For more beach ideas in the area, see our post on the closest beaches to Atlanta. All articles belong to 365 Atlanta Family LLC, and all photos belong to us as well, unless otherwise noted. Many artists find inspiration in the area's sun-drenched beaches, tidal marshes and spectacular moss-draped Live Oaks. St. Simons Island is home to three popular public beaches: East Beach, Massengale Beach and Gould's Inlet. Although they have totally renovated the entire facility, the old Sea Gate Inn holds a special place in my heart because of those memories. Its large and elegant lawn can be rented for private events, such as meetings, parties, and weddings. Now its a popular fishing spot and also hosts events such as the Georgia Sea Island Festival. Located directly on the intracoastal waterway, this United Methodist property is lush with towering oaks. By car, St. Simons Island is roughly four and a half hours away from Atlanta. The activities that you can choose from are educational tours, fly fishing, inshore and offshore fishing, and kayaking. Find events happening on St. Simons Island. Explore 11 Great Waterfalls (with Hikes) in Georgia, 10 Best Things to Do this Winter in Georgia, 10 Great Spots to Dine Outside this Winter, Top Places to Catch Georgia Sports with the Family, Southeast Georgia Health System Fitness Trail. All other marks belong to their respective owners. Its in a great location across from the lighthouse and beach, within walking distance of downtown and the St. Simons Island pier. There are no hotels or condos in this area of the Island. Absolutely % great. Choose between three championship courses at this private golf club on Retreat Road. Plan a getaway to experience Georgia's unique beach communities. Biking is a great way to explore St. Simons and get your exercise also. The pristine beaches on St. Simons Island are definitely worth the visit. See the differences between multiple units in the same complex and find the best rates. Thanks to over 30 miles of well-made bike paths, youll enjoy a smooth ride as you bike from one place to another. Golf fans flock to the island forThe RSM Classic, which joined the PGA Tour in 2010. Explore the full menu here. If youd rather, search for the painted rocks on the island. to your collection. The Lady Jane offers shrimping excursions. There are an intimate 34 rooms, as well as a small saltwater pool. June 7, 2023. 15. Visitors may choose to travel via I-95 or US-17. Brogens: This is my husbands favorite. They offer your standard Holiday Inn extras, a pool, and those amazing cinnamon buns at breakfast. Drive through the double row of 190-year-old lives oak trees at Avenue of the Oaks en route to see the Fort Frederica . Cookies are used for measurement, ads, and optimization. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sea Palms Resort, Also See:Fun Things to Do in Macon, GAActivities in Helen, 115 Mallery StSt Simons Island, GA 31522(912) 638-3333. 19 Best & Fun Things To Do In St Simons Island (GA) From beautiful historical sites to family-friendly attractions, incredible dining and nightlife to unbeatable scenery and year-round warm weather, St. Simons Island truly has something for everyone. St. Simons weather is mild with highs in the 80s and lows in the 40s, making it a great year round destination. Eventbrite - DNB South Events presents St Simons Island Scavenger Hunt For Couples - SHOW LOVE (Date Night!) Apply online instantly. You can also relax and sunbathe on the shore, go shelling, and even play in the waves with your dogs. There are plenty of good restaurants nearby. East Beach is where most St. Simons Island rentals are located. In some places like East Beach, you still have beach even at high tide. The flora around the pea stone pathways was well manicured and we loved the huge cross on the grounds. This home was perfect for the 5 couples to spread out and enjoy. The home was beautiful, very clean, well maintained with high end amenities. St. Simons Trolley Island Tours will condense the entire history of St Simons in an hour and a half. It was an unexpected find and a great source of information we did not know. Beautiful location and friendly staff! They are buried almost directly behind the church. St. Simons Island is home to Fort Frederica National . The rooms are larger than normal hotel rooms and the appointments are pure luxury. There are more than 20 miles of paved bike paths on St. Simons, many of which will take you around to different beloved restaurants, attractionsand historic sites. $10 for non-members. There are lots of tee options for any level. This is a functional lighthouse that serves a very critical need for coastal navigation, and displays in the. 11 