I will attest to its beauty. Several presidents have been to service there. There are also plenty of benches to sit at if you want to watch the waves crash on the shore. The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island is a rustic retreat with only 15 guest rooms and a maximum of 30 guests total. Take a walk on the beach after the Maritime Center visit, and climb up top too! The location was wonderful with a short walk to the beach. Visitors can tour the islands historic sites on a variety of transportation options, including the island's ever-popularguided trolley toursthrough the island. Discover your favorite attraction or activity on St. Simons Island! Continue reading below to discover the best things to do in St Simons Island, GA. 206 Marina DrSt Simons Island, GA 31522(912) 421-2501. Meet the Authors - Marie Bostwick & Karen White | St. Simons Island, GA St. Simons Island is around 85 miles south of Savannah, only an hour to an hour-and-a-half by car. Had a wonderful time, just before the hurricane. 2. My teens didn't have a problem going up and they loved the experience. Some of our favorite things to eat on the island? 10 Best Things to do in St Simons Island (Ultimate Guide) So without further ado, heres my unofficial guide to a vacation on St. Simons Island, Ga., with a lot of input from the family. If you dont hit the ball overly straight bring some extra balls. Board an authentic Georgia shrimp boat with an authentic crusty captain and trawl through the marshes to discovered the sea underneath. To further support this, the island is 12 miles long and nearly three miles wide - about the size of Manhattan Island in New York. 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. Find all of theSt. Simons Island Tree Spirits, which are a number of oak trees with whimsical faces carved into them. Inspiration flourishes with the island's creativity, history . This is a functional lighthouse that serves a very critical need for coastal navigation, and displays in the. When looking for hotels or rentals, you may find three different areas mentioned. St. Simons Island is also home to a variety of outdoor adventures, with plenty of things to do like kayaking, fishing, biking, and tours. Here are a few of the better St Simons Island hotels, and St Simons rentals. St. Simons Island is known for its magical beaches, perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Enjoy the complete boating experience when you dock your boat at this harbor on Marina Drive. Top 12 Things to Do on St. Simons Island With Kids If you drive to the northern end of St. Simons Island, make sure you get a peek at the 600-acre maritime forest open space. According to my husband, even the driving range has an incredible view. Pets are welcome too. Visiting the pier and talking with those fishing was a great afternoon treat. St. Simons weather is mild with highs in the 80s and lows in the 40s, making it a great year round destination. One of the romantic things to do in St Simons Island for couples is to stroll through this laid-back beach on 1st Street. 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. Whenplanning an upcoming beach day, make sure to take note of ourtide chart for the best times to enjoy the ocean waves. The reason? The course is inland but there are still a number of water hazards. A lighted, roofed(partially) concrete pier for fishing, crabbing and shrimping. Enjoy the incredible scenery and appreciate the islands rich history as you ride around St Simons Island in their open-air trolleys. 1.1 RELIVE HISTORY AT FORT FREDERICA. Thanks to over 30 miles of well-made bike paths, youll enjoy a smooth ride as you bike from one place to another. Artifacts have been found dating back to 2500 BCE as well as from a 19th century plantation. If you dont bring your own, rent them from Ocean Motion or MonkeyWrench Bicycles. Now its a popular fishing spot and also hosts events such as the Georgia Sea Island Festival. The pub is a favorite night time hang out for visitors, as well as guests of the Inn, and has a comfy living room feel. There is a lot to do on this small island. Dream Luxury Beach House with amazing oceanfront views and private pool If you drive to the northern end of St. Simons Island, make sure you get a peek at the 600-acre maritime forest open space, Cannon's Point Preserve! Although they have totally renovated the entire facility, the old Sea Gate Inn holds a special place in my heart because of those memories. The King And Prince Golf Course. 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. A few of the best items on the menu are the Braised Short Rib Goat Cheese Ravioli and the Chicken Piccata. They were carved in the 1980s by artist Keith Jennings, inspired by the mythology surrounding sailors lost at sea. It may be small, but it has everything you need for a fun day on the beach. Over our 20+ years visiting St. Simons, we have some places that stay on our must-do list. If youd rather stay on the beach, the Hampton Inn & Suites on nearby Jekyll Island is fairly new and its just a short walk through the maritime forest to the beach. There is also complimentary shuttle service, so its an inexpensive (relatively speaking) alternative to staying at the luxurious Cloister on Sea Island. 