Are golf cart rentals worth it?

Question

We are taking our son and my parents on a family vacation over Easter to St Simons and are considering renting an electric six seater golf cart. The price isn't bad for three or four days of use; I'm more worried that we will rent it and not use it all that much/prefer the rental car that accommodates us all anyway. It would be more for the ease and novelty (especially for my 8 year old) but I know the safety of the carts is a little bit of a hot button in the community. Any thoughts?

Answer

Golf cart rentals on St. Simons Island can be a fun and convenient way to get around, especially for a family with young children. Whether or not it's worth it depends on how you plan to use it and your preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

Ease of Transportation: Golf carts are great for short trips around the island, especially in areas where parking can be limited. They’re perfect for quick visits to the beach, local restaurants, or attractions that are close together. If you plan to spend a lot of time in the village area or near the beach, a golf cart can make it easy to get around without needing to search for parking or worry about traffic.
Novelty and Fun for Kids: If your 8-year-old is excited about the novelty of riding in a golf cart, it can definitely add an element of fun to the vacation. Kids often love the experience, and it can make getting from one place to another feel more like an adventure.
Convenience and Flexibility: While a rental car can accommodate all of you, a golf cart allows you to move more freely around the island, especially in areas where driving a car might be less convenient. Plus, it can make your time on the island feel more relaxed and leisurely.
Community Concerns: You are right to be aware that golf carts are a bit of a hot topic in St. Simons. While they’re generally safe for use in designated areas, there have been concerns about safety, especially when it comes to speeding and collisions with pedestrians or cyclists. Make sure to follow local rules and stay within the designated cart zones. Driving a golf cart requires extra attention to safety, especially in busