As part of Georgia’s barrier islands and the ‘Golden Isles’, St. Simons Island is the perfect destination for families. Known for it’s oak tree canopies, historic landmarks and beaches – it should definitely be on your family’s vacation destination bucket list. There’s so much to do “beyond the beach” and something for kids of all ages. The high season of tourism is during the late Spring and early Summer, but Fall is also a great time to visit. You can still catch some sunny days and explore these fun Family-Friendly St. Simons Island Activities.
8 Family-Friendly St. Simons Island Activities
The St. Simons Lighthouse
Confederate troops destroyed the island’s first lighthouse in 1862, but the one visitors can see today was built in 1872. The lighthouse is open to the public and tours are offered daily. It’s 126 steps to the top and offers the best view of the island. Learn about the rich history behind the lighthouse keepers, their daily tasks and it’s even said to be haunted. Don’t worry though – kids will love the climb to the top and taking a step back in time.
Trolley Tours with Cap Fendig
One of the best ways to explore the island is with Cap Fendig’s Tours. Take a trolley tour and stop to see some of the historic landmarks that encompass the island’s rich history. Even the locals know that Cap Fendig is the best. He’s a St. Simons native that fell in love with the island and never left.
Dolphin Tour
Tour the waters surrounding St. Simons Island and keep and eye out for Dolphin families. They love to flirt with the nearby boats. The dolphin tours are offered year round (weather depending) and get you up close and personal to everyone’s favorite mammal. Guests can also enjoy an eco tour of the nearby marshlands, with a hands-on experience. It’s not only fun for the kids, it’s educational too.
Neptune Park Fun Zone
If you’re looking for a day of fun, the Neptune Park Fun Zone is where to go. The park offers mini-golf, playground and a variety of pools. Adults can enjoy the lap pool and the kids can splash around in the zero-entry kid’s pool. The playground is free, while the rest of Fun Zone requires admission.
Fort Frederica National Park
Explore the archeological remnants of Fort Frederica, where colonial troops defeated the Spanish to ensure Georgia’s future as a British colony. Ranger led tours occur daily and Fort Frederica has an award-winning Junior Ranger Program. Children ages 8-12 are invited to participate in the program and explore the park with a hands-on pop up book. Participants receive a badge and certificate.
Georgia Sea Turtle Center
The Sea Turtle Center is an educational and rehabilitation center. Open year round, the center offers programs for all ages. Go behind the scenes and learn how the sea turtles are taken care of. The center also offers Gatorology classes, led by professional wildlife researchers. The kids will love the inside perspective while discovering more about our precious sea turtles.
Junior Golf Clinic
Kids can enhance their knowledge of the game at the Junior Golf Clinic, offered by The King and Prince Golf Course. The one-on-one instruction is designed to improve kid’s golf skills. Kids have the opportunity to play on the award-winning and gorgeous course, led by Rick Mattox – General Manager and Pro.
The Tree Spirits of St. Simons Island
The majestic oak trees are gorgeous, but if you look closely you might see them looking back at you! In the 1980’s, artist Keith Jennings decided to make his mark on St. Simons Island, carving 20 faces from the island’s famous oak trees. Guests can visit the St. Simons Island Welcome Center and grab a map that shows where every tree carving can be found. It’s an awesome afternoon activity.
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Read my review of The King and Prince Beach Resort, St. Simons only beachfront resort.
Disclosure: I was hosted by several St. Simon’s businesses. All opinions are my own.