Plan Your Trip to the Golden Isles

There isn’t just one “best” beach, each island offers something special! On St. Simons Island East Beach is a favorite for wide sandy shores, gentle waves, and beautiful sunrises. It’s perfect for swimming, biking along the shore, and spotting dolphins. Jekyll Island is home to the iconic Driftwood Beach, one of the most photographed shorelines in the country. For traditional beach days, Great Dunes Beach Park is ideal for families. Sea Island is known for its luxury resort and pristine private beaches, offers a serene and upscale coastal experience. If you’re looking for untouched, crowd-free shoreline, Little St. Simons Island offers seven miles of pristine, natural beaches accessible only by boat. It’s ideal for shelling, birdwatching, and peaceful walks where you may see more wildlife than people.

The best island for your family depends on the kind of vacation you’re looking for. The Golden Isles offers something for every age and interest. 

Jekyll Island 

Often considered the most family-friendly island, Jekyll is easy to navigate and packed with activities:

• 20+ miles of paved bike trails
• Hands-on learning at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center
• Splash time at Summer Waves Water Park
• Calm, spacious beaches with convenient parking

Great for families who want variety, affordability, and convenience.

St. Simons Island

St. Simons blends beach fun with history and Southern charm:

• Wide, welcoming beaches like East Beach
• Climb the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum
• Fish or stroll at the pier
• Family-friendly restaurants and ice cream shops

It’s ideal for families who want a lively yet relaxed atmosphere with plenty to explore.

Sea Island

For families seeking an upscale experience, Sea Island offers:

• Pristine private beaches
• Resort-style pools and kids’ programs
• Outdoor adventures, golf, and boating
• Exceptional service and amenities

Perfect for multi-generational trips or families celebrating something special.

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. 

There’s much more to explore on Jekyll Island than its beautiful shoreline. History lovers can wander the charming Jekyll Island Historic District, where America’s wealthiest families once built their winter cottages, or visit the nearby Horton House, one of Georgia’s oldest surviving tabby structures. Nature enthusiasts can bike more than 20 miles of scenic trails that wind through maritime forests and along salt marshes, kayak through peaceful waterways, or go birdwatching in protected habitats. The Georgia Sea Turtle Center offers an up-close look at sea turtle rehabilitation and coastal conservation, making it a meaningful stop for visitors of all ages. 

The Golden Isles are conveniently located along Georgia’s coast, just off I-95 between Savannah and Jacksonville, making them easy to reach by car from anywhere in the Southeast. Travelers driving in will cross scenic marsh views and coastal waterways as they approach the islands. If flying, the closest airport is Brunswick Golden Isles Airport, which offers convenient connections through Atlanta. Larger nearby airports include Jacksonville International Airport, about an hour south, and Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, about an hour and a half north. Once you arrive on the mainland in Brunswick, both Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island are accessible by causeway, while Sea Island and Little St. Simons Island are reached by private access or boat. No matter how you travel, getting here is part of the coastal experience.