family on the beach during spring on st simons

Your Golden Isles Spring Itinerary

January 8, 2026

Spring is the ideal time to experience Georgia’s Golden Isles, with exceptional weather and azaleas in full bloom at every turn. To help you take in as much as possible, we’ve created a Google Map Itinerary to make it easier than ever to explore St. Simons Island’s sights while you’re here. From scenic bike rides under moss-draped oaks and walking through historic buildings to shopping and savoring fresh seafood, we think each stop captures the rhythm, spirit, and beauty that defines spring along Georgia’s coast!

Your St. Simons Spring Itinerary Checklist

Sandy Bottom Bagels

242 Retreat Village St

Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat from 6:30-2

Gascoigne Bluff Park

Address: 1000 Arthur J. Moore Dr.

Hours of Operation: Sunrise to sunset

Redfern Village

Address: 228 Redfern Village

Hours of Operation: Vary by shop

World War II Homefront Museum

Address: 42011st St., East Beach

Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat from 10-5/Sunday from 12-5

Golden Isles Welcome Center

Address: 529 Beachview Dr., St. Simons

Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat from 9-5/Sun from 12-5

Shops at Pier Village

Address: 122 Pier Village Market

Hours of Operation: Vary by shop

St. Simons Island Fishing Pier

Address: Mallery St.

Hours of Operation: Daily 24/7

East Beach

Address: 4100 First St.

Hours of Operation: Daily 6-10:30

St. Simons Lighthouse Museum

Address: 610 South Beachview Dr.

Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat from 10-5

Tramici

Address: 75 Cinema Ln.

Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri from 11-9/Sat-Sun from 5-9

Your St. Simons Spring Itinerary

Fuel Up and Stroll Under the Mossy Oaks

When you’re ready to start your day, head to Sandy Bottom Bagels, a local favorite that’s known for hearty breakfasts and quick bites. We like the fresh-baked bagels piled high with eggs and hash browns, but they do offer lighter options, like parfaits and fruit bowls. Just want coffee? They’ve got that too! And if you’re planning to spend the afternoon at the beach, grab one of their lunch sandwiches to go!

Afterward, stretch your legs at Gascoigne Bluff Park, a beautiful 24-acre waterfront area shaded by live oaks. We like to pack a picnic lunch, hike the trails, and just enjoy the views of the Frederica River, but you can also fish on the pier and play disc golf if you prefer!

Browse the Shops and Hit a Museum

You’ll be near Redfern Village, offering everything from island-inspired home decor to clothing and jewelry. When you’re ready for a change of scenery, swing by the World War II Homefront Museum, housed in a historic Coast Guard Station just a short drive away. Here, you’ll find interesting artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of coastal Georgia during the war.

Meet a Local and Grab Lunch

Next, make your way to the Golden Isles Welcome Center, where the friendly staff can help you get your bearings, share local tips on what’s happening around the island, and point you in the right direction to start your search for the island’s famous Tree Spirits.

From there, walk to Pier Village, the heart of the St. Simons shopping and dining scene. Browse the shops, pick up something for your friends back home, or grab a bite to eat. When we’re in the mood for fresh seafood, we love the Half Shell SSI, serving delicious oysters, fish, crab cakes, and shrimp!

Hit the Pier, the Beach, or a Regional Event

No trip to St. Simons would be complete without a stroll along St. Simons Island Pier. Although you can just enjoy the breeze and take in the views, if fishing’s on your agenda, St. Simons Bait and Tackle can supply you with all the essentials. Swing by East Beach afterward for a walk along the shoreline—it’s pretty magical this time of year.

Depending on when you arrive, you might be able to catch some of our favorite spring events on St. Simons:

Explore a Museum, Stroll Along the Pier, or Bike Around the Island

As the afternoon winds down, make your way to the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum. Climb the spiral staircase to the top and enjoy incredible views of the island. When you’re done, explore the museum and keeper’s dwelling next door to learn about the lighthouse’s role in guiding ships along the Georgia Coast. The St. Simons Island Pier is a popular spot for taking photographs, particularly at sunset, or you can rent bikes at one of the local shops and ride along the island’s scenic trail system!

Finish with a Delicious Dinner on St. Simons

Afterward, settle in for dinner at Tramici, specializing in Italian-inspired dishes made from local ingredients. Gather together, swap stories of the day, and make plans to come back again soon!

Whether you hit every stop on the list or just choose a few, we hope this spring itinerary lets you experience St. Simons at your own pace, surrounded by beauty, and always looking forward to your next stay with Hodnett Cooper!