Kid-friendly, Family Fun Activities - St. Simons Island.com The club includes multiple pools, a splash pad, beach volleyball, playground, restaurants, candy shop and ice cream parlor, all along the beach. The Best Things to Do In St Simons Island - Coastal Wandering The Georgia Sea Island Singers perform and have been a highlight since 1977. Fill your St. Simons Island vacation with adventures on and off the water, from paddleboarding to climbing the stairs to the top of the historic lighthouse. Sea Island Golf Courses: There are three Sea Island golf courses, as well as a nationally-renowned training center that will have your game in shape in no time. 10 Things To Do In St. Simons Island, Including Visiting Its Underrated Weve pulled up pufferfish, huge sting rays, and even a few shrimp. Official website of the Georgia Department of Economic Development 2023. The location was wonderful with a short walk to the beach. Join us Sunday, April 9 for our Easter Sunday Brunch Buffet. It has a notable history as one of the oldest churches in Georgia and was founded nearly 70 years after the island was first settled by English colonists. There are a lot of awesome things one can do in Georgia.The town of St. Simons Island is not the typical seaside resort community. 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The Golden Isles Welcome Center has a map that shows you where to see them. Saint Simons Island Beaches Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, dogs are prohibited on the beach from 9am-6pm except between Beach Access Points 1-6. Travel to the northernmost end of St Simons Island to visit this marine facility on the Hampton River. Rent a bike for the day and explore the many bike trails on St. Simons. Prior to 365 Atlanta Traveler, Sue published an award winning family travel blog called Field Trips with Sue for eight years, and produced a TV segment with the same name on CBS Better Mornings Atlanta. I got to the light house later than I wanted. Looking for a day out with the whole family? The man that spoke with us was so informative and we enjoyed learning and listening to him and the history. Here are some of our favorite activities, as well as a few others that are popular on St. Simons Island, Ga. Bikes are a must on our St. Simons beach vacation. St. simons island guide - the official website of st. simons island and My son didnt want to get out of the tub, perhaps it was the TV hanging above it. You should arrive early to secure a decent spot. They knew the island long before cars crowded the roads. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in March. The Village Inn & Pub is located on Mallery Street in the historic downtown village. Get a Treat at One of St. Simons Local Sweet Shops. A Perfect Day: What to Do on St. Simons Island, 5 Sites to Experience Eugenia Price's Golden Isles, A Nature-Lover's Itinerary: Jekyll Island Activities, A Luxury Three-Day Weekend in the Golden Isles, How to Maximize Your Trip as a Solo Traveler, biking the St. Simons Island Trail System, top five favorite things to do on St. Simons Island. The site is slated with historical significance and events that shaped colonial life. On the site ofChrist Church Frederica, John Wesley of England helped found the Methodist church. 124 Pine Valley, St. Simons Island, St Simons Island Club | Georgia 10:30 AM. You can definitely spend more than a couple of hours on each island and have enough to occupy yourself, but here are some suggestions for must-stop places if you're just enjoying a day on St. Simons and Jekyll Island. The Seaside One Course: The Seaside Course is one of the most beautiful courses youll ever play. Kids loved going into the shed and just getting some fishing gear to try. You should also visit the Golf Performance Center to train with world-renowned golf instructors. They are only open 3 days a week. Heres why. 20 Best Things to Do in St. Simons Island, GA - Travel Lens Stay at The Lodge on site to combine training with a golf package. Whatever you need, the Cloister does it beautifully. This local rental company has tents, chairs, beach games and more, and will even set it all up for you! 10 Things To Do On St. Simons Island - Southern Hospitality If you dont hit the ball overly straight bring some extra balls. Visitors and residents alike enjoy cooling down and engaging in a little outdoor recreation atNeptune Parkand itsFun Zone water park, which includes a public pool, miniature golf, and a fishing pier. With tons of things to do, beautiful beaches and lots of history, it's also a great Georgia Coast road trip stop. Truth be told, Im ready to branch out a bit more and try something new, but the kids wont have it. Recommended