When driving, access to St. Simons Island is just off I-95, via the F.J. Torras Causeway in Brunswick, GA. Additionally, it’s about a 4½ hour drive from Atlanta, or a 1½ hour drive from either Savannah, GA or Jacksonville, FL.

If flying to St. Simons Island, the Brunswick Golden Isles airport (BGK) has a Delta connection with one hour flights connecting to Atlanta, or you may choose to fly into Savannah or Jacksonville and rent a car – though it’s more fun to get around the island by golf-cart or bicycle.

East Beach, Messengale Park Beach, and Gould’s Inlet on St. Simons Island offer expansive beaches and plenty of family-fun. It’s important to keep in mind part of the wonder of the area are the dramatic high and low tides. The lapping waves at low-tide offer good swimming, paddling, and kayaking opportunities, plus you’ll have fun exploring tide pools. Check local tide charts, and avoid swimming out to sandbars as the tide comes in. Of note, there are lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day through Labor Day on several area beaches (generally from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.)

Stay alert to signage as some beaches on St. Simons Island only allow pets during certain seasons or times. On East Beach, for example, dogs are not allowed on the beach from Memorial Day to Labor Day from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. (From 6 p.m. – 9 a.m., pets are allowed on the beach with or without a leash, but must be under the owner’s control).

With plenty of marsh area on the island, yes, alligators can be spotted from time to time. They often like to cool off near ponds on area golf courses, so be sure to keep your distance.