The Ultimate Golden Isles Family Vacation Itinerary

Looking for the ultimate family-friendly getaway on Georgia's coast? The Golden Isles offers the perfect mix of beaches, wildlife, outdoor adventures, hands-on experiences, and family attractions. From exploring St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island to a memorable day trip to Little St. Simons Island, this four-day itinerary is packed with unforgettable things to do with kids in the Golden Isles.

Where to Stay

Choose accommodations that put your family close to the area's top attractions:

• The historic King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort on St. Simons Island

• The Inn by Sea Island, offering family-friendly amenities and easy island access

• A spacious vacation rental through Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals

• A beach house or condo from Lilmar Vacation Rentals for larger families

Day 1: Explore St. Simons Island

Morning: St. Simons Pier Village & Lighthouse District

Start your Golden Isles family vacation at the St. Simons Island Pier and Pier Village. Watch fishermen cast their lines, enjoy views of St. Simons Sound, and let kids burn off energy in Neptune Park.

Don't miss:

• St. Simons Island Pier

• Neptune Park playground

• St. Simons Lighthouse Museum

• Shopping throughout Pier Village

• Hunting for the St. Simons Island Tree Spirits

Grab a sweet treat from St. Simons Sweets before continuing your adventure.

Lunch

Choose from family favorites such as:

• CJ's Italian Restaurant

• Mellow Mushroom

• Iguanas Seafood Restaurant

Afternoon: Choose Your Adventure

Depending on your family's interests:

For Nature Lovers

• Guided kayak tour with Southeast Adventure Outfitters

• Family fishing charter with On the Fly Outfitters

• Lighthouse Fishing Charters excursion

• Lighthouse Dolphin and Boat Tours

For Animal Lovers

• Lady Jane Shrimping Excursion, where kids can learn about local marine life and help sort the day's catch

• Horseback Riding on the Beach with The Stables at Frederica

Evening

End the day with ice cream from:

• Moo Cow Ice Cream

• Fuse Frozen Yogurt

Watch the sunset from the pier before returning to your hotel or vacation rental.

Day 2: Little St. Simons Island Adventure

Morning Ferry to Little St. Simons Island

One of the most unique things to do with kids in the Golden Isles is a day trip to Little St. Simons Island.

Accessible only by boat, this private barrier island offers seven miles of undeveloped beaches, maritime forests, and salt marshes. Guided naturalists help families discover native wildlife and coastal ecosystems.

Activities may include:

• Beachcombing for shells and shark teeth

• Birdwatching

• Nature hikes

• Wildlife viewing

• Learning about sea turtles and coastal conservation

Kids love exploring a side of Georgia's coast that feels completely untouched.

Lunch

Enjoy lunch on the island before continuing your explorations.

Afternoon

Spend additional time hiking trails, spotting wildlife, and enjoying the pristine beach before returning to St. Simons Island.

Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed evening back on St. Simons Island with waterfront dining and family-friendly menus.

Day 3: Jekyll Island Family Fun

Morning: Georgia Sea Turtle Center

Begin your day at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, one of the most popular attractions for families visiting Jekyll Island.

Children can learn about sea turtle rehabilitation, conservation, and coastal wildlife through interactive exhibits.

Mid-Morning

Continue exploring Jekyll Island with:

• Jekyll Island Mini Golf

• Beach time along the island's shoreline

• Exploring the Historic District

Lunch

Enjoy beachfront dining at Tortuga Jack's with views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Afternoon

Depending on the season, choose from:

Summer

• Summer Waves Water Park

Year-Round

• Jekyll Island Boat Tours

• Dolphin-watching excursions

• Beach exploration

• Bike rides along Jekyll Island's trail system

Evening

Watch the sunset over the marshes before returning to your accommodations.

Day 4: Discover Brunswick

Morning: Historic Downtown Brunswick

Explore Georgia's charming port city with a guided ride through historic neighborhoods.

Options include:

• Brunswick Old Town Tours bike excursion

• Self-guided exploration of downtown Brunswick

Lunch

Enjoy one of Brunswick's local restaurants before continuing the day's adventures.

Afternoon Family Fun

Choose from:

• Brunswick Rocks climbing gym

• FlipZone Trampoline Park

Both provide excellent indoor entertainment for kids and teens.

Evening

If you're visiting on the first Friday of the month, don't miss Brunswick's First Friday celebration featuring live music, food vendors, family activities, local shopping, and community events. It's a fun way to experience local culture and wrap up your Golden Isles family vacation.

Why Families Love the Golden Isles

The Golden Isles combines outdoor adventure, wildlife encounters, educational experiences, beaches, and small-town charm in one destination. Whether you're kayaking through salt marshes, exploring the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, riding bikes through historic districts, or discovering the untouched beauty of Little St. Simons Island, there are endless things to do with kids in the Golden Isles.

From St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island to Brunswick and Little St. Simons Island, this family-friendly itinerary offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure for all ages.