Fall Fun in the Golden Isles
Fall is the perfect time of year in the Golden Isles! The days are still warm enough to enjoy the beautiful beaches and lay by the pool. The nights start to cool off a bit so you can enjoy walking to dinner or opting for dinner on the patio instead of inside. There is never a lack of great family friendly activities on St. Simons and the surrounding areas, but this time of year the outdoor activities are endless! Check out a few of our suggestions on what to do in the next few weeks. Click here to see a full list of activities happening this month!
Paint & Sip at Tortuga Jacks
Fun for all ages and open to the public. $25 gets you all the materials you need and the class.
Rhythm on the River
Come on out to the Rhythm on the River event from 8:00 p.m. at Mary Ross Waterfront Park: Bay & Gloucester Streets. Bring the kids, chairs or blanket, a picnic and your favorite beverage.
Admission: FREE!
St Simons Island Food + Spirits Festival
Come enjoy good food, great drinks, and even better company at the 6th annual St. Simons Island Food + Spirits Festival. Tickets are on sale now!
2nd Annual Barkin’ Howl-O-Ween
Presented by Pawsmopolitan Magazine and Mellow Mushroom. Enjoy food, drinks, raffles and family fun at the Barkin’ Howl-O-Ween.
Breakfast on St. Simons Island
You aren’t officially a St. Simons Islander until you’ve visited these 3 breakfast spots on the island! If you’ve ever come to St. Simons and asked a local where you should go for some good southern cuisine they will undoubtedly tell you these three spots. From local diners to a breakfast buffet there is something on the island for everyone. These are our top picks for favorite local spots on St. Simons Island!
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.
Sweet Mamas, has been on the island for over 20 years and is loved for its quality breakfast sandwiches and bakery. Located inside the Winn Dixie shopping center it’s centrally located on the island making it a business hot spot for locals and visitors alike. Stop here for their famous pork pops!
Sandcastle, has been in business for over 25 years and is a local favorite! They are most well known for their delicious breakfast buffet. Located in the Pier Village, it’s fun to walk the beach from the Beach Club, The St. Simons Grand, or any oceanfront property you might be staying at to have a great breakfast.
Fall is in full swing here on St. Simons Island, with the summer months behind us we are excited about all the events we have coming up. There is always so much going on in the Golden Isles from concerts to art exhibits, to festivals… there is something for everyone. This weekend there are many events happening, we hope that you will come out and enjoy some of the fun things going on! Here is a guide to whats happening this weekend in the Golden Isles.
Georgia Artists with DisAbilities Exhibit in the Ritz Theatre Gallery
Now through November 23rd, 2016
The Georgia Artists with DisAbilities Exhibit features 49 entries that include paintings, photographs, clay pottery, textiles and other mediums. Local artist Risa Rambo of St Simons Island received an Honorable Mention and her “Smocked Dress” will be on display.
Glynn Visual Arts Presents “100 Art Works Celebrating 100 Years”
Now through November 21st, 2016
Glynn Visual Arts (GVA) is proud to present a new art exhibition celebrating the 100th anniversary/centennial of our National Parks Service. GVA has partnered with Fort Frederica and will be presenting over 100 works by local artists celebrating the beauty, history and uniqueness of our own National Park, Fort Frederica. The exhibition will include art work in various mediums including painting, pottery, photography and more.
November 4th to 5th, 2016
Visit Edwards on St. Simons this weekend to see their expanded showroom for the Christmas Open House November 4th and 5th! Open 9am-5pm they will have Christams Decorations galore and more! Some of the items will include the following:Wreaths, garlands & swags,Ribbons, candles, cards & treats Heirloom quality ornaments, Orchids, plants & gifts, Plus home accents & decor
First Friday in Historic Downtown Brunswick
November 4th, 2016
Visit the shops, galleries, and restaurants of Historic Downtown Brunswick. Enjoy live music from local musicians, art openings, and food and beverage samples from 5:00pm – 8:00pm.
The Literary Guild presents A War
November 4th, 2016
The Literary Guild of St. Simons Island Film series presents A War. Denmark, 2015, directed by Tobias Lindholm. Commander Claus M. Pedersen and his men are stationed in an Afghan province, while back in Denmark Claus’ wife Maria is trying to hold everyday life together with a husband at war and three children missing their father. During a routine mission, the soldiers are caught in heavy crossfire and in order to save his men, Claus makes a decision that has grave consequences for him—and his family back home.In Danish with English subtitles
110 minutes; Rated R.
They are free and open to all, although a $3.00 donation is suggested to offset film and theatre rental fees.
Alina Kiryayeva, concert pianist and chamber musician
November 4th, 2016
Golden Isles Live! Presents Alina Kiryayeva live in convert at the Glynn Academy Auditorium.
