Planning a trip to the Golden Isles this spring? This guide will walk you through everything you need to plan the perfect spring getaway, including what to pack, where to stay, and the best things to do upon arrival. From sunny beaches and outdoor adventures to a few of our favorite local restaurants and sweet shops, we’ve broken it all down to make it easy, stress-free, and a whole lot of fun!
Spring Weather in the Golden Isles
Spring is one of our favorite times in the Golden Isles, and you’ll quickly see why. Mild temperatures make beach days and outdoor exploration enjoyable for everyone. With average highs in the mid-to-upper 70s and plenty of sunshine, every day presents an opportunity to discover something new. The water is also warming up, making paddleboarding and kayaking popular activities this time of year.
What to Pack for a Getaway to the Georgia Coast
Packing for a vacation on the Georgia Coast is easy, and you’ll need just a few essentials. Be sure to include a swimsuit, a hat, and sunglasses to make sunny beach days even more enjoyable. Temperatures can dip into the mid-50s by evening, so we suggest casual layers and a light jacket for everyone in your group. Comfortable shoes are a must if you plan to walk or bike while exploring the island, and flip flops or sandals are also a good idea. To make your trip even more enjoyable, consider the following extras:
- Reusable water bottle
- Beach tote for towels and snacks
- Light backpack for daytrips
- Waterproof phone case
Fun Things to Do in the Golden Isles
The Golden Isles are filled with a variety of activities for kids of all ages. Of course, the beaches are a big draw, and building sand castles, splashing in the surf, or just relaxing in the sun are absolute musts. Horseback riding is another great option, and we never get tired of visiting the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum. Children of all ages love climbing to the top to see the incredible views! Trolley Tours are another favorite, giving the family a fun, low-key way to see the sights and learn more about St. Simons and Jekyll Island. Of course, the islands are full of biking paths, nature trails, and parks, making it easy to fill every day with activity-packed fun for elementary, middle, and high school-aged kids.
Where to Eat Like a Local
You’ll be happy to know the islands boast plenty of kid-friendly restaurants sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. A few of our favorites include: Sal’s Neighborhood Pizzeria: for delicious pies, outdoor dining, and delectable desserts. Barbara Jean’s: for down-home Southern cooking, prepared just the way kids like it. Iguana’s Seafood: for fresh seafood, sandwiches, burgers, and delicious po’boys.
Don’t Skip Dessert
When the sun’s out and the temperature starts to rise, there’s nothing better than a sweet treat. You’ll find Ice cream shops and bakeries scattered throughout the islands, but these are the ones we return to time and again: Frosty’s Griddle and Shake: for milkshakes, frosties, and floats in an assortment of flavors. St. Simons Sweets: for two dozen flavors of home-made ice cream, pralines, and cookies. Dulce Dough: for fresh doughnuts baked daily, breakfast pastries, quiche, and more.
Planning Tips for a Smooth Trip
Spring break in the Golden Isles can be a busy time of year, so we recommend booking accommodations and attractions well in advance. Timing your days can make a significant difference as well: head out early to visit the beaches and attractions to beat the crowds, and leave some room for spontaneous adventures. Getting around is easy, whether you choose to drive, bike, or hop on a trolley, and it’s a great way to get from one attraction to another. Planning your routes ahead of time can be a big time-saver. Better yet, follow our Spring Itinerary for even more ideas and insider tips!
Book Your Spring Break Getaway with Hodnett Cooper
We love helping visitors make the most of their time here and would be delighted to host you during your stay! Browse our collection of beautiful vacation homes and condos, and book your spring break getaway today with Hodnett Cooper!
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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, teeing off on golf courses, 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. Wondering how to reach 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 easy-to-reach location makes it convenient for families, couples, and weekend visitors driving in. The journey along coastal Georgia itself is charming, with scenic routes and clear road signs. Brunswick is the gateway to the Golden Isles and often the first town you see when arriving at St. Simons or Jekyll Island. Both islands are connected to the mainland by causeways and bridges. You can reach them 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 Sidney Lanier Bridge. It offers amazing views of St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island, and Old Town Brunswick. Named after 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 take the charming A1A drive, which turns into US17 in Georgia. These beautiful views along the Georgia coast 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, about a 1.5-hour drive. From Macon, GA: 229 miles, about a 3.5-hour drive. From Atlanta, GA: 312 miles, about a 5-hour drive. From Jacksonville, FL: 67 miles, a little over a 1-hour drive.How to Get to St. Simons by Plane
Nearby airports offer easy flights, making it simple to reach this coastal paradise from major cities like Atlanta, Charlotte, or Orlando. Whether you’re coming for a quick weekend or a longer stay, flying to St. Simons Island is easy for visitors nationwide.Commercial Airlines:
- Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK): This is the closest commercial airport to St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island, less than ten miles away. It offers daily flights to and from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) via Delta Connection jets. The short 37-minute flight goes by fast!
