There’s no better way to explore St. Simons and Jekyll Island than on two wheels. With well-maintained trails that take you through scenic marshlands, past historic landmarks, and along the coastline, biking offers a fun, active way to experience the beauty of the Golden Isles. Whether pedaling with the family or setting out on a solo adventure, we have the ultimate guide to help you make the most of your ride.
Before you hit the trails, grab this user-friendly bike map to plan your route. If you’re staying in St. Simons’ Village Area, you’re already in a prime spot for biking—it’s close to the beach, restaurants, and all the action. Perfect for keeping the car parked and the fun rolling!
What You’ll See
Biking on St. Simons and Jekyll Island offers an intimate look at the unique coastal beauty of the Golden Isles. On St. Simons, you’ll pass under arching live oaks drooping with Spanish moss, particularly along Kings Way and Frederica Road. Marshlands come alive as you pedal by—watch for snowy egrets and blue herons wading in the shallows or fiddler crabs scuttling along the muddy banks. If you ride through the Cannon’s Point Preserve area, you’ll see stretches of salt marsh and maybe even spot deer grazing in the early morning light.
Over on Jekyll Island, the scenery shifts to include unspoiled beaches and maritime forests. Driftwood Beach stands out with its weathered, gnarled, and tangled trees. The National Historic Landmark District offers another highlight, with views of grand 19th-century cottages and the iconic Jekyll Island Club. Along the bike paths, you’ll pass by freshwater ponds and birds like roseate spoonbills and ospreys. The mix of natural beauty and historic charm makes every turn on these bike trails an adventure worth savoring.
Where to Rent Bikes
No bike? No worries. St. Simons and Jekyll Island are home to several bike rental shops that make gearing up easy:
- Ocean Motion: Located near East Beach, Ocean Motion offers rentals for all ages. Start here for a family-friendly ride through the marsh-lined sidewalks and coastal neighborhoods.
- Monkeywrench Bicycles: Found on Frederica Road, this shop is perfect for bikers heading to St. Simons’ north end, where history and nature meet.
- VayK Life Beach Gear Rentals: Hodnett Cooper has partnered with VayK Life Beach Gear Rentals to offer guests the ultimate convenience: complimentary daily credit toward beach gear rental, including bikes, chairs, and coolers, at participating properties. With easy online ordering and gear delivered straight to your rental, it’s an easy way to pack less and enjoy more!
Bike Trails on St. Simons and Jekyll Island
With over 30 miles of trails on St. Simons and a network of serene bike paths on Jekyll Island, you’ll find plenty of options for every skill level.
- St. Simons Island Trail System: This expansive network connects key landmarks like the St. Simons Lighthouse, East Beach, and Fort Frederica. It’s perfect for casual riders and experienced cyclists alike.
- Jekyll Island Trails: Explore quiet, scenic routes that wind through the Historic District, past Driftwood Beach, and around the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. It’s peaceful and picturesque—a true cyclist’s paradise.
Fun Stops Along the Way
Biking on St. Simons and Jekyll Island is as much about the stops as the ride itself. The St. Simons Lighthouse Museum is a great place to start, where you can climb to the top for sweeping views of the island and learn about its rich maritime history. Nearby, the WWII Homefront Museum offers an engaging look at Georgia’s role during World War II, with exhibits housed in a beautifully restored Coast Guard Station.
For a longer ride, visit Christ Church, a historic gem nestled under ancient oaks. It’s quiet grounds and storied past make it a perfect place to pause and reflect. Over on Jekyll Island, the Georgia Sea Turtle Center is a must-see. Here, you can observe rescued turtles up close while learning about the critical conservation efforts to protect them.
These stops don’t just add variety to your ride—they make the journey unforgettable. And if you pack a picnic, you can turn any of these spots into a scenic lunch break to savor along the way.
Ideal Picnic Spots
Speaking of picnics, packing a basket is always a good idea when biking the Golden Isles. From the shaded tranquility of Cannon’s Point Preserve to Driftwood Beach’s otherworldly vibe, there’s no shortage of spots to unpack a meal and take in the view. For a full list of picnic-perfect locations, check out our guide to the best picnic spots on St. Simons and Jekyll Island. You’ll also find many kid-friendly restaurants and delightful eateries if you just want to relax after your ride and enjoy the coastal breezes.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
Biking on St. Simons and Jekyll Island is even better when you’re staying close to the action. Vacation rentals in the St. Simons’ Village Area offer easy access to trails, beaches, and local restaurants. Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals makes it simple to find the perfect home base for your family’s getaway. Plus, with beach gear rentals, you’ll have everything you need to explore and unwind.
