Golden Isles Area Guide
Brimming with Southern charm and steeped in history, Georgia’s Golden Isles include the barrier islands of St. Simons, Sea Island, Jekyll Island, and Little St. Simons—plus the mainland city of Brunswick. Majestic live oaks draped in Spanish moss line the streets, giving way to scenic bike paths, tucked-away eateries, and waterfront views that stretch for miles. From exploring historic landmarks to soaking up the sunshine on quiet beaches, every destination offers its own unique charm and a shared sense of Southern hospitality, making all of them unforgettable. And with each just a short drive from the other, it’s easy to explore a couple of communities, or all of them, in a single trip!
Where are the Golden Isles?
Located along Georgia’s southeastern coast between Savannah and Jacksonville, the Golden Isles are a close-knit collection of island towns connected by causeways and scenic highways. The islands are easy to reach by car; just off I-95 and easy trips from cities like Atlanta, Charleston, Orlando, and more!
Flying in? The closest airports are Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK), just minutes from the islands, Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), about an hour south, and Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV), just over an hour north. Each airport offers rental cars for convenient coastal travel, placing you on our sandy shores in no time. Well-maintained roads and short distances between islands make the Golden Isles closer and more connected than you might think!
Getting Around the Golden Isles
Once you arrive, getting around is a breeze! Each island is small and easy to explore by car, bike, or golf cart, depending on where you stay. Biking is especially popular on St. Simons and Jekyll Island, with miles of paved trails winding through neighborhoods, marshlands, and beachfronts. If you’re staying in Brunswick, you’ll have easy access to the islands via the F. J. Torras Causeway, plus plenty of parking at public beach access points. To reach Little St. Simons Island, a short ferry ride will no doubt add a touch of fun to your coastal getaway!
Fun Things to Do in the Golden Isles
There’s no shortage of things to do in Georgia’s Golden Isles! Spend your days paddling through salt marshes, strolling quaint streets and pathways, teeing off on championship golf courses, or exploring museums steeped in history. From laid-back beach days to unforgettable land and water excursions, every island and every moment brings a chance to see something new!
Beautiful Beaches
Golden Isles beaches are some of our favorite places to make memories. Sunrise walks on the soft sands, afternoon swims with the kids, and quiet sunset moments—there’s no doubt you’ll want to relive these moments again and again. From the driftwood-strewn shores of Jekyll Island to the pristine sands on St. Simons, the Golden Isles are home to some of Coastal Georgia’s most beloved beaches.
With its sun-bleached tree trunks strewn along the shore, novice and professional photographers can’t get enough of Driftwood Beach. East Beach offers wide-open spaces and gentle surf, a favorite with families and fur babies. Whether you’ve come to relax, explore, or simply take in the views, you’ll find a stretch of sand for every type of traveler and every type of activity in the Golden Isles.
Water Activities
With the Atlantic Ocean at your doorstep and winding waterways all around, the Golden Isles present endless opportunities to make a splash—from dolphin tours and kayaking to paddleboarding, fishing, and scenic boat rides!
Adventures on Land
Prefer to keep your feet on solid ground? The Golden Isles offer scenic bike paths, coastal horseback rides, and some of the South’s most picturesque golf courses and tennis courts, giving you lots of ways to stay active while soaking in the incredible landscape.
Pools, Water Parks, and Mini Golf
When you’re ready to swap sand for slides, the Golden Isles deliver big on family-friendly fun. From refreshing pools and splash zones to the Summer Waves Water Park and classic mini golf, there’s plenty to keep everyone smiling between beach days!
Playgrounds and Nature Trails
Traveling with little ones? The Golden Isles offer plenty of places for little ones to roam and explore. Local parks feature shaded playgrounds and picnic areas, while scenic nature trails invite opportunities for travelers of all ages to spot butterflies, songbirds, and seasonal blooms along the way!
Historic, Ghost, and Trolley Tours
Trolley tours are a fun, relaxing way to take in the sights, ideal for couples, families with teens and tweens, and senior travelers. Experienced guides tell fascinating stories, while you learn about local history and get a feel for which places you might want to circle back and explore a little more!