- Jacksonville International Airport (JAX): Jacksonville International Airport is about an hour’s drive from St. Simons. It offers full services, including car rentals and express pick-up for private transport.
- Savannah Hilton Head International (SAV): Savannah Hilton Head International Airport is charming and easy to use. It’s about a 1.5-hour 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.
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 toLittle 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?
Our 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!
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Renowned for pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, and storied historic sites, St. Simons Island welcomes visitors year-round to experience its timeless charm and incredible beauty. While any time of year is ideal for enjoying the simple pleasures of coastal living along Georgia’s Golden Isles, seasonal weather conditions can shape the perfect island getaway. Whether planning a sun-soaked summer vacation, a cozy autumn escape, or a winter retreat, understanding St. Simons Island weather is essential to making the most of your stay. Here are a few things to consider no matter what time of year you plan to visit!
Spring in St. Simons
Just a short drive from neighboring cities like Savannah, and Jacksonville, St. Simons Island sees visitors popping over each spring. With temperatures ranging from the low 50s to the low 80s, conditions are ideal for exploring the island’s scenic landscapes and enjoying outdoor activities, including biking, hiking, kayaking, swimming, and fishing!
Popular Spring Activities and Events
St. Simons Lighthouse Museum
Built in the late 1800s to help mariners navigate the St. Simons Sound, this historic lighthouse is still used today. When visiting, browse photographs, artifacts, and interactive displays—the panoramic vistas are incredible, while period rooms offer insights into a bygone era.
Art in the Park Fine Arts Festival
Explore the local art scene while strolling under mossy oaks at Postell Park in Pier Village. This beloved event showcases an impressive collection of handmade artwork from regional artists. Whether your interest lies in sculpture, jewelry, or photography, you’ll find it all here!
Little Light Music Concert Series
Enjoy live music on the oceanfront lawn at this annual concert series, which begins each spring and extends into early fall. Kids get in free, so pack a picnic, enjoy the beautiful spring weather, and relax to the sounds of live music.
Trolley Tours
From the Bloody Marsh battle site to the colonial town of Fort Frederica, with stops at dozens of points of interest in between, a guided tour of St. Simon’s offers a comprehensive and engaging experience the whole family will enjoy!!
Neptune Park
Host to annual events and music performances, this popular recreation area offers endless opportunities for exploration. Open year-round, this pet-friendly park features an expansive lawn and a fun zone area with a wading pool, water slides, and lap lanes. You can also hit the beach, swim, fish, and crab, or stroll under the live oaks while enjoying breathtaking spring sunsets.
Summer in St. Simons
Summer on St. Simons Island is exciting as the island becomes a hub of activity. With temperatures peaking in the 90s, visitors enjoy swimming, sunbathing, golfing, and exploring local shops and restaurants!
Popular Summer Activities and Events
The Beach
The highlight of any St. Simons vacation is the beach, and for good reason! With hard-packed sands and gentle waves, the island’s coastline is perfect for visitors of all ages. Long walks, kayaking, and paddle boarding are popular activities during the summer months. As the day winds down, snap pics of breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in sherbert hues.
Kayak Tours
Available for all ages and skill levels, kayak tours offer a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature and spend time with loved ones. Whether cruising through the marshes and inlets or traversing through canals, you’ll see incredible scenery and fascinating plant and animal life!
The Big Photo Show
Photographers of all experience levels will showcase their work in nature, landscapes, black and white, and more at this annual exhibit. It’s an excellent opportunity to see new artists and even cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award!
Sunshine Festival
A tradition for decades, this free, family-friendly event is a fun way to celebrate July 4th! Sign up for the 5K or the 1-mile fun run and enjoy the beautiful summer weather. Come night-time, relax in your lawn chair, and enjoy the fireworks as they light up the night sky.
St. Simons Antique Show
Go on a scavenger hunt at this popular antique show held each month at Postell Park in historic Pier Village. Browse the booths for treasures, including furniture, jewelry, glassware, and more!
Fall in St. Simons
Temperatures range from the 50s and 60s at night, warming up to the mid-80s daily during the fall. Comfortable temperatures, clear blue skies, and beautiful surroundings offer a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and peaceful strolls.
Popular Fall Activities and Events
Bike Trails
Biking is a great way to enjoy the fall weather, and with over 20 miles of paved bike paths on St. Simons Island, you can cruise at your own pace. With easy access to restaurants, shops, historic sites, and the beach, it’s easy to make a day of it!
