As one of the most respected vacation rental experts in the Golden Isles, Hodnett Cooper has helped countless visitors find the perfect place to stay on St. Simons and Jekyll Island. And whether you’re looking for a beachfront condo, a spacious family home, luxury accommodations, or easy access to the beach, we want you to find the perfect place to stay so you can thoroughly enjoy your getaway. That’s why we developed this guide, so you can compare locations, property types, and amenities, then book with confidence and make the most of your time on the Georgia Coast!
Jump to:
- St. Simons or Jekyll Island
- Properties for large families
- Where to stay with kids
- Accommodations with heated pools
- Bike-friendly properties
- Find your perfect vacation rental
Should I Stay on St. Simons or Jekyll Island?
St. Simons and Jekyll Island offer memorable vacation experiences, no doubt, but each appeals to a different type of vacationer. St. Simons is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, dining scene, and variety of accommodations, while Jekyll Island offers a more relaxed setting, serene beaches, and plenty of space to unwind.
St. Simons May Be Best if You Want:
- Walkable areas
- Restaurants and nightlife
- Beach and Village access
- Historic attractions
- Bike-friendly transportation
- Large selection of St. Simons vacation rentals
Jekyll Island May Be Best if You Want:
- Quiet atmosphere
- Nature-focused experiences
- Fun attractions
- Beautiful beaches
- Walking and biking trail system
- Jekyll Island vacation rental options
Which Golden Isles Vacation Rentals are Best for Large Families?
Vacationing with a large family brings different considerations, and choosing the right vacation rental can significantly impact the experience. Look for multi-bedroom homes, side-by-side vacation rentals, and properties with generous gathering and dining areas. When paired with open floor plans, outdoor living spaces, and proximity to attractions and activities, the following options create a pleasant balance between shared experiences and personal space:
- Private vacation homes: fully private settings with shared living areas, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, and plenty of privacy.
- Medium-sized homes: sleeping up to 9 guests and a strong fit for smaller extended families who still want a mix of private and shared spaces.
- Large homes: sleeping 10 or more guests and best suited for multigenerational groups or bigger gatherings requiring generous square footage and multiple sleeping arrangements.
- Complementary Collection: helpful for families interested in booking multiple properties close to one another.
What’s the Best Place to Stay in the Golden Isles with Kids?
Traveling with kids requires a little more planning, especially when the priority is keeping days easy and enjoyable for everyone. The best stays are in family-friendly areas with beach access, nearby parks and playgrounds, bike paths, and casual dining options that make getting around and settling in straightforward. Homes and condos with pools, full kitchens, and bunk rooms keep kids entertained while still giving adults their own space. Here are a few options:
- Coast Cottages: a beachfront cottage community offering private beach access, an oceanfront pool, and charming coastal homes.
- East Beach homes: a popular neighborhood featuring easy beach access, quiet residential streets, and a wide selection of St. Simons vacation homes.
- Pet-friendly properties: a thoughtfully curated collection of vacation homes where four-legged guests are just as welcome as you!
Where Should I Stay if I Want Access to a Heated Pool?
Access to a heated pool is often a deciding factor for guests planning a visit outside peak summer months. Availability can vary seasonally, with many resort communities and condo complexes offering shared heated pools, while many select private homes also feature this amenity for a more exclusive experience. If this is a deciding factor for you, here are some recommendations:
- Homes with heated pools: for private, year-round swimming that works for early morning fun, evening wind-downs, and another fun option beyond the beach.
- Partner Resorts: resort communities featuring shared amenities, including heated pools, beach access, and other on-site conveniences.
What’s the Best Place to Stay if I Want to Get Around by Bike?
Getting around by bike is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to enjoy St. Simons and Jekyll Island. With bike paths throughout the island, St. Simons makes it easy to pedal to the beach, the Village, and popular attractions. Jekyll Island offers miles of scenic trails that wind through maritime forests, along the shoreline, and past some of the island’s most notable landmarks. Here are a few ideas if biking is on the agenda during your time here:
- Downtown and Village Area: for those who want to leave the car behind and enjoy easy access to restaurants, shops, the pier, and local events.
- Premier Properties: for those seeking elevated accommodations in exceptional locations with upgraded amenities and thoughtfully designed spaces.
- Oceanfront properties: a favorite for guests who crave direct beach access, stunning ocean views, and the convenience of having the shoreline just steps from the door.
Find the Perfect Golden Isles Vacation Rental with Hodnett Cooper
With an incredible selection of professionally managed vacation homes and condos in the Golden Isles, Hodnett Cooper makes it easy to find the right location, amenities, and accommodations for an unforgettable stay. Browse our collection of St. Simons and Jekyll Island vacation rentals and book your Golden Isles getaway today!
