Activities for the Whole Family

Each of our luxury vacation homes greets you with our book of
recommended activities, information to enhance your stay.

Below are a few snippets of some of our favorite activities and services on St. Simons and Jekyll Islands.

Imagine going on vacation and having to plan nothing. Our staff is happy to help you bundle a custom vacation package just for you and your guests. Whether you’re interested in bike rentals, golf cart rentals, fishing charters, sunset cruises, kayak tours, golf, tennis, sightseeing tours, or horseback riding, Georgia’s Golden Isles are perfect for creating vacation memories.

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Area Events

Check out the latest happenings and events in the area while you are vacationing to Jekyll Island or St. Simons Island. View the full calendar of Golden Isles Events & Festivals.

Popular Annual Events

Golf

The roots of the game of golf run deep in this area. With more than a dozen courses, options are plentiful and diverse. Challenge yourself with a seaside links course or play among towering coastal pines. Review local course information and secure your tee time here.

Bicycle & Golf Cart Rentals

Biking is one of the top family activities on St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island. St. Simons Island has nearly 30 miles of paved trails while Jekyll Island has roughly 25 miles of paved and fine gravel trails. The trails provide wide, safe pathways for your crew to cruise throughout the island to the beach, shopping, parks, or any number of destinations. While many of our homes come with bicycles, you may find the need for additional bikes and accessories, such as trailers for the little ones.

Golf carts are also a popular mode of transportation on our coastal islands. Residents and visitors alike enjoy the ease of traveling and parking with the efficient and compact golf carts. There’s something to be said for gliding along the oak-lined roads with the wind in your hair.

On St. Simons Island, we recommend contacting Island Carts at (912) 602-2711, which offers golf cart and bike rentals at hourly, daily, weekly and monthly rates. They deliver and pick up too! Or try out an electric bike or take a bike tour with Pedego Electric Bikes; call them at (912) 357-3950. On Jekyll Island, choose from three bike rental locations and check out Red Bug Motors, which offers electric neighborhood vehicles of varying sizes.

Dining

From fine dining to neighborhood eats to down home favorites to coastal delicacies, the Golden Isles are well-known to foodies. Here are just a few of our favorite eateries on St. Simons Island and Jekyll Islands.

Halyards & Tramici

Started by famed chef and restauranteur, Dave Snyder, the sister restaurants of Halyards and Tramici are two of the top spots to dine on St. Simons Island. Experience the fresh seafood, grilled steaks, local vegetables and seasonal specials at Halyards, or savor simple yet sensational Italian cuisine just next door at Tramici. Conveniently located across from Island Cinemas, pickup and delivery are available. Halyards: (912) 638-9100, Tramici: (912) 634-2202.

Delaney's Bistro and Bar

For more than 20 years, Delaney’s Bistro and Bar has been a favorite destination among locals and tourists alike for fine dining on St. Simons Island. Nightly, Executive Chef Tom Delaney lets his imagination and talent run wild, creating anywhere from 15-17 specials with ingredients ranging from ostrich and elk to fresh, locally caught seafood. All of Tom’s specials and regular menu items are designed to pair with an extensive wine menu, ensuring a singular flavor experience. Reservations are recommended for both lunch and dinner, and a children’s menu is available; (912) 638-1330.

Georgia Sea Grill

Located in the St. Simons Island Pier Village, Georgia Sea Grill is a locally owned restaurant and wine bar that promises a memorable dining experience each and every time you visit. The thoughtfully composed dishes are derived from local, regional, and sustainable resources whenever possible, providing a true Southern flavor. Call for reservations, (912) 638-1197.

Crabdaddy’s Seafood Grill

Crabdaddy’s Seafood Grill’s history began with a family’s love of everything local. Since 1988, the team behind Crabdaddy’s has been serving up the best in fresh seafood, steaks and other mouth-watering dishes. Stop by to taste for yourself and don’t forget to order the legendary bread pudding for dessert. Call ahead for reservations, (912) 634-1120.

The Crab Trap

The Crab Trap on St. Simons Island is a casual seafood restaurant that has been a favorite of locals and tourists for more than 45 years. They offer your choice of the finest local shrimp, scallops, oysters and fish, all served with battered fries, hush puppies and coleslaw (salad, cheese grits, corn, baked potato, and veg of the day available upon request). They also feature fabulous, tender beef filets, casseroles, creoles and chicken fingers. Last, but not least, their world-famous crab soup continues to bring patrons back time after time. Call ahead for reservations, (912) 638-3552.