Book your stay today and experience the best of the Golden Isles, one pedal at a time.
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‘Tis the Season for Coastal Charm
In the Golden Isles, winter isn’t about snow and ice – it’s about golden sunsets, festive lights, and the joy of coastal living. While the temperature may drop a few degrees, the warmth of Southern hospitality remains as strong as ever. This season offers a perfect blend of festive cheer, outdoor adventures, and peaceful moments that make it an ideal time to experience the authentic charm of St. Simons and Jekyll Island!
Uncover Rich History
Winter is an excellent time to delve into the Golden Isles’ fascinating past. On Jekyll Island, explore the National Historic Landmark District and get a glimpse of Gilded Age opulence. St. Simons Island offers its own historical gems – visit Fort Frederica and climb the St. Simons Lighthouse for stunning winter views. In Brunswick, take a stroll through the historic Signature Squares, which predate the Revolutionary War, and soak in the charm of Historic Downtown.
Join the Holly Jolly Jekyll Celebration
The holiday spirit comes alive during Jekyll Island’s Holly Jolly Jekyll festivities. Hop on a festive trolley ride to see over a million twinkling lights around the island. Families will love the light parade, fireworks, mini-golf, and drive-in movies. For those feeling brave, the annual Cold-Stunned Plunge offers a chilly dip in the Atlantic that supports sea turtle conservation.
Enjoy Dog-Friendly Beaches
Winter in the Golden Isles is particularly welcoming to our four-legged friends. Unlike the summer months when beach access for dogs is limited, winter allows your furry companions to play, dig, and swim freely! Check out even more pet-friendly activities!
Spot Unique Wildlife
Winter brings some special visitors to our shores. Keep an eye out for North Atlantic right whales, bald eagles, and merganser ducks as they pass through on their southern journey. It’s a prime time for nature enthusiasts to explore our diverse ecosystems and observe some remarkable wildlife.
Explore on Two Wheels
Winter’s mild temperatures make it the perfect time to explore the islands by bike. With miles of winding bike paths, you can cover most of the island without setting foot in the road. Enjoy a leisurely ride along the marsh, pedal beneath majestic oaks draped in Spanish moss, or cycle all the way to Mallory Pier. The extensive trail network even runs past the airport, making it easy and fun to bike to a nice lunch spot before heading back to your oceanfront condo.
Experience a St. Simons Island Christmas
A cherished local tradition brings Santa Claus to St. Simons Island in true coastal fashion. The festivities begin as Santa arrives by boat at the pier, greeted by excited onlookers. From there, he boards a fire truck to tour the streets of St. Simons Island. This unique arrival combines our maritime heritage with holiday cheer!
Hunt for Treasures on Jekyll Island
From January through February, Jekyll Island transforms into a treasure hunter’s paradise with the annual Island Treasures event. Throughout the island, clear plastic globes are hidden, waiting to be discovered by lucky visitors. But the real treasure comes after the hunt – once you find a globe, you can take it to the Jekyll Island Guest Information Center and exchange it for a unique, hand-blown glass float!
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While St. Simons Island is a premier vacation destination for families, couples, and solo travelers, it’s also an excellent spot for girls’ trips! Nestled along Georgia’s coast, this picturesque destination offers the perfect escape to share with your closest friends. From sipping cocktails to browsing boutiques to savoring local cuisine, here’s what you need to know for an unforgettable getaway with your girlfriends to St. Simons!
How to Get Here
Getting to the St. Simons and the Golden Isles is easy, whether traveling by car, plane, or boat! Our travel guide is an excellent resource for accessing this beautiful vacation destination.
When to Visit
St. Simons Island is known for its temperate, mild weather, making it the perfect destination for a girls’ trip any time of year. July and August see the warmest temps, while winter brings cooler weather and fewer crowds. Longer daylight hours and warm nights in the spring and summer offer an exciting atmosphere that’s hard to resist! For current conditions, check out the local webcams.
Getting Around the Island
Once on the island, you’ll want quick and easy access to all the fun things to do! Here are a few ways to get around:
Bike on St. Simons Island
St. Simons Island is home to well-maintained bike trails offering scenic views at every turn. The St. Simons Island Trail System spans over 30 miles and connects places of interest. Check out this user-friendly bike map to start your adventure!
