The boys were all about the competition. Also See:Woodstock ActivitiesFun Stuff to Do in Decatur, Fifteenth Street, Bruce DriveSt Simons Island, GA 31522(912) 554-7111. Its in a great location across from the lighthouse and beach, within walking distance of downtown and the St. Simons Island pier. Learn more. The greens are similar to Seaside, large, hilly and fast. Find Vacation Rentals, Condos, and Resorts in St. Simons Island, Georgia, USA. Several of our trips are also compensated by the respective tourism boards for the city or state we are visiting. Before heading here, check them out and pick up a few meals to enjoy in front of the ocean. Its my husbands happy place, and my kids pretty much call it their second home. Southern Soul Barbeque. Course settings range from maritime forests and salt marshes to oceanside dunes, with expansive greens in-between. Pick up the Trolley under the big oak trees near the pier. Take a dolphin cruise: See dolphins up close on a boat tour around the island. This home was perfect for the 5 couples to spread out and enjoy. St. Simons Island is the largest barrier island in the Golden Isles, located along the coast of Georgia across from the Marshes of Glynn. Nestled in the heart of the Pier Village, this historic fishing pier continues to be a popular place to watch fishermen reel in their catch of the day, watch ships coming and going from the local waterways, and see spectacular sunsets. You should also visit the Golf Performance Center to train with world-renowned golf instructors. Considering the three key benefits of golfing, you shouldn't plan a trip without updating your travel list to include a golfing attraction. Go On a Bike Ride. After dark the area is well lit and nice for a night walk. This is such an awesome idea. Im sure management would hate to know, but we used to take my oldest when he was a toddler over there to swim in the pool and play shuffleboard, or shaaa as he liked to call it. NearbyBrunswick also has daily directflights via Delta Air Lines to and from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. St. Simons may be the Golden Isles' most developed vacation destination: here you can swim and sun, golf, hike, fish, ride horseback, tour historic sites, and feast on local . St Simons Island restaurants you have to try. The club includes multiple pools, a splash pad, beach volleyball, playground, restaurants, candy shop and ice cream parlor, all along the beach. 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. My teens didn't have a problem going up and they loved the experience. Direct daily flights (less than 40 minutes long!) 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. They are faces carved on the towns famous oak trees by a father and son duo. Fantastic Sunrise and Ocean views. With so many dog-friendly places to go, there's no need to part ways with your furry best friend! At both East Beach and Massengale Beach, you'll find ample parking and restroom facilities, including areas to rinse off sand and salt water when it's time to leave. We loved our visit of this museum on the island. Built in 1884, this historical church on Frederica Road is the second oldest Episcopal church in Georgia. This course has fewer hazards with houses lining some holes. 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. Kings Way is closer to Downtown and the St. Simons Island Pier Village. Once theyre finished, your vessel will be as good as new. 15. Ocean Inn and Suites. There are also plenty of sandbars that form here during low tide. 1.6 LEARN MORE ABOUT THE WAR AT WWII MUSEUM. Take a bike, head out on one of the bike trails, and stop for a refreshing sip on the way back. What are they? Morningstar Marinas. It is located on the ocean, but there really isnt a beach area. 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. One of our favorite things to do in St Simons Island at night is taking a stroll at this beach after watching a golden sunset. In fact, weve spent many a December day on the beach, sometimes even in the water. There is a lot to do on this small island. Sue came to Atlanta after finishing the Walt Disney World College Program where she was a tour guide then guest relations hostess (and no she did not moonlight as Snow White). The Best Western (or The Island Inn St. Simons for old timers) has a nice outdoor pool and pool deck area, as well as a free breakfast. This modern facility is six acres big and has everything you need for an exciting day in the water. The rooms are larger than normal hotel rooms and the appointments are pure luxury. Official website of the Georgia Department of Economic Development 2023. We make no guarantees of any price listed on our site. Its a wonderful place of God. Here is a traveler tidbit for you: buy a ticket to this or the lighthouse and see both for only one price! 