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Welcome to the enchanting world of the Golden Isles in Georgia, where sun-kissed beaches, historic charm, and Southern hospitality await. Get ready to embark on a weekend adventure filled with relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable memories. Join me as I uncover the hidden gems and must-see attractions that make this coastal town so charming. Let’s dive into this ultimate guide to experiencing the best of the Golden Isles!
ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS
WHAT ARE THE GOLDEN ISLES?
Nestled along Georgia’s southeastern coast, the Golden Isles encompass a collection of barrier islands known for their natural beauty and rich history. These pristine islands include St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island, Sea Island, and Little St. Simons Island.
Each island boasts its own unique character and attractions, from luxurious resorts to untouched wilderness areas waiting to be explored. Visitors can expect to find picturesque beaches perfect for sunbathing, as well as charming towns filled with boutique shops and delicious dining options. Here’s a little more detail about each island:
ST. SIMONS ISLAND
St. Simons Island in Georgia is a charming destination known for its pristine beaches, historic sites, and outdoor activities. One of the most popular things to do on St. Simons Island is visiting the iconic St. Simons Lighthouse, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
For nature lovers, exploring the island’s marshes and forests is a must-do activity, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as birds, dolphins, and sea turtles. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the world-class golf courses on the island, while those looking for relaxation can unwind on one of the many beautiful beaches. With its rich history and natural beauty, St. Simons Island offers something for everyone to enjoy during their visit.
JEKYLL ISLAND
Jekyll Island in Georgia is a serene and picturesque destination with a rich history. One of the most popular attractions on the island is Driftwood Beach, known for its hauntingly beautiful landscape dotted with weathered driftwood trees. Visitors can stroll along the sandy shore and admire the unique sculptures created by nature.
Another must-see attraction on the island is the Sea Turtle Center, where visitors can learn about these fascinating creatures and their conservation efforts. The center offers educational programs, interactive exhibits, and even the opportunity to see rehabilitated sea turtles up close before they are released back into the wild. Jekyll Island also offers an opportunity to witness sea turtles nesting/hatching on its beaches during certain times of the year (May-October.) This fascinating spectacle allows guests to observe these majestic creatures up close as they lay their eggs and make their way back to the ocean.
In addition to exploring natural wonders, there are plenty of other things to do in Jekyll Island such as biking along scenic trails, golfing at world-class courses, or visiting historic sites like the elegant Millionaire’s Village. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, Jekyll Island promises a memorable experience for all who visit its shores.
SEA ISLAND
Sea Island in Georgia is a stunning and luxurious destination known for its pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, and rich history. This exclusive barrier island boasts five miles of private beachfront, making it the perfect escape for those seeking tranquility and relaxation. I note “exclusive” because it’s gated and you generally can’t go on the island unless you are staying on the island or have some sort of reserved activity (golf, dining, etc.)
With a storied past dating back to the early 20th century when it was first developed as an elite vacation spot for wealthy Americans, Sea Island has retained its sense of exclusivity while also welcoming guests from all walks of life. The island is home to four Forbes Five-Star resorts, offering unparalleled amenities such as exquisite dining options, spa services, and recreational activities.
Additionally, Sea Island is renowned for its championship golf courses including the Seaside Course which hosts the annual RSM Classic PGA Tour event. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate exploring the marshlands surrounding the island where they can observe diverse wildlife species in their natural habitats. Whether you are looking to unwind on the beach or tee off on a world-class course, Sea Island offers something for everyone seeking a luxurious and unforgettable getaway experience that blends elegance with Southern charm seamlessly into one unique destination.
LITTLE ST. SIMONS ISLAND
This barrier island has beaches, marshes teeming with wildlife, and lush maritime forests perfect for hiking enthusiasts. To reach this secluded paradise, visitors can take a ferry from the Hampton River Marina. There is no way to drive to the island.
Once on Little St. Simons, guests can immerse themselves in nature by kayaking through winding creeks, embarking on birdwatching excursions led by expert naturalists, or simply relaxing on the sandy shores listening to the sound of crashing waves. With only 32 guests allowed at a time at the island’s eco-friendly lodge, visitors will truly feel like they have escaped reality and entered their own private oasis in the heart of coastal Georgia. Whether seeking adventure or serenity, Little St. Simons Island offers an unforgettable experience for those willing to make the journey to its tranquil shores.
WEATHER IN THE GOLDEN ISLES
The weather in the Golden Isles is a perfect blend of sunshine and sea breeze, creating an idyllic coastal paradise. With mild winters and warm summers, this charming destination beckons visitors year-round.
- In the spring, vibrant blooms adorn the landscape while gentle temperatures invite outdoor exploration.
- Summer brings long days filled with sunshine – ideal for beach lounging or water sports with highs in the upper 80s.
