5 Ways to Discover the Unmatched Natural Beauty of the Golden Isles

The Golden Isles are a haven for nature enthusiasts. As one of the South's best-preserved coastal gems, this region of the Georgia coast offers an eco-friendly paradise for outdoor lovers. The stunning seaside area includes four barrier islands—St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Jekyll Island, and Little St. Simons Island—along with the historic port city of Brunswick, creating a delightful expanse of unspoiled beaches, shimmering marshes, and unique coastal communities along Georgia’s pristine southern coast.

Conservation efforts aimed at protecting the vital island ecosystem emphasize sustainability, eco-tourism, and the preservation of local wildlife alongside notable landmarks and landscapes. From endless sandy beaches and well-maintained historic sites to captivating marshes and a diverse array of wildlife, you’ll experience nature at its finest during your visit to the Golden Isles.

Discover sea turtle conservation efforts

Each year, hundreds of sea turtles make their way to the Golden Isles for nesting season. With many turtle species classified as endangered, this area plays a vital role in the collective effort to safeguard them. Visitors can enhance their experience with educational materials and observe the turtles in their natural surroundings.

One of the premier spots to see these majestic creatures is on Jekyll Island at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. The Center provides an opportunity to learn about the rehabilitation of injured sea turtles, particularly the Loggerhead species. To view the turtles in the wild, travelers should arrange a guided tour on Little St. Simons Island or Sea Island, both of which are private islands. The ideal times for turtle observation are generally at night or early in the morning from May to August.

Discover the various birding trails

The Golden Isles serve as a pristine habitat for over 300 bird species, with five of the 18 locations on the Colonial Coast Birding Trail situated here. Jekyll Island stands out as a prime birding destination, particularly along its causeway and the southern and northern beaches, followed closely by East Beach on St. Simons Island and Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation in Brunswick. Additionally, Little St. Simons Island is a hotspot for birdwatching, featuring species like the piping plover, painted bunting, and wood stork.

Venture onto the waters

Salt marshes dominate much of the landscape in the Golden Isles. These ecosystems are among the most vital and productive on Earth, serving as a haven for a variety of wildlife found on the barrier islands.

Get up close with the local fauna and flora by kayaking or paddleboarding through these fragile habitats. Join a guided kayak tour through the Marshes of Glynn, navigating winding waterways, tidal creeks, and lush marsh grasses. Alternatively, explore sections of the 135-mile-long Altamaha River. Referred to as Georgia’s Amazon, this river features the only known old-growth longleaf pine and black oak forest in the country, alongside ancient cypress and tupelo trees, and a rich array of wildlife.

Explore cherished historical sites and enjoy horseback riding

The eco-conscious initiatives in the Golden Isles extend beyond wildlife preservation. They also focus on safeguarding the historic sites that reflect its colonial and maritime heritage. Noteworthy locations include Cannon’s Point Preserve and Fort Frederica National Monument, a British colonial fort established in the early 1700s.

Dive into the region’s rich heritage with a visit to the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum. Alternatively, spend your day exploring the historic sites of the Jekyll Island Historic District and Historic Downtown Brunswick.

Connected by a causeway from St. Simons Island, Sea Island is an exclusive, quaint island measuring just five miles long and 1.5 miles wide at its broadest point, where you can enjoy a scenic horseback ride led by a local guide. You’ll canter along the serene southern shores of Sea Island beach, traverse maritime forests, and trot through the coastal habitats of Georgia.

Accommodation options

Nestled along its private stretch of Jekyll Island’s coast, the Jekyll Island Club Resort invites you to step back into the Gilded Age, a period when influential figures like J.P. Morgan, William Rockefeller, and Joseph Pulitzer sought refuge to enjoy the island’s splendor. Today, this historic venue continues to charm guests with its legacy and Southern elegance.

At the heart of the resort is the iconic Clubhouse, built in 1888, along with the charming Island Cottages and the Ocean Club, all contributing to its reputation for unforgettable getaways. Visitors are greeted with the allure of the late 19th century, complemented by a variety of dining options and activities, plus a sunlit pool featuring a fire pit surrounded by cozy lounge chairs and umbrellas.

It’s the ideal opportunity to linger and savor the stunning scenery of the Golden Isles and the one-of-a-kind experiences along Georgia’s breathtaking coastline.