scavenger hunt starting point or other city spot of your choice! This beautiful church is nestled amongst live oak trees on the scenic north end of the island. Despite its old age, the building you see today is not the first church built on the property. The Lodge at Sea Island is another Sea Island property that is actually located on St. Simons Island and geared toward golfers. Challenge yourself to finish this 18-hole course while enjoying spectacular views of island lagoons and salt marshes. In addition to that, it has five pools (including a main pool that overlooks the ocean), tennis courts, bike rentals, and you can walk to some of my favorite restaurants. Your kids will enjoy the playground, but not as much as the beach right in front of the park. Grab aGolden Isles Visitors Guideor check out ourSt. Simons Island mapand tour on your own by car, or rent a bike andcruise the islands extensive bike paths. Well worth the stop and even found a geocache not far off the trails. Wine choice and take away food are gr." more. Considering the three key benefits of golfing, you shouldn't plan a trip without updating your travel list to include a golfing attraction. Romantic Things to Do In St. Simons Island: Say Cheers with a Local Cocktail. While exploring these important sites are among the best things do in St Simons Island, it is also known for its spectacular nature with around half of it being covered in pristine marshes and woodlands. During allowable times and in non-summer months, dogs may be unleashed on the beach as long as they remain under the immediate control of the handler. Enjoy the complete boating experience when you dock your boat at this harbor on Marina Drive. St Simons Island: Fun And Luxury On A Budget - 2TravelDads Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites By Hilton St. Simons Island, 150 Frederica Stables DriveSt Simons Island, GA 31522(912) 434-4760. We make no guarantees of any price listed on our site. If youd like to stay more than a few days, or dont want to stay at one of the St. Simons Island resorts, you may want to consider one of the many St. Simons Island rental properties. The Sea Palms Golf Course: The Sea Palms Golf Course is the best value on the island. Your complete guide to places to stay, where to eat and things to do with your dog on St. Simons Island, Explore 11 Great Waterfalls (with Hikes) in Georgia, 10 Best Things to Do this Winter in Georgia, 10 Great Spots to Dine Outside this Winter, Top Places to Catch Georgia Sports with the Family. Said to be haunted by the ghost of the light keeper Frederick Osborne who was killed in a duel by his assistant in 1880, this lighthouse is a fun tour for all ages. 12 Fun Things to do in St Simons Island, Georgia - touropia.com I think it would be nice to visit October or after. It has one of the best junior ranger programs Ive ever seen. St. Simons Literary Guild. (They are closed on Easter and Christmas.). 10 Things To Do In St. Simons Island, Including Visiting Its Underrated Educational placards throughout the area and street signs provide further information about the inhabitants. Find events happening on St. Simons Island. This hotel is located in the interior of St. Simons and recently came under the Best Western flag as a Best Western Plus. 599 Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island, GA, 31522. per night. My boys had the.best.time. We have reviews of the best places to see in Saint Simons Island. The building is where the Island Players Theater offers live plays. This is the second oldest Episcopal Church in Georgia and the third oldest in the nation. She says they have different types of accommodations from motel-style rooms to nicer hotel rooms comparable to a Holiday Inn. Its an award-winning BBQ that you wont want to miss! Ocean Inn and Suites. Climb the 129 stairs to the top for a great view of Saint Simons Island, Ga., as well as Jekyll Island and Brunswick, the mainland town. The island is a treasure trove of outdoor activities, but when the weather is wet and gloomy, nothing beats a peaceful contemplation here. Neptune Park is located in the Historic Village downtown very close to the St. Simons Island Lighthouse and the St. Simons Pier. Ocean Blvd./Beachview Drive has the most St. Simons Island vacation rentals that are located on the beach, as well as a few of the hotels on St. Simons Island. St. Simons Island weather is warm year round, making it a great US vacation destination. Although Ive never stayed in the rooms, I have enjoyed the view from the rooftop bar. Learn more about our Georgia pet-friendly beaches. Its your standard Hampton Inn rooms, free buffet breakfast and swimming pool. Save some time for the gift shop, which is more of a local boutique than a museum store. Travel comfortably in their air-conditioned trolleys and listen to entertaining stories told by some of the funniest people on the island. Kayaking, fishing, biking, golfing, water sports, and camping are just a few of the things to do on St. Simons Island. The spirits have been carved into the majestic oaks that surround the island by local artist Keith Jennings. St. Simons Casino Building - Room 108. Georgia State Parks run the site and often have special hikes or other programming. They also do club fittings, as well as lessons. 