St. Simon or Jekyll Island?

Question

Looking for a historic and non-touristy beach option for our family of 4 (11yo & 21 yo). In the past, we've gone to OBX specifically Beaufort, NC and nearby Harkers Island. We were in Charleston last year. It was great, but we prefer a smaller town vibe.

Would St. Simon or Jekyll be what we're looking for?

What we love: pre-colonial & colonial history, pirate lore, walkable downtown district, ghost tours, clean & uncrowded beaches. Small towns.

Answer

Both St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island offer charming beach experiences along Georgia’s coast, but they each have distinct vibes and historical appeal. For a family interested in history, small-town feel, and relatively uncrowded beaches, here’s a breakdown to help you decide.

St. Simons Island:

St. Simons has a more developed island town atmosphere with a quaint village area featuring boutique shops, restaurants, and a few historic sites.
The island is rich in colonial and Civil War history. Notable spots include Fort Frederica National Monument, Christ Church (dating to the 1800s), and the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum, which highlights maritime history and has a small museum focused on local history.
Beaches are generally clean and family-friendly, though the southern parts of the island near the village can be busier during peak times. However, with a short drive, you can find quieter stretches of sand.
Walkable downtown with cafes and shops, making it easy for a family to explore without a car. There are occasional ghost tours and historical walking tours for those interested in lore.

Jekyll Island:

Jekyll Island has a quieter, more preserved feel, with a strong focus on its historic district known as the Jekyll Island Historic District. This area includes beautifully restored mansions from the Gilded Age (late 1800s–early 1900s) and offers self-guided or guided walking tours.
The island is excellent for pre-colonial and colonial history enthusiasts as there are interpretive exhibits on early Native American settlements and colonial trade. You can also explore the historic fishing village of “Jekyll Island Club” for a glimpse into old-world coastal life.
Beaches on Jekyll Island are wide, pristine, and typically less crowded than St. Simons, particularly in the northern parts near Driftwood Beach, which is iconic for its driftwood-strewn shorelines and photogenic scenery.
Jekyll is more car-dependent; the town is less centralized than St. Simons, but it’s extremely peaceful and very safe for families. Biking is popular, and there are scenic trails connecting the historic district, beaches, and marshes.

Comparison Summary:

If you want a slightly busier small town with restaurants, shops, and easy walking, St. Simons may suit you better.
If you want a quieter, historically rich experience with uncrowded beaches and a more preserved coastal environment, Jekyll Island is the better choice.
Both islands have colonial history and some pirate lore, but Jekyll emphasizes preserved historic architecture and nature, while St. Simons offers a mix of history with more commercial and tourist-friendly amenities.

Given your past enjoyment of Beaufort and Harkers Island and preference for smaller towns and less touristy beaches, Jekyll Island may align most closely with your family’s interests. However, if you want a little more convenience and walkable village charm, St. Simons is also a solid option.