What are The Golden Isles?
The Golden Isles are the area of islands located along the Georgia Atlantic coast between Savannah, GA and Jacksonville, FL. 

This region includes the city of Brunswick and the barrier islands of St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island. The Golden Isles are notably known for their marshes, beaches, and golden hues of colors seen in their landscape year-round.  

The Golden Isles of Georgia have regularly received acclaim from across the globe.  

Travel + Leisure® has recently named the Golden Isles the #1 Best U.S. Islands for the second consecutive year in the 2024 World's Best Awards. This recognition marks the Golden Isles tenth consecutive year on the list, alongside its ranking as 15th on the Best Islands in the World list. 

St. Simon's Island - Largest of Georgia's Golden Isles

St. Simons Island is the largest barrier island of the Golden Isles of Georgia. 



St. Simons’ primary standout features include its enchanting moss-draped oaks, stunning beaches, and charming island village perfect for a vacation stay. On the island, you’ll find unique shops, museums, and golf courses to fill the time as you explore the island, alongside other activities like kayaking, fishing, and biking. 

St. Simons itself is a highly acclaimed Golden Isle and has received numerous awards and acknowledgements from several travel publications: 

• In 2022, St. Simons Island was ranked among Travel + Leisure'sWorld's Best Islandsin the Continental U.S., and U.S. News'16 Top Romantic Getaways in Georgia, as well as15 Most Romantic Small Towns in the United States. 
• In 2021, St. Simons Island ranked among U.S. News'Best Beaches in the U.S. 
• In 2019, St. Simons Island was ranked #3 on Conde Nast TravelersBest U.S. Islands Reader's Choice Awards. 
  

To be at the center of all that St. Simons Island has to offer, Opulence Vacation Rentals has two properties ideal for your stay: OCEAN VIEW & The Grey Pearl.

Each property is decorated with prime amenities and perfect proximity to the beach for easy access.

The GA v. FL Game

The Georgia-Florida game takes place on November 2, 2024, at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida. 

This annual rivalry game is traditionally held in Jacksonville following its cherished tradition since 1933. This game showcases one of college football's infamous rivalries and provides a memorable scene each year from the spirited fanfare. 

Over the years, the Georgia Florida rivalry has featured numerous star players: including Florida legends Danny Wuerffel, Fred Taylor, and Tim Tebow, and Georgia greats such as Herschel Walker, Matthew Stafford, and Scott Woerner. 

The annual game regularly brings in droves of travelers to the area, but especially on the weekend of November 2nd, which marks the beginning of UGA’s fall break (Friday, November 1, 2024). 

St. Simons Island becomes headquarters for Bulldog fans for the weekend of the annual Georgia-Florida football game in  Jacksonville.

St. Simons Island tourists should expect tons of college students during this weekend on the island. So, it’s important to plan wisely for any dining, travel, or beach destinations interested in. 

Restaurants to watch the Georgia v. Florida Game 

St. Simons has several food and drink options available to watch the Georgia-Florida football game at. 

Here’s a list of some local favorites which are close to Opulence’s St. Simons properties. 

All of these are great places to enjoy watching the football game, as well as for celebrating victories after the game ends.

Post Game Bars & Lounges

Explore St. Simon's Island

St. Simons Island Pier 

Location: 100 Mallery Street, St. Simons Island, GA 31522 



The St. Simons Island Pier offers stunning views of the marsh and coastline, with its charming wooden structure providing a perfect spot for fishing, strolls, and enjoying picturesque sunsets over the water. 

St. Simons Lighthouse 

Location: 610 Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island, GA 31522 

The St. Simons Lighthouse, a historic landmark with its striking white tower and red top, stands majestically on the coast, guiding sailors while offering visitors panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. 

Fort Frederica 

Location: 6515 Frederica Road, St. Simons Island, GA 31522 

Fort Frederica, a well-preserved colonial fortification on St. Simons Island, features historic ruins and lush greenery, inviting visitors to explore its rich history and the strategic role it played in defending the Georgia colony. 

Things To Do

Sea Island 

Sea Island, part of the Golden Isles of Georgia, is a luxurious resort destination known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and upscale amenities. It offers a range of activities, from golf and tennis to spa treatments and fine dining, making it an ultimate retreat for relaxation and recreation. 

Sea Island is a private internationally acclaimed resort and island community, offering two of the world’s most exceptional destinations: 

• The Forbes Five-Star Cloisteron Sea Island 
• The Lodge at Sea Island, a Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond property located on the southern end of St. Simons Island. 

Jekyll Island 

Jekyll Island, located just off the coast of St. Simons Island, is a barrier island known for its rich history and natural beauty. It features pristine beaches, lush marshlands, and historic landmarks, including the Jekyll Island Club Historic District, which showcases the island's Gilded Age mansions. 

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as biking on scenic trails, exploring the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, and relaxing on the beach. 

Driftwood Beach, a popular boneyard beach on Jekyll Island, is a popular beach destination for tourists. It features numerous fallen trees and driftwood scattered along the shoreline, creating a unique and picturesque landscape. 

*The term "boneyard beach" often refers to areas where dead trees and stumps remain exposed due to erosion, giving the beach a distinctive, haunting beauty. 

Little St. Simons Island 

Little St. Simons Island is a secluded, pristine barrier island located off the coast of St. Simons Island. It is renowned for its untouched natural beauty and serene atmosphere. 

Spanning over 10,000 acres, the island features miles of unspoiled beaches, lush maritime forests, and diverse wildlife, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching, hiking, and kayaking. 

With no more than 32 overnight guests at its exclusive lodge, Little St. Simons Island provides a rare opportunity for relaxation and reconnecting with nature in a tranquil setting. 

With our Georgia Florida weekend guide handy in your possession, you’re sure to have a golden stay on the beautiful isle of St. Simons Island. 

Whether you’re a fan traveling to see the Georgia Florida game, or an adventurer seeking an unforgettable beach experience, your stay on St. Simons Island will be truly memorable!