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. And if you're looking for even more beach fun, dive into our Complete Guide to Beaches for a full breakdown of every beach found here in the Golden Isles. When I first starting coming to St. Simons Island, my in-laws had a condo next to the Sea Gate Inn located on Beachview Drive. The Sea Island Cloister Beach Club is the place to be in the summer. Established in 2016. Find events happening on St. Simons Island. Things to Do in Saint Simons Island - Tripadvisor . What a unique way to see St. Simons Island! The Lady Jane Shrimp Boat is probably my favorite, favorite excursion on St. Simons Island. 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. Instead of staying in your car, ride a bike to take advantage of the islands fresh air and breathtaking scenery. If you forgot to pack a piece of equipment, take a quick trip to the on-site golf shop to get what you need. Read along for things to do in St Simons Island. The Best Things to Do In St Simons Island - Coastal Wandering Christ Church. Whats more, this establishment also does its part to preserve and protect the landscape and waterways of the island. TheCoastal Georgia Historical Societymanages the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum and the new World War II Homefront Museum in the Old Coast Guard station. St Simons Island Georgia Travel Guide - Find Rentals Beautiful Grand Hotel - Review of The King and Prince Beach & Golf Every.One.Of.Them. Aside from being picturesque, the islands mesmerizing beaches are also a top fishing destination. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Travel comfortably in their air-conditioned trolleys and listen to entertaining stories told by some of the funniest people on the island. If youd rather, search for the painted rocks on the island. 8. I got to the light house later than I wanted. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. 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. Read up on them before going. Many festivals and events are held on St. Simons Island throughout the year. St. Simons Island is home to one of only 5 operating lighthouses on the 100-mile Georgia coast! 1.4 MARVEL AT THE UNIQUE CARVINGS OF ST. SIMONS TREE SPIRITS. Things to Do on St. Simons Island - Golden Isles Golden Isles Olive Oil & Wine Bar. The Plantation Course may be little longer than Seaside, but there arent as many hazards. 10 Things To Do In St. Simons Island, Including Visiting Its Underrated This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. This home was perfect for the 5 couples to spread out and enjoy. 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. Now its managed by Sea Palms resort. The greens are large with lots of undulation and always fast. Between the playgrounds and all the pools and slides in the fun zone, your children wont get bored here. Said to be haunted by the ghost of the light keeper Frederick Osborne who was killed in a duel by his assistant in . 1.2 REVERE MARITIME HISTORY AT THE LIGHTHOUSE. This is a neighborhood community of homes. Kids loved going into the shed and just getting some fishing gear to try. St. Simons Island is a perfect day trip to or from Savannah. Browse the trip ideas and attractions below to find activities the whole family will love. If you go with Kingfisher PaddleVentures, youll learn a lot about the ecology of the area while youre having fun. The King and Prince Golf Course: The King and Prince course is a very nice course cut through the marsh on the Northside of the island. The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is not actually on St. Simon's Island. Follow along on what people find on the SSIRocks Facebook page. The clubs expertly made courses offer three different golfing experiences. When we were there, they had some people dressed up in period costumes to provide information about life back in the day when the fort was populated. 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. My teens were very impressed and interested in this and loved all the interactive exhibits they have. There are always serious fishermen around and its just fun to walk along the pier and see what everyone else has caught. Touring St. Simons by boat is always fun! Dont even ask. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in February. Come for the history and stay for the views. The site is slated with historical significance and events that shaped colonial life. THE SECRETS OF PROVIDENCE CANYON GEORGIAS LITTLE GRAND CANYON, AMAZEBALLS THINGS TO DO IN THOMASVILLE GA FOR AN ACTIVE GIRLS GETAWAY, 5+ WAYS TO PAUSE AND REFRESH AT ATLANTAS AMAZING WORLD OF COKE MUSEUM. Celebrate the Fourth of July with the annual St. Simons IslandSunshine Festivalat Pier Village. Read more about accessing Jekyll Island. St Simons Island Things To Do (For 2023) - Lighthouse Vacations WellSt. Rather, it's a short 20 minute drive to the neighboring Jekyll Island. 