Memorial Day weekend conjures up memories of building sandcastles and grilling out in the backyard with friends.  However, to some this day is much more somber and is spent remembering a soul that was lost to help make our great nation a better place.  May we all be grateful for those brave men and women and spend our Memorial Day weekend celebrating our freedom and honoring those who have fought to preserve it.  And on St. Simons Island you can do both.

Year after year guests return to St. Simons Island to experience traditional festivities, mild May weather, sandy beaches, and seafood.  We’ve listed a few must do activities on St. Simons for you to enjoy this weekend to celebrate the coming summer season and also remember why we have Memorial Day.

TAPS at Twilight – TAPS is a major local community event arranged by the St. Simons Rotary Club to honor those who have fallen in the service of our country, those who have valiantly served and returned, and those still serving today. The tribute was begun in 1991 as an annual observance of Memorial Day.  TAPS will be held May 31, 2021 at 6:45 pm in Neptune Park.

Antique Show – May 27-28 stroll under the oaks at Postell Park by the Casino and shop furniture, collectibles, primitives, jewelry, silver, glassware, etc. from vendors from all over the southeast.

Sounds by the Sea – This Sunday, May 30 from 6pm-9pm enjoy live music by Phil Morrison & Friends, hosted by Golden Isles Arts & Humanities.  Bring your beach chairs and a lawn picnic and relax oceanside at Neptune Park as the sunsets over the Atlantic.  This summer concert series is a fan favorite by both adults and children. Entry is $12 for adults, $5 for children.

Winter  Activities  in the  Golden  Isles

1. Bike Riding

With miles of winding bike paths, you can cover most of the island without setting foot on the road.  From the miles of beaches to the canopy of oaks, bike trails line one end of the island to the other.  Take a lunch break at the Pier Village, or go shopping in Redfern or the Shops at Sea Island.  For a challenge take your ride all the way to Christ Church or Fort Frederica.

2. Historical Attractions

Winter in the Golden Isles is the ideal opportunity to learn about the the rich history of St. Simons Island. Visit Fort Frederica and learn about and how it guarded the coast from the Spanish.  See the ruins at Cannon’s Point or the historic cemetery at Christ Church.  Off the island you can see what life was like at an authentic rice plantation at Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation, or explore Jekyll Island and its historic mansions.

3. Jekyll Island Treasure Hunt

A bucket list item for sure the Jekyll Island Treasure hunt is fun for all ages and is a great way to see another part of Golden Isles.  Each year Jekyll Island selects artist from across the country to make one-of-a-kind glass floats, similar to what fisherman used in the early 1900’s to mark their nets. These floats are hidden across Jekyll Island for lucky folks to find.  You never know where they are hidden, but if you don’t find a glass float, you’ll be sure to find other treasures.

4. Pet Friendly Fun

Although our beaches are pet friendly year-round, during the winter months pets enjoy unrestricted access on the beach. Take them for a run on the beach any time of day, or one of the many dog parks that are spotted around the island.  For a special treat, check out Island Dog and next door you can sit outside and enjoy a pet friendly lunch at Mallery Street Cafe We know our furry friends are family members too, so be sure to check out our pet friendly rentals so they can enjoy a winter getaway with you!