Favorite Beach @ St. Simon

St. Simons Island offers a vibrant dining scene with a variety of restaurants catering to different tastes. Porch is a Southern restaurant known for its Nashville hot chicken and cozy atmosphere. For those looking for ocean views, Brogen's South provides a casual bar and grill experience with burgers and classic pub grub. Seafood lovers can enjoy Mullet Bay Restaurant, which offers a relaxed seafood dining experience. The Half Shell SSI is another popular spot, serving seafood and American mains in a nautical-themed setting.

These restaurants offer a mix of casual and upscale dining options, ensuring that visitors have plenty of choices to suit their preferences. Whether you're in the mood for Southern comfort food or fresh seafood, St. Simons Island has something for everyone.

St. Simons Island is home to a range of hotels that cater to different needs and preferences. The Ocean Lodge Resort offers a luxurious Italian-style experience with ocean views and a rooftop restaurant. For a more family-friendly option, The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort provides a sprawling property with golf courses and pools. The Best Western Plus St. Simons is a more budget-friendly choice with free breakfast and an outdoor pool. Additionally, Hampton Inn St. Simons Island offers modern amenities like free Wi-Fi and an outdoor pool.

These hotels provide a variety of amenities and settings, from intimate inns to large resorts, ensuring that visitors can find the perfect accommodation to suit their needs.

St. Simons Island beaches offer a range of amenities to enhance the visitor experience. Many public beach access points provide restrooms and picnic areas, while some, like the Coast Guard Station, offer seasonal concession stands. The island also features shaded pavilions and grills at spots like Massengale Park, making it ideal for family gatherings and outdoor activities. Additionally, bike rentals are readily available, allowing visitors to explore the island's extensive bike paths and scenic routes.

For those looking for more leisurely activities, the beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The calm waters and scenic views make it an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation.

St. Simons Island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities to enjoy. Visitors can engage in swimming, kayaking, and fishing, or explore the island's scenic bike trails. The island is also popular for birdwatching, especially at Gould's Inlet, where nature walks and birding are common pastimes. For those interested in history, guided tours of the island's historic sites, such as Fort Frederica National Monument, are available.

The island's beaches are also perfect for family-friendly activities like building sandcastles and playing in the tidal pools exposed at low tide. Additionally, kitesurfing and windsurfing are popular among adventure-seekers.

St. Simons Island strives to be accessible for all visitors. Many of the public beach access points, including Massengale Park and the Coast Guard Station, offer wheelchair-accessible restrooms and parking. Some restaurants and hotels also provide wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating areas.

However, the island's natural terrain and some historical sites may present challenges for those with mobility issues. Visitors are encouraged to check ahead of time for specific accessibility features at their chosen destinations.

Parking on St. Simons Island varies depending on the location. Major public beach access points like the Coast Guard Station and Massengale Park offer free parking, although spaces can be limited. Other areas may have free street parking, but it's often challenging to find a spot, especially during peak seasons. Visitors are advised to follow posted parking signs to avoid fines or towing.

For those planning to spend the day at the beach, arriving early is recommended to secure parking. Additionally, many hotels and resorts offer parking for their guests, making it convenient for those staying on the island.

St. Simons Island has a fascinating history and unique natural features. It is the westernmost point on the East Coast, known for its 'lake effect' which results in calm waters but strong currents. The island is also a nesting ground for the North Atlantic right whale, one of the world's most endangered large whale species.

Additionally, St. Simons Island is famous for its 'Tree Spirits,' carved faces in the trunks of live oak trees, which have become a popular attraction for visitors. The island's rich history includes being a strategic location during the American Revolution and the War of 1812.

St. Simons Island is rich in attractions beyond its beautiful beaches. The St. Simons Island Lighthouse is a must-visit, offering stunning views from its top. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historical site worth exploring, providing insights into the island's past. The island is also home to the World War II Home Front Museum, located near the Coast Guard Station.

For nature lovers, Cannon's Point Preserve offers a vast maritime forest perfect for hiking and exploring. The island's scenic bike trails and guided trolley tours are great ways to discover its hidden gems and historical landmarks.