Cruise in a Golf Cart
Many local companies rent four and six-seater golf carts with gas and electric options, making it easy to get around on your St. Simons girls’ trip. Before heading out, reference the low-speed vehicle laws and acceptable areas of operation, and be aware that many condo complexes prohibit charging in the community and parking garages.
While Coast to Coast offers 8-seater options, Lux Karts and Seaside Carts feature online reservations and delivery options. Take it up a notch with a posh ride from Moke, and you’ll be cruising in style!
Fun Things To Do
Here are a few of our favorite things to do on your girls’ getaway!
Enjoy a cocktail with your girlfriends while exploring the island on a 90-minute trolley tour. Knowledgeable guides offer a glimpse into the island’s rich history, including stops at St. Simons Lighthouse, one of three working lighthouses in Georgia, and Fort Frederica, a historic fort built in 1736. Coastal Tide Excursions offers waterway tours on the Lady Jane, a refurbished shrimp boat. Each trawl brings in a new catch, and it’s a fun way to learn about the local marine life while spending time on the water with your besties in the Golden Isles.
Afterward, hit Frosty’s, a quirky shake and burger shack that pays homage to all things nostalgic about beach life. Need something a little heartier? Porch merges Nashville hot chicken and the beach in the heart of S. Simons Village. Sip your beverage of choice, play a little cornhole, then challenge your friends to a round of giant Connect Four!
Shopping Galore
Shopping with girlfriends in St. Simons is a delightful experience, conveniently broken into a few areas:
Redfern Village
Keep it casual and browse the locally owned specialty shops at Redfern Village. Two Friends offers the best of all worlds, including clothes, jewelry, and accessories. Double the fun at The Bubble Bar, a fun wine and champagne bar inside the boutique. Take advantage of one of their scheduled tasting evenings or even host a private event in the stunning space that includes an outdoor patio!
Pier Village:
Pier Village, the hub of the island vacation scene, is a shopper’s dream, with over a dozen eateries and shops galore! Island Dog has everything your pooch needs to live their best life, including stylish collars, leashes, healthy treats, and toys. Swing by Palm Coast for coffee and delicious handmade desserts, and hit Ocean Motion for all your beach needs!
Shops at Sea Island:
The Shops at Sea Island offers the brand names you crave for your St. Simons girls’ trip. Don’t miss Tibi, on the northside of Sea Island Road. Shackleford has the most on-trend women’s footwear on the island and fun accessories, too. Need to pick up something special for the gentleman in your life? Try Planter’s Exchange!
Spa Day Anyone?
On your St. Simons girls’ trip, you’ll find several day spas for some much-needed pampering. Island Day Spa is known for facials and body treatments that leave skin glowing. Need a new set of lashes? B. Lush Salon and Spa can offer that and more, including haircuts, color, and extensions. Of course, if you’d prefer to relax in your gorgeous vacation rental, Massage Guru will happily come to you!
Hit the Beach
The goal of any St. Simons girls’ trip should always include relaxation. There’s no better way than to spend time on the beaches of Saint Simons and Jekyll Island. Whether strolling along the coast, looking for seashells, or taking a dip, a day on a sun-drenched beach in the Golden Isles is always a good idea!
Maximize your beach day by booking with Hodnett Cooper, with beach gear included! Thanks to our partnership with VayK Life, a premium beach service, guests staying at participating properties can enjoy complimentary beach gear rentals. Simply confirm your reservation at a qualifying Hodnett Cooper property for 2 to 14 nights, arriving between March and October, and receive a daily credit towards beach gear during your stay. Whether you need bicycles, chairs, umbrellas, beach carts, boogie boards, coolers, or even cornhole, the choice is yours!
Dinner and Drinks
St. Simons Island offers dozens of Instagramable eateries serving mouthwatering dishes in stunning settings. Make a reservation beforehand, as many of these hotspots fill up fast!
Dorthy’s Cocktail and Oyster Bar – for delectable cuisine, a stunning raw bar, a stylish atmosphere, and an inventive cocktail menu sure to wow!
Woodside – for a farm-to-table menu, rotating nightly, featuring unique flavor combinations and the freshest ingredients. Expect impeccable service in this impossibly chic eatery, whether in the dining room, patio, or bar. Seating is limited, so book this one early!
The Nest – for your new favorite place to meet up and wind down for drinks and shareables. Located near the Pier Village and with indoor, outdoor, or bar seating, the eclectic tunes from the massive vinyl collection make this a standout!
