st simons island things to do st simons island things to do

Its my husbands happy place, and my kids pretty much call it their second home. Rain peaks in August and September, but there really isnt a real rainy season. It is challenging for all skill levels because of multiple tee boxes. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the . GDEcD. 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. 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. Goulds Inlet is a scenic beach ideal for birdwatching, fishing, and ocean viewing. (They are closed on Easter and Christmas.). Visit Christ Church. The Sea Island Beach Club has several pools, access to the beach, dining and a candy and ice cream shop. When the water retreats, quarter-mile sandbars become visible and accessible. Water was murky but it was OK. Scavenger hunt - pick up map at visitor center, These are a scavenger hunt. Established in 2019. Access to the beach is this hotels strength. Known for its wide beaches, historicsites, 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. Kings Way is closer to Downtown and the St. Simons Island Pier Village. The club includes multiple pools, a splash pad, beach volleyball, playground, restaurants, candy shop and ice cream parlor, all along the beach. Visitors can climb the 129 steps to the top and wander the museum in the Keepers Quarters, which details the lighthouses history. St. Simons Island and the surrounding areas of Brunswick and Jekyll Island are home to a variety of scenic and challenging golf courses. the monument commemorates John and Charles Wesley and their considerable influence in founding the Methodist church in. Take your dog with you and watch various coastal birds lounging on the shore. If you want to learn how to properly ride a horse, they have plenty of classes that you can sign up for. Take a short walk through the woods to the beach. This hotel is located in the interior of St. Simons, down the street from the Hampton Inn. Pets are welcome too. Posts may contain affiliate links at no cost to you. 10:30 AM. Find more things to do on St. Simons Island. Go On a Bike Ride. Save some time for the gift shop, which is more of a local boutique than a museum store. Had a wonderful time, just before the hurricane. This 60-acre equestrian center on Frederica Stables Drive will take you around the island on horseback. From annual festivals to fishing competitions, there is always an event happening here. This southern beach town is sure to charm the entire family. There are more than 30 miles of bike paths on the Island and its a great way explore. For more beach ideas in the area, see our post on the closest beaches to Atlanta. are also available from ATL to BQK. June 7, 2023. If youre going to see them up close, keep your visits quick to prevent yourself from getting stranded. The greens are similar to Seaside, large, hilly and fast. Although not technically on St. Simons Island, these nearby resorts are worth a visit! Please dont repost anything elsewhere without asking me first. Sign up for our newsletters, and let Explore Georgia provide inspiration for your next trip. 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. St. Simons Island is known for its magical beaches, perfect for both relaxation and adventure. There are plenty of hardware stores and bait and tackle shops nearby where you can purchase fishing essentials. You should also visit the Golf Performance Center to train with world-renowned golf instructors. History buffs will be pleased with the choices St. Simons Island offers. St Simons Island, Georgia was recently voted the number one favorite beach town by Travel and Leisure. Get a rock, paint it, hide it on the island. . There is a pool and workout facility available on-site, but if youd like access to the Sea Island Beach Club (and if you have kids, you want access to the Sea Island Beach Club), ask before booking if this amenity is available. You can do plenty of things here, both inland and on the water. Where should I stay on St. Simons Island? St. Simons Lighthouse Museum. The man that spoke with us was so informative and we enjoyed learning and listening to him and the history. In others, like around the King and Prince Hotel, high tide can come up to the rocks. We're the original doctor ratings site with over 2 million reviews. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. 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. I got to the light house later than I wanted. Plus, the Golden Isles is packed with restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat with your pet in between adventures. They do have a driving range that is a car ride away from the clubhouse, so stop here first. What are the most popular things to do in Saint Simons Island with kids? The St. Simons Island Tree Spirits are one of my favorite things about this island! Aside from the church, you should also walk through the lovely grounds and visit the cemetery. Here are our favorite ways to experience the St. Simons Island Pier Village. How cool is that?!). You cant visit St. Simons without visiting Southern Soul. The Historic King & Prince is my favorite hotel on the island because its the only hotel that is right on the beach. To further support this, the island is 12 miles long and nearly three miles wide - about the size of Manhattan Island in New York. Visitors may choose to travel via I-95 or US-17. The fort was established in 1736 by James Oglethorpe. Stroll the pier overlooking St. Simons Sound and Jekyll Island, where you watch vessels go past and see citizens crabbing, fishing, and shrimping. The services offered here are not included in the list of cheap activities to do near you. The site offers a rare look at the historic plantation culture of the Georgia Coast. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Embassy Suites Brunswick. The marina has a pool and picnic area with an observation deck equipped with grills that you can use anytime. Hampton Inn & Suites on nearby Jekyll Island. Treat your boat right by availing of their detailing services. Georgia has several courses, but we played Sea Palms in St. Simons Island. The St. Simons Beach is a favorite activity. Celebrate the Fourth of July with the annual St. Simons IslandSunshine Festivalat Pier Village. Interesting history and perfect location. Walk in the Path of History. Or try the St. Simons Trail System. Where do the locals eat on St. Simons Island? Experience St Simons Islands nature and history when you visit this park on Arthur J Moore Drive. St. Simons Island offersa variety of dining optionsfrom fine dining to casual outdoor fare. On the site ofChrist Church Frederica, John Wesley of England helped found the Methodist church. 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! Discover the Island's History at Fort Frederica National Monument. 8. per night. Keep an eye out, theyre enchanting! In addition to a small hands-on museum, you can walk through the recreated fort, into the blockhouse, or the sentry box. When I think of plantations, I think grand houses with huge pillars holding up the front porch. The Westin Jekyll Island is located on the beach, and amid the emerging downtown area that reminds me a lot of San Destin. 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. Continue reading below to discover the best things to do in St Simons Island, GA. 1. (912) 421-2501. Go For a Bike Ride, Paddle, Or Sail. This is a neighborhood community of homes. They are only open 3 days a week. Book your reservation early to secure a spot on the trolley. Weve spied hammerhead sharks, horseshoe crabs, rays and lots of different fish. Your kids will enjoy the playground, but not as much as the beach right in front of the park. In fact, weve spent many a December day on the beach, sometimes even in the water. Loved it! Stay at The Lodge on site to combine training with a golf package. Will go back. Hang Out at Pier Village. Also See:Blue Ridge: Things to DoWhat to Do in Savannah, 1000 Arthur J Moore DrSt Simons Island, GA 31522(912) 279-2836. 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. Crafted by The Market chefs, these meals are made to savor with your family as we will with ours. 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. Originally built in 1820 and restored in 1884. St. Simons Island is around 312 miles from Atlanta. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Lighthouse Trolleys Land & Sea Tours will take you to these locations and inside some of the buildings. My favorite hotel is still the Historic Jekyll Island Club Hotel, which was once the summer residence for the Vanderbilts, Goodyears, and the like. Jekyll Island is experiencing a revitalization that is bringing what was once 1950s-era amenities into modern times. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn St. Simons Island, 1350 Ocean BlvdSt Simons Island, GA 31522(912) 554-7780. The site is slated with historical significance and events that shaped colonial life. The East Beach is a favorite, and many of the island's beaches are pet-friendly. They offer your standard Holiday Inn extras, a pool, and those amazing cinnamon buns at breakfast. Kathleen Brewin Lewis is the author of two chapbooks of poetry, "Fluent in Rivers" and "July's Thick Kingdom." "Magicicada & Other Marvels" is her first full-length collection, published in 2022. This hotel is an extension of the Sea Island Resorts, but its located on St. Simons Island. Experience first-class customer service and plenty of amenities at this full-service marina. Est. Recommended Hotel Nearby: The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort. Borrow a bike from one of the shops around town, like Ocean Motion Surf Company,or bring your own. It closes at 5pm. Recently the same folks opened the Jekyll Ocean Club, the same great service by the sea. TheCoastal Georgia Historical Societymanages the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum and the new World War II Homefront Museum in the Old Coast Guard station. The St. Simons Island lighthouse and museum are must-see attractions in downtown St. Simons. It continues to be a navigational aid to incoming ships. If you like history, or have little ones who like to play Army, take a short drive to Darien Georgia and Fort King George. 83 miles S of Downtown Savannah. Others include, Sea Island, Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island. This site uses cookies to enhanceyour experience. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus St. Simons. 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. 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. 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 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. 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. Thats not quite what the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation house looks like, but its probably a little closer to the way Southern plantation owners lived. 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. Tree spirits are some of the unique things to see in St Simons Island. Read along for things to do in St Simons Island. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Epworth By The Sea, 6329 Frederica RdSt Simons Island, GA 31522(912) 638-8683. 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. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. The Ocean Lodge is a Tuscan-looking hotel on Beachview Drive, across from the beach. According to my husband, even the driving range has an incredible view. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites By Hilton St. Simons Island, 150 Frederica Stables DriveSt Simons Island, GA 31522(912) 434-4760. We still havent figured out the best time to catch the crabs, but the boys love to lower the net and get excited when they catch anything. As I mentioned, weve been coming to St. Simons Island for more than 20 years. Here is what he had to say about each course. St. Simons Island is also home to a variety of outdoor adventures, with plenty of things to do like kayaking, fishing, biking, and tours. Burn Some Energy at a Playground. The Gullah Geechee are decedentsof the African slaves that worked the cotton and rice plantations along the coast. Very fun to find and see the different areas, Beautiful Wedding and Reception at Epworth. All Rights Reserved. Visiting the pier and talking with those fishing was a great afternoon treat. Truly, this was the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in. I love the treasure hunt to find the tree spirits, and the welcome surprise when you come across one you didnt know was there. St. Simons Island 2023 Calendar of Events St. Simons Island is always humming with a variety of fun activities and things to do year-round. The Plantation Course: This is another beautiful course with marsh vistas. 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. Whats more, this establishment also does its part to preserve and protect the landscape and waterways of the island. Visitors can tour the islands historic sites on a variety of transportation options, including the island's ever-popularguided trolley toursthrough the island. Dogs can enjoy these beaches year-round, although there are limited hours during the summer months. From a challenging classic course to a re-invented historic green, youll golf like the pros here. Established in 2016. One of the best things to do in St Simons Island, GA is to visit this historical landmark. The in-house restaurant, Echo, is fantastic for breakfast, lunch or dinner, as well as adult beverages. They have had a lot of rain, therefore, bugs were bad. 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. The clubs expertly made courses offer three different golfing experiences. Although this place is a famous fishing spot, you dont have to be an angler to have a wonderful time. 1. 1.2 REVERE MARITIME HISTORY AT THE LIGHTHOUSE. Climb 129 steps to the top of the St. Simons Island Lighthouse for stunning views of the St. Simons Sound. 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. A popularSt. Simons Island beach with many access points and amenities likeplaygrounds, public restrooms, and shaded picnic areas is East Beach. We do not sell links or accept unsolicited guest posts under any circumstances. Afterwards take a walk on the beach which is right outside. The islands of St. Simons, Jekyll, and Sea Island, the mainland city of Brunswick plus lesser known Georgia Coast islands offer a myriad of fun and adventurous opportunities for kids of all ages. Enjoy a full spread of breakfast staples, a fresh market garden salad bar and charcuterie, local seafood, and southern-style supper items. Sue believes anytime is a good time for dessert and there are no bad field trips, just better stories. This 18th-century fort is a great place to learn about the history of St. Simons Island. This recently renovated public golf course on Windward Drive features unique terrain and striking views. LAKE BLUE RIDGE CABIN RENTALS FOR YOUR NEXT ESCAPE. Find specialtrinkets andtreasures at hundreds of boutiques, galleries, and shops on St. Simons Island. What a unique way to see St. Simons Island! 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. 1.5 TRY OUT THE ROMANTIC TROLLEY TOURS OF ST SIMONS ISLAND. The Ocean Inn and Suites also has their own pool, and parking, which can be tough in this area. Other outdoor attractions, like Gould's Inlet, are also dog-friendly. Dont even ask. All other marks belong to their respective owners. Our girls had a very nice time here - as did we. 15. Things to do on St. Simons Island for a day. Drive through the double row of 190-year-old lives oak trees at Avenue of the Oaks en route to see the Fort Frederica . Visit the St. Simons Island Pier: Go fishing, watch the ships come in, or just enjoy the view from this iconic pier. Friends of mine found a wonderful condo called the Floataway, and I highly recommend it. Fantastic Sunrise and Ocean views. 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). Enjoy the complete boating experience when you dock your boat at this harbor on Marina Drive. 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 Islands Club: This Course is farther inland. The Sea Palms Golf Course: The Sea Palms Golf Course is the best value on the island. Free play is limited here because the club hosts multiple golfing events throughout the year. Playing on the beach on St. Simons Island, Georgia. Moss-draped oaks line the winding island streets, creating a picture-perfect image worthy of a Faulkner tale. Just a quick walk alongthe shoreline and you'll come across another iconic St. Simons Island activity - the St. Simons Island Lighthouse. to your collection. 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. In fact, many of the tour pros train in this facility, so you may rub elbows with Davis Love or other pro golfers while you are there. But after your trail ride, youll realize that the experience is worth more than what you paid for. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Queens Court Inn, 100 Retreat RdSt Simons Island, GA 31522(855) 572-4975. Follow along on what people find on the SSIRocks Facebook page. My teens didn't have a problem going up and they loved the experience. There areplenty ofthings to doon St. Simons Island! Reader Karin Hancock says she always stays at Epworth by the Sea. Visit during the summertime to experience Taps at Twilight and the Annual 4th of July Sunshine Festival on St. Simons Island. It was an unexpected find and a great source of information we did not know. We did and we were glad we took the time to see them both. The area is home to a variety of pet-friendly activities. Cookies are used for measurement, ads, and optimization. 