Golden Isles Georgia, USA Travel Guide
The region features a full spectrum of lodging from hostels to luxury hotels.
The Cloister and The Beach Club at Sea Island, offering world-class amenities, golf, and dining. The Jekyll Island Club Resort also has a luxury experience within a historic Victorian setting.
Various chain hotels (Hilton, Marriott, Best Western, etc.) and independent properties across Brunswick, St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island.
Smaller, unique properties, often with distinctive charm or historical significance, found on St. Simons and Jekyll Island.
Charming and often historic options, notably on St. Simons Island and in Brunswick, with intimate settings and personalized service.
Jekyll Island Campground has sites for RVs and tents. Blythe Island Regional Park in Brunswick also has camping facilities.
Widely available on St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island, and in Brunswick. Options range from beachfront condominiums to large private homes. Popular platforms for booking include Vrbo, Airbnb, and various local property management companies.
Formal homestay programs are less common. Choosing a vacation rental in a residential area can create a more local experience.
Each Golden Isles area features a distinct character, influencing your stay.
Jekyll Island, St. Simons Island, and Sea Island are generally very safe for tourists, with low crime rates.
Brunswick's historic downtown is safe for visitors during the day and in the evening. As with any urban area, exercise awareness in less-trafficked areas, notably after dark.
Spring break, summer months, fall holidays, and major local events (like the RSM Classic golf tournament).
Prices tend to decrease during the true off-season.
Accommodation prices fluctuate significantly by season.
This table provides a few recommendations across different categories.
Location: Sea Island
Location: Jekyll Island Historic District
Location: St. Simons Island (East Beach)
Location: Jekyll Island (Beachfront)
Location: Brunswick (Mainland). Price: $150 - $300. Features: Reliable chain, complimentary breakfast, good access to I-95. Best For: Budget-conscious travelers or those using Brunswick as a base.
Location: Brunswick (Mainland). Price: $80 - $150. Features: Basic, clean, good for short stays. Best For: Budget travelers and quick stopovers.
Location: Jekyll Island. Price: $40 - $70. Features: RV and tent sites in a shaded maritime forest. Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts and those on a strict budget.
Location: St. Simons, Jekyll Island. Price: $150 - $1000+ (weekly rates common). Features: Diverse options from beachfront to private homes. Best For: Families, groups, and longer stays, with more space and kitchens.
King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort and Courtyard by Marriott Jekyll Island are popular. Vacation rentals with multiple bedrooms and kitchens are also excellent. Jekyll Island generally has many children's activities.
Smaller B&Bs on St. Simons Island or budget-friendly hotels in Brunswick can be suitable. The Golden Isles present many opportunities for solo biking and nature exploration.
The Jekyll Island Club Resort provides an unique stay steeped in Gilded Age history. Several B&Bs in the St. Simons Pier Village area also feature historical charm.
Vacation rentals are ideal for stays longer than a few days, with more space, comfort, and practical amenities like kitchens and laundry.
Consider a base in Brunswick for more affordable long-term stays with easy access to all islands.
Offer full amenities, dining, and activities, often with golf or beachfront access.
Standard accommodations, with varying levels of service and amenities.
Homes or condos for extended stays, with kitchen and laundry facilities.
