With its beautiful coastal scenery and relaxed atmosphere, St. Simons Island is a favorite vacation destination for visitors seeking a quiet and relaxing getaway. Whether exploring the gorgeous beaches or touring historic landmarks, this island offers something for every type of traveler. And no matter how you arrive—by car, plane, or boat—you’ll be treated to incredible views and stunning landscapes in every direction.
If you’re wondering how to get to St. Simons Island, several convenient options will see you in our beautiful community in no time!
Traveling to St. Simons Island by Car
The island’s accessible location makes it convenient for families, couples, and weekend visitors traveling by car. With picturesque routes and well-marked roads guiding you, the journey to this beautiful destination is undoubtedly part of the charm!
Brunswick is the gateway to the Golden Isles and often the first community to greet you upon arrival to St. Simons or Jekyll Island. Both islands are accessible through causeways and bridges from the mainland via I-95 or U.S. Highways 341, 25, 82, and 520.
If traveling North on I-95: From U.S. 17 in Brunswick, cross over the gorgeous Sidney Lanier Bridge, which features stunning vistas of St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island, and Old Town Brunswick. Named for Georgian poet Sidney Lanier, it’s Georgia’s tallest cable-stayed suspension bridge. Already on Island time and ready to relax? If in Florida, hop off I-95 and opt for the charming drive up A1A as it turns into US17 in Georgia. These fairytale views are the perfect start to your island getaway!
If traveling South on I-95: From U.S. 17 in Brunswick, drive through the thoroughfare of commerce for access to Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island. Hoping for a Target, Walmart, or Sam’s Club? Stop here and stock up, as you won’t find big box stores on the islands. Enjoy locally owned and operated small businesses instead.
Access St. Simons Island: Via the F. J. Torras Causeway, traverse over a series of bridges intersecting with U.S. 17. Parking on St. Simons Island is free and open to the public, except in areas designated by local businesses and private properties.
Access Jekyll Island: Via the Jekyll Island Causeway, which intersects with U.S. 17 at the southern end of the Sidney Lanier Bridge. Credit card or cash payment are accepted at the toll booth before entering the island, and vehicle entry requires a parking pass; the toll starts at $10, increasing during special events.
Distances and Travel Times to St. Simons Island
From Savannah, GA: 80 miles and an hour and a half drive.
From Macon, GA: 229 miles and a three-and-a-half-hour drive.
From Atlanta, GA: 312 miles and about a five-hour drive.
From Jacksonville, FL: 67 miles and a little over an hour’s drive.
How to Get to St. Simons by Plane
With nearby airports offering convenient connections, reaching this coastal paradise from major hubs in Atlanta, Charlotte, or Orlando is easy. Whether you’re jetting in for a quick weekend escape or staying for an extended vacation, traveling to St. Simons Island is a breeze for visitors throughout the country.
Commercial Airlines:
Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK): Brunswick Golden Isles Airport, previously known as Glynco Jetport, is the nearest commercial airport to St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island, just under ten miles away. With daily flights available to and from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) via Delta Connection jets, the short 37-minute flight flies by!
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX): Jacksonville International Airport is about an hour’s drive from St. Simons and offers a full range of services, including car rentals and express pick-up for private transportation.
Savannah Hilton Head International (SAV): Savannah Hilton Head International Airport is bustling with charm, extremely easy to navigate, and about an hour and a half drive from St. Simons.
Private Airlines:
McKinnon (SSI): Opened in 1938, McKinnon Airfield operated as a WWII naval air station before becoming a civil airport in 1947. Since then, it’s grown into a full-service aviation facility welcoming business and vacation travelers to the Golden Isles.
Traveling to St. Simons Island by Boat
While the Golden Isles are certainly picturesque, they’re also a world-class fishing destination. Inshore fishermen will find trout, redfish, and flounder, while offshore fishermen come home with grouper, mackerel, sharks, and snapper. The island’s tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings will make your arrival by water an integral part of the St. Simons experience!
Morning Star Marinas: Situated on beautiful St. Simons Island, Morningstar Marinas offers easy access to the surrounding islands of the Golden Isles. With wet slips, transient dockage, and call-ahead concierge services, it provides a seamless boating experience, including a fresh-water rinse for every boat.
Brunswick Landing Marina: Just off of St. Simons Island, Brunswick Landing Marina boasts over 445 dry and wet slips, making it a prime spot for docking. Surrounded by land on three sides and voted the ‘Best Marina in the Country’ in 2022, it’s the perfect place to board and offload.
Jekyll Harbor Marina: Dreaming of the charming Jekyll Island lifestyle? Jekyll Harbor Marina sits within minutes of our Jekyll Island vacation rentals and offers a full-service resort marina experience.
St. Simons Travel FAQs
Do you have to take a ferry to get to St. Simons Island? No ferry or boat is needed to access St. Simons Island or Jekyll Island.
How do I get to Little St. Simons Island? Access to Little St. Simons Island is limited to registered guests, whether for overnight stays or day trips and is available via private ferry departing from Hampton River Marina on the northern end of St. Simons Island.
How do I get to Sea Island? Sea Island lies at the eastern end of Sea Island Road, and access is limited to resort guests and members. Entrance is managed through a secure, well-monitored security station, ensuring privacy for all visitors.
Where to Stay in St. Simons Island
Now that you know how to get to St. Simons Island, you can easily find comfortable accommodations with Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals. With over 300 properties available, you’ll have no problem finding the perfect place to stay, and our reservation specialists will happily assist in planning your trip. Our knowledgeable team lives and plays with their own families in the Golden Isles and would be delighted to help you arrange activities, excursions, and dining reservations. No matter how you choose to travel, we can’t wait to welcome you to the Golden Isles of Georgia!