4 Day Trips Near St. Simons Island that can’t be missed!
Jekyll Island, only about 20 miles away from St. Simons Island but seems like worlds away because you have to cross over the Sidney Lanier Bridge which separates St. Simons and Jekyll Island. Jekyll Island is well known for their rich aristocratic history as well as for the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, and many other neat places.
Brunswick, if you are looking to browse throu
gh a quaint downtown area or maybe you like more commercialized shopping, Brunswick is the place to go. The quiet downtown area is small but packed with antique stores, city markets, and festivals as well as great theaters. Also in Brunswick there is big box stores like Target and Old Navy as well as many chain restaurants to choose from. Also about 20 minutes away from the island makes Brunswick the perfect afternoon trip.
Cumberland Island is a little ways from St. Simons at about an hour away, but it is totally worth it! Once you get to Cumber Island National Seashore you will board the ferry that well take you across the bay to the secluded Cumberland Island. Known for its wildlife it boasts many different species like wild horses, turkeys, alligators, armadillos, and many coastal birds. There are also palmetto forests and beautiful live oak.
Sapelo Island which is a stone’s throw away from St. Simons, however it is only accessible by ferry that departs from Darien, Ga. This barrier island is rich with history and with beauty. Once you make it to the island you are free to meander through the various historic points or you can take in the miles of pristine coastline!
St. Simons Island has so much to offer that we know it may be hard to find the time and desire to slip away for the afternoon. If you do find time to explore outside of the island these options, we be sure not to disappoint!
Today is National Dog Appreciation Day and we can’t think of a better way to celebrate than by taking your dog for a stroll on the beach. We are fortunate to have dog friendly beaches on East Beach, St. Simons Island. If we obey a few minor regulations, we can all have a great time!
Understanding the regulations is key to a safe visit and avoiding ticketing and fines.
PET FRIENDLY HOURS:
During summer (beginning Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend), you may visit the beach with your dog before 9:00 am and after 6:00 pm. So early morning and evening walks are permitted. But during the day, when the beach is busiest with guests and children, dogs are not permitted. Plus, it’s probably too hot for the pooch!
During the off season (beginning Labor Day through Memorial Day), dogs are permitted on the beach at any time.
LEASH REGULATIONS:
During times when dogs are allowed on the beach, they do not have to be leashed, but must be under immediate voice command of their owner. Which means dogs must obey voice commands and be within distance to hear the owner’s commands. Owners who allow dogs to stray beyond voice command, or whose dogs do not obey will be subject to fines and ticketing. If a dog is leashed, the leash can be no longer than 10 feet.
CLEANUP:
For the enjoyment of everyone, always, always, always clean up after your dog. Bring disposal bags. Trash receptacles are located at most public beach access points.
We think these regulations are fair and even generous. We also realize these rules could change should a bad incident occur. With everyone cooperating, we can keep our beaches dog friendly. Because there is nothing better than treating your dog to some quality time oceanfront! For a complete selection of Pet Friendly vacation rental homes and condominiums on St. Simons Island, visit the Hodnett Cooper website.