St. Simon’s Island, Georgia

posted by Stacie on July 7, 2015 // Comments Off

St. Simons Island is eighteen square miles in size and is known as the largest barrier island of the Golden Isles. Many people visit the destination for the moss-draped oaks that are scattered throughout the island and the historic attractions that are well-preserved. It also is visited for its busy nightlife scene for younger visitors.

St. Simon's Island is home to a number of different hotels and lodging sites that welcome thousands of visitors who arrive each year. Ocean Lodge on Beachview Drive features Tuscan architecture with a rooftop restaurant and panoramic views of the ocean. The boutique hotel is located just blocks from the water and is in a prime location on the island. Those who want to enjoy playing golf during the day can stay at The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort, which has been in operation since 1941. The establishment provides rooms in four separate buildings with full kitchens in each room.

Village Inn and Pub on Mallery Street offers a bit of character as a 1930s beach cottage that is smaller in size. Those who want a more personal experience can book one of the 28 guestrooms that are available with an on-site genteel pub that serves signature martinis each day.

When it comes to dining options that are available on the island, many people prefer to book a reservation at Southern Soul Barbeque for smoked meat the falls off the bone. Iguanas Seafood Restaurant is another common choice with a tropical environment that features a laidback vibe. For dessert, St. Simons Sweets is a local candy shop that serves homemade choices that include peace ice cream and chocolate fudge.

For those who are looking to explore St. Simons Island, there are a number of historic attractions that offer an educational experience with the location's past. The St. Simons Lighthouse Museum was originally built in 1872 and continues to be a working lighthouse. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the water with lavish furnishings with the interior decor. Fort Frederica National Monument is another popular site on the coast with the archaeological remnants of a fort that was built by James Oglethorpe.

Visitors who are looking to stay busy on St. Simon's Island can also catch a few fish on Fisherman's Pier where dolphins can be seen in the distance. Guests can take a photo at the end of the pier with the lighthouse in the background while enjoying the quiet setting.

Wesley Memorial & Gardens is another outdoor site that is known for its lush gardens and various paths that can be strolled during the day. A number of different monuments are situated throughout the gardens with various types of flowers that are in bloom during the spring and summer seasons.

The local area on the island is low-key with shopping, outdoor excursions, and several parks. Guests can rely on the Saint Simons Colonial Island Trolley Tours to learn more about the geology and history of the area. Boat tours are also available with fly fishing and fishing lessons provided.

When it comes to the beaches, there are several places that are visited on days when the weather is warm. Two public beaches are available, which include the Massingale Park Beach and the Coast Guard Station Beach/East Beach. Massingale Park Beach offers free parking and fishing to visitors with a picnic area that is also available at the location. An on-duty lifeguard is also present to increase the safety measures that are taken for those who want to take a dip in the ocean.The Coast Guard Station Beach/East Beach is just as popular for its boathouse and showers that are available to beach-goers. On-duty lifeguards are also hired to work at the public beach throughout the summer season when guests want to swim or surf in the warm climate.