- Fall paints the scenery in hues of amber and gold, offering a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls along the shore.
- Winter in the Golden Isles is mild with highs in the low 60s, making it a cozy retreat for those seeking a peaceful getaway.
No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to pack layers to accommodate any shifts in temperature throughout your stay. The ever-changing sky above mirrors the dynamic beauty found on these enchanting islands.
AIRPORTS NEAR THE GOLDEN ISLES
The region is conveniently served by several airports, making it easily accessible from various locations. The closest airport to the Golden Isles is Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK), located just a short drive away from popular destinations like St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island. This small yet efficient airport offers flights with major airlines, providing a convenient option for travelers.
For those looking for more flight options, Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) or Jacksonville International Airpot (JAX) are other great choices. Both located about an hour’s drive away from the Golden Isles, this larger airports serve as a hub for domestic and international flights, offering even more flexibility when planning your trip.
No matter which airport you choose, arriving at one of these nearby hubs will set you on the path to discovering all that the enchanting Golden Isles have to offer.
ACCOMMODATIONS IN THE GOLDEN ISLES
When visiting the Golden Isles, you have a range of accommodations to choose from, catering to every taste and budget. From luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts, there is something for everyone. Many accommodations offer stunning views of the ocean or marshlands, providing a serene backdrop for your stay.
If you prefer a more secluded experience, opt for a vacation rental or cottage tucked away in nature. For those seeking convenience and amenities, there are plenty of hotels and inns scattered throughout the area.
Consider staying on St. Simons Island for easy access to pristine beaches and charming shops and restaurants. Or venture to Jekyll Island for a historic stay surrounded by moss-draped oaks and miles of bike trails. The map below shows hotel and vacation rental options in St. Simons, but zoom out and look south to see options on Jekyll Island as well!
LONG WEEKEND ITINERARY
DAY 1: TRAVEL DAY & BRUNSWICK
I left on a Thursday and flew right into the Brunswick airport, arriving around 3pm. From there, my friends picked me up and we grabbed a late lunch at Catch 228 on St Simon island. We shared oysters and peel-and-eat shrimp, which are popular local foods in the Golden Isles!
After that, we went to my friend’s home in Brunswick and I got settled in after a day of travel. For dinner, we went to Basil Thai & Sushi. I like warm and crunchy sushi rolls and got these rolls: Crispy Shrimp Roll, Spider Roll, Ebi Roll. They were all fantastic!
We wrapped up the night with cocktails at The Study at Reid’s Apothecary, which is a speakeasy. A speakeasy is bar that replicates secret bars back in the prohibition days when alcohol was illegal. To get into The Study (and most speakeasy bars), you need a password. The password can be obtained by calling them at the number in the link below.
https://www.reidsapothecary.com/the-study/
DAY 2: JEKYLL ISLAND
We started the day with a stop at Wake Up Coffee in Brunswick. (We probably stopped here every day to be honest lol.) Anyways, after getting our coffee & matcha, we drove to Jekyll Island and drove around looking at The National Historic Landmark District. The district contains several preserved Victorian-style homes that were once part of the Jekyll Island Club that started in the late 1800s. Some of the prominent figures in the club were J.P. Morgan, Joseph Pulitzer, William K. Vanderbilt, Marshall Field and other wealthy industrialists.
Next on our agenda was the Sea Turtle Center, which is a vital conservation facility dedicated to rehabilitating injured sea turtles and educating the public about these majestic creatures. Visitors can witness firsthand the incredible work being done to protect and preserve sea turtle populations through interactive exhibits, educational programs, and guided tours. Admission was ~$12/person and we spent around 30 minutes looking at the museum and recovering turtles!
Afterwards, we drove to the famous Driftwood Beach, which was 10 minutes away. Driftwood Beach, as mentioned above, is a stunning stretch of shoreline characterized by its unique and picturesque driftwood formations. The weathered pieces of wood scattered along the sandy coast create a mesmerizing scene, perfect for tranquil walks. We spent around 30 minutes here walking along the beach and absorbing the spooky, yet beautiful scenery.
Then we headed by home for a bit to get ready for “First Friday” which is a festival that Brunswick hosts downtown on the first Friday of every month. They have food trucks, shops and vendors along Newcastle St. We enjoyed our evening downtown and I enjoyed my first “First Friday” in Brunswick.
DAY 3: ST. SIMONS ISLAND
After some breakfast and coffee, we loaded up our bikes and headed to St. Simons Island. St. Simons island has over 20 miles of paved biking paths. If you don’t have bikes, there are tons of places to rent them from on the island. You can find more information on rentals here.
