Why Go to St. Simons Island

YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE

St. Simons Island is Southern coastal charm at its finest. The largest of Georgia's Golden Isles is a landscape of moss-draped live oaks, salt marshes and wide, bikeable beaches, with a relaxed, residential feel that's very different from busier resort islands.

Hunt for the island's famous Tree Spirits, faces carved into ancient oak trees, and stroll the Pier Village, where the historic St. Simons Lighthouse overlooks the sound. Climb the lighthouse for sweeping views, and explore the island's layered history at Fort Frederica National Monument, the ruins of an 18th-century British settlement, and at Christ Church, Frederica, one of the oldest churches in Georgia, set beneath towering oaks. Hike the trails of Cannon's Point Preserve, bike beneath the arching Avenue of Oaks and enjoy fresh Georgia shrimp. Nearby Jekyll Island and Sea Island are easy to visit too.

St. Simons is about an hour from Jacksonville and pairs well with Savannah. I'll find a beach rental, inn or resort and plan a relaxing Golden Isles getaway.

BEST FOR

Families, golfers, couples, history buffs and beach lovers

BEST MONTHS

April to May or September to October

EXPLORE

Pier Village: Shops, restaurants and the lighthouse.
East Beach: Oceanfront hotels and homes.
Frederica: Historic sites and quiet roads.
Sea Island: Luxury resorts.

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SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE

St. Simons Island

North America › Southeast › USA › Georgia

Moss-draped oaks, historic lighthouses and laid-back Golden Isles beaches.

Coastal & Harbor

History

Golf

Quiet

SIX18 INSIDER TIP

Rent bikes for your stay; the island has miles of paths shaded by live oaks, and biking is the best way to explore.

Experiences Worth Exploring

THINGS TO DO

Climb the 129 steps for the best views.

St. Simons Lighthouse Museum

A historic lighthouse with views over the island and the sea.

Walk the grounds and visit the museum.

Fort Frederica National Monument

The ruins of an 18th-century British fort and town.

Visit at sunset.

Pier Village

The island's lively hub, with shops, restaurants and a fishing pier.

Visit at low tide for wide stretches of sand.

East Beach

A wide, sandy beach perfect for walking and swimming.

Visit the peaceful churchyard.

Christ Church, Frederica

A beautiful historic church surrounded by live oaks.

A historic oceanfront resort with pools and golf.

The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort

East Beach

Hotel Tags

A legendary luxury resort with a beach club, spa and golf.

The Cloister at Sea Island

Sea Island

Hotel Tags

An elegant lodge overlooking golf courses and the sea.

The Lodge at Sea Island

St. Simons Island

Hotel Tags

An all-inclusive lodge on a private island with naturalist programs.

The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island

Little St. Simons Island

Hotel Tags

A comfortable hotel close to the village and beaches.

Hampton Inn & Suites St. Simons Island

Pier Village area

Hotel Tags

Curated Accommodations

WHERE TO STAY

November in St. Simons Island

High 71°F · Low 53°F · Rain 2.5 in

The RSM Classic PGA Tour event is held on Sea Island.

The best times to visit St. Simons Island are April through May and September through October, when the weather is warm and comfortable. Summers are hot and humid, and hurricane season runs June through November.

Best Times to Visit St. Simons Island

WHEN TO GO

Where to Dine

DINING

St. Simons Island's dining celebrates Southern coastal cuisine.

Seafood: Try wild Georgia shrimp, oysters and crab.
Southern classics: Enjoy shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes and pecan pie.
Must-try: Shrimp and grits, Lowcountry boil and sweet tea.

PLAN YOUR TABLE

Want reservations handled before you land? Your SIX18 advisor can book standout dinners as part of your trip.

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