St. Simons Island Beaches—Everything You Need to Know

August 27, 2025

With soft golden sand, gentle lapping waves, and seemingly endless horizons, the beaches on St. Simons Island are in large part what make the Georgia Coast unforgettable. Nestled in the center of the Golden Isles, this beautiful stretch of shoreline hosts visitors from all over the world, season after season, year after year. You’ll see families building sandcastles in the spring and summer, friends gathering for picnics in the fall, and groups of all sizes enjoying the beach throughout the winter. There’s always something to do on our sandy shores, and this guide shares the very best of it!

Some of Our Favorite Public Beaches on St. Simons Island

St. Simons Island offers over 30 public beach access points, each revealing a new and different view of coastal Georgia. There’s a beach for every type of traveler, from long, sandy stretches perfect for families to pristine shorelines to enjoy with your furry companion. (Yes, dogs are welcome on the beach year-round; however, seasonal restrictions apply between the Saturday before Memorial Day through Labor Day, prohibiting dogs on the beach between 9 AM and 6 PM.)

Here’s a breakdown of a few of our favorite St. Simons Island beaches and why we love them!

East Beach

When it comes to public beaches, East Beach is the crown jewel of St. Simons Island. Stretching along the Atlantic with vast sandy shores, tall dunes, and stunning ocean views, families and friends gather and enjoy the serene environment for hours on end. At low tide, kids love exploring the sandy stretches and tidal pools that pop up along the shoreline.

Although you’ll find multiple access points along East Beach, the Historic U.S. Coast Guard Station is always a great choice, with free parking, public restrooms, picnic areas, and a summer concession stand. Wheelchair-accessible paths ensure everyone can enjoy the natural beauty!

Massengale Park Beach

Massengale Park, located just south of the Coast Guard Station, promises a quiet, family-friendly slice of St. Simons Island beach life with soft sand and calm waters. Shaded picnic areas and oak-covered tables make it a great place to relax while the kids burn off energy on the playground. Other park amenities to enjoy include grills, outdoor showers, public restrooms, and ADA-accessible mats, making it a popular place to gather.

Gould’s Inlet

Gould’s Inlet, located at the northern tip of East Beach, offers a serene escape for nature lovers and early risers alike. Sunrise walks deliver incredible views of marshes and tidal creeks, with majestic seabirds soaring overhead. The calm, uncrowded setting showcases the island’s tranquil natural beauty, a vital habitat for wildlife, including nesting sea turtles. It’s also a great place for bird-watchers to spot elegant herons and playful pelicans!

Things to Do on St. Simons Island Beaches

Whether you’re looking to spend an active day on the water, enjoy a peaceful walk on the sand, or find little treasures along the shoreline, you’ll never run out of things to do on St. Simons Island’s beaches!

Hunt for seashells and build elaborate sandcastles, cast a line at the St. Simons fishing pier, launch a kayak or paddleboard along the tidal creeks, or catch a breeze on a catamaran. From toddlers digging in the sand to couples seeking a relaxing day by the water, there’s a beautiful stretch of sand with your name written all over it!.

Where to Eat Near the Beach

When hunger strikes after a day in the sun, St. Simons has plenty of delicious options close to our beautiful beaches. For a casual bite, grab fresh seafood and sandwiches at Iguana’s or hit up Porch and enjoy a family meal with all the fixin’s! For a refreshing treat, try a soft-served dip cone or a delicious shake with your choice of toppings at Frosty’s Griddle and Shake. Of course, nothing beats a blanket on the beach with salty air, ocean views, and a picnic with your favorite treats!

Best Time to Visit the Beach

When’s the best time to visit St. Simons beaches? That depends on the kind of experience you’d like to have! Late spring through the end of summer brings sunny skies, warm waters, and a buzzing beach vibe. The fall and winter offer quieter beaches, cooler breezes, and plenty of space to spread your towel. For the ultimate beach day, plan your visit on weekdays, arrive early, and stroll a little further from the main access points. You’ll often find stretches of empty sand to enjoy. Whatever season you choose, the island’s beaches reward every visitor with sun, sand, and surf that’s hard to replicate elsewhere!

Family-Friendly Beach Tips

A few essentials make for a perfect day on St. Simons Island beaches. Chairs, an umbrella, a cooler with snacks and beverages, and plenty of sunscreen will keep everyone comfortable and protected. Bring kid-friendly beach toys like buckets, shovels, and a frisbee to keep the littles entertained, or try a game of bocce ball on the sand.

Safety is key, too; lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day through Labor Day from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm at Coast Guard and Massengale beaches, but always swim with caution and be aware of rip tides and currents. Avoid swimming out to the sandbar, and check local tide charts and weather reports before heading out. With some planning, you’ll enjoy a fun, safe, and memorable beach day on St. Simons Island!

Where to Stay Close to St. Simons Island Beaches

Ready to plan your St. Simons beach getaway? Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals offers beautiful retreats just steps from the sand, from cozy condos with all the amenities to spacious homes for large groups. Looking for direct ocean views? We’ve got them! Want easy access to your favorite beach activities, or a relaxing home base for a multigenerational family? We can check that box too! Don’t wait! Browse our St. Simons vacation rentals today and plan the ultimate beach escape with Hodnett Cooper!