By Brandon Robinson
There’s no better time to experience the charm and community spirit of St. Simons Island than during the Fourth of July. From beachside fireworks to family-friendly festivals, this barrier island is an ideal spot for a summer getaway. With activities that appeal to all ages, the July 4th celebrations here are as memorable as they are meaningful.
Whether you're a local or visitor, St. Simons delivers Independence Day with small-town pride and coastal flair.
The highlight of July 4th on St. Simons Island is the fireworks show at the Pier Village. This free event draws both locals and vacationers to Neptune Park and the waterfront area early in the evening. Blankets and chairs line the shore well before dark, with people staking out the best spots near the fishing pier and lighthouse.
The show typically begins shortly after 9p and features a wide display of pyrotechnics over the ocean. With the sea breeze and stars overhead, it’s one of the most scenic and relaxing fireworks experiences in the Golden Isles. Parking near the pier fills quickly, so plan to walk, bike, or take a golf cart from your vacation rental.
In the hours leading up to the fireworks, live music and public festivities set the tone for the day. Neptune Park hosts a family-friendly environment with shaded picnic tablens, a playground, and a mini water park. A rotating schedule of local musicians perform from the late afternoon into the early evening, featuring a mix of classic rock and patriotic favorites.
Nearby, you’ll find pop-up vendors, food trucks, and local restaurants offering Fourth of July specials. Ice cream shops and seafood shacks do brisk business, especially along Mallery Street and the Pier Village boardwalk. Many families bring their own picnics and enjoy casual games like frisbee, cornhole, and beach volleyball throughout the day. It’s a relaxed environment with something for everyone.
The Annual Sunshine Festival is a cornerstone of July 4th celebrations on St. Simons Island, bringing together residents and visitors for a weekend of community, crafts, and coastal fun. Hosted by the local Rotary Club, the festival takes place throughout the Pier Village and Postell Park areas and features artisan markets, live entertainment, and family-friendly games. It's the perfect place to spend the day leading up to the fireworks, especially if you're looking to shop local and soak in the patriotic atmosphere.
A major highlight of the weekend is the
Sunshine Festival 5K Race and 1 Mile Fun Run, celebrating its 40th year in 2025. The USATF-certified 5K kicks off at 7a from Kings Park (515 Park Ave) and winds through the scenic, oak-lined streets of St. Simons Island. The 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk begins after at 8a, with both races starting and ending near Mallery Park. This family-friendly event welcomes all paces, with chip timing provided and pace sorting at the start line.
Jekyll Island offers a relaxed atmosphere for a beach day followed by evening fireworks. The island’s Independence Day Celebration includes a full day of sun and surf, with fireworks launching at 8:45p on July 4th. The display is best viewed from Great Dunes Beach Park and Oceanview Beach Park, where visitors can gather well in advance to secure a good spot. Keep in mind that Jekyll Island increases its parking fee by $4 for passes on July 4th only.
Brunswick, located just across the causeway, hosts an Old-Fashioned Fourth of July Celebration at Mary Ross Waterfront Park in the heart of Historic Downtown. Festivities begin at 5:30p with a puppy parade, and the fun continues with free family games, watermelon, food trucks, and live music from the local band Hot Banana Coffee. The evening wraps up with a 30-minute fireworks show beginning around 9p, lighting up the skies over the East River and Oglethorpe Bay.
For those with access to Sea Island, the exclusive resort community offers a curated experience that blends elegance with tradition. Festivities typically begin in the morning with a flag-raising ceremony and continue throughout the day with family activities hosted at The Cloister and Beach Club. The highlight is a Fireworks Spectacular over the ocean, beginning around 9p on July 4th. While the event is reserved for guests and residents, those staying on St. Simons may catch distant views of the display from eastern beaches.
Traffic on St. Simons Island can increase significantly on the Fourth of July, particularly around the Pier Village area. Many visitors rent bikes or golf carts to get around, which can be more convenient than driving.
Public restrooms are available near the pier and in Neptune Park, and local police block off certain streets for pedestrian use in the evening. It’s best to arrive early and stay late if you plan to attend the fireworks display, as the streets can become congested right after the show.
Be sure to bring sunscreen, refillable water bottles, and some cash (most vendors accept cards, but some are cash-only).
When it comes to staying close to all the July 4th festivities, Opulence Vacation Rentals offers three standout properties on St. Simons Island: Ocean View, Grey Pearl, abd Sail Inn Saint Simons. All rentals are located just minutes from Pier Village, Neptune Park, and the beach, providing instant access to the fireworks, live music, and public celebrations.
With fireworks over the water and live music in the park, St. Simons Island delivers a Fourth of July celebration that’s equal parts festive and relaxing. From spending an evening under the stars to exploring the broader Golden Isles, this coastal escape is the perfect for marking Independence Day.
Book early, plan ahead, and enjoy a memorable July 4th on St. Simons Island!
Discover The Grey Pearl, an ideal retreat for unwinding and enjoying quality moments with your loved ones. Accommodating up to 13 guests, this exquisite home boasts a fantastic pool and backyard space for an unparalleled experience.
The Space
Indulge in the epitome of luxury at The Grey Pearl, an exquisite vacation haven nestled in proximity to the enchanting pier and village of St. Simons Island. A sanctuary for those yearning to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, this tranquil retreat promises an unparalleled vacation experience.
Check out this gorgeous and updated condo in The Beach Club! There is a pool and private beach access for guests.It has a beautiful ocean view and a private balcony. The first bedroom features a King size bed, balcony access, and a private bathroom with a large walk in shower. The second bedroom has a Queen size bed and access to the shared hall bath. Please send a message with any questions!
The Space
This is a private 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo with plenty of space for couples, friends, or family.
Sail Inn SaintSimons-ground unit,beach access,pool
Check out this stunning, updated ground-level condo in The Beach Club! Guests enjoy access to the pool and beach. Take in ocean views from the private patio.
The primary bedroom features a king bed, patio access, and a private bath with a soaking tub. The second bedroom has one queen bed and access to the hall bath. We have parking on-site at the beach club.
This is a private 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo with plenty of space for couples, friends, or family.
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Brandon Robinson is an enthusiastic blogger based in Statesboro, GA, juggling multiple roles with flair.
By day, he serves as a Secretary to Directors at the Bulloch County Board of Education.
With a Bachelor’s of Arts in Economics and a minor in Philosophy from Emory University, Brandon is passionate about storytelling and connecting with people. When he’s not immersed in work or writing, he loves to explore new destinations and discover hidden gems in the vacation rental scene.
