Things To Do
in St. Simons
St. Simons Island is a laid-back barrier island off Georgia’s coast, part of the Golden Isles, known for its live oaks, marshes, and wide beaches. The island blends historic charm with coastal charm, featuring a lighthouse, quaint shops, and casual seafood spots along the waterfront. Its bike-friendly streets, scenic marsh views, and sunset moments cultivate a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. Visitors can explore historic sites like the St.
Simons Lighthouse and Cannon’s Point Preserve while enjoying easygoing island hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at St. Simons Island and settle into your beachside accommodation. Take a peaceful stroll along the shore while soaking in the ocean breeze. Grab a light brunch at a local café to fuel your day of exploration.
Visit the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum to learn about the island's rich maritime history. Enjoy leisurely shopping at local boutiques and artisan shops in the charming village area. Spend some time lounging on the beach, soaking in the sun and the tranquil atmosphere.
Savor a delicious seafood dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants. Watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky with brilliant colors. Enjoy a relaxing evening walk along the pier, taking in the sounds of the waves and the serenity of the island.
Start your day with breakfast at a local diner, trying the island's famous shrimp and grits. Visit Christ Church, a historic site with beautiful architecture and serene gardens. Take time to absorb the history of the island as you wander through the nearby grounds.
Explore Fort Frederica National Monument, where you can uncover the history of early colonial settlements. Take a guided tour to delve deeper into the stories of the fort and its role in the American colonies. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the shaded areas surrounding the monument.
Return to the island village for a casual dinner at a local pub. Enjoy live music while sharing stories with fellow patrons. End the evening with a relaxed visit to the beach, where you can gather around a bonfire and share laughs with friends or family.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $60-100 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🏖️Parking at popular beaches | $0-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $180-350 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and scenic marsh landscapes
- Relaxed, family-friendly vibe and bike-friendly streets
- Excellent seafood and maritime culture
- Proximity to other Golden Isles for day trips
- Limited nightlife and shopping compared to bigger cities
- Prices can be higher in peak season
- Seasonal crowds and dependent on weather
Places to Visit in St. Simons
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic lighthouse with ocean backdrop and panoramic views, ideal for golden hour portraits.
Industrial-chic backdrop with boats, gulls, and sunrise or sunset colors over the water.
Coastal forest and marsh boardwalks offering wildlife and sunset marsh views.
Historic ruins, salt marshes, and maritime pines for moody, historical photos.
Tree-stump silhouettes and driftwood sculptures along a sandy shoreline with sea oats.
Food in St. Simons
St. Simons Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy grits topped with plump shrimp and a light peppery sauce.
Must-Try!
A one-pot boil of shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes with Cajun seasoning.
Beer-battered shrimp served on a crusty roll with slaw.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market near the Town Green offering fresh seafood, produce, jams, and breads.
Occasional rotating trucks near the pier with fish tacos, fried seafood, and gumbo.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect dunes and marked paths; keep beaches clean; observe wildlife buffers.
Small groups and family-friendly dining; tipping is customary; use seats and wait to be seated when required.
Do not approach alligators or wildlife; maintain a safe distance from birds and seals.
Safety
Tipping in St. Simons
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, tip 15-20% at restaurants; tip more for exceptional service. Bellhops, valets, and tour guides typically receive 10-20%.
Credit and debit cards widely accepted; cash remains useful in some smaller outlets; many places offer contactless payment.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with blooming dogwood and marsh birds; bring light layers and sunscreen; good for outdoor activities before the heat of summer.
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; plan mornings and evenings for outdoor activities; hurricane season runs June to November.
Milder temperatures and fewer crowds; great for golf and biking; watch for occasional tropical storms.
Mild and comfortable, occasional chilly days; fewer crowds and lower rates; ideal for beach walks and museum visits.
St. Simons at Night
Hiking in St. Simons
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal forest and marsh trails with water views and wildlife; best at sunrise.
Historic site trails along salt marsh and coastal pines; a moderate hike.
Network of boardwalks and forest trails near the beaches and historic districts; great for birdwatching.
Airports
How to reach St. Simons by plane.
Closest airport on the mainland; about 15-25 minutes by car; regional flights and car rentals available.
Approximately 90 minutes by car; offers wide domestic and some international flights.
About 2.5 to 3 hours by car; extensive international and domestic flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many visiting families with children for beaches and parks in the Golden Isles.
A notable portion of year-round residents and seasonal visitors enjoy a relaxed lifestyle.
Romantic getaways with sunsets, golf, and seafood dining.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class courses on the island and nearby Golden Isles appeal to golf enthusiasts.
Pier, inshore, and offshore fishing opportunities are popular year-round.
Boat tours provide wildlife viewing and scenic coastal scenery.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting St. Simons.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for veggie plates or sides such as salads, roasted vegetables, and vegetarian pastas; many seafood spots offer grilled veggie options; ask for black-bean or veggie burger alternatives.
Choose grilled fish, salads, and gluten-free sides; ask about cross-contamination in kitchens.