Fishing Charters
Whether you’re just learning or a seasoned angler, a fishing charter offers an exciting opportunity to experience the thrill of reeling in a big catch while enjoying the beauty of the open water. Experienced guides provide expert knowledge and equipment, ensuring an unforgettable adventure!
Horseback Riding
Take the family horseback riding and enjoy the serene environment and quiet family time. Select from beach, marsh, and wooded rides as you look for deer, herons, and bald eagles. Pony rides are even available for those less experienced.
Pier Village
With shopping, dining, and outdoor activities, you’ll find something for every family member in this beautiful downtown area. Offering stunning ocean views, a playground, a fishing pier, and a shaded picnic area, it’s a popular hub for locals and visitors alike!
Art Under the Oaks Festival
Aptly named, this decades-old festival features dozens of talented artists showcasing their collections under the oak trees at Postell Park. Enjoy the fall weather by browsing the booths showcasing jewelry, ceramics, sculptures, and more!
Ghosts and Legends of Hofwyl Broadfield Plantation
Discover the haunting history of a coastal Georgia rice plantation just in time for Halloween. Take a guided evening tour through the historic grounds and learn about the plantation’s past, its residents, and the unexplained occurrences that have captivated visitors for years.
Winter in St. Simons
Visitors can expect mild temperatures throughout winter, with average highs in the 60s. The cool air brings fewer crowds and a festive spirit as the island prepares for the winter holidays!
Popular Winter Activities and Events
Golf Courses
You’ll find several public golf courses on St. Simons, with dozens more nearby! The winter temps create the perfect environment to perfect your swing on the fairways amid native ornamental grasses, marshes, lagoons, and dramatic landscapes!
World War II Home Front Museum
Learn about coastal Georgia’s contributions to World War II through interactive experiences and immersive galleries showcasing the community’s shipbuilding history. Fly in a WWII airplane, explore a pilot training base, and learn about those who supported these important causes.
Crafts in the Village
There’s nothing like an outdoor festival to get you in the spirit of the season! Come rain or shine; crafters happily share their wares in a series of year-round events at Postell Park. While each event promises something new, the winter events are exceptionally festive!
Mistletoe Market
Do you need a few more gifts to round out your Christmas shopping? This two-day festival might be just the ticket! The bustling atmosphere lends holiday cheer while you browse handmade treasures and unique gifts.
Holly Jolly Jekyll
Magical light tours, a parade, and a winter carnival make this the most wonderful time of year on Jekyll Island, but the fun doesn’t stop there! Let the kids drop off a letter for Santa and play mini golf in Peppermint Land while you take a cold plunge in support of the Georgia Sea Turtle Center!
There’s no doubt about it—St. Simons Island weather is a dream for any season, and we have the perfect place to hang your hat at Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals. From pet-friendly retreats and luxurious premier properties to stunning retreats with ocean views, all near St. Simons Island’s most celebrated sites, we’re standing by to welcome guests to our slice of paradise year-round.
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Breakfast on St. Simons Island
You aren’t officially a St. Simons Islander until you’ve visited these breakfast spots! Whether you want grab and go for an early start or to sit for a nice brunch, Saint Simons has something for everyone!
Palmers
Behind a weathered door two blocks from the Village shoreline is a place that looks like it could be one of the SSI’s best kept secrets! Palmer’s team engages all your senses with familiar food, imaginative presentations, and pure passion in our pursuit of southern hospitality for you!
Dulce Dough Bakery
This nostalgic bakery is right across from Redfern Village. The vintage décor and positive atmosphere make this the perfect place to start your day! All of their sweets and savories are made from locally sourced ingredients and made fresh daily with love!
Three Little Birds
Is the St. Simons Pier Village’s top stop for grab-and-go breakfast and lunch, premade meal selections, and local pantry items. Pick up a meal for the family, grab a quick lunch, and enjoy the fine coastal fare on the fly.
Wake Up Coffee
Nestled in the heart of our vibrant little island, they’ve become a hub for coffee enthusiasts, creative minds, and friendly faces. Wake Up Coffee offers a variety of coffees, lattes, teas, pastry items, including made to order waffles!
Café Frederica
Café Frederica, established in 1987 located on the North end of the island where their motto is, “Good Food, Good Friends.” Known for its diner like atmosphere, they definitely live up to their motto where everyone is welcome and everyone is family often times you will notice that employees know many of their patrons by name. You can get anything from omelets, roast beef hash to BLTs to club sandwiches and everything in-between.Related Topics
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