1.4 MARVEL AT THE UNIQUE CARVINGS OF ST. SIMONS TREE SPIRITS. This never impacts how we share the destination with you opinions are always our own and we pride ourselves on that. WellSt. The Stables at Frederica is a luxury facility that provides horse boarding services and guided trail rides. The rooms are all suites, with a kitchen or kitchenette and the beach is across the street. 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. One boy heading his soccer ball, one kicking it along, the other carrying it, running to catch up to play the next hole. Follow along on what people find on the SSIRocks Facebook page. per night. You can get toy wooden guys in the museum to take into the fort and play. Check out the 12 most popular activities in St. Simons for families with children. Rent a bike for the day and explore the many bike trails on St. Simons. Get a Treat at One of St. Simons Local Sweet Shops. They offer your standard Holiday Inn extras, a pool, and those amazing cinnamon buns at breakfast. In addition to a small hands-on museum, you can walk through the recreated fort, into the blockhouse, or the sentry box. There are more than 20 unique faces carved into. St. Simons Island is known for its magical beaches, perfect for both relaxation and adventure. East Beach is where most St. Simons Island rentals are located. Pets are allowed on the beach except from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites By Hilton St. Simons Island, 150 Frederica Stables DriveSt Simons Island, GA 31522(912) 434-4760. Learn more about our Georgia pet-friendly beaches. 117 Mallery StSt Simons Island, GA 31522(912) 638-8954. It has one of the best junior ranger programs Ive ever seen. 4. Our first stop this trip was historic Christ Church on St. Simons Island. We watched several fisherman pull in their catches and were amazed by a blue heron who posed for photos! 5. There are picnic tables and grills located just outside the gates to a childrens playground, although most kids end up climbing on the mother whale and her baby sculpture just as much as the climbing wall. Perfect place to watch the sunset on the beach access. Grab a Bite to Eat at a Family-Friendly Restaurant. 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. Many festivals and events are held on St. Simons Island throughout the year. Tomorrow at 10:00 AM + 1 more event. You can even take a dolphin tour and see some incredible sights from the water. Board an authentic Georgia shrimp boat with an authentic crusty captain and trawl through the marshes to discovered the sea underneath. This is a great place to see local art, go to classes, and buy art. Located next to a historic lighthouse, this park on Beachview Drive is equipped with plenty of enjoyable amenities for the family. We have a state of the art on sight laboratory and the latest in quality digital x-rays. St. Simons Island is a perfect day trip to or from Savannah. Visit during the summertime to experience Taps at Twilight and the Annual 4th of July Sunshine Festival on St. Simons Island. Boating & Fishing: St. Simons Island is the perfect place to get out on the water to explore nearby islands or fish. Explore the full menu here. The St. Simons Island lighthouse and museum are must-see attractions in downtown St. Simons. Book these experiences for a close-up look at Saint Simons Island. Said to be haunted by the ghost of the light keeper Frederick Osborne who was killed in a duel by his assistant in . This hotel is located in the interior of St. Simons and recently came under the Best Western flag as a Best Western Plus. $11.20 - $18.50; Full-time . 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. Enjoy a full spread of breakfast staples, a fresh market garden salad bar and charcuterie, local seafood, and southern-style supper items. Beyond that, youll find a mini-golf course. 1. Private planes can fly directly to the Island. Echo restaurant at The King and Prince:I love to ditch the kids and sit at the comfy couches in front of the fireplace with a nice glass of wine. St Simons is located about 85 miles South of Savannah Georgia and is the largest island comprising Georgia's famous Golden Isles. Touring St. Simons by boat is always fun! If you stay here, you can drive to the beach and park at the pier, Massengale Park, or the public beach access at the Old Coast Guard station. St. Simons Island and the surrounding areas of Brunswick and Jekyll Island are home to a variety of scenic and challenging golf courses. 