St. Simons Island Secrets Revealed

The beach may be what brings you to St. Simons Island, and the miles of bike paths may keep you entertained while you are there. Of course, there are lots of shops to keep you busy, and some fantastic restaurants for dining. But, what do you do if you’re too sunburned for the beach, aren’t a shopper and it’s not time for dinner yet? Here are four secret activities to keep the family busy on St. Simons Island.

Visit Fort Frederica

St. Simons wasn’t always a vacation destination. In colonial times, there was an English settlement on the island that pre-dates the American Revolution by 40 years. Fort Frederica was set up to guard the coast from the Spanish. It was the Battle of Bloody Marsh, also on St. Simons, that secured the land as an English colony instead of a Spanish one. Fort Frederica has a small but very engaging museum and a fantastic Junior Ranger program where kids borrow a haversack with a spyglass and compass to complete their mission.

Say Hello to Mr. Bird

He’s been written about in the New York Times and countless other publications. He’s an African Grey parrot that lives at the St. Simons Bait & Tackle shop on Mallery Street just off St. Simons Island Pier. If he’s in a good mood that day, he might let you put him on your shoulder. If not, it’s best to just admire him up on his perch.

Look for Tree Spirits

Hidden among housing developments, outside restaurants and other establishments are the tree spirits. Carved into the trunks of old trees, these works of art are fun to find. It’s like a scavenger hunt through town. Each tree spirit is a little different, and you can find them all over the island. Visit the St. Simons Island Welcome Center for a map of locations.

Sweet Endings

To round out your St. Simons Island adventure, visit Sweet Mama’s in Retreat Village for a delicious peanut butter cookie with chocolate icing.