Things To Do
in St. Simons
St. Simons is a charming barrier island located off the coast of Georgia, United States. It is known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and picturesque marshlands. Visitors can explore the island's lighthouses, nature trails, and boutique shops. St.
Simons is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a relaxing coastal getaway.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $150 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along St. Simons Beach. Take in the sunrise and enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café.
Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, and reading your favorite book. Grab lunch at a beachfront restaurant with ocean views.
As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful dinner at a local seafood restaurant. Stroll along the shoreline to end your day with the sound of waves.
Visit the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum and climb the lighthouse for breathtaking views. Explore the nearby historic district to see beautiful architecture.
Have lunch at a historic tavern and then visit Fort Frederica National Monument. Learn about the rich history of St. Simons and enjoy the scenic park.
Dine at a local eatery that serves Southern cuisine. Finish your day with a walk through the ancient oak trees at Gascoigne Bluff.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and natural scenery
- Rich history and cultural sites
- Mild climate year-round
- Variety of outdoor activities such as golfing, fishing, and kayaking
- Friendly community atmosphere
- Local dining options featuring fresh seafood
- Access to nearby islands and coastal attractions
- Tourist crowds during peak seasons
- Limited public transportation options
- Higher cost of living compared to some surrounding areas
- Potential for hurricane impacts during storm season
- Limited job market in certain sectors
- May lack some urban amenities and entertainment options
Best Activities in St. Simons
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the coastal waters around St. Simons Island by kayaking. Rental services are available, and you can often paddle alongside dolphins and sea turtles.
St. Simons has various bike paths and trails perfect for cycling. Rent a bike and enjoy a scenic ride around the island.
With access to both the ocean and marshes, St. Simons offers excellent fishing opportunities. Charter a boat or fish from the shore.
Enjoy a game of beach volleyball on the sandy shores of St. Simons. Public courts are available at several beach access points.
Explore the natural beauty of St. Simons by hiking through lush trails in nearby parks and nature reserves.
Take a guided tour or explore on your own to spot local wildlife, including bird species and marine life in their natural habitats.
Visit historical landmarks such as the St. Simons Lighthouse and Fort Frederica National Monument, and enjoy outdoor tours of these sites.
Play a round of golf at one of the many beautiful golf courses on St. Simons, which offer stunning views and challenging holes.
Tours
Uncover the best of St. Simons with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in St. Simons
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the island and surrounding areas.
Ideal for capturing stunning sunrises and beach scenes.
Beautiful historic church with picturesque grounds.
Scenic riverside spot with lovely views and photo opportunities.
Food in St. Simons
St. Simons Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular coastal dish featuring shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes, all boiled together in flavorful spices. Can be found at Coastal Kitchen, Georgia Sea Grill, and Brogen's South.
Must-Try!
Fresh local fish coated in pecans and lightly pan-fried, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Recommended at Crabdaddy's Seafood Grill and Halyards.
An iconic Southern dish that combines perfectly cooked shrimp with creamy, savory grits. Look for this dish at Southern Soul Barbeque, Porch, and The Half Shell.
Unique Experiences
Get to know St. Simons better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held every Saturday, this market offers a great selection of locally grown produce, artisanal food products, and handmade crafts.
A hub of street food vendors offering a variety of treats such as freshly made funnel cakes, ice cream, and gourmet hot dogs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in St. Simons, a friendly handshake or a warm smile is customary. It's polite to greet locals with a 'Hello' or 'How are you?' and to maintain eye contact during the exchange.
St. Simons has a relaxed coastal vibe, but appropriate dress is appreciated, especially in restaurants and shops. Casual yet neat attire is often the norm. Swimwear is reserved for the beach and pool areas.
In restaurants, it's standard to tip between 15-20% of the total bill if service is good. For other services, such as taxis and guided tours, a similar tipping rate is expected to show appreciation for good service.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of St. Simons with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in St. Simons
Ensure a smooth experience
In St. Simons, as in much of the United States, tipping is customary in service industries, particularly in restaurants, bars, and for hotel staff. The standard tip in restaurants is typically 15-20% of the total bill before tax. For bartenders, a tip of $1-2 per drink is common. Tipping hotel staff, such as bellhops and maids, is also appreciated, with suggested amounts varying based on the level of service.
Payment practices in St. Simons generally align with national trends, including credit and debit card usage being widely accepted across most establishments. Many places also accept mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Cash is still used, but it is becoming less common for everyday transactions. For larger purchases or accommodations, it is advisable to confirm accepted payment methods in advance.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into St. Simons.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit due to mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Expect crowded beaches and popular tourist attractions.
Ideal for beach activities and outdoor events. Expect hot temperatures and high tourist traffic.
Great for outdoor activities and festivals. Expect cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Can still enjoy mild temperatures and holiday festivities. Expect fewer tourists and more peaceful ambiance.
St. Simons at Night
Hiking in St. Simons
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A historic site with trails through ancient earthworks and coastal forests, offering beautiful views of the marsh.
Accessible by boat, this private island offers nature trails and wildlife viewing in a pristine environment.
Features numerous trails that weave through maritime forests, along the coast, and past historic ruins.
A scenic trail that provides access to coastal habitats and stunning ocean views, ideal for wildlife observation.
Several parks with trails and paths for walking and hiking, providing access to natural landscapes and waterfronts.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into St. Simons through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach St. Simons by plane.
Located approximately 70 miles south of St. Simons, JAX is the primary airport serving the Jacksonville area and offers a variety of domestic and international flights.
Situated about 90 miles west of St. Simons, SAV serves the Savannah area and offers numerous domestic and some international flights.
Approximately 110 miles north of St. Simons, CHS serves the Charleston area with a range of domestic and international connections.
Located around 250 miles southwest of St. Simons, MCO is a major international airport in Florida offering extensive domestic and international options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in St. Simons, primarily composed of individuals of European descent.
A significant demographic group with a rich cultural heritage and history in the area.
A growing population with diverse backgrounds, including individuals of Mexican, Puerto Rican, and other Latin American descents.
A smaller demographic group comprising individuals of Asian descent, contributing to the cultural diversity of St. Simons.
Includes individuals from mixed races or other racial backgrounds not classified in the major groups listed above.
The Soul of St. Simons
Discover the essence of St. Simons through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
St. Simons Island is home to several renowned golf courses, attracting golf enthusiasts from around the country.
The island features a variety of tennis facilities and courts, hosting local tournaments and events.
Fishing is a popular activity, with opportunities for both saltwater and freshwater fishing in the surrounding waters and rivers.
Youth soccer programs and leagues are active in the community, promoting the sport among younger residents.
Activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are popular due to the island's access to beautiful coastal waters.
With several bike paths and trails, biking is a favorite pastime for both residents and visitors exploring the island.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting St. Simons.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several restaurants and cafes in St. Simons offer a range of delicious vegetarian and vegan options, such as fresh salads, veggie wraps, and plant-based burgers. Notable places include Beachcomber BBQ & Grill and Mellow Mushroom.
Many eateries on the island provide gluten-free selections, including gluten-free pizza at Sal's Neighborhood Pizzeria and gluten-free seafood dishes at Iguanas Seafood Restaurant.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of St. Simons with these cultural adventures.
