like the lighthouse and Fort Frederica, enjoy outdoor activities such as biking, kayaking, or fishing, and stroll through Pier Village. A long weekend is perfect for a quick getaway, while 3–4 days allows a more leisurely pace to soak in the natural beauty, local culture, and coastal charm without feeling rushed.

St. Simons Island FAQ

Where is St. Simons Island?

St. Simons Island is the largest barrier island in the Golden Isles, located along the coast of Georgia across from the Marshes of Glynn. St. Simons Island is located between Savannah, GA and Jacksonville, FL.

How big is St. Simons Island?

St. Simons Island is around 18 square miles in size.

How far is St. Simons Island from Savannah?

St. Simons Island is around 85 miles south of Savannah, only an hour to an hour-and-a-half by car. Visitors may choose to travel via I-95 or US-17. St. Simons Island is a perfect day trip to or from Savannah.

What should I do on St. Simons Island?

There are plenty of things to do on St. Simons Island! St. Simons Island is home to an abundance of beaches, historical sites, activities and tours that will keep you busy and fill your visit with adventure.

Where can I kayak on St. Simons Island?

Kayaking is one of the best ways to get out on the water in the Golden Isles! There are plenty of beautiful spots to kayak, whether you want to choose your own path or take a guided tour.

Where do the locals eat on St. Simons Island?

There's no shortage of tasty restaurants on St. Simons Island. A few favorites among locals are Palmer's Village Café for breakfast and lunch, and Georgia Sea Grill or Porch for dinner.

Is St. Simons Island pet-friendly?

Yes! There are plenty of pet friendly beaches, restaurants, and activities for you and your furry friend to enjoy!

Where should I stay on St. Simons Island?

Whether you're looking for a beachfront hotel, a vacation rental, or a bed and breakfast, St. Simons Island has many hotel options for you to choose from!

How far is St. Simons Island from Jekyll Island?

St. Simons Island is around 14 miles from Jekyll Island, just about a 20-30 minute drive. Read more about accessing Jekyll Island.

How far is St. Simons Island from Atlanta?

St. Simons Island is around 312 miles from Atlanta. By car, St. Simons Island is roughly four and a half hours away from Atlanta. Direct daily flights (less than 40 minutes long!) are also available from ATL to BQK. Learn more.

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit St. Simons Island is spring (March–May) and fall (September–November), when mild temperatures, lower humidity, and fewer crowds make it comfortable for beach days and outdoor activities. Summer offers warm ocean water and a lively atmosphere but comes with higher heat and more visitors, while winter provides a quieter experience with cooler weather and a relaxed coastal feel.

Is St. Simons Island walkable?

Yes, St. Simons Island is quite walkable, especially around the village areas, beaches, and the Pier Village. Many attractions, shops, and restaurants are close together, and scenic paths along the coast and through neighborhoods make strolling or biking an easy and enjoyable way to explore the island.

How do you get there?

St. Simons Island is accessible by car via Highway 17 from nearby cities like Savannah, Georgia, or Jacksonville, Florida. The nearest major airport is in Jacksonville, about 90 miles away, with smaller regional flights into Brunswick Golden Isles Airport just 15 minutes from the island. Once on the island, most sights, beaches, and villages are easy to reach by car, bike, or on foot.

Golden Isles FAQ

How do I get to the Golden Isles?

The Golden Isles is accessible by plane or car. Learn more about how to get here and request a free Golden Isles Visitor Guide to begin planning your trip.

Is St. Simons Island good for a weekend trip?

Absolutely! St. Simons Island is perfect for a long weekend getaway.

In just a couple of days you can:

Climb the historic St. Simons Lighthouse Museum
Stroll Pier Village for shopping and dining
Bike beneath moss-draped oak trees
Play a round at one of the island’s renowned golf courses
Enjoy fresh coastal cuisine with waterfront views
Enjoy days on the beach

It blends charm, history, and laid-back coastal beauty.

What is the best time of year to visit the Golden Isles?

The best time to visit the Golden Isles, including Jekyll Island, St. Simons Island, Sea Island, and Little St. Simons Island, is during spring from March to May and fall from September to November. Spring has mild temperatures and blooming scenery, while fall offers warm water and fewer crowds. Summer is popular but hot and humid, and winter is quieter but cooler for swimming.

Is Jekyll Island or St. Simons Island better for families?

Jekyll Island is usually better for families with younger children because it is easy to get around and has attractions like the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, bike paths, and calm beaches.
St. Simons Island is better for families with older kids or mixed ages because it has more restaurants, shops, and historic sites such as the St. Simons Lighthouse.

What can you do in the Golden Isles in 3 days?

Day 1 on Jekyll Island can include biking the island loop, visiting Driftwood Beach, and stopping at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center.
Day 2 on St. Simons Island can include climbing the St. Simons Lighthouse, relaxing at the beach, and exploring the village pier area.
Day 3 can focus on nature and history with a visit to Fort Frederica National Monument, kayaking in the marsh, or taking a guided eco tour on Little St. Simons Island.

Are the Golden Isles good for outdoor recreation?

The Golden Isles are excellent for outdoor recreation. Popular activities include biking on Jekyll Island trails, kayaking through salt marshes, fishing, boating, dolphin tours, birdwatching, and relaxing on the beach. The area is known for its natural beauty and variety of outdoor experiences.

What are the best free things to do in the Golden Isles?

You can enjoy many free activities such as walking along Driftwood Beach, visiting the pier on St. Simons Island, exploring the grounds of Fort Frederica National Monument, watching sunsets over the marsh, and spending time in public village areas with shops and views.