st simons lighthouse in st simons, georgia

St. Simons Lighthouse and Museum of Coastal History: A Visitor’s Guide

September 29, 2025

A trip to St. Simons Island simply isn’t complete without a visit to the St. Simons Lighthouse, a striking landmark that’s a symbol of the area’s history, stretching back nearly three centuries.

Right next door, the Museum of Coastal History is yet another must-see, offering some of the island’s most captivating history, from interesting stories at sea to tales of everyday life along Georgia’s coast. If you’re planning a trip to St. Simons, you’ll definitely want to climb the lighthouse, wander through the exhibits, and roam the grounds, because every moment here feels like stepping into a piece of living history.

Not sure where to begin? Here’s everything you need to know to enjoy an afternoon at the St. Simons Lighthouse and Museum of Coastal History!

A Brief History of St. Simons Lighthouse

The St. Simons Lighthouse has consistently stood as a steadfast guardian of the island’s coast, although it has undergone many changes and restorations over the years. The current tower replaced an earlier lighthouse built in 1810, a 75-foot-tall octagonal structure topped by an oil-burning lamp. In 1872, a new structure was erected with a biconvex Fresnel lens, projecting beams of light over the ocean. Watching over St. Simons Island for more than 150 years, it continues the legacy of guiding sailors safely through treacherous waters.

While it has endured storms, shipwrecks, and even served as a strategic lookout, it now welcomes visitors to climb the spiral staircase, peek through the historic lens, and get a real sense of the life of the keepers who tended the light, keeping the Coast, and countless others, safe.

Museum of Coastal History: What You’ll Discover Inside

The Museum of Coastal History is jam-packed with information for anyone curious about St. Simon’s past. Start your visit by climbing the lighthouse; each of the 129 steps on the spiral staircase brings you that much closer to sweeping views of the coastline and a fresh perspective on the island’s maritime history. Just beside the lighthouse, the Keeper’s Cottage offers a glimpse into the daily life of the families who lived here, complete with period furnishings alongside stories of the keeper’s dedication.

Exhibits bring the past to life, from shipwrecks and rescues to local fishing traditions and coastal wildlife. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of interactive displays and fun photo ops that make it interesting for the whole family. It really is one of the best places on St. Simons to capture memories of your visit. Before you leave, stop by the gift shop for fun souvenirs and keepsakes!

aeriel view of the st. simons island lighthouse

Planning Your Visit to St. Simons

Getting to the St. Simons Lighthouse and Museum of Coastal History is easy, whether you’re traveling from a nearby town or farther away. If you’re driving in from Savannah, Charleston, or Jacksonville, travel along I-95 to US 17. For those flying in, the nearest airport is the Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK), and it’s just a 30-minute, scenic drive to the lighthouse. You can purchase tickets at the A.W. Jones Heritage Center, and reference the following helpful information to make the most of your trip:

Address: 610 Beachview Drive

Hours: Mon-Sat from 10 am – 5 pm and Sun from noon – 5 pm.

Cost: $12 for adults, $10 for ages 6-12, and a $2 military discount with ID. Children under 6 are admitted free of charge.

Helpful Tips for the Best Experience

To make the most of your visit to the St. Simons Lighthouse and Museum of Coastal History, timing and preparation will make a big difference. Plan to climb the lighthouse in the morning or late afternoon for the best views and photos. The sun casts a beautiful glow on the water below and makes for incredible images you can enjoy for years to come. Bring comfortable shoes for climbing and a smartphone to capture those panoramic views. Sunscreen, water, and a hat are also good ideas, especially in the warmer months.

Although the weather is beautiful any time of year, the shoulder seasons typically offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, so you can explore at your own pace!

Nearby Attractions on St. Simons Island

Beyond the lighthouse and museum, you’ll find plenty of other places to see and fun things to do on St. Simons! The island’s scenic beaches offer soft sand and gentle waves, so the whole family can spend lazy days by the water, whether relaxing, swimming, or enjoying an oceanside picnic. Fishers come from all over to try their hand at reeling in the big one on St. Simons Island Fishing Pier, while nearby Neptune Park offers picnic areas, a public pool (seasonal), a playground, and mini golf. Of course, you can shop until your heart’s content at Pier Village or grab a meal or a sweet treat at one of the many restaurants in the plaza.

You’ll also find other places of interest, including the historic Christ Church, the WWII Homefront Museum, and the Fort Frederica National Monument. Bike or stroll along the island trails, explore the other local parks, and lose yourself in the charming streets and waterfront views that make St. Simons such a special vacation destination.

Make the Most of Your Stay with Hodnett Cooper

Whether you plan on visiting the lighthouse, exploring the beaches, or wandering through Pier Village, you’ll want to be close to the action. No problem! Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals has so much to choose from, all near your favorite activities.

Choose from stylish condominiums and townhomes, resort properties with tons of amenities, like Beach Club St. Simons and North Breakers, or an oceanfront home or community designed to make your family feel right at home. All come equipped with beautiful furnishings, spacious rooms, and beautifully appointed kitchens to make your stay that much more enjoyable. Book your stay today.