Southern Soul BBQ – for oak-fired, slow-smoked barbecue and all things delicious. The Soul Rolls (BBQ Eggrolls), pimento cheese, and fried green beans may be why Food Network, Garden and Gun, and Southern Living have all featured this popular smokehouse.
Coastal Kitchen – for incredible views of the marina, delicious seafood, and a lively atmosphere destined to kick off your St. Simons girls’ trip! Stop by for a cocktail, stroll on the dock, and enjoy a beautiful coastal Georgia sunset.
Nightlife
If you still have some gas left in your tank after a full day of play, check out our guide to St. Simons nightlife and hit the local hotspots to enjoy live music on the Golden Isles.
Where to Stay
With over 300 beautiful beach homes and condos available for short weekend trips or weeklong stays, you’ll have no problem finding the perfect place to stay for your next girls’ trip with Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals. Book your girls’ trip to St. Simons today!
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St. Simons Island may be ranked as one of the best islands to visit around the world and among Georgia’s best beaches, but there’s more to our slice of coastal paradise than the beaches alone. While spring and summer bring visitors from all over to bask in the sun and splash in the Atlantic Ocean, every season offers something new to discover—and fall might just be our favorite season in coastal Georgia.
With warm temperatures and fewer crowds, fall on St. Simons Island is a celebration of our community, filled with family-friendly fall festivals and events you won’t want to miss! From art festivals and pumpkin patches to BBQ throwdowns and Georgia-Florida Weekend, end-capped by the annual RSM Classic at Sea Island Golf Club, there’s something for everyone throughout the fall season in St. Simons.
Crafts in the Village – Select Weekends
Stroll under magnificent live oaks at Crafts in the Village, a popular event held on select weekends at Postell Park in Pier Village. With up to 70 artists and crafters participating each weekend, it’s a great place to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts. From coastal art and jewelry to pottery, furniture, and specialty foods, Whether you’re looking to support local artisans or scratch those last few items off your Christmas list, you’ll find the perfect hand-made item at this ‘rain or shine’ event!
Art Under the Oaks Festival – September
Art Under the Oaks is a renowned two-day juried art festival in picturesque Postell Park. This dynamic showcase attracts visitors from all over, eager to share their impressive collections of handmade artwork. This fall festival features over 60 talented artists from the region, displaying works in diverse mediums, including painting, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, photography, and more. With so many beautiful pieces on display, you’ll have no problem finding something special to take home to remind you of your time on St. Simons Island!
Silver Bluff Oktoberfest – September
This might be your only opportunity to don your lederhosen this year—or at least enjoy watching others do so. Come out and enjoy a full day of festivities as Brunswick puts its own spin on this traditional fall festival featuring Oktoberfest-themed activities and games, ice-cold beer, German food, and a live German band.
Firebox Barbecue on the Bluff – October
Join others in their eternal quest for the tastiest barbecue at this annual fall festival. Founded by the Firebox Initiative, this charitable event raises funds to help those in the hospitality and service industry facing financial hardship. The widely popular fall event brings together some of the South’s top pitmasters, offering ribs, brisket, chicken, and more. Learn from the best and sample their masterpieces while enjoying the beautiful fall weather.
Georgia-Florida Weekend – October
The Georgia-Florida football game has been a national event held in Jacksonville, Florida, since 1933. This traditional celebration is one of the greatest football rivalries in the country and one of the most prominent games in college football. Scheduled events leading up to the big game make it fun for Bulldog and Gator fans alike, so don your best gameday gear and get ready for this fantastic football matchup steeped in tradition.
Under the Oaks Run – October
Kick off the fall season with a scenic run on Jekyll Island! Enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery while challenging yourself on the 5K, 10K, or half marathon course. You’ll also enjoy stunning views of the Jekyll River as you traverse through beautiful neighborhoods and lush landscapes. Strollers and wagons are welcome, making it a fun occasion for the whole family!
Ghosts and Legends of Hofwyl Broadfield Plantation – October
Discover the captivating history and tales of coastal Georgia’s last surviving rice plantation. As you explore this beautifully preserved property, including the historic plantation house and outbuildings, knowledgeable guides will share fascinating stories of plantation owners and the African Americans who worked there, both during slavery and after emancipation.