We parked in the 15th Street public beach access lot, which is right by Gould’s Inlet and East Beach. From there, we hopped on our bikes and headed down East Beach towards the pier. Click here for a map of the St. Simons biking trails along with interest points on the island. It was high tide, but we were still able to find firm sand to bike on without getting our bikes wet. We rode approximately 2 miles on the beach before we veered onto the streets because the tide was too high for us to get to the pier.
As a side note, one thing I thought was fascinating was how different the beach can look based on the tide. When it’s low tide, there are actually some sand bars off the beach, but you can’t even see them when it’s high tide. I do have a picture below that shows warnings about paying attention to the tides/rip currents so you don’t get stuck out on a sandbar at the wrong time.
Anyways, once we were inland, we biked to Gnat’s Landing for some lunch. They have a neat outdoor seating area with colorful tables for a fun coastal vibe. After lunch, we headed to the Pier Village.
Pier Village has several shops, restaurants, and a pier that you can walk out on to take in the ocean views. We walked out on the pier and then through Neptune Park, which has a nice path that extends along the water and has a playground for kids. Following the trail through Neptune Park lead us to the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum. We opted to just view it from the outside, but you can buy tickets to tour the museum and walk up the lighthouse.
From there, we rode along the streets and bike paths for a little bit longer just taking in the nature and enjoying the day. Then after a day full of biking and exercise, we decided we deserved a drink and biked to Echo, which is a bar/restaurant inside of the King & Prince Resort. I really enjoyed this place because we were able to sit outside and look at the beach/ocean. They also had happy hour from 3-6pm, which was a bonus! I definitely recommend coming here if you’re looking for a place with a good vibe and beautiful views.
After Echo, we headed back home and cleaned up before heading to Silver Bluff Brewing Company in downtown Brunswick. It was a chill evening at the brewery and we played some games of Scattegories before calling it a night. My favorite drinks at the brewery were the Match Rice Lager and the Pink Lemonade Hard Seltzer. I don’t love sweet seltzers and the lemonade one had a very smooth taste to it.
DAY 4: ST. SIMONS ISLAND
We had a rainy day in store so we spent the morning driving around St Simons Island looking at houses and visiting Fort Frederica. But first, we visited Aisle of the Oaks, which is a stretch of 160+ year old oak trees on Canary Drive on St. Simons Island. It’s also the entrance to the Sea Island Golf Club, but you can still drive on the road and turn around at the gate. This was a quick 10-minute stop, but I truly enjoyed looking down the “avenue” of aged oak trees with the Spanish moss hanging down.
Next, we headed to the north side of the island and drove around looking at the beautiful homes and admiring all the different styles of architecture. On our way back, we stopped at the Fort Frederica National Monument located on the western part of the island.
Fort Frederica National Monument is a historic site that provides a glimpse into the colonial past of America. Established by James Oglethorpe in 1736, this fort served as a military outpost to defend the southern boundary of the British colony of Georgia against Spanish invasion. The remains of the fort include ruins of barracks, walls, and moats which offer visitors an opportunity to step back in time and imagine life within its walls centuries ago. In addition to exploring the fort itself, visitors can also enjoy guided tours, exhibits, and educational programs that provide further insight into the significance of Fort Frederica National Monument in shaping early American history.
After the monument, we bar and restaurant hoped the rest of the day at these locations:
- Stop 1: Coastal Kitchen – It is located in the Morningstar Marina and is technically still part of St. Simons Island. We had the peel-and-eat shrimp here and it was delicious along with my strawberry-mojito.
- Stop 2: Waterfront Wine & Gourmet – Located in Darien, they have a little cheese/snack shop in the front and a wine bar in the back. We enjoyed a glass of wine here, but they also have beer options as well.
- Stop 3: Reid’s Apothecary – It’s located in downtown Brunswick and has a variety of food and drink options. We shared the “build your own charcuterie board” option and it was awesome. They also have a popular Sunday dinner menu that rotates weekly. Reservations are recommended here!
DAY 5: SAVANNAH & TRAVEL DAY
On my last day in Georgia, my flight back home was out of Savannah, GA at 7pm. As a result, we headed to Savannah in the morning (~1 hour drive from Brunswick) and spent the whole day exploring the charming town. I wrote a separate blog on how to spend a day or long weekend in Savannah and it’s linked here if you want to check it out (please do!)
In summary though, we checked out River Street, Forsyth Park and several rooftop bars. Bar Julian was my favorite rooftop bar! In the evening, my wonderful friend/fabulous host dropped me off at the airport and we said our goodbyes.
Overall, I had a great time seeing my friend and exploring the Golden Isles of Georgia. I hope this guide provides insight and helps you plan an unforgettable trip to the Golden Isles too!
This blog post may contain affiliate links, which are at no cost to you. It just helps support me so I can continue to put out free content for you like this! Thank you for your support!