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. There's no shortage of tastyrestaurants on St. Simons Island. This beautiful church is nestled amongst live oak trees on the scenic north end of the island. The man that spoke with us was so informative and we enjoyed learning and listening to him and the history. Things to Do in St. Simons Island | Frommer's $139. There is a large labyrinth for a meditate and contemplation walk. OneMain Financial Consumer Loan Sales Specialist. Save some time for the gift shop, which is more of a local boutique than a museum store. The largest barrier island in the Golden Isles, St. Simons Island lies across the immortalized Marshes of Glynn, made famous by poet Sidney Lanier. Learn more. Tree spirits are some of the unique things to see in St Simons Island. Kayaking, fishing, biking, golfing, water sports, and camping are just a few of the things to do on St. Simons Island. Now the entire country knows what Ive known for more than 20 years St. Simons is the perfect mix of seaside fun and small town charm. Explore a Sandbar or Tide Pool. Truth be told, Im ready to branch out a bit more and try something new, but the kids wont have it. 8.4/5 (966 reviews) For history buffs, this park is the site of the Cassina Garden Club Slave Cabins, which are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Aramark hiring Food Service Worker Epworth by the Sea in St Simons The pristine beaches on St. Simons Island are definitely worth the visit. There are plenty of good restaurants nearby. Originally built in 1820 and restored in 1884. I think it would be nice to visit October or after. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus St. Simons. Well worth the stop and even found a geocache not far off the trails. This 60-acre equestrian center on Frederica Stables Drive will take you around the island on horseback. Search or browse RateMDs for trusted reviews & ratings on Dentists in St. Simons Island. Meet the Poet - Kathleen Brewin Lewis | St. Simons Island, GA 31522 Thats not quite what the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation house looks like, but its probably a little closer to the way Southern plantation owners lived. The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort: Beautiful Grand Hotel - See 1,693 traveler reviews, 969 candid photos, and great deals for The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort at Tripadvisor. They are located at different areas throughout the island. In addition to a small hands-on museum, you can walk through the recreated fort, into the blockhouse, or the sentry box. Here is a traveler tidbit for you: buy a ticket to this or the lighthouse and see both for only one price! Must See (and Do) Things on St. Simons Island, GA The Best Things To Do In St Simons Island Ga Apply online instantly. Here, if we were to play favorites for our towns, St. Simons Island would be at the top of our list. The site offers a rare look at the historic plantation culture of the Georgia Coast. We're the original doctor ratings site with over 2 million reviews. 4. We only write about places we love in an attempt to help you in your adventures, but we cant guarantee you will love them, too. Southern Soul BBQ:This restaurant has been on Garden and Guns Barbecue Bucket List, named one of golfer Davis Love IIIs Greatest BBQ joints, called one of the secrets of the Georgia Coast by Atlanta Magazine and is the Rodman go-to joint for 4th of July. This course has fewer hazards with houses lining some holes. The Market Sea Island. Points of Interest & Landmarks Mysterious Sites, The story of Cora: "Legend holds that a spellbinding beauty named Cora has lived in the depths of the Golden Isles for. The Sea Island Beach Club has several pools, access to the beach, dining and a candy and ice cream shop. St. Simons Island Pier is one of our recommended downtown spots to visit. If youre new to golf, you can book a lesson with their talented professional staff to learn more about the sport. Golf: St. Simons Island is famous for its world-class golf with some spectacular courses that golf lovers can't miss. The Hampton Inn & Suites is another newer hotel with a pool and firepit nestled in a maritime forest. She says they have different types of accommodations from motel-style rooms to nicer hotel rooms comparable to a Holiday Inn. Take note of these establishments and visit them once the tour is over. TheGeorgia Sea Islands Festivalin June celebrates the African American musical traditions, craftsand food of the barrier islands. As you follow the trail system, keep your eyes peeled for these sculptures. Avariety of accommodationsfromfriendly inns to luxurious resortsround out the islands warm welcome, giving it the claims to fame that have attracted vacationers and groups for generations. What are the top attractions to visit in Saint Simons Island? Or take the whole family on a treasure hunt to search for the famousSt. Simons Island tree spirits! Rich's Production Associate II- Day 12 hour Shift in Saint Simons There are also plenty of sandbars that form here during low tide. 