CoastFest – October
Mary Ross Waterfront Park in Brunswick is the place to be for a fall festival you won’t want to miss. On the agenda? A shrimp eating contest, an art competition, and plenty of fun, educational activities designed to teach visitors about the rich heritage of our beautiful coastal communities. Take in the waterfront views, learn about the natural resources in the area, and browse the exhibits, displays, and presentations!
St. Simons Pumpkin Patch – October
Nothing screams fall like a trip to the annual pumpkin patch! The air is crisp with the sweet scent of fall, and the whole family is itching to get outdoors. It’s the perfect opportunity to take the kids on a fun-filled outing. Let them explore the patch filled with pumpkins of all shapes, sizes, and colors in search of the perfect one to take home and decorate!
Running of the Bulls – October
Test your angling skills throughout St. Simons and Jekyll Island at this two-day fishing tournament. This fall event features daily giveaways, increased payouts, and a $3,000 Calcutta prize for a lucky winner. There’s no better place to experience the thrill of surf fishing in one of the largest land mass tournaments in the state!
Shrimp and Grits Festival – October
Sample the flavors of the South at the annual Shrimp and Grits Festival! Savor this delicious Southern staple prepared by local chefs, served piping hot, and ready to share. Browse the vendor booths featuring pottery, glass, textiles, and more, followed by a dazzling fireworks display. Dance the night away to live music or relax and soak up the festive atmosphere.
RSM Classic – November
Experience the exciting conclusion of the PGA tour season at the Sea Island Golf Club! This prestigious tournament offers players a final chance to lock in their tour cards for the 2025 season. Watch over 150 competitors battle it out on the fairways at the Seaside and Plantation courses over four days of intense competition.
With so much to see and do this fall in St. Simons, you’ll need a comfortable place to stay near all these fall festivals and fun events! Whether looking for a luxury retreat, an oceanfront resort, or shopping for last minute vacation rental deals, you’ll find the best selection of St. Simons accommodations to suit your style, preferences, and budget right here at hodnettcooper.com.
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Veterans Day on Saint Simons Island is typically celebrated with a parade and festivities as a special way to say thank you to the men and women who have sacrificed to make our country a better place. This year will be a little different, but a celebration nonetheless. Beginning at 11:00am at the Casino at Neptune Park on St. Simons Island, there will be a Veteran’s Day observance. In addition, restaurants and shops around the St. Simons Island will be offering discounts for Veterans (some offered throughout the year). Below is a list we’ve compiled of places we know are offering a discount (*please note there may be others that we aren’t aware of). Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals wishes you a very happy Veterans Day and again thank you to all those who have sacrificed so we may live in this wonderful country, the United States of America.
Brogens North – 20% off
Bubba Garcia – Veterans eat free
Chile Peppers – 10% off
Chubs Diner – 50% off
Del Sur – 20% off plus free dessert
Hildy’s Pizza – 20% off
Island Dog – 10% off
Maggie’s Boutique – call for details
Sandy Bottom Bagels – 20% off
Sea Salt – 10% off
SML Surf Co – $5 off apparel, $25 off boards
St. Simons Music – 10% of any string instrument
Tango Woodworks – 10% off wooden flags
Tipsy McSways – 50% off
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Dine like a local and enjoy local restaurants like Southern Soul BBQ, Southern Magazine’s “The South’s Best BBQ 2017”. Or you can dine beachfront or marsh front with options like Brogen’s, Echo, or Marshside Grill. Local Chef Dave Synder also has several great options for you to choose from at any of his restaurants, Tramici, Halyrads, or La Plancha!
Bike to the beach and beyond! Rent bikes from Ocean Motion Surf Co. and cruise the island with the breeze blowing through your hair. With bike paths throughout most of the island you can get almost anywhere you want to go! Or cruise to the beach, park your bike and enjoy some time relaxing on the soft sand with the ocean waves crashing in the background
Shop ’till you drop! With so many great local shops you won’t leave empty handed. From boutique style home décor and clothing shops to wine and candles stores you will find treasures you just can’t live without. Check out Dutchman’s for true southern décor or Redfern Village or the Shops at Sea Island for numerous clothing, home décor, and children’s shops
Have fun in the sun! Of course, our main attraction on St. Simons island is the Beach! You can’t beat a relaxing day with family and friends relaxing with the coastal sun shining bright. Grab a towel and some chairs and head to the closet beach access to get your day of relaxation started.
The Golden Isles is filled with great history so if you are a history buff take some time out of your schedule to visits monuments like Fort Frederica, Christ Church, or hop on the trolley tour to see all the great points of interest the island has to offer!
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