Free Things to do with Kids on St. Simons Island
If you're searching for things to do with kids on St. Simons Island, you've come to the right place. If you're looking for FREE things to do, even better because everything listed below can be done free of charge!
Spend a Day at the Beach
With three miles of continuous beaches, nature's best playground (ahem, the beach) is a big deal around here. Whether you're looking to view the sunrise, have an evening picnic, or spend a long summer day in the sun, a beautiful St. Simons Island beach is the perfect place to do that.
Check out our Parent's Guide to Golden Isles Beaches, where we list the pros and cons for each one, here.
Burn Some Energy at a Park
Go On a Bike Ride
With over 20 miles of paved bike paths, St. Simons Island is fun to explore via bike. If you can't bring your own, there are plenty of bike rental options on the island, which we've listed here.
Click here to view a map of St. Simons Island Biking Trails.
Visit the Farm at Oatland North
The Farm at Oatland North is an animal sanctuary on the island's north end. It’s typically open from 2-4 pm on Sundays, and events are held throughout the year. Check their website for more information here. Don’t forget your bug spray, as it's located off a tiny dirt road and among the trees.
Discover the Island’s History at Fort Frederica National Monument
Fort Frederica is on the island's north end and is worth visiting. The park is stunning, and kids will love exploring the ruins and can even complete activities to become a Junior Ranger with a badge! Stop by the visitor's center desk to request a junior ranger booklet.
The visitor center, restrooms, trails, and park grounds are open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Ranger-led town tours are offered daily, depending on weather and staff availability. Tours are conducted at 11:15 AM and 2:15 PM and last approximately 30 minutes. If guided tours aren't your thing, tour the park at your leisure.
See the Turtles (and Maybe an Alligator) at Harrington Park
This park is tucked away off South Harrington and is an excellent spot for a shaded walk and checking out the two ponds. The ponds are home to many turtles, fish, and ducks; you might get lucky to see an alligator. Although there is no playground, if you’re staying on the mid to North end of the island, this is an excellent place to stretch your legs.
Harrington Park is adjacent to the Historic Harrington Schoolhouse, built in the 1920s, and served as the primary educational structure for three African American communities on St. Simons Island.
Feed the Horses at the Stables at Frederica
Feeding the horses at the Stables at Frederica is a great activity on the island's north end (plus the grounds are beautiful). Stop at Harris Teeter on the way for carrots or apples. Just park in the small lots on the right or left before the roundabout.
Take a Hike at Cannon's Point Preserve
A 608-acre greenspace on the north end of the island, Cannon's Point Preserve is an excellent place to view wildlife while also letting the kids burn off some energy. A few things to note:
- On days when Cannon's Point is open to the public (make sure to check it's open before you head out), there's a volunteer on-site that will provide information.
- View the historic ruins of John Couper's plantation (note that it's 5 miles roundtrip to the ruins and then back to the parking lot).
- Be sure to check out the marsh from the boat launch.
- Pets are not allowed.
- Only biking and walking are permitted after you park at Taylor's Fish Camp.
- Bring bug spray.
- Restrooms are located near the parking area.
Go on a Tree Spirit Scavenger Hunt
According to this article, artist Keith Jennings decided to make his mark on St. Simons Island in the ’80s, carving about 20 faces on the island's oak trees. Each unique face is hand-carved, taking 2-4 days to complete. In recent years, Jennings has brought his son Devon to the Island to collaborate on the newest Tree Spirits. Embark on a Tree Spirit scavenger hunt! Click here for a map of the Tree Spirits located on public property.
Find or Paint an 'SSI Rocks' Rock
SSI Rocks is a local community rock painting group whose goal is to share as much joy as possible through sharing their rock painting creations! Their mission is to spread kindness, positive vibes and happiness all over St. Simons Island. If you'd like to participate and paint rocks to hide, be sure to include the #ssirocks hashtag.
Join the Facebook group here and follow along on Instagram here.
Explore the Island's Two Shopping Areas
Pier Village
Pier Village is located on the south end of the island. There are many things to explore in The Village and within the direct vicinity including shops, bars, restaurants, the fishing pier (where you might get lucky and see a cargo ship go by while blasting its horn), Neptune Park (which includes a playground, mini-golf and a public swimming pool (tickets must be purchased to swim), the lighthouse and a great sidewalk that winds along the water. If the kids need to get some energy out, exploring The Village is a great option.
Redfern Village
Redfern Village is just north of the St. Simons Airport. It's an outdoor restaurant and shopping district and is great for walking around and popping in and out of all the shops.
Looking for more St. Simons Island information and resources? Click here!
