FAQs

We've assembled answers to the most commonly asked questions and provided them here to help with your travel planning to the Golden Isles. If you have a question that isn't listed, please contact us and we'll do our very best to answer you promptly.

Planning your trip

Seasons, Climate & Dress

Where are the Golden Isles of Georgia?

The Golden Isles of Georgia include, St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island, and the port city of Brunswick. The area is situated on Georgia’s southeast Atlantic coast, approximately 75 miles south of Savannah, GA, 65 miles north of Jacksonville, FL and 280 miles southeast of Atlanta, GA. View area maps, island access information, and our tips for getting here to help you plan your escape.

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What airlines fly into the Golden Isles?

ExpressJet/The Delta Connection, offers daily round-trip regional jet service between Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK)Click here for more information on flying to the Golden Isles.

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Is there a toll to get onto any of the islands?

Jekyll Island charges a fee per vehicle, per entry, per day. Multi-day passes and an annual park decal are available for your convenience. Bicycles and pedestrians can enter at NO charge.
Access to Sea Island is limited to resort guests and club members.
Little St. Simons Island is only accessible to overnight and day-trip excursion guests.
St. Simons Island has no toll and is open to the public.

View additional parking and island access information.

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Do you have to take a ferry or boat to get onto the islands?

No, you do not have to take a ferry or boat to St. Simons Island, Sea Island, and Jekyll Island. You can drive onto each of the islands in the Golden Isles except Little St. Simons Island, which is accessible by their private boat from the Hampton River Marina for overnight and day-trip guests. Click here to read more about access to each of our islands.

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Are there beaches in Georgia's Golden Isles?

Yes, there are many beaches in Georgia's Golden Isles. Each of our four barrier islands have long stretches of beach to enjoy. Click here to find out more about Golden Isles' beaches.

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Are dogs allowed on the beach?

The short answer is yes.  But each beach is different; therefore it is recommended that you read the signage at each beach access point to confirm.  Some beaches only allow pets during certain seasons and specific hours during the day.

St. Simons Island: East Beach on St. Simons Island states: "Animals are prohibited on this beach from Memorial Day through Labor Day between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm.  From 6pm to 9am, dogs are allowed on the beach and do not need to be leashed, but must be in the owner's immediate control.”  From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, from 9am to 6pm, dogs are no longer allowed on the beach--with or without a leash.

Jekyll Island: Pets must be under immediate control of their owners and on a leash no longer than 16' at all times. No pets are allowed on South Beach between South Dunes Picnic Area and 2,000' northeast of St. Andrews Sound Picnic Area.

Most importantly, when your animal is allowed on the beach, if it leaves more than prints in the sand... please pick it up!  There are dog bag receptacles located at each beach access point that allows pets.  It is always a good idea to bring your own bags as well, just in case the receptacle is empty.

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Are there many pet-friendly businesses, places to stay and activities?

Yes. You can find any pet-friendly business, attraction, place to stay, and restaurant listed on this website by filtering you search results to show only "pet-friendly" options. Click here to find some pet-friendly things to do. 

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Do I need a fishing license?

The State of Georgia requires anyone who is interested in fishing during their visit to the Golden Isles to hold a valid fishing license. Fishing licenses can be purchased through the Department of Natural Resources. Licenses are available for both Georgia residents and nonresidents. Licenses can be purchased for minors (15 and under), adults (16-64) and seniors (65+). Annual or daily passes are available. Learn more here

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What should I pack or take on my vacation?

The Golden Isles is a coastal destination located along the Atlantic Ocean, so expect evening breezes and the occasional rain shower. Temperature ranges in the winter can be 42°F to 62°F and in the summer 74°F to 89°F, so dress for the season you are traveling. It is always recommended that you bring sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses and a hat or visor for the beach and outdoors. Click here to learn more about our local temperatures and weather.

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Does the Golden Isles have Electric Vehicle Charging Stations?

Yes, there are a variety of charging stations throughout the Golden Isles. Click here for more information about each charging location. 

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What is the average water temperature in the ocean?

The water temperature along coastal Georgia ranges from 55°F (12.8°C) in the winter months to 85°F (29.4°C) in the summer months according to the National Oceanographic Data Center.

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What is the weather like in the Golden Isles?

The Golden Isles enjoy a climate typical of a semi-tropical location. Click here to read more about our local climate.

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