Georgia’s Coastal Gems: Saint Simons Island & Jekyll Island

I spent most of my childhood in Alabama and I don’t think I ever noticed that Florida wasn’t the only state to have all of the “good” beaches. Then in my 30’s we relocated about 90 minutes south of Coastal Georgia, and now it’s one of our family favorites. They call this area of Georgia the “Golden Isles“- Saint Simons Island and Jekyll Island.

Saint Simons Island

Saint Simons Island is the largest of the Georgia islands with beaches, 99 holes of golf, tennis courts, bike trails, history, restaurants and shopping. I highly recommend taking the 90 minute trolley tour to get a real feel of the island. It will give you a tremendous overview and lay of the land so you know what areas you want to hit once your feet hit the pavement. I had been on the island countless times before taking the trolley with my sister (a 1st-timer at that time) and learned SO much!

You’ll want to peruse Mallery Street & the historic Pier Village waterfront downtown shops & visit the nearby Saint Simons Island Lighthouse. If visiting in summer, plan a dip in the adjacent Neptune Park Fun Zone Pool where you can soak up the sun, stay cool and enjoy the ocean view and breezes all at the same time. (the Fun Zone also has a mini golf course)

On the other part of the island, Fort Frederica National Monument and the “Bloody Marsh” areas are great for history buffs. I love the historic, charming Christ Church area (the 3rd oldest Episcopal Church in the U.S.), where under the church oaks, Charles Wesley preached a sermon.

Where to Eat & Stay on Saint Simons Island

My two favorite spots to grab a bite on Saint Simons Island are Barbara Jeans in Pier Village & Southern Soul BBQ by the airport (featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives + 2018’s Best BBQ according to Southern Living Magazine). For lodging, we have stayed in and recommend Holiday Inn Express, Home2 Suites by Hilton, Sea Palms, and if you want an oceanfront hotel, The King & Prince Beach Resort.

Neptune Park Fun Zone Pool
Address: 550 Beachview Dr, Saint Simons Island, GA 31522
Admission: $8

Jekyll Island

All of Jekyll Island is actually a state park, so you’ll pay a small $8 daily entrance fee before crossing the bridge from the mainland. But it’s worth it! Quiet and secluded, Jekyll is a gem. When I think of Jekyll I think of biking and sweeping, large oak trees. There really is something for every age to enjoy. The oak-lined historic district and infamous Jekyll Island Club Resort opened its doors in 1888 & was considered “the richest, the most exclusive, the most inaccessible club in the world” when the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts and Morgans called this their second home. Take a step back through time browsing the resort area, ride the trolley or take a carriage tour around the area & be sure to check out the Pier Road Shops, too. Just walking around the shady resort is so beautiful!

In the summer, Summer Waves Waterpark is a family favorite. Year-round activities? Biking, beaches, shelling, golf (with many deer observing your game), miniature golf, kayaking, fishing, paddle boarding, horseback riding on the beach, the beautifully secluded Driftwood Beach, and last but not least, The Georgia Sea Turtle Center. There are many festivals throughout the year to enjoy & Christmas is one of our favorite times to visit, too. In the recent past, Jekyll Island has transformed their convention center and adjacent Beach Village with its quaint shops and dining establishments.

Where to Eat & Stay on Jekyll Island

My favorite dining spot is our friend, Chef Dan’s, Driftwood Bistro located at the Villas by the Sea. (His blackened shrimp and grits with homemade squash casserole and smashed whole fried okra pods is my favorite meal of all time, any restaurant, anywhere!) For lodging, we have stayed in and recommend Days Inn & Suites, Hampton Inn & Suites, Beachview Club and Villas by the Sea. Feel free to splurge on the gorgeous Jekyll Club Hotel! There are several new hotels we haven’t had the pleasure of staying in….yet!

Be sure to check out The Golden Isles for a distinctly different take on a “beach town”. It’s unlike any other coastal area and for that you’ll love!

X-Men First Class, Glory, The Legend of Bagger Vance & Anchorman 2 are some of the movies filmed in this area. Doctor Sleep (the sequel to The Shining), and The Walking Dead also recently shot scenes here.