Museums and Other Places of Interest
The Golden Isles are rich in history, and you’ll find an assortment of museums offering a closer look at the people, events, and natural wonders that have shaped Coastal Georgia over time. From the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum, which highlights St. Simons Island’s maritime past, to the Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum World, and the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, these cultural destinations invite visitors of all ages to learn something new and meaningful during their stay.
Tennis and Pickleball
Looking to serve up a little friendly competition? The Golden Isles offer well-maintained tennis courts and pickleball facilities, ideal for players of all skill levels. Grab the family and rally under the oaks at Epworth Park or join in a match at one of the county’s public recreation centers, where you can meet the locals, enjoy the fresh air, and make new friends on and off the court!
Golden Isles Restaurants
When it comes to restaurants in the Golden Isles, fresh seafood is always on the menu. From buttery shrimp to sumptuous crab cakes to oysters served raw, grilled, or Rockefeller-style, coastal flavors are easy to find. Beyond seafood staples, you’ll also discover an impressive range of global flavors, upscale dining, and casual, family-friendly eateries. Whether you’re craving sushi, Southern BBQ, Italian, or farm-to-table fare, dining in the Golden Isles is full of unexpected delights!
Can’t Miss Golden Isles Events
No matter when you visit, the Golden Isles promise a busy calendar of events that celebrate local culture, food, music, and history. On St. Simons Island, the Sunshine Festival lights up the Fourth of July with fireworks and family fun, while the CoastFest in Brunswick brings exhibits, games, and hands-on activities together for a fun-filled day. Jekyll Island hosts its beloved Shrimp & Grits Festival each year, as well as festive holiday events like the Holly Jolly Jekyll celebration, all designed to get you in the spirit of the season.
Golden Isles Weather
No matter which island you choose to explore, all of the Golden Isles enjoy a temperate coastal climate that makes them a favorite year-round vacation destination. While each shares similar weather patterns, the mainland city of Brunswick can occasionally feel a few degrees warmer than the breezier barrier islands.
Spring brings mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and highs in the low to mid-70s, ideal for beachcombing, biking, and exploring nature trails. Summers are sunny and warm, with average highs in the upper 80s, while refreshing ocean breezes keep things comfortable. Fall sees cooler, drier air and temps ranging from the upper 60s to the low 80s—a great time for sightseeing and outdoor festivals. Winters remain mild, with daytime temperatures often reaching the 60s and rarely dipping below freezing.
We look forward to welcoming you for a summer beach week, a spring escape, or a cozy winter getaway, where every visit feels like coming home.
Explore the Island
St. Simons Island is ranked second in USA Today’s, ‘America’s Best Coastal Small Towns 2016’ for great reason! Explore the area and see for yourself the beauty and charm it boasts. With a full calendar of outdoor activities, to festivals and traditional art shows, there is something for everyone to love about St. Simons Island. Get directions to St. Simons Island to help you find your way here.
Explore area activities for you and your family. Take a walk on the beach and see the historic Light House on St. Simons Island, or maybe take a day trip to Jekyll Island and visit Driftwood Beach. Historic sites, entertainment, shopping, and restaurants..the Golden Isles has it all!
Golden Isles beaches are a major draw for both residents and visitors to the island. St. Simons Island has miles of beachfront for you to walk, bike, or relax on! Conveniently located across the island, find the perfect beach access for your trip to St. Simons Island. You can also enjoy the salt air and ocean views on Jekyll Island.
From the oldest church in Georgia, to a working lighthouse built in the 1800’s, St. Simons Island is rich with history. Brunswick dates back to the early 1700’s and was one of the five original ports of entry for the American colonies. On Sea Island, you can learn about the historic and commemorative oaks that distinguished guests plant on the grounds, starting in 1928 with President Calvin Coolidge. Visit the Golden Isles and Explore all the historical sites and attractions!
St. Simons Island and the Golden Isles offers a variety of dining options from upscale to outdoor barbecue, there is something for all tastes. With world renowned chefs and appearances on Food Network shows there are many exciting options for you, your family and friends to enjoy!
Find a number of fun things to do, see and explore with Fido on your next trip to Saint Simon’s Island. From dog-friendly beaches to local pet grooming and emergency services we’ve got you covered. Check out our FAQS too!