CJ’s Italian Restaurant

CJ’s Italian Restaurant on Mallery Street in the St. Simons Island Pier Village offers moderately priced, made from scratch, absolutely delicious pizzas, pastas, calzones, sandwiches on homemade rolls, appetizers, specialty dinners and crisp fresh salads in an intriguing cosmic atmosphere. In addition to great tasting food and a welcome ambience, the eclectic concept is rounded out by full table service provided by caring and dedicated staff members. Young and old, couples and families, lower income to upper income, everyone loves CJ’s Italian Restaurant. Call in to order, (912) 634-2711.

Southern Soul Barbecue

What started out as one of St. Simons Island’s best kept secrets, Southern Soul Barbecue is now a rite of passage for almost every visitor. The passionately smoked meats and barbecued delicacies will delight your taste buds as much as the homestyle sides will have you thinking of grandma’s house. Named “The Best Smokehouse in the South” by Southern Living, experience for yourself Southern Soul’s unwavering devotion to slow-cooking meat and dedication to quality. Stop by to order or call in, (912) 638-SOUL (7685).

Hildy’s Pizza

Locally owned and operated, Hildy’s Pizza in St. Simons Island Pier Village area provides fresh, flavorful selections using dough made fresh from scratch every morning. Have a seat in the dining room and enjoy your meal with a glass of beer or wine. Open for dine-in or carry-out. (912) 434-9995.

The Half Shell at the Pier

If you're looking for a crazy good seafood joint with a laidback island vibe, well look no further than the Half Shell on Beachview Drive in St. Simons Island Pier Village. Try the incredibly dished and fresh-shucked oysters. This casual, family friendly restaurant with contemporary coastal American cuisine has a full-service bar, too, so come get your oyster shooter! (912) 268-4241.

Fiddler’s at 410 Arnold

St. Simons Island’s newest seafood spot is Fiddler’s at 410 Arnold, just around the corner from Crabdaddy’s. Marsh views and quality food ensure a fantastic experience. Call ahead for reservations, (912) 634-1120.

Barrier Island Brewing

Barrier Island Brewing, located on Ocean Boulevard, St. Simons Island, across from Crabdaddy’s, opened its doors in late October 2019. In addition to craft beer, the brewpub has an extensive craft cocktail list, delicious beer cocktails, and even some wine options for non-beer drinkers. That's not even mentioning the food – everything goes good with beer! (912) 268-2774.

Chile Peppers Island Cantina

Tucked away in St. Simons Island’ Retreat Village Shopping Center, Chile Peppers Island Cantina offers authentic Mexican dining. The full-service bar offers 45 different tequilas. Craving fresh carnitas? Get it while its hot! (912) 268-4635.

La Plancha

Part of the Halyard Restaurant Group, La Plancha on St. Simons Island serves homemade Mexican dishes, specialty margaritas, and other Latin American favorites. La Plancha is a lifetime of delicious memories of Mexican and Colombian street fare and Dave Snyder’s mom’s homemade recipes, brought to the table by the talented Chef Adam. (912) 434-6100.

Coastal Kitchen

Coastal Kitchen is Saint Simons’ only truly waterfront dining destination, conveniently located in the Morningstar Marina right off the F.J. Torras Causeway. Chef Archie Prince offers genuine dock to table dining with fresh, locally caught and prepared shrimp, fish, and casual Southern dishes. (912) 638-7790.

Brogen's North

Tucked in among the live oaks halfway up St. Simons Island, you'll find Brogen's North. It's the perfect spot for lunch while biking...or shopping... or after a great round of golf. It's a perfect dinner spot, too, with a casual atmosphere and a fascinating collection of golf memorabilia, plus outside seating on the patio under the oaks. In addition to burgers, salads and sandwiches, Brogen's North also offers great pizza, pasta and nightly specials. (912) 638-2060.