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. St. Simons Island, Georgia is one of the most popular destinations in the southeastern United States and the largest of the Golden Isles. The marina has a pool and picnic area with an observation deck equipped with grills that you can use anytime. St. Simons Island is home to Fort Frederica National . A few favorites among locals arePalmer's Village Caffor breakfast and lunch, andGeorgia Sea GrillorPorchfor dinner. If you need a little time without the kids, send them to the movie theatre on property. If youre visiting with your young kids, they can ride ponies and trot around the stable grounds. The St. Simons Island tides make beach access different depending on where you are. 15 Best Things to Do in St Simons Island, GA, 35 Best Places to Visit in August in the USA, 35 Best Places to Visit in July in the USA, 35 Best Places to Visit in June in the USA, 35 Best Places to Visit in May in the USA. So without further ado, heres my unofficial guide to a vacation on St. Simons Island, Ga., with a lot of input from the family. Truth be told, Im ready to branch out a bit more and try something new, but the kids wont have it. The Inn at Sea Island is set up mainly for golfers, but you do have access to many of the amenities at Sea Island Resort-like dining, spa, tennis, shooting school, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, hunting, and falconry. 1.2 REVERE MARITIME HISTORY AT THE LIGHTHOUSE. We have reviews of the best places to see in Saint Simons Island. The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island is a rustic retreat with only 15 guest rooms and a maximum of 30 guests total. Here are a few of the better St Simons Island hotels, and St Simons rentals. St. Simons Island is also home to a variety of outdoor adventures, with plenty of things to do like kayaking, fishing, biking, and tours. To get the overall history of Saint Simons, take the Island Trolley tour. Pet friendly and a very pretty area to walk around. Sue spent 25 years in PR before adding freelance travel writing to her resume. ERgent Med was founded in 2014 by Dr.Michael Hamm and Jim Cutia, FNP-C . 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. Search or browse RateMDs for trusted reviews & ratings on Dentists in St. Simons Island. There is also a restaurant and dive shop on-site. The lighthouse is awesome, and then the Maritime Museum, which housed the Coast Guard for many years is also awesome. I love the treasure hunt to find the tree spirits, and the welcome surprise when you come across one you didnt know was there. Well worth the stop and even found a geocache not far off the trails. Sign up for our newsletters, and let Explore Georgia provide inspiration for your next trip. They do have nice restaurants on site and its fun to sit on the lawn with a glass of wine and listen to the bagpiper as he walks the course when the sun sets. 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. Neptune Park is located in the Historic Village downtown very close to the St. Simons Island Lighthouse and the St. Simons Pier. Aside from being picturesque, the islands mesmerizing beaches are also a top fishing destination. 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. Mar 16 - Mar 17. 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. The location of this park frequented by locals was thought to be the first landing area for ships. Here are our favorite ways to experience the St. Simons Island Pier Village. Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Lodge at Sea Island, 515 N Windward DrSt Simons Island, GA 31522(912) 638-3351. miles), St. Simons Island is also the most popular for its beaches, golf courses, scenery, and numerous tennis courts. Save some time for the gift shop, which is more of a local boutique than a museum store. There were very many there on the three different visits we made to East Beach. . GDEcD. 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. Plan the perfect trip to the Georgia coast with our Golden Isles Visitor Guide. Tour the St. Simons Lighthouse. Established in 2019. To further support this, the island is 12 miles long and nearly three miles wide - about the size of Manhattan Island in New York. Whats more, this establishment also does its part to preserve and protect the landscape and waterways of the island. There's no shortage of tastyrestaurants on St. Simons Island. Dont panic if you forgot to pack a piece of fishing equipment or if you lost track of your bait. Find more things to do on St. Simons Island. 