Little St. Simons, Georgia: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Aerial view of Little St. Simons, Georgia showing the pristine barrier island surrounded by marshlands and the Atlantic Ocean

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.

Ferry boat approaching Little St. Simons Island dock with passengers and luggage

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.

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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 showing the location of Little St. Simons Island in relation to St. Simons Island and the Georgia coast

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

Little St. Simons Island beach during golden hour with shorebirds and pristine sand

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 wooden cottages of The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island surrounded by oak trees draped with Spanish moss

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.

Check Availability & Rates

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.

Naturalist guide leading a small group on a nature walk through maritime forest on Little St. Simons Island

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.

Close-up of a naturalist showing visitors a unique plant species on Little St. Simons Island

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.

Kayakers paddling through tidal creeks surrounded by salt marsh on Little St. Simons Island

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.

Collection of unique seashells and beach treasures found on Little St. Simons Island beach

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!

Birdwatchers with binoculars observing painted buntings and other colorful birds on Little St. Simons Island

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.

Angler fly fishing in the tidal creeks of Little St. Simons Island at sunset

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.

Bicycles parked near a trail entrance on Little St. Simons Island with Spanish moss-draped oaks

Experience Island Adventures

Can’t stay overnight? Day trips to Little St. Simons Island include guided tours, a hearty lunch, and beach time.

Book a Day Trip

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 near a freshwater pond on Little St. Simons Island

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 other wading birds feeding in the salt marsh at Little St. Simons Island

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 on Little St. Simons Island beach

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 spread at The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island featuring fresh seafood and local produce

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.

Chef harvesting fresh vegetables from the organic garden on Little St. Simons Island

“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.”

— Recent Guest

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

Guest relaxing in an Adirondack chair overlooking the marsh at sunset on Little St. Simons Island

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 trip visitors enjoying a guided tour of Little St. Simons Island with a naturalist

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.”

— Day Trip Visitor

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.

Sunset over the salt marsh on Little St. Simons Island with silhouettes of birds flying home to roost

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.

Book Your Island Adventure

The above is subject to change.

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