By Brandon Robinson
Planning a family getaway can feel like a big task when it comes to keeping everyone happy. Fortunately for kids and adults, St. Simons makes it easy. This barrier island off the coast of Georgia has the perfect mix of history, outdoor fun, and air-conditioned adventures. If you’ve got toddlers, tweens, or a mix of both, there’s something for every age and interest here.
Check into your rental, drop the bags, and let the vacation begin. Start your weekend with a casual stroll around the Pier Village. The area is shaded, walkable, and full of spots to grab a treat. A stop at St. Simons Sweets is a must with homemade fudge, saltwater taffy, and ice cream being highlights.
Walk off the sugar at Neptune Park, a waterfront green space with wide sidewalks, picnic areas, and a pirate-themed playground. If it’s warm out, let the kids cool off at the Neptune Park Fun Zone splash pad which is open seasonally. The breezy views of the ocean and lighthouse make it just as enjoyable for parents.
For your first night on the island, keep things easy with a relaxed dinner in Pier Village.
Iguana’s Seafood Restaurant
is a go-to for families, with baskets of fried shrimp, fast service, and a casual vibe that works well with kids. Right next door,
Brogen’s North serves up burgers, sandwiches, and local seafood favorites. After dinner, walk down to the pier to catch the breeze and watch boats come and go. It's a wonderful way to end the evening by the water.
Saturday Morning: A Dose of History & Adventure
Kick off Saturday morning with a mix of education and exploration. The St. Simons Lighthouse Museum is a great first stop, offering stunning views of the island. The Keeper’s Dwelling includes hands-on exhibits that keep kids engaged while giving them a feel for the island’s past.
After that, walk over to Fort Frederica National Monument, a must for any family trip to St. Simons. The grounds are beautiful, with wide open fields where kids can run and play while you soak in the 1700s history. Be sure to check the schedule as rangers sometimes offer junior ranger activities and scavenger hunts for interactive experiences.
After a morning of exploring, grab a bite at The Porch. This local favorite is known for its family-friendly vibe and standout menu.
Depending on your family’s energy, spend the afternoon at the beach or enjoy some cool indoor fun. East Beach is ideal for families thanks to its gentle surf and flat shoreline. Pack buckets and let your little ones dig, splash, and chase shorebirds while you relax.
Need a break from the heat? Visit the World War II Home Front Museum. It’s fully indoors with interactive exhibits like radar tracking and Morse code tapping. It’s a great place to teach older kids about Coastal Georgia history.
In the evening, take a walk down to Gascoigne Bluff Park, one of the quieter, more shaded parks on the island. The wide-open spaces are perfect for family picnics or simply letting the kids run and play.
Then, turn your evening into a little island mystery. Go on a
Tree Spirit scavenger hunt! Hidden throughout Saint Simons Island are hand-carved faces, “tree spirits”, tucked into old oak trees. Grab a map from the visitor center and see how many your family can find before bedtime. It’s a fun local way to end the day.
Wake up Sunday morning and rent bikes for a ride along St. Simons’ paved trail system. The island is incredibly bike-friendly, with paths that wind through moss-covered oaks, marshland views, and historic neighborhoods. It’s a fun way to explore Saint Simons Island before heading home.
For brunch,
Palm Coast Coffee has outdoor seating and kid-friendly menu options. Their breakfast items are a great choice for a pre-road snack.
Opulence offers vacation rentals that are perfect kid-friendly stays. With proximity to playgrounds and beaches, their properties offer the comforts of home plus a little extra.
To enjoy fall in Statesboro, book with Opulence for a memorable experience. From upscale lofts to cozy homes, each rental provides total comfort and convenience. Whether you’re in town for a
gameday or the annual Kiwanis Fair, Opulence gives you the perfect base for all your fall adventures.
While The Post Lofts can be found on booking platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, booking directly on stayopulence.com brings more advantages. Not only do you avoid third-party fees, but you can unlock exclusive savings as well.
Guests who book directly can save 10% on their next stay with the promo code
FALL at checkout. This ensures you get the best possible rate for your Statesboro lodging, making your trip more affordable without sacrificing quality.
From sandy beaches to interactive museums, St. Simons has attractions for every family. The Golden Isles are made for slow mornings, playful afternoons, and memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s your first family trip to St. Simons or your fifth, the island offers something new to discover together.
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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.
