The Golden Isles Have a Vacation for Every Traveler

The Golden Isles, a group of islands off the coast of Georgia, are a vacation paradise out of a storybook. Dramatic natural landscapes of driftwood and moss-draped live oak trees foreground scenes of dolphins swimming in the sea. Historic resorts provide luxurious accommodations in time-capsule settings.

Positioned halfway between Savannah, Georgia, and Jacksonville, Florida, the Golden Isles are a dream destination for any type of traveler. But since each island has its own signature qualities, how do you figure out which one is best for you? Here are our favorite things about each one, to help make your choice a little easier.

An idyllic destination for birding, boating, and fishing, St. Simons is the largest barrier island of the group—and it has the grand views to match. Scan the seas for dolphins or gaze at the distant mainland from St. Simons Island Pier or the Lighthouse Museum, then go on a scavenger hunt for the St. Simons Island Tree Spirits, a series of 20 unique wood-carved figures scattered throughout the island’s famous moss-strewn live oaks. History buffs can head to the Fort Frederica National Monument to see an 18th-century fort established during an ongoing conflict between Spain and Britain. Or if you’re more about relaxing than sightseeing, rent a bike and hightail it to East Beach for sunbathing, seashell collecting, and swimming.

End the day at Halyards with a cocktail and apps on the breezy patio or open-seating extended bar, or meet up with friends in the casual dining room. Keep your eyes peeled for Chef Dave’s dog, Gustavo, soaking up the sun—a gimme on your St. Simons Island bingo card. If you’re in the mood for Italian-inspired cuisine in an energetic and inviting dining room, visit Tramici. Or head to La Plancha for homemade Mexican dishes and other Latin American favorites.

With seven miles of beaches and 11,000 acres of undeveloped wilderness, Little St. Simons is the perfect spot for nature explorers. The island is only accessible by boat—and only if you’re taking a day trip or staying overnight at the island’s all-inclusive eco-lodge, which is designed to host no more than 32 overnight guests. Guests can reserve a single room or an entire cottage at the eco-lodge, or book a guided day trip with an experienced naturalist to explore diverse maritime forest and wetland ecosystems that are home to alligators, armadillos, deer, dolphins, and more than 330 species of birds. Whatever your preference, this natural sanctuary is an ideal getaway for families and group retreats.

Once a Gilded Age winter escape, Jekyll Island is home to 10 miles of pristine coastline and more than 20 miles of scenic paved paths for vacationers to explore. The historic Jekyll Island Club Resort and its oceanfront sister, the Jekyll Ocean Club, are classic backdrops for your stay on this island out of time. Relax by the pool, play croquet, take a bike ride, rock on the porch, or stroll miles of wide-open, sparsely populated beaches. Between activities, unwind with afternoon tea, local seafood served dockside, or even a sunset champagne sabering if you’re feeling celebratory.

Outside of the resort, Driftwood Beach makes an epic location for an afternoon picnic or late-night stargazing, with its mammoth gnarled trees sprouting from the sand. Take a tram tour of the island’s historic district to see beautifully restored Victorian cottages. And visiting the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, where you can observe and learn about the Golden Isles’ beloved mascot—the loggerhead sea turtle—is a must.

Sea Island is another private-island resort and community that’s a great choice for families who are after a secluded getaway with unique wildlife and luxury amenities. The Cloister, with its grand architecture, and The Lodge, with its boutique elegance, each offer A-list accommodations for your posse. Golfers of all levels can play through three different 18-hole courses at Sea Island Golf Club, while the whole crew can take a sunset cruise on the Sea Island Explorer. You might even pick up some horseback riding, in guided tours along the sandy beaches and picturesque marshes.

Whether you’re heading to one of the aforementioned islands or just looking for a standalone mainland stay, the port city of Brunswick has plenty of activities distinguishing it as a must-visit destination all on its own. Take a walking or biking tour through the historic town squares, or experience the natural wildlife along the Altamaha River, the state’s largest waterway, which is home to nearly 120 rare and endangered plants and animals. Check out Brunswick’s action-packed events calendar for activities, concerts, and festivals throughout the summer—or visit one of the reliable classics, such as a night at the theater or grabbing a local drink at the brewery.

With luxurious resorts, gourmet dining, exciting wildlife, and pristine beaches, the Golden Isles have a vacation experience for every type of traveler. One can picture it now: The dolphins are swimming, the waves are lapping onto the shore, and the driftwood’s epic silhouette is cast against the setting sun. Just don’t forgot to bring your camera.