You don’t have to visit the Golden Isles during the summer months to experience summertime magic. Sunny skies and friendly locals will gladly welcome guests any time of the year. Known as one of the best-kept secrets on the East Coast, the Golden Isles is cherished for pristine beaches, untouched marshlands, and breathtaking landscapes. Made up of barrier islands St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island, and the mainland Brunswick, this unique destination is rich with history and attractions. Experience the fall season in the Golden Isles, complete with year-round warm weather, limitless opportunities for adventure, and rich coastal cuisine.
Autumn is marked by the changing marsh grass, which turns a stunning shade of gold every fall. And with average temperatures in the mid-60s and more than 20 miles of beaches, the “chilly season” feels more like an endless summer and offers visitors plenty of outdoor activities and things to do.
Start with tee time and play with the pros at acclaimed golf courses like The King and Prince Golf Course or Jekyll Island Golf Club. Golfers love sweeping fairways and expertly-designed courses. Don’t miss fall golf events like the RSM Classic, a PGA TOUR event happening November 14–20 at Sea Island Golf Club on St. Simons Island. Trade the fairway for a fishing charter and hit the water for a day. Experience our sparkling waters and test your luck at catching redfish and flounder. When you’ve exhausted your fishing skills, get some fresh air exploring Cannon’s Point Preserve, a popular hiking destination packed with diverse ecosystems of marshes and forests. While you can chart your own path, guided tours also offer local perspectives on the scenery and wildlife. From kayaking and paddleboarding to trolley tours, there are plenty of ways to get out and experience the stunning views of the Golden Isles.
The best way to explore the area? Island hop between the barrier islands and mainland city for unique offerings and activities. Start on St. Simons Island, known for its magical Tree Spirit scavenger hunt. Look for the hand-carved trees ensconced among iconic island sites. For an off-grid experience, surround yourself with untouched nature on Little St. Simons Island. Take a day trip and explore the 11,000 acres of ancient maritime forests and incredible wildlife, only accessible by private boat. The day trips include a fresh garden-to-table meal for lunch and looking for seashells and shorebirds along the island’s seven miles of undeveloped private beaches.
Visit the remarkable Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island for an unmatched view of the golden sunrises that give the Golden Isles its name. Take a break from the beach and stop at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center or tour the island’s National Historic Landmark District. Relax in luxury at Sea Island, the internationally acclaimed resort with horseback riding, sunset cruises, and the Forbes Five-Star Cloister Spa. In Historic Brunswick, wander through original town squares with intricate architecture best discovered on a bike tour. Or try your hand at shrimping aboard the Lady Jane shrimp boat.
Savor the flavors of fall with southern homestyle dining that feeds both your soul and stomach. Take advantage of the fresh coastal cuisine and al fresco dining available at many of the restaurants throughout the area. Don’t miss Wild Georgia Shrimp, a local delicacy that graces plates all season long. Grab a bite to eat at the locally-loved Indigo Coastal Shanty or Palmer’s Village Café to enjoy fresh shrimp. For a true coastal shrimp experience, plan your trip around the Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival happening November 4–6. And don’t end your trip without a taste of Brunswick stew, a southern delicacy that originated right here.
This fall, take the time to lose track of it. Make the Golden Isles your next escape to experience an endless summer, settle into the rhythm of the tides, and go at your own pace. Plan your trip with current specials and packages.
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