Did you know that Little St. Simons Island is one of the last remaining privately-owned, undeveloped barrier islands in Georgia, with 11,000 acres of pristine wilderness accessible to only 32 overnight guests at a time? This exclusive natural paradise offers a rare glimpse into coastal ecosystems untouched by development, making it a bucket-list destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking solitude away from crowded tourist spots.
The pristine wilderness of Little St. Simons Island from above
Getting to Little St. Simons Island
Little St. Simons Island is only accessible by boat from Hampton River Marina on St. Simons Island. The journey to this secluded paradise begins with traveling to St. Simons Island, which is approximately 1.5 hours from both Savannah, GA and Jacksonville, FL airports.
The ferry to Little St. Simons Island departing from Hampton River Marina
Plan Your Journey to Little St. Simons
Start your adventure by booking flights to nearby airports in Savannah or Jacksonville, then arrange transportation to St. Simons Island.
Transportation Options
By Air
The closest major airports are Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) and Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), both approximately 1.5 hours from St. Simons Island. Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK) is smaller but closer, offering limited commercial flights.
By Car
From I-95, take Exit 29 or Exit 38 and follow signs to St. Simons Island. The Hampton River Marina is located on the north end of St. Simons Island. Free parking is available at the marina for overnight guests of Little St. Simons Island.
Map of Little St. Simons Island and surrounding area
Best Time to Visit Little St. Simons
Little St. Simons Island offers unique experiences year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer mild temperatures and fewer insects, making them ideal for outdoor activities.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring (March-May)
- Nesting shorebirds and migrating songbirds
- Wildflowers in bloom throughout the island
- Pleasant temperatures (65-80°F)
- Sea turtle nesting season begins in May
Summer (June-August)
- Loggerhead sea turtle nesting season
- Warm waters perfect for swimming
- Higher humidity and temperatures (80-90°F)
- Afternoon thunderstorms common
Fall (September-November)
- Fall bird migration
- Fewer insects and pleasant temperatures
- Less crowded than summer months
- Beautiful golden marsh colors
Winter (December-February)
- Oyster roasts and bonfires
- Mild temperatures (50-65°F)
- Excellent birdwatching for winter species
- Lower rates and greater availability
The pristine beaches of Little St. Simons Island at golden hour
Where to Stay on Little St. Simons Island
The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island is the only accommodation option on the island, offering an all-inclusive experience with charming cottages that can host a maximum of 32 guests at a time. This exclusivity ensures an intimate connection with nature and personalized service.
Historic cottages at The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island
Accommodation Options
The Lodge offers six historic cottages with varying room configurations. All accommodations feature comfortable furnishings, private bathrooms, and charming rustic details that complement the island’s natural setting. Options include:
- The River Lodge – The main lodge building with common areas and guest rooms
- Michael Cottage – A private cottage with multiple bedrooms
- Tom House – A cozy cottage perfect for couples
- Helen House – Family-friendly accommodations
- Cedar House – Multi-room cottage with screened porch
- Hunting Lodge – Historic building with multiple rooms
All-Inclusive Experience
Your stay includes:
- Three farm-to-table meals daily featuring local ingredients
- Guided naturalist excursions (hiking, birding, kayaking)
- Use of recreational equipment (bikes, kayaks, fishing gear)
- Boat transportation to and from the island
- Evening social hour with appetizers and beverages
- Access to the island’s 11,000 acres and 7 miles of private beach
Reserve Your Island Getaway
With only 32 guest accommodations available, early booking is recommended to secure your preferred dates.
Top Things to Do on Little St. Simons Island
Little St. Simons Island offers a wealth of nature-based activities led by experienced naturalists. Every day brings new opportunities to explore and connect with the island’s diverse ecosystems.
Guided naturalist tour through the maritime forest
Guided Nature Walks
Explore the island’s diverse habitats with knowledgeable naturalists who share insights about the local ecology, wildlife, and conservation efforts. Walks are tailored to group interests and seasonal highlights.
Kayaking & Canoeing
Paddle through the island’s tidal creeks and salt marshes to observe wildlife from a unique perspective. Guided kayak tours offer opportunities to spot dolphins, wading birds, and other marine life.
Beachcombing
Explore seven miles of pristine, undeveloped beach where you can collect shells, observe shorebirds, and possibly spot nesting sea turtles (seasonally). The beach is also perfect for peaceful walks at sunrise or sunset.
Birding
With over 330 bird species recorded, Little St. Simons is a birder’s paradise. Join guided birding walks or observe from the island’s wildlife viewing platforms. Don’t forget to bring binoculars!
Fishing
Try your hand at surf fishing along the beach or creek fishing in the island’s tidal waters. The Lodge provides all necessary equipment and guides who can share local fishing knowledge.
Bicycling
Explore the island at your own pace on complimentary bicycles. Ride along the beach at low tide or follow the island’s network of dirt roads and trails through diverse habitats.
Experience Island Adventures
Can’t stay overnight? Day trips to Little St. Simons Island include guided tours, a hearty lunch, and beach time.