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. Things to Do. Heres why. Romantic Things to Do In St. Simons Island: Say Cheers with a Local Cocktail. Rent a Golf Cart. For more beach ideas in the area, see our post on the closest beaches to Atlanta. Take a tour with Cap Fendig providing access to the sights, sounds, and experiences of the inaccessible wilderness areas on Georgias coast. Find trip inspiration, must-visit sites, and experiences not to be missed. 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. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. From a challenging classic course to a re-invented historic green, youll golf like the pros here. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Posts may contain affiliate links at no cost to you. The Market's Take-'n-Bake Easter Menu | St. Simons Island, GA 31522 St Simons Island, Georgia is an easy, budget friendly getaway from Jacksonville or Atlanta. There are an intimate 34 rooms, as well as a small saltwater pool. Course settings range from maritime forests and salt marshes to oceanside dunes, with expansive greens in-between. There are more than 30 miles of bike paths on the Island and its a great way explore. The Golden Isles climate and weather allow visitors to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such askayaking,fishing,biking the St. Simons Island Trail System,horseback riding,golfing,or relaxing with your toes in the sand onEast Beach. 10. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Embassy Suites Brunswick. Gof cart and car parking. They are only open 3 days a week. One of the benefits of having a good year-round population is that really good restaurants can survive since they arent just seasonal hang outs. When I think of plantations, I think grand houses with huge pillars holding up the front porch. With tons of things to do, beautiful beaches and lots of history, it's also a great Georgia Coast road trip stop. If youre searching for fun things to do in St Simons Island with kids, take them to Neptune Park. The Ocean Inn and Suites also has their own pool, and parking, which can be tough in this area. Located at the southern tip of the island, the lighthouse is a 104-foot tall structure that was rebuilt in 1872. If you arent staying on the beach, there are many public access points. You can get toy wooden guys in the museum to take into the fort and play. Check their events calendar before you visit to see if something is happening when youre in the area. From beaches to historic World War II sites, St. Simons is packed with many things to do and see, plus miles of bike paths, salt marshes, outdoor activities, and stunning oceanfront views. Its been newly renovated, so if you are an IHG Rewards Club member vs. a Hilton Rewards (Hampton Inn) member, stay here. This site uses cookies to enhanceyour experience. All other marks belong to their respective owners. Come see why it was a favorite of Georgia golf legend Bobby Jones. This hotel is located in the interior of St. Simons and recently came under the Best Western flag as a Best Western Plus. Check their schedule to see if you can play during your visit. My boys had the.best.time. Many artists find inspiration in the area's sun-drenched beaches, tidal marshes and spectacular moss-draped Live Oaks. Georgia has several courses, but we played Sea Palms in St. Simons Island. One of our favorite family-friendly activities at Sea Palms isFoot Golf. St. Simons Island is around 14 miles from Jekyll Island, just about a 20-30 minute drive. St simons is, GA 31522; Urgently Hiring; Apply Now . Crafted by The Market chefs, these meals are made to savor with your family as we will with ours. All Rights Reserved. 2. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in March. A popularSt. Simons Island beach with many access points and amenities likeplaygrounds, public restrooms, and shaded picnic areas is East Beach. The fort was established in 1736 by James Oglethorpe. Rent a bike for the day and explore the many bike trails on St. Simons. It was an unexpected find and a great source of information we did not know. Jekyll Island is experiencing a revitalization that is bringing what was once 1950s-era amenities into modern times. Furthermore, it is known as a top beach town in the United States. Reservations are required and space is limited. This is one of the best activities for all ages you can do on St. Simons. 3. Kayaking is one of the best ways to get out on the water in the Golden Isles! The Lodge at Sea Island is another Sea Island property that is actually located on St. Simons Island and geared toward golfers. They are faces carved on the towns famous oak trees by a father and son duo. Find your favorite restaurant on St. Simons Island. St. Simons Island is around 18 square miles in size. This is particularly appealing if you love the beach and outdoor activities. If youre looking for places to go today, hit a few balls at the Sea Palms Golf Club. Grab your bike and follow this trail to travel all over St Simons Island. Fort Frederica National Monumentis a colonial site dating back to the 18th century where a boundary was established between British in South Carolina and Spanish in Florida.