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. Said to be haunted by the ghost of the light keeper Frederick Osborne who was killed in a duel by his assistant in . 206 Marina Dr. St Simons Island, GA 31522. Wake Up Coffee Company. Come for the history and stay for the views. 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. Find all of theSt. Simons Island Tree Spirits, which are a number of oak trees with whimsical faces carved into them. Many festivals and events are held on St. Simons Island throughout the year. 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 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. 4. One of the romantic things to do in St Simons Island for couples is to stroll through this laid-back beach on 1st Street. The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is not actually on St. Simon's Island. Whatever you need, the Cloister does it beautifully. Its an award-winning BBQ that you wont want to miss! From historical landmarks to eclectic restaurants, towering oak trees, and tranquil beaches, there are a lot of sights to see this weekend in St Simons Island. Location: 75 Cinema Lane, St. Simons Island, GA 31522. 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. Take a bike, head out on one of the bike trails, and stop for a refreshing sip on the way back. If you go with Kingfisher PaddleVentures, youll learn a lot about the ecology of the area while youre having fun. Located directly on the intracoastal waterway, this United Methodist property is lush with towering oaks. The church is open to the public for tours Tuesday through Sundayfrom 2:00pm 5:00pm. Check out the 12 most popular activities in St. Simons for families with children. The King And Prince Golf Course. By continuing to use our site you agree to ourprivacy policy. 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. Read up on them before going. Although there's no shortage of activities happening, St. Simons Island also has a laid-back, friendly coastal Georgia vibe that you and your family will . You'll also findexceptional restaurantsthroughout the island that will give you a true taste of St. Simons. Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Lodge at Sea Island, 515 N Windward DrSt Simons Island, GA 31522(912) 638-3351. Book these experiences for a close-up look at Saint Simons Island. Day or night, they offer boat trips and insights that help create those special, memorable moments that last a lifetime. For a picturesque area try the Frederica Road Trail, this is the prettiest ride on the whole island. St. Simons Island is one of a string of Islands in Georgia that make up the Golden Isles. Like a lot of coastal communities, life moves at a gentler pace in St. Simons and most days revolve around getting outdoors, eating some seafood, and having drinks on the beach. My in-laws discovered St. Simons when my father-in-law attended a conference there. St. simons island accommodations, restaurants, golf, events, fishing, kayaking, entertainment, shopping, historic sites, attractions and more. And the fried shrimp is good too. Its about equal distance to fly commercial into Savannah, Ga., or Jacksonville, Fl. To get the overall history of Saint Simons, take the Island Trolley tour. My boys had the.best.time. Discover little-known pieces of the island's history, and maybe even a ghost story or two. Kathleen is a certified Georgia Master Naturalist. I will attest to its beauty. Yes! He loves the chicken swiss sandwich. "St. Simons island craft beer and growler bar. Set in a large tract of land and surrounded by a historical graveyard, this church seems to rise out of the gardens in. This course has fewer hazards with houses lining some holes. Theyll take you to 36 points of interest, including Christ Church, the Lighthouse, Bloody Marsh, and Fort Frederica. Weve listed everything you need to see to help you have a memorable time in this seaside community. Built in 1884, this historical church on Frederica Road is the second oldest Episcopal church in Georgia. Play at Massengale Park: This park has a playground . Be wary though, the parking lot can be tight, so if youre driving that giant SUV, it may take a little to get into these spots. What are they? Nice area to have a lunch picnic. This museum tells the story of the Golden Isles and Brunswick's role in winning World War II. Head inland to visit sprawling golf courses, nature parks surrounded by enormous oaks, and historical sites that chronicle the towns rich past. 8. The King and Prince Golf Course. Whenplanning an upcoming beach day, make sure to take note of ourtide chart for the best times to enjoy the ocean waves. The Golden Isles Welcome Center has a map that shows you where to see them. 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. They knew the island long before cars crowded the roads. Rather, it's a short 20 minute drive to the neighboring Jekyll Island. The Sea Island Cloister Beach Club is the place to be in the summer. St. Simons Island Pier is said to be one of only three ocean piers on the Georgia coast with the others being Jekyll Island Pier and Tybee Island Ocean Pier. $11.20 - $18.50; Full-time . Kids loved going into the shed and just getting some fishing gear to try. Now its managed by Sea Palms resort. This beautiful church is nestled amongst live oak trees on the scenic north end of the island. Pets are allowed on the beach except from Memorial Day through Labor Day. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Call us and choose yours today! We watched several fisherman pull in their catches and were amazed by a blue heron who posed for photos! Despite its old age, the building you see today is not the first church built on the property. All articles belong to 365 Atlanta Family LLC, and all photos belong to us as well, unless otherwise noted.