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.

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.

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.

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.