Wildlife and Natural Wonders
Little St. Simons Island is renowned for its biodiversity and serves as an important habitat for numerous species. The island’s commitment to conservation ensures these natural treasures remain protected for future generations.
American alligator basking in the sun at one of the island’s freshwater ponds
Notable Wildlife
- Birds – Over 330 species including painted buntings, roseate spoonbills, and wood storks
- Reptiles – American alligators, various snake species, and nesting loggerhead sea turtles
- Mammals – White-tailed deer, raccoons, river otters, and armadillos
- Marine Life – Bottlenose dolphins, various fish species, and horseshoe crabs
Diverse Ecosystems
- Maritime Forest – Ancient live oaks, magnolias, and palmettos
- Salt Marshes – Spartina grass meadows teeming with life
- Freshwater Ponds – Habitats for amphibians and wading birds
- Beaches and Dunes – Critical nesting areas for shorebirds and turtles
Roseate spoonbills and egrets feeding in the island’s salt marsh
Conservation Efforts
Little St. Simons Island is dedicated to conservation and ecological research. The island’s Center for Coastal Conservation works with partners to study and protect the island’s natural resources. Visitors can learn about ongoing projects including:
- Loggerhead sea turtle monitoring and protection
- Shorebird conservation and habitat management
- Invasive species control and native plant restoration
- Living shoreline creation to prevent erosion
Loggerhead sea turtle hatchlings making their way to the ocean (seasonal July-October)
Dining on Little St. Simons Island
The culinary experience at Little St. Simons Island is an integral part of your stay. The Lodge serves three delicious meals daily, featuring fresh, local ingredients, many grown in the island’s organic garden.
Farm-to-table dinner featuring fresh seafood and produce from the island’s garden
Culinary Highlights
- Breakfast – Hearty options like shrimp and grits, fresh baked goods, and seasonal fruits
- Lunch – Picnic-style meals that can be enjoyed on the beach or at the Lodge
- Dinner – Multi-course meals featuring fresh seafood, local meats, and produce from the island garden
- Evening Social Hour – Appetizers and beverages before dinner
Special Dietary Needs
The Lodge’s talented culinary team can accommodate most dietary restrictions and preferences with advance notice. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other special diets are welcomed.
“The meals at Little St. Simons Island were extraordinary – fresh seafood caught that morning, vegetables picked from the garden we had toured earlier, and desserts that made everyone ask for the recipe. Dining together with other guests and naturalists created a wonderful community feeling.”
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Planning ahead will help you make the most of your Little St. Simons Island experience. Here are some essential tips to prepare for your visit to this unique destination.
What to Pack
- Lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Insect repellent (especially important in summer)
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Camera with zoom lens for wildlife photography
- Comfortable walking shoes and water shoes
- Reusable water bottle
- Rain jacket or poncho
Good to Know
- Cell service is limited on the island (WiFi is available)
- There are no TVs in the rooms (by design)
- The island operates on Eastern Time
- Gratuities for staff are typically added to your final bill
- Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase
- No pets are allowed on the island
- Check-in time is 11:30 AM; check-out is 8:00 AM
Enjoying the peaceful marsh views from the Lodge grounds
Eco-Friendly Visitor Guidelines
Little St. Simons Island is committed to conservation and sustainable tourism. Please follow these guidelines during your visit:
- Stay on designated trails and beaches
- Observe wildlife from a respectful distance
- Take only photographs, leave only footprints
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine environments
- Respect nesting areas for birds and sea turtles
Day Trips to Little St. Simons Island
Can’t stay overnight? Day trips to Little St. Simons Island offer a wonderful introduction to this natural paradise. These guided experiences include boat transportation, naturalist-led tours, a hearty lunch, and time to explore the beach.
Day visitors enjoying a guided naturalist tour of the island
Day Trip Details
- Schedule: Typically offered Tuesday through Friday (seasonal variations apply)
- Departure: Hampton River Marina on St. Simons Island at 10:30 AM
- Return: Approximately 4:30 PM
- Includes: Round-trip boat transportation, guided island tour, lunch, beach time
- Group Size: Limited to ensure a quality experience
- Reservations: Required in advance
“Even though we only visited for the day, our trip to Little St. Simons Island was the highlight of our Georgia vacation. The naturalist was incredibly knowledgeable, the lunch was delicious, and having time to walk the pristine beach made us feel like we’d discovered a secret paradise.”
Experience the Magic of Little St. Simons Island
Little St. Simons Island offers a rare opportunity to experience one of the last undeveloped barrier islands on the Atlantic coast. Whether you come for a day trip or an extended stay, the island’s pristine wilderness, abundant wildlife, and warm hospitality create memories that will last a lifetime.
The magical sunset over Little St. Simons Island’s salt marshes
In a world of increasingly crowded tourist destinations, Little St. Simons stands apart as a sanctuary where nature takes center stage. The limited number of guests ensures an intimate experience with the island’s natural wonders. Whether you’re an avid birder, a nature photographer, or simply seeking peaceful reconnection with the natural world, Little St. Simons Island offers an unforgettable escape from everyday life.
Ready to Plan Your Visit?
With limited availability and high demand, early booking is recommended to secure your preferred dates.
The above is subject to change.
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