Cost is $35 for adults, $10 for children or students
Annual Brunswick Rockin’ Stewbilee
November 5th, 2016
Get ready for the annual Brunswick Rockin’ Stewbilee at Mary Ross Waterfront Park. Each year, cooking teams from near and far compete to see who has the best stew, competing for the Peoples’ Choice and Judges’ Award. The daylong event begins with the 5k Road Race followed by the Pet Supplies Plus Pooch Parade, Live Entertainment, The Kid’s Junior Stewbee Central Fun Zone, Classic and Antique Car Show, Arts & Crafts displays and of course, sampling of the Best Brunswick Stew in the nation. Advanced tickets are $3 for kids under 6 years, $6 for adults or $4 and $9 on the day of the event.
St. Simons Island Antique Show
November 5th to 6th, 2016
Antique dealers from all over the southeast, featuring a vast array of fine and fun merchandise, including furniture, collectibles, primitives, jewelry, silver, glassware, etc.
November 5th, 2016
On Saturday, November 5 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., the Society will host its 2nd annual Community Day event. The museum will be open free of charge and offer tours, educational crafts, and activities for children and families.
Rhythm & Brews Fest
November 5th, 2016
Enjoy live music from local bands throughout the day, tastings from dozens of craft beers, and a barbecue cookout at the Holiday Inn Resort on Jekyll Island. The event is free to attend and tickets are available for tasting and barbecue.
ACS Victory Board 47th Annual Victory Gala
November 5th, 2016
Gala is Victory Boards’ primary fundraising effort annually, traditionally a black-tie event, which includes dinner, dancing and live and silent auctions.
Event will be held at the Gruber Aviation Hanger at the McKinnon St. Simons Airport.
November Rhythm on the River
November 6th, 2016
Come on out to the Rhythm on the River event from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Mary Ross Waterfront Park: Bay & Gloucester Streets. Bring the kids, chairs or blanket, a picnic and your favorite beverage.
Admission: FREE!
Georgia Sea Grill Fall Wine Dinner
November 6th, 2016
Join us at the piano bar Sunday, November 6th for an intimate wine pairing dinner beginning at 6 p.m. Executive Chef Tim Lensch and Wine Director Brian Henderson have crafted the ultimate blend of cuisine and wine in this special 4-course dinner with pairings. To reserve your seat for this delicious dining experience, call 912-638-1197 or email events@georgiaseagrill.com. Tickets are $65 per person, gratuity included.
The 11th annual Shrimp & Grits Festival, hosted by Southern Living is taking place this weekend on Jekyll Island.
This festival has gained quite the audience over the years attracting visitors from near and far. The Shrimp & Grits festival holds contests for both professional and individual cooks of the dish each year to decide who is the best in the state. Chefs were chosen to participate in the contest by an online voting system among each region. The defending champion, Blackwater Grill of St. Simons Island, will compete this year against some new challengers including American Catch Seafood Exchange, Deano’s Italian, Goin’ Coastal, The National and West Egg Café among others. This year’s competition is at 11 a.m. Sunday, the final day of the festival that starts Friday afternoon.
One new feature this year is the Jekyll Island Experience Pavilion which features education displays and interaction with wildlife from the Georgia Sea Turtle center as well as some of centers in Georgia. There will also be a Craft Brew Fest for all of the beer fanatics which will feature over 50 beverages to sample. Regional musicians will perform live on three stages, and there will be more than 100 art and craft vendors along the walking paths of the historic district where the festival is held.
All events will be held in the island’s National Landmark Historic District on the western side of the state-owned island.
The festival hours are:
Friday September 16th, 4-9 p.m.
Saturday September 17th, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
Sunday September 18th, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
General admission to the festival is free, but tickets for admission to the VIP Lounge, DuBignon and Riverfront Lawn lounge options and Craft Brew Fest are available at
In need of a kid-friendly dinner spot, check out the list below to see some of our favorites!
- Tramici
Tramici is an Italian restaurant located in the heart of St. Simons wine a splendid wine list for mom and dad while also having plenty of choices for the kids! You will find kid-friendly Italian favorites like mozzarella sticks, spaghetti, fettuccine alfredo and cheese ravioli on the menu. The past part is everything on the kid’s menu is under $10!
Address: 75 Cinema Ln, Saint Simons Island, GA 31522
Phone: (912) 634-2202
Reservations: opentable.com
Menu: tramicirestaurant.com
- Sal’s Neighborhood Pizzeria
Sal’s Neighborhood Pizzeria offers a family friendly atmosphere with American Italian cuisine with recipes that have been passed down from many generations. Kids can enjoy pizza, spaghetti, ravioli or some good old fashion chicken tenders. All for under $10
Address: 3415 Frederica Rd, Saint Simons Island, GA 31522
Phone: (912) 268-2328
Menu: http://salsneighborhoodpizzeria.com/
- Southern Soul
You can’t come to the deep south without enjoying some South Georgia bbq. Southern Soul offers family-style meals that will surely be kid-approved! Let the kids get a little messy with a slab of ribs or maybe share some chicken wings instead. If you have a craving for soul food, this is the place you will want to go!
