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While much of the world is still shaking off winter, spring in the Golden Isles is a breath of fresh air, particularly in April and May. Late spring is what some may call our ‘sweet spot’, when azaleas are bursting with color, the weather is incredible, and the crowds are blissfully light—particularly during weekdays. So, if you’ve been scouting the best time to visit the Golden Isles, we’re here to tell you, it’s April and May, and here’s why!

Incredible Weather

With a mild, inviting climate that makes every outdoor moment a delight, spring is truly one of our favorite times in the Golden Isles. You can expect daytime highs to climb comfortably from the mid-70s in April to the low 80s by late May, while nighttime lows hover between 55 and 65, just perfect for an evening stroll.

Some of our favorite spring activities include kayaking through the salt marshes, biking the 20+ miles of paved trails on Jekyll Island, or enjoying a round of world-class golf before the summer sun reaches its peak. Because the coastal breezes remain gentle and the Atlantic starts to warm up, it’s also a fantastic season for horseback riding on the beach or hunting for seashells along the serene shoreline.

Fewer Crowds

While the Golden Isles are full of energy during the peak summer months, April and May are a little quieter. You can often walk into your favorite St. Simons Island restaurants, no waiting involved, or snag a seat on a trolley tour and hear stories of the island’s history with a more intimate group. Whether you’re exploring the shops at Pier Village or wandering along Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island, lighter crowds let you take things at your own pace and enjoy the charm of the people in our beautiful island communities.

Affordable Rates

You can also enjoy world-class luxury without the peak season price tag! With April and May falling just before the busy summer months, it’s easier to snag more affordable lodging rates and lower airfare into nearby airports like Brunswick Golden Isles (BQK) or Jacksonville (JAX).

Plus, seasonal specials and mid-week prices mean you can take those savings and put them right back into your vacation. Whether you use the money on a private excursion or a day trip, treat the family to a night out at a nice restaurant, or simply extend your stay to catch another beautiful sunset, it’s totally your call!

Epic Outdoor Adventures

The mild spring weather creates the perfect conditions for epic outdoor adventures that might feel a little intense during the warmer summer months. Spend your morning climbing the steps of the historic St. Simons Lighthouse for panoramic coastal views or hit the World War II Home Front Museum and learn about the area’s fascinating maritime history. Rent a bike and explore miles of paved biking trails winding through ancient live oak forests and scenic marshes. Of course, if you’d prefer to get out on the water, the calm breezes are ideal for kayaking or taking a guided boat tour to spot dolphins and local bird life!

April and May Events

One of the best ways to soak up the local culture (and sunshine) is by attending one of the many Golden Isles spring events that dot the calendar in April and May. Celebrate the region’s diverse heritage at the Golden Isles CultureFest in mid-April in Brunswick, or browse one-of-a-kind treasures at the Art in the Park festival under the live oaks on St. Simons. A true seasonal highlight is the historic Blessing of the Fleet in Brunswick, held each May, honoring the local shrimp industry with a colorful parade of decorated boats and plenty of fresh-caught seafood.

Book Your Spring Break Getaway with Hodnett Cooper

There’s never been a better time to turn those coastal daydreams into a reality! Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat for two or a long-awaited family reunion, we’ve got accommodations for groups of all sizes. Plus, many of our vacation homes and condos come with thoughtful amenities like private pools, fully equipped kitchens, and breezy porches so you can soak up every bit of that spring air!

Book your spring break getaway today with Hodnett Cooper!

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.

In today’s fast paced online world there seems to be an abundance of options for consumers, and property management companies are no different. Filtering through each of them can be overwhelming and knowing exactly which one is best for you is even tougher! Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals has been in the real estate and property management business for over 30 years so we know a thing or two about vacation rentals. Here are a few tips from our pros on how to determine the best property management group to successfully manage your vacation rental.

#1 – More Traffic = More Guests

The key to any business is traffic. The more traffic and visibility your vacation rental gets, the more bookings you will have! When researching vacation rental management companies, ask about their booking history, how they market properties, and how they market to potential guests. Where do they rank in Google searches, how do they increase their search visibility, how do they use social media platforms, etc. All of these search factors go into how well your property will be marketed and in turn how often it will be rented.

#2 – The Local Advantage

When in doubt, go local. Local companies are typically involved in their local government, community events, and are more accessible if an emergency arises. Local management teams are better equipped to check on your property regularly and have better contacts with maintenance organizations. In general, companies who are local, are better equipped to help your guests and help you as well! Finding experts in your area will create better relationships and provide local expertise.

