Relax in Georgia's Golden Isles - St. Simon’s Island, Sea Island and Jekyll Island

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Advisor - Allison Schmitz
Curated By

Allison Schmitz

  • Georgia

  • Beaches

  • Nature Escapes

  • Food & Wine

  • Family Travel

  • Island

  • Romantic

  • Sightseeing

A low-angled view of a lighthouse at nighttime
Curator’s statement

For beach travel within the United States, the little pocket of the Golden Isles in Georgia has it all. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a golf trip with your friends or a family vacation, the southern charm found in the Golden Isles will leave you wanting to return again and again.

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Where to stay in the Golden Isles

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Things to do in the Golden Isles

A yellow car without doors parked in front of an orange-painted building

St. Simon’s Island

  • Rent bikes, a golf cart or my personal favorite, a Moke, and explore the island!

  • Relax on the beach - East Beach is the most popular beach, but there are public beach accesses all along the island. I recommend finding one a little more off the beaten path!

  • Explore the village — Shop at cute boutiques and island shops, play putt-putt with the family, go crabbing off the pier and climb to the top of the lighthouse for a 360 view of the island.

Jekyll Island

  • Georgia Sea Turtle Center — Learn all about sea turtles at the only sea turtle rehabilitation center in Georgia.

  • Driftwood Beach — This is a must-see-in-person beach when on Jekyll Island. It’s easy to access with a lot of parking along the street.

  • Summer Waves Water Park - Fun for all at the only water park in the Golden Isles.

Sea Island — (Must be staying on property)

  • Bingo at the Cloister — Bingo is a must-do and is fun for all ages!

  • Sunset and the bagpiper at the Lodge — Take a shuttle over from the Cloister or head downstairs if you’re staying at the Lodge for the most beautiful sunset experience.

  • Rainbow Island supper — Hop on the Jeep Train from the Beach Club to head to Rainbow Island for a feast of the best of southern cuisine.

Day trips

Visit Little St. Simon’s Island. If you enjoy exploring something off the beaten path, this is the perfect day trip! This island is only accessible by boat.

Places to eat & drink in the Golden Isles

Blue chairs at white tables on a wooden deck over a body of water

St. Simon’s

  • Half Shell — If you like oysters and a dive bar feel, this is the place for you! Great food and atmosphere. They don’t take reservations, so plan to eat on the earlier or later side if you don’t want to wait!

  • Georgia Sea Grill — This is a great date-night spot. I personally love sitting in the bar area, especially when there’s someone playing the piano. They have two sister restaurants nearby — check out Three Little Birds for a delicious southern breakfast and The Nest for wine and tapas.

  • Porch - Family-friendly place for Nashville hot chicken, shrimp and catfish and was even featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Great atmosphere and ever better frose!

  • Crab Daddy’s - This is my personal favorite place to try and get a spot at the bar. Great food, service and the best family-style salad with homemade dressings that can be found in the southeast (but I’m a little biased).

Jekyll Island/Brunswick

  • Indigo Coastal Shanty — If you’re driving between St. Simon’s/Sea Island and Jekyll Island, stop in Brunswick to check out this eclectic menu. Pro tip: try to grab a table underneath the big oak tree for lunch or dinner.

  • Tortuga Jacks — After a stop at Driftwood Beach, stop in for beachfront views and casual Mexican food.

  • The Wharf - Great southern food and even better sunset views. Make sure to check out their weekly live music schedule!

Sea Island (Must be staying on property for most restaurants)

  • Tavola - Classy Italian restaurant with a great bar for people-watching. If you plan to do Bingo, get a reservation here or try to get a spot at the bar!

  • The Market at Sea Island - Great spot for a grab-and-go breakfast or lunch, whether you’re staying on the island or not. If you order off their menu, they have great gifts and household items to browse while they’re preparing your food.

Advisor - Allison Schmitz

Travel Advisor

Allison Schmitz

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Georgia. In need of further inspiration? Check out Amy Horrocks’s trip report, Site Inspection at Sea Island Resort, Sea Island, GA.