Address: 2020 Demere Rd, Saint Simons Island, GA 31522
Phone: (912) 638-7685
Menu: southernsoulbbq.com
- The Half Shell
The Half Shell is a local seafood restaurant (obviously its seafood given the name!) They offer a wide variety of salads, sandwiches, and entrees for mom and dad and they offer fried shrimp, chicken fingers, and hamburgers for the kids!
Address: 504 Beach view Dr, Saint Simons Island, GA 31522
Phone: (912) 268-4241
http://thehalfshellssi.com/
- Iguanas Seafood
Iguana’s is easily an island favorite! Their seafood is some of the best on the island. Kids can enjoy shrimp, fish bites, clam strips, or American classics like chicken fingers, or grilled cheese. The best part about Iguanas though is their complimentary soft-serve ice cream!
Address: 303 Mallery St, Saint Simons Island, GA 31522
Phone: (912) 638-9650
http://www.iguanasseafood.com/menu/
So you just checked into you Hodnett Cooper, ocean front beach cottage on St. Simons Island with your significant other, and you are wondering what there is to for you all to do. You always come and hang out at the beach and eat at local restaurants but this time you want to do something different. You are looking for a romantic night with the one you love the most.
Lucky for you there’s endless possibilities, from massages, to horseback rides on the beach, to dinner and a movie.
Start your day off right with a couple’s massage, relax and enjoy each other’s company in a calm and serine setting. The Island Day Spa has a date night package perfect for you and your hunny! If you really want to spoil your lady you could also keep her company while she takes advantage of the manicure and pedicure services offered.
Once you are finished with your morning at the spa you can freshen up and head over to The Stables at Frederica to start your private horseback ride on the beach or through the trails. Enjoy ocean front views while you are on horseback with the salt air breeze. Or opt for a walk through the beautiful wooded trails with big mossy oaks all around you.
By the time you finish horseback riding, you will have surely worked up an appetite. You can head over to Tramici and see Chef Dave and Staff for some delicious neighborhood Italian cuisine accompanied by a delicious glass of wine.
After dinner, conveniently located right across the street is the Island Cinemas where you can finish your night off with a romantic comedy! Enjoy popcorn and candy while you laugh and enjoy yourself together as you end the wonderful day you have had together.
Location and phone information for all mentions are below.
The Island Day Spa
60 Cinema Ln
(912) 638-7799
The Stables at Frederica
Frederica Golf Club
100 Pike’s Bluff Drive
912-634-6900
Tramici Neighborhood Italian Restaurant
75 Cinema Ln, Saint Simons Island, GA 31522
(912) 634-2202
Island Cinemas
44 Cinema Ln
(912) 634-9100
Top 10 Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for Your Mom!
Are you stumped as to what to get Mom for Mother’s Day?! Good thing here on St. Simons Island there are so many great places to get some pretty awesome gifts for your special Mom! From weekend getaways, to jewelry, to a family meal we’ve got you covered. Who doesn’t want to spoil the woman who selflessly puts others first every other day of the year? This is her one day to shine, so make it great by taking our advice and getting her any of our Mother’s day picks! Take a look at our list below to find which gift your Mom would like the best!
- Vacation Getaway
- St. Simons Island is such a beautiful escape from everyday life, why not bring Mom to experience the beauty herself. Stay with us at Hodnett Cooper and she will be nothing short of amazed at her experience on the island!
- Jack Rogers
- St. Simons Island very own, Cloister Collection has tons of Jack Rogers in different colors for you to choose from. These sandals are so versatile and classic, your Mom will surely love them!
- St. Simons Island very own, Cloister Collection has tons of Jack Rogers in different colors for you to choose from. These sandals are so versatile and classic, your Mom will surely love them!
- Julie Vos Jewelry
- Butler’s Stash has the best selection of Julie Vos bangles in town! These bangles are so elegant and easy to wear; you definitely can’t go wrong with these.
- Lunch with the family
- Barbara Jean’s is definitely a local favorite and your Mom will be sure to love it too! They have the best crab cakes in town but they also have a variety of other delicious items on their menu.
- Paddle Board or Kayak rental
- If your Mom is the adventurous type, head on over to Turtle Tides and rent a paddle board or kayak for her to enjoy for the day!
- Trolley Tour of the Island
- St. Simons Trolley Island Tours is one of the best ways to see the island! If your Mom loves history and beautiful views she will surely love seeing the island this way.
- Lisi Lerch Earrings
- Two Friends has the best collection of Lisi Lerch earrings. These tassel earrings come in so many vibrant colors, your mom will absolutely love these!
- The Southerner’s Handbook
- Dutchman’s Casual Living has the best selection of coffee table books! If your mom is a Southern Belle she will thoroughly enjoy the Southerner’s Handbook!
- Acacia Honey
- The Savannah Bee has the best honey! Why not get your mom a bottle big enough to last her until next Mother’s Day. The Acacia Honey is a best seller with tons of reviews.. but we suggest you go sample it yourself at their location at Mallery Pier!
- Flowers and a card
- When in doubt your Mom will always appreciate the gesture of flowers accompanied by a hand written note from you. A Courtyard Florist on Frederica Rd. can help you pick the perfect arrangement.