7. This site uses cookies to enhanceyour experience. $139. When the water retreats, quarter-mile sandbars become visible and accessible. No matter what type of food you are looking for, St. Simons Island has a restaurant for it! The site is slated with historical significance and events that shaped colonial life. If you dont bring your own, rent them from Ocean Motion or MonkeyWrench Bicycles. The Lodge at Sea Island is another Sea Island property that is actually located on St. Simons Island and geared toward golfers. St Simons Island Scavenger Hunt For Couples - SHOW LOVE (Date Night!) He loves the chicken swiss sandwich. For a rainy day, there is no better place than the Island Cinema for a first run movie. Its about equal distance to fly commercial into Savannah, Ga., or Jacksonville, Fl. Another desirable attribute of this park is its beauty. Location: 75 Cinema Lane, St. Simons Island, GA 31522. Biking is a great way to explore St. Simons and get your exercise also. The Plantation Course: This is another beautiful course with marsh vistas. LAKE BLUE RIDGE CABIN RENTALS FOR YOUR NEXT ESCAPE. Day or night, they offer boat trips and insights that help create those special, memorable moments that last a lifetime. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. There are more than 200 scenic holes to be played on some of the region's most illustrious . Play at Massengale Park: This park has a playground . Coastal Georgia is great for a getaway with friends because you can get there within a few hours' drive from just about anywhere in the Official website of the Georgia Department of Economic Development 2023. 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. St. Simons Island is home to one of only 5 operating lighthouses on the 100-mile Georgia coast! The King and Prince Golf Course. Parking is available at the pier in the village, as well as at Massengale Park and The Coast Guard Station (in season they have a snack bar here too). If you forgot to pack a piece of equipment, take a quick trip to the on-site golf shop to get what you need. The Westin Jekyll Island is located on the beach, and amid the emerging downtown area that reminds me a lot of San Destin. Fido will love to play frisbee at Frederica Park's dog park, jump in the gentle waves at East Beachor explore the area'shiking trails. 1. 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. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. The Ocean Lodge is a Tuscan-looking hotel on Beachview Drive, across from the beach. Sue believes anytime is a good time for dessert and there are no bad field trips, just better stories. 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. Frequently Asked Questions about Saint Simons Island. Dont even ask. 1 TOP THINGS TO DO. See the differences between multiple units in the same complex and find the best rates. The Celtic cross monument to the Wesley brothers is a beautiful tribute to such brave men. Its always in great shape with greens just like Seaside and Plantation. St. Simons Island is located between Savannah, GA and Jacksonville, FL. I got to the light house later than I wanted. 206 Marina Dr. St Simons Island, GA 31522. The original Priest Dodge and his wife Annas story and life are remarkably humbling. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. Call us and choose yours today! There are also plenty of benches to sit at if you want to watch the waves crash on the shore. Here is what he had to say about each course. 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. Swimming, surfing, and kiteboarding are some ocean activities you can enjoy here. My son didnt want to get out of the tub, perhaps it was the TV hanging above it. Take a walk on the beach after the Maritime Center visit, and climb up top too! Read up on them before going. What are the most popular things to do in Saint Simons Island with kids? There are no hotels or condos in this area of the Island. They were carved in the 1980s by artist Keith Jennings, inspired by the mythology surrounding sailors lost at sea. She says they have different types of accommodations from motel-style rooms to nicer hotel rooms comparable to a Holiday Inn. On St. Simons Island, the arts are truly a way of life. From a challenging classic course to a re-invented historic green, youll golf like the pros here. I didnt want to get out of the bed. Free play is limited here because the club hosts multiple golfing events throughout the year. It is not on site at the hotel. We've highlighted 47 exciting things to do with kids. There are plenty of good restaurants nearby. Whenplanning an upcoming beach day, make sure to take note of ourtide chart for the best times to enjoy the ocean waves. The Sea Island Cloister Beach Club is the place to be in the summer. Just so you know, when folks came to visit and didnt fit at the condo, they always stayed at the Sea Gate, so we did patronize the hotel too. The Market Sea Island. Very tasteful. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus St. Simons. This is particularly appealing if you love the beach and outdoor activities. Recently the same folks opened the Jekyll Ocean Club, the same great service by the sea. Choose between three championship courses at this private golf club on Retreat Road. A popularSt. Simons Island beach with many access points and amenities likeplaygrounds, public restrooms, and shaded picnic areas is East Beach. Trip Ideas. Fresh oysters,handmade pizza, award-winning barbecue, and locally-caught seafoodjust to name a few. Explore a Sandbar or Tide Pool. Golden Isles Olive Oil & Wine Bar. Those lightsthey were fireflies. Romantic Things to Do In St. Simons Island: Dig into Local Cuisine. Catch a glimpse of St Simons wildlife at this beach at the end of Bruce Drive. Here are a few we love and here are even more St Simons Island restaurants you have to try. This is a trail with a big network of paths and trails throughout the neighborhoods, and parks, and will take you to the best activities. Learn more aboutSt. Simons Island's rich history. The islands villages offer a charming and unique selection of shops,breathtaking beaches, fascinatingmuseums,andchallenging golf courses. 8.4/5 (966 reviews) Weve spied hammerhead sharks, horseshoe crabs, rays and lots of different fish. Thanks to over 30 miles of well-made bike paths, youll enjoy a smooth ride as you bike from one place to another. The Plantation Course may be little longer than Seaside, but there arent as many hazards. Id also add another area Im calling interior island for hotels that arent located within walking distance of the beach or the downtown area called The Village. This is a neighborhood community of homes. Moss-draped oaks line the winding island streets, creating a picture-perfect image worthy of a Faulkner tale. As such, the seaside resort has some brilliant biking, kayaking and sunbathing to enjoy with plenty of cottages and hotels catering to the . 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. Located at the southern tip of the island, the lighthouse is a 104-foot tall structure that was rebuilt in 1872. I will attest to its beauty. to your collection. Travel to the northernmost end of St Simons Island to visit this marine facility on the Hampton River. The Lady Jane offers shrimping excursions. St. Simons Island. All other marks belong to their respective owners. The flora around the pea stone pathways was well manicured and we loved the huge cross on the grounds. 10. This is one of the best activities for all ages you can do on St. Simons. Others include, Sea Island, Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island. St. Simons Island Pier is one of our recommended downtown spots to visit. You should arrive early to secure a decent spot. more. Whether you're looking for a beachfront hotel, a vacation rental, or a bed and breakfast, St. Simons Island has manyhotel optionsfor you to choose from! 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. 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. The newly openedWorld War II Home Front Museumfocuses on the islands history as the site of a Coast Guard Station during World War II. Although it can get a bit crowded during the summer, East Beach is one of the nice places to visit in St Simons Island. "The food and atmosphere are top notch Menu. The pristine beaches on St. Simons Island are definitely worth the visit. This is a functional lighthouse that serves a very critical need for coastal navigation, and displays in the. It was an unexpected find and a great source of information we did not know. We have reviews of the best places to see in Saint Simons Island. Climb 129 steps to the top of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse for stunning views of the St. Simons Sound. You'll also find exceptional restaurants throughout the island that will give you a true taste of St. Simons. St. Simons Island is one of a string of Islands in Georgia that make up the Golden Isles. 1.5 TRY OUT THE ROMANTIC TROLLEY TOURS OF ST SIMONS ISLAND. My sister-in-law was married in the chapel. For more beach ideas in the area, see our post on the closest beaches to Atlanta. Lighthouse Trolleys Land & Sea Tours will take you to these locations and inside some of the buildings. Hang Out at Pier Village. Its located on the southeast corner of Georgia, with easy Interstate access via I-95. Take a Sunrise (or Sunset) Walk on the Beach. The Hampton Inn & Suites is another newer hotel with a pool and firepit nestled in a maritime forest. 83 miles S of Downtown Savannah. The course is not long but there are plenty of ways to get into trouble; lots of hazards on this course. Discover everything St Simons Island has to offer with this tour and one of the oldest families in town. Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Inn at Sea Island, 550 Beachview DrSt Simons Island, GA 31522(912) 279-3720. St. Simons Casino Building - Room 108. 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. Visitors can climb the 129 steps to the top and wander the museum in the Keepers Quarters, which details the lighthouses history. It is challenging for all skill levels because of multiple tee boxes. View Gallery. 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