#3 – Guest Feedback and Customer Service

What are guests saying? One of the best ways to know how well a property management company handles its customer service is to look at reviews. There will always be positives and negatives about individual properties, but the way the company responds says a lot about how they will treat their owners too. Do they respond quickly and are they able to answer a guests concerns in a timely manner? Is it easy for guests and owners to contact them? Customer service is a key player in determining if a guest will return, and keeping owners worry-free.

#4 – Review Property Management Services Offered

Services for homeowners range from in-house maintenance all the way to marketing your home. In other words, what will the management company do to ensure your property is taken care of before, during, and after a guest stay? Do they offer regular inspections or will they help with updates in your home? Do they have in-house maintenance or do they depend on another company? What will your property management group do to make sure your vacation property is successfully booked? Understanding each service that will be provided will allow you to make the best decision in choosing which vacation rental management company is best for you.

#5 – What Are the Management Costs?

There’s a reason some products cost more than others…and the same goes with vacation property management. You want your property to be well maintained and for it to be taken care of by qualified professionals, and that may cost you a percent or two. The property management company you choose could be the single reason your property is or isn’t making money so make sure to analyze your options and not pick a company based solely on their commission.

Interested in Learning More About Vacation Management Services?

If you want to learn more about St. Simons Island property management, contact Hodnett Cooper today! We would be happy to answer any homeowner questions you have. Check out our services provided to learn more.

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

St. Simons Island has been filling up our trophy case lately! Travel + Leisure readers named St. Simons Island “America’s Favorite Beach Town” in their annual America’s Favorite Towns Survey. Coastal Living Magazine ranked St. Simons Island among “America’s Happiest Seaside Towns.” Travel + Leisure readers also named St. Simons Island “America’s Most Romantic Town.”

While our destination is enjoying the limelight, Hodnett Cooper has some great news to report as well.

Our locally-published magazine, Elegant Island Living, conducts its own readers’ poll each year. In July, the eagerly-awaited “Best Of” awards are announced in categories including dining, shopping, cocktails, favorite landmarks and more.

For 2014, the votes are in and we are pleased to report that Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals was voted “Best Vacation Rentals.”

And Hodnett Cooper Real Estate was voted “Best Real Estate Firm.”

Being the best in America’s Favorite Beach Town sure feels nice. We strive to exceed expectations every day and are pleased to have earned your vote. From all of us at Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals and Hodnett Cooper Real Estate, thank you!

Whether it’s your first time to St. Simons Island, or you visit every year, there’s always something new to discover!

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN BRUNSWICK

Once you’ve combed the beaches, found the tree spirits and climbed the lighthouse, you might want to head over the bridge to Historic Downtown Brunswick. Just seven short miles from St. Simons Island is Brunswick, Georgia. Originally settled in 1738, today Brunswick is a thriving town where historic sites provide the backdrop for modern living.

With an interesting history, visitors to downtown Brunswick find bits and pieces from the town’s past, including WWII Liberty Ship production and city squares bearing English names.

Take a look at our Brunswick Area Guide for more on shopping, antiques, arts & theater, events & festivals and significant architectural and historic sights.

DAY TRIPS

For those on an extended stay on St. Simons Island, there’s even more time to explore the cities, towns and islands that are within an easy drive of St. Simons Island.

The nearby cities and towns surrounding St. Simons Island include Jacksonville, Savannah, Darien, St. Mary’s and the Okefenokee Swamp Park in Waycross. Click here for more information on each.

For a different type of exploration, neighboring islands provide amazing scenery, wildlife and an easy pace. From Segue Tours to wild horses, click here to learn more about Jekyll Island, Cumberland Island and Sapelo Island.

Of course, it’s also possible you’ll forgo the exploration and work on your tan. And we understand that too!

In a recent Board of Directors meeting, Kris Maichle was appointed and unanimously approved as President of Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals, Inc. The appointment reflects a promotion for Maichle, who has been General Manager of Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals.

Kris Maichle joined the Hodnett Cooper team in 2007 bringing years of resort and vacation rental management experience to the company. In his time at Hodnett Cooper, Maichle and the vacation rental team have grown the portfolio of vacation rental properties from 200 to just under 400 properties and has increased annual revenues. Kris Maichle is active in the Glynn County tourism industry and is the immediate Past Chairman of the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau. Maichle has served on Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce boards and is currently on St Simons/Sea Island Council. Maichle is active in the nationwide Vacation Rental Managers Association, and in 2011, he was recognized as a community business leader by Golden Isles Magazine in the “Twenty Under Forty” profile.