Brogen’s South

Brogen’s South has been dishing up St. Simons Island’s best burgers, classic family atmosphere and the liveliest night life in town for over 25 years. A 30-second walk from the Pier, cool off from the sun with an ice-cold beverage. Bring the family in for dinner one night and dine out on the porch with the Island's only double-decker ocean view restaurant. (912) 638-1660.

Sandcastle Café and Grille

Meet and eat in the heart of the St. Simons Island Pier Village. Sandcastle Café and Grille has been serving up delicious breakfasts and lunches for more than 30 years. Sandcastle is known for the breakfast buffet and of course you can order your favorites off the menu, too. They serve local seafood and use local produce whenever possible. The Bloody Mary mix is homemade and the best on the island! (912) 638-8883.

Mallery Street Café

Since 2009, family owned and operated Mallery Street Café has been offering locals and visitors to St. Simons Island and the Golden Isles a delicious dining experience, chef-driven local cuisine, and something to truly tickle the taste buds of every person. (912) 634-7772.

Café Frederica

A Saturday morning Café Frederica breakfast has become a weekly tradition of many St. Simons Island notable characters. The lunch is just as good, and gets even better on weekends with favorites that include meatloaf, shrimp and grits, nachos as well as specials. Café Frederica is where good friends meet good food. (912) 638-6777.

Palm Coast

Palm Coast coffee is an island favorite serving great coffee, casual food, sweets, craft beer, wine , spirits and live music. Located in the St. Simons Island Pier Village. (912) 634-7515

Del Sur Artisan Eats

Del Sur co-owners Hernan Stutzer and Chef Alberto Llano present rustic Argentinian/Italian artisan cuisine served with select boutique/local wines and sensual baked goods and desserts prepared by an in-house pastry chef. In the Pier Village at the corner of Mallery St. and Kings Way. For reservations, call (912) 638-1223.

Gnat’s Landing

If you aren't afraid of having a good time, come on by and give Gnat’s Landing a try. The menu of daily specials, fresh seafood, salads, sandwiches, fried pickles, not to mention the $8,000 Margarita remain island traditions. Located in Redfern Village, mid-island on St. Simons Island. (912) 638-7378

Bubba Garcia’s

Bubba Garcia’s is all about good food, great friends and tasty tequila. The vibe is inspired by The South, south of the border, and the Caribbean. The food is influenced by all things "Southern" and has been distilled into one of the best Mexican-rooted menus around. Located in Redfern Village, mid-island, St. Simons Island. (912) 634-0073

Sammies Sandwiches

Soft fresh bread, creamy cheese, Southern mayo, a touch of prepared mustard, a healthy pair of crunchy pickle slices, and a generous portion of thinly sliced meat combine to create something more than the sum of its parts at Sammies in Redfern Village, St. Simons Island. Sandwiches are prepared daily before the doors open so you can get in and out in seconds. (912) 268-4920

St. Simons Island Sweets

In the St. Simons Island Pier Village, St. Simons Island Sweets is the exclusive home of Mallery Street Pecan Treat as well as ice cream and counters full of candies and confections. (912) 638-0150

The Wharf

The Wharf, located on the Jekyll Island Historic District Pier, is the island’s only waterfront restaurant and bar offering weekly live music. Enjoy breezy, nautical-themed indoor-outdoor seating right on the water. Savor the all-day menu of Southern favorites and enjoy fresh, coastal air and lively entertainment. The live music stage hosts the best regional and local bands throughout the year. (912) 635-3612.

Jekyll Island Club Grand Dining Room

The storied history of the Jekyll Island Club has, at its heart, the Grand Dining Room. Ranked as highly today as ever before, the award-winning, fine dining restaurant continues to be a gathering place for great occasions. A venue of both social and historical significance, the Grand Dining Room has welcomed titans of industry, stars of the stage, and Resort guests for over a century. Jacket, collared shirt and slacks are required for men. Review the menu and make a reservation here, or by calling (844) 201-6871.

Zachry’s Riverhouse

This locally owned restaurant serves up seafood, burgers, wings, salads and more. Take in the relaxed side of Jekyll Island on the Zachry’s Riverhouse porch overlooking the Jekyll River. (912) 635-2174.

Casino Cruise

The Emerald Princess offers roulette, blackjack, poker, craps, 130 slot machines and dinner for guests 18 and older! She sets sail from Brunswick, under the south side of the Sidney Lanier Bridge near the entrance to the Jekyll Island causeway. Visit the website here or call (888) 842-0115 for more information.

