St. Simons Island Itinerary: How to Spend One Perfect Day
Spending 24 hours on St. Simons Island, Georgia is a perfect way to soak in the coastal charm of the Golden Isles, and staying at the Village Inn & Pub sets the tone just right for a relaxing adult getaway. Nestled beneath moss-draped oaks in the island’s historic pier village area, this cozy inn offers Southern charm with a splash of old-school pub ambiance. Check in, drop your bags, and step outside—this island is made for exploring on foot.
As the sun dips low on a Tuesday evening, make your way a few blocks off Mallery Street down Ocean Boulevard to Porch, a laid-back Southern eatery known for its Nashville hot chicken. Order up a plate—go for the Big Dark Novice Heat if you're looking for, “a l’il bit” but manageable spice level. Pair it with classic sides like cheese grits and collards, and maybe a cold local beer or a Frosé. Porch’s front patio is a great spot to unwind and people-watch while you eat.
After dinner, the night is still young, so head back to the Village Inn & Pub for their Tuesday night music bingo. With no kids or pets in tow, the pub's lively yet intimate vibe is just right. Grab a drink, settle into a leather barstool, and join in the fun. The mix of music trivia, local banter, and a few chances to win a prize or two makes for a light-hearted end to the evening. If you are in need of a nightcap, the Mallery Street Cafe next door has the island’s best espresso martini (just sayin’).
But be sure to rest up—your morning is starting early.
Just before sunrise, drive a short way to Morningstar Marina, where Captain Kevin Dezern of Georgia Saltwater Adventures awaits. His boat is rigged and ready for a serious offshore adventure. You’ll head 17 miles out into the Atlantic, the wind salty and cool against your face as the boat cuts through the waves. First, it’s time to catch live bait, which becomes part of the fun—throwing a cast net for menhaden (aka pogies). While spot casting it’s not uncommon to spy a sea turtle or pod of dolphins surfacing to catch a breath.
With bait in the live well, it’s time to troll for barracuda, the apex predators of the nearshore reefs. These toothy fish hit like freight trains and fight even harder, offering plenty of action and adrenaline. Captain Kevin knows the spots, and by late morning, you’ve likely got a few stories—and some fresh fish—to take home.
Back on terra firma, there's no better way to wind down than with a cold beer and some wings. Brogen’s South, right on Neptune Park, delivers exactly what you need. It’s a breezy, open-air spot with casual food, stiff drinks, and views of the ocean just beyond the park. Order a local draft and a plate of hot, mild, or bbq wings finished on the grill, and toast to a day well spent.
St. Simons Island may be laid-back, but in just 24 hours, you’ve eaten well, played hard, and made a few salty memories.