Whether you are staying on Sea Island or St. Simons Island, these coastal gems provide endless opportunities to soak up the beauty of the Golden Isles.

Sea Island Resort Beach access is available through The Beach Club for guests who are staying at The Cloister, The Lodge, or on Sea Island.

St. Simon's also has great public beaches at the south end of the island. East Beach is particularly popular and is open to the public. 4202 1st Street, St. Simons Island, GA 31522.

The Golden Isles feature some of the most scenic golf courses in the country.

If you stay on Sea Island or at the the Inn by Sea Island, you will have access to the three Sea Island Courses (Seaside, Plantation, Retreat).

If you do not stay at a Sea Island property, there are multiple public courses on St. Simons Island that offer exceptional marsh experiences, including the King and Prince Golf Club.

If you need a break from the sun, St. Simons Island has an array of local stores perfect for strolling.

Cloth and Label

Mari Max

Tibi

Two Friends

Viola's Market

Restoration Imports Home Goods

Pierce & Parker Home Goods

Check out our favorite food finds across the islands.

Sea Island:

Southern Tide at the Sea Island Beach Club: casual coastal cuisine

Snack Shack/Tiki Bar at the Sea Island Beach Club: quick poolside bites

Tavola at the Cloister: dressy Italian, takes reservations

River Bar at the Cloister: dressy American, takes reservations

The Oak Room at the Lodge: get there earlier for drinks overlooking the water and catch the Sea Island bagpiper play at 7 pm.

St Simons

Golden Isles Olive Oil: tasty sandwiches and salad with a local artisan store attached

La Plancha: casual Mexican food fix - not quite Tex-mex, but go for the white queso.

Porch: casual lunch spot near the SSI pier

Southern Soul BBQ: Georgia's best BBQ, well worth the wait

Fancy Q Sushi Bar & Grill: semi-casual sushi and hibachi

Tramici: delicious local Italian, takes reservations (a Millsap family favorite)

Halyards: nice American dinner spot right next door to Tramici, takes reservations

Dorothy's Cocktail and Oyster Bar: Great new modern seafood restaurant for small plates and a lovely ambiance, takes reservations

Delaney's: upscale American dining, known for their extensive specials every night, takes reservations

Georgia Sea Grill: nice local seafood by the pier, takes reservations