13. Take note of these establishments and visit them once the tour is over. Get a rock, paint it, hide it on the island. Experience St Simons Islands nature and history when you visit this park on Arthur J Moore Drive. The area is home to a variety of pet-friendly activities. Dine casually, relax at a wine bar, or bring the kids and enjoy live music. Its my husbands happy place, and my kids pretty much call it their second home. The largest barrier island in the Golden Isles, St. Simons Island lies across the immortalized Marshes of Glynn, made famous by poet Sidney Lanier. A compliment to Fort Frederica is a visit to the Bloody Marsh battle site, where a decisive battle ended forever the threat of Spanish invasion into what was then, a British colony, during the Battle of Bloody Marsh. Mar 16 - Mar 17. Our first stop this trip was historic Christ Church on St. Simons Island. Over our 20+ years visiting St. Simons, we have some places that stay on our must-do list. The beach is long and wide with plenty of room for running off leash. Enjoy all of these while being close to all the cool attractions in St Simons Island. Its located on the southeast corner of Georgia, with easy Interstate access via I-95. St. Simons Island Things to Do On Your Vacation The hard-packed sand on St. Simons Island is perfect . In 2015, the hotel was renovated. If you want to check out the St. Simons Island social scene, Pier Village is the place to go. St. Simons Island Fun Facts. Tour the St. Simons Lighthouse. One boy heading his soccer ball, one kicking it along, the other carrying it, running to catch up to play the next hole. Things to do with Kids on St. Simons Island - St. SiMoms Jekyll Island is experiencing a revitalization that is bringing what was once 1950s-era amenities into modern times. Posts may contain affiliate links at no cost to you. You can get toy wooden guys in the museum to take into the fort and play. Borrow a bike from one of the shops around town, like Ocean Motion Surf Company,or bring your own. 9. St Simons Island Things To Do (For 2023) - Lighthouse Vacations Kayaking is one of the best ways to get out on the water in the Golden Isles! Golf: St. Simons Island is famous for its world-class golf with some spectacular courses that golf lovers can't miss. In addition to standard rooms with balconies, they also have three and four-bedroom suites with full kitchens, perfect for families. A Perfect Day: What to Do on St. Simons Island, 5 Sites to Experience Eugenia Price's Golden Isles, A Nature-Lover's Itinerary: Jekyll Island Activities, A Luxury Three-Day Weekend in the Golden Isles, How to Maximize Your Trip as a Solo Traveler, Find your favorite restaurant on St. Simons Island. Visit here when the tide is low to catch the best feature of the beach. St. Simons Island is the largest barrier island in the Golden Isles, located along the coast of Georgia across from the Marshes of Glynn. One of the romantic things to do in St Simons Island for couples is to stroll through this laid-back beach on 1st Street. You'll also findexceptional restaurantsthroughout the island that will give you a true taste of St. Simons. Check their events calendar before you visit to see if something is happening when youre in the area. Book these experiences for a close-up look at Saint Simons Island. Things to Do in Saint Simons Island - Tripadvisor But after your trail ride, youll realize that the experience is worth more than what you paid for. Access to the beach is this hotels strength. Where do the locals eat on St. Simons Island? If you like history, or have little ones who like to play Army, take a short drive to Darien Georgia and Fort King George. The newly openedWorld War II Home Front Museumfocuses on the islands history as the site of a Coast Guard Station during World War II. The Sea Island Beach Club has several pools, access to the beach, dining and a candy and ice cream shop. With so many things to do on St. Simons Island, it could be difficult figuring out where to start. Things to Do in Saint Simons Island - Tripadvisor St. Simons Island: Really great place, very safe area - See 672 traveller reviews, 305 candid photos, and great deals for Saint Simons Island, GA, at Tripadvisor. My wife and I recently got married at Epworth By the Sea, and we could not have had a better wedding day. Hang Out at Pier Village. It is located on the ocean, but there really isnt a beach area. St. Simons Island and the surrounding areas of Brunswick and Jekyll Island are home to a variety of scenic and challenging golf courses. Kathleen is a certified Georgia Master Naturalist. at 124 Pine Valley St Simons Island Club in St. Simons Island | 4 Beds, Residential, $1,495,000, MLS# 1638704 | Search https://www.gacoastrealty.com for the best deals on St. Simons Island Real Estate. Or take the whole family on a treasure hunt to search for the famousSt. Simons Island tree spirits! St. Simons Island, GA | Attractions, Events & Restaurants Established in 2016. (Just look at the stained glass!) Visit us at dineatsago.com to view the Easter Brunch menu and make reservations. We found one in a tree while visiting the St. Simons Lighthouse. With three kids, its tough to afford to do everything with everyone, so one year I let each child pick a fun excursion that we might not be able to afford for everyone. 1 TOP THINGS TO DO. St Simons Island restaurants you have to try. The iconicAvenue of the Oaksthat marks the entrance to the Sea Island Golf Club is one of the most beautiful landmarks on the island. Adjacent to the playground is an outdoor pool with zero entry for little ones and a water tower structure that sprays and dumps water on kids. Established in 2019. Rich's Production Associate II- Day 12 hour Shift in Saint Simons Although this place is a famous fishing spot, you dont have to be an angler to have a wonderful time. They are faces carved on the towns famous oak trees by a father and son duo. And the fried shrimp is good too. My husband loved the cooler full of Bud Light available anytime. St. Simons Island also hosts unforgettable events and is home to a variety of arenas for outdoor adventure,with plenty ofthings to do likekayaking, fishing, biking, and tours. St. Simons Island offersa variety of dining optionsfrom fine dining to casual outdoor fare. See St. Simons' Laid-Back Lifestyle Live! The St. Simons Island Tree Spirits are one of my favorite things about this island! 2. Visit St. Simons Island: 2023 Travel Guide for St. Simons Island According to my husband, even the driving range has an incredible view. From annual festivals to fishing competitions, there is always an event happening here. Grab a Bite to Eat at a Family-Friendly Restaurant. Reservations are required and space is limited. The King And Prince Golf Course. (Yes, falconry! Known for its wide beaches, historic sites, charming shops and restaurants, golf courses and picture-perfect scenery, St. Simons Island is a popular place to get away, offering plenty of things to do for the whole family, as well as quiet places to explore on the Georgia coast.Here are just a few of the popular things to do on St. Simons Island. Riding bikes is one of the best things to do in St Simons Island with . I didnt want to get out of the bed. Reader Karin Hancock says she always stays at Epworth by the Sea. Pick up the Trolley under the big oak trees near the pier. So without further ado, heres my unofficial guide to a vacation on St. Simons Island, Ga., with a lot of input from the family. Things to Do in St. Simons Island, GA. 1. The Spanish were thwarted and the garrison disbanded, but it remains an archaeological site today, protected by the National Park Service. Find Vacation Rentals, Condos, and Resorts in St. Simons Island, Georgia, USA. A popularSt. Simons Island beach with many access points and amenities likeplaygrounds, public restrooms, and shaded picnic areas is East Beach. Several of our trips are also compensated by the respective tourism boards for the city or state we are visiting. This pier at the end of Mallery Street is a local favorite spot for fishing and crabbing. Those lightsthey were fireflies. St. Simons Lighthouse Museum. If youre a nature lover, explore the parks 24 acres of green space. Aside from being picturesque, the islands mesmerizing beaches are also a top fishing destination. Every.One.Of.Them. There are always serious fishermen around and its just fun to walk along the pier and see what everyone else has caught. "St. Simons island craft beer and growler bar. This seaside park is perfect for picnics under the giant live oaks. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Read along for things to do in St Simons Island. St Simons Island is a beach town, one of the Golden Isles, located on the Atlantic Coast of Georgia just north of Florida. 