Outdoor Adventures

SouthEast Adventure Outfitters

With locations on St. Simons Island and in Brunswick, SouthEast Adventure Outfitters has been serving the area since 1994, and continues to play an integral in promoting and enhancing exploration throughout the Golden Isles of Georgia. SouthEast Adventure’s Brunswick Boathouse carries dozens of the latest kayaks and has a private dock for test paddles, while its St. Simons Island location, conveniently located in the Pier Village, carries outdoor clothing, gear, and accessories perfect for your next adventure.

They offer kayak tours daily, nature boat cruises, kayak and powerboat fishing, and stand-up paddleboarding. If it floats and it’s fun, the team at SouthEast Adventure wants to share it with you. To book your trip, call (912) 638-6732. Guests of Georgia Beach Rentals receive 10% off.

Coastal Tide Excursions

On a two-hour cruise around the St. Simons Island Sound aboard the Lady Jane, you'll be amazed by the marine life of Georgia's coast. The Lady Jane’s trawler net will likely bring up flounder, squid, pufferfish, alligator gar, sting rays and shrimp. All go back into the water except the shrimp, which are boiled on the spot and served to you. Public cruises can be booked online here, while private cruises are available any day and time that is not already booked. Call (912) 265-5771 or (912) 602-1677 for private charter availability.

Jekyll Island Boat Tours

Jekyll Island Boat Tours specializes in fully narrated dolphin tours, private group tours, group shrimping eco tours and sightseeing tours, aboard U.S. Coast Guard safety-certified boats from 6 to 49 passengers. Departing from the Historic Jekyll Wharf, Jekyll Island Boat Tours are engaging and exciting experiences for groups of all types. Call (912) 635-3152 or click here to book your trip today.

Horseback Riding

There are few things more thrilling than the first time you get on a horse. Whether it’s your first time, it’s been a while, or you’re a pro, horseback riding – on a beach or a secluded trail – is a great outdoor activity in the Golden Isles. Visit this link to explore your options.

Family Fun

Neptune Park at The Lighthouse

Neptune Park is near the Pier Village and historic St. Simons Island Lighthouse. The facility has a fantastic pool and kids’ splash area, playgrounds and a miniature golf course. Adjacent to the Fun Zone is the Casino, which houses the St. Simons Island Public Library, a community theater, and is available to rent for events. For information call (912) 279-2836 or click here.

Summer Waves Water Park

Located on Jekyll Island, Summer Waves Water Park has been a top area attraction for decades. Ride the wave pool, cruise the slides, splash in the kid zone, or relax in the lazy river. For more information call (912) 635-2074 or click here.

Georgia Sea Turtle Center

As Georgia’s only sea turtle education and rehabilitation facility, the Center on Jekyll Island offers the public a chance to learn about sea turtles and see rehabilitation in action with a host of interactive exhibits and experiences. Year-round indoor and outdoor programs are also available for guests of all ages. Visit the Center’s website for hours, admission, and to find out when the next sea turtle release is scheduled.

Local Landmarks

Christ Church

On the northern end of St. Simons Island, the first church was built in 1820, partially destroyed by Union troops during the Civil War and then rebuilt in 1884. For information call (912) 638-8683 or visit ccfssi.org.

Fort Frederica

Tour the archaeological remnants of a British military outpost built in 1736 on St. Simons Island by Georgia founder Gen. James Oglethorpe. The museum store carries colonial toys and children's books. For more information, call (912) 638-3639 or visit the park’s website.

St. Simons Island Lighthouse

Near the village and pier, there is a museum at the base of the lighthouse, and you can climb its 129 steps. For information call (912) 638-4666 or visit the website here.

World War II Home Front Museum

Discover Coastal Georgia’s extraordinary contributions to winning World War II. Step back to April 8, 1942 when the crew from this station rescued survivors of two American ships torpedoed by a German U-boat 13 miles off St. Simons Island. Visitors of all ages will be inspired by the stories of ordinary Americans doing their part to win the war. The Museum is housed in the Historic St. Simons Island Coast Guard Station, built in 1936. Call (912) 634-7098 or click here for more information.