“Kris has been instrumental in the success and growth of Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals and we are pleased to recognize his leadership and positive contribution to the company,” said Roy Hodnett, Founder and Chairman of the Board.

Maichle’s position as President is effective immediately. “All of us at look forward to the ongoing value and innovative leadership Maichle provides to the vacation rental business of Hodnett Cooper,” said Pat Hodnett Cooper, President and Broker of Hodnett Cooper Real Estate, Inc.

About Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals: Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals is the largest vacation rental management company on St. Simons Island, Georgia with 50 employees and close to 400 vacation rental residences. Hodnett Cooper Vacation Rentals welcomes approximately 10,000 traveling groups to St. Simons Island each year.

About Hodnett Cooper Real Estate: Operating as a separate company, Hodnett Cooper Real Estate, Inc. currently encompasses a team of more than 40 real estate professionals and services listing contracts throughout the Golden Isles. The Residential Rentals division manages over 400 long-term rentals. With offices on St. Simons Island, Brunswick and Oak Grove Island, Hodnett Cooper Real Estate, Inc serves a three-county Coastal Georgia area.

Hodnett Cooper Real Estate, Inc. is pleased to announce that Missy Lane Neu has joined the leadership team as Vice President of Business Development and Associate Broker.

With over twenty years in the real estate industry in the Golden Isles, Neu is a Life Member of the Golden Isles Association of Realtors Circle of Excellence and was the “Realtor of the Year” in both 2001 and 2006. Neu served as the President of the Golden Isles Association of REALTORS in 2001 and 2005 and has served in a multitude of leadership roles at local, state and national REALTOR Associations.

As a lifelong resident of the Golden Isles, Missy actively dedicates her time and resources to organizations that make a measurable difference in strengthening the local business environment, increasing the availability of educational opportunities and improving the quality of life in Coastal Georgia. Prior to joining Hodnett Cooper Real Estate, Inc, Neu served as President and CEO of the United Way of Coastal Georgia. Under Neu’s leadership, the United Way exceeded its fundraising goals in each of her four years, raising over $6.5 million during her tenure. In addition, under her leadership, United Way of Coastal Georgia was awarded a 4-Star rating, the top award, from Charity Navigator in 2012 in recognition of strong governance and financial responsibility.

“Missy’s leadership, experience and community involvement make her an asset to the Hodnett Cooper Real Estate team,” said Pat Cooper, President and Broker. “Missy has a vision and perspective of Coastal Georgia that few others share. We are fortunate to have her on our team in both business development and listing and selling real estate.”

Missy Lane Neu holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Georgia Southern University, is a graduate of the 2008 Leadership Georgia class and is committed to the community through her involvement with the Brunswick-Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce, The United Way of Coastal Georgia and The College of Coastal Georgia.

“I am excited to rejoin the real estate industry as part of the Hodnett Cooper Real Estate team, a company that is equally ingrained the fabric of our community and a market leader,” said Neu.

Missy and her husband Marc consider themselves blessed to be natives of the beautiful Golden Isles. They share their home with two spoiled dogs and a fearless cat.

Incredible Weather

Fewer Crowds

Affordable Rates

Epic Outdoor Adventures

April and May Events

Book Your Spring Break Getaway with Hodnett Cooper

What You’ll See

Where to Rent Bikes

Bike Trails on St. Simons and Jekyll Island

Fun Stops Along the Way

Ideal Picnic Spots

Family-Friendly Accommodations

#1 – More Traffic = More Guests

#2 – The Local Advantage

#3 – Guest Feedback and Customer Service

#4 – Review Property Management Services Offered

#5 – What Are the Management Costs?

Interested in Learning More About Vacation Management Services?

Rentals

Company

Owners

Incredible Weather

Fewer Crowds

Affordable Rates

Epic Outdoor Adventures

April and May Events

Book Your Spring Break Getaway with Hodnett Cooper

What You’ll See

Where to Rent Bikes

Bike Trails on St. Simons and Jekyll Island

Fun Stops Along the Way

Ideal Picnic Spots

Family-Friendly Accommodations

Related Topics

#1 – More Traffic = More Guests

#2 – The Local Advantage

#3 – Guest Feedback and Customer Service

#4 – Review Property Management Services Offered

#5 – What Are the Management Costs?

Interested in Learning More About Vacation Management Services?

Related Topics

Related Topics

Related Topics

Related Topics

Related Topics

Related Topics