2. Its been newly renovated, so if you are an IHG Rewards Club member vs. a Hilton Rewards (Hampton Inn) member, stay here. A few of the best items on the menu are the Braised Short Rib Goat Cheese Ravioli and the Chicken Piccata. Best Dentists in St. Simons Island, GA - Dentists Reviews & Ratings You cant visit St. Simons without visiting Southern Soul. The original Priest Dodge and his wife Annas story and life are remarkably humbling. Very fun to find and see the different areas, Beautiful Wedding and Reception at Epworth. The fort was established in 1736 by James Oglethorpe. There are also some incredible marsh views and if you are lucky you might see a bald eagle or two. St. Simons Island Pier is one of our recommended downtown spots to visit. St Simons is only 18 sq miles in size but gets around 1.5 million visitors per year and with good reason. The beach and pier are also only a few steps away. We always bring a golf ball to toss back and forth and see if we can make it into a hole weve dug in the sand. Sea Palms also has foot golf, a family friendly way to experience the course using a soccer ball and your foot instead of a club and ball. Check their schedule to see if you can play during your visit. Aside from historical locations, they also point out the best restaurants and shops in the area. Bring your four-legged friends along on your trip to St. Simons Island. Sue believes anytime is a good time for dessert and there are no bad field trips, just better stories. St. Simons Island is also home to a variety of outdoor adventures, with plenty of things to do like kayaking, fishing, biking, and tours. The islands villages offer a charming and unique selection of shops,breathtaking beaches, fascinatingmuseums,andchallenging golf courses. From a challenging classic course to a re-invented historic green, youll golf like the pros here. The Gullah Geechee are decedentsof the African slaves that worked the cotton and rice plantations along the coast. You'll also find exceptional restaurants throughout the island that will give you a true taste of St. Simons. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. Go On a Bike Ride. Its about equal distance to fly commercial into Savannah, Ga., or Jacksonville, Fl. Visit the Farm at Oatland North. Here are our favorite ways to experience the St. Simons Island Pier Village. The oak-lined area's first church was built in 1820but was damaged during the Civil War. It continues to be a navigational aid to incoming ships. Exciting Things to do in St Simons Island [2023] ULTIMATE GUIDE A lighted, roofed(partially) concrete pier for fishing, crabbing and shrimping. Set in a large tract of land and surrounded by a historical graveyard, this church seems to rise out of the gardens in, This is a functional lighthouse that serves a very critical need for coastal navigation, and displays in the, From the cloaking canopy of live oaks to the majesty of the Atlantic seaside, from Pier Village to Fort Frederica, SSI. more. The Ocean Inn and Suites also has their own pool, and parking, which can be tough in this area. St. Simons Island is around 85 miles south of Savannah, only an hour to an hour-and-a-half by car. Find a vacation rental on Rent By . Interesting history and perfect location. St. Simons Island, Georgia is one of the most popular destinations in the southeastern United States and the largest of the Golden Isles. Experience first-class customer service and plenty of amenities at this full-service marina. Sandcastle Cafe and Grille:They have a great all you can eat breakfast buffet. St. Simons Island offers so many different lodging types youre sure to find something that suites you and your crew. Frequently Asked Questions about Saint Simons Island. Recently the same folks opened the Jekyll Ocean Club, the same great service by the sea. Aramark hiring Food Service Worker Epworth by the Sea in St Simons If you want to learn how to properly ride a horse, they have plenty of classes that you can sign up for. There is a lot to do on this small island. They have had a lot of rain, therefore, bugs were bad. Over the years, weve discovered a little bit about the island and I thought Id put what we know into this mega post. I think the reason we love it so much isSt. Simons isnt a contrived vacation destination, its a small town with a rich history and year-round residents who welcome visitors with great dining, good shopping, history, adventure, and the beach. Sign up for our newsletters, and let Explore Georgia provide inspiration for your next trip. Some of our favorite things to eat on the island? St. Simons Island on Georgia's Golden Isles is a picture-perfect vision of mossy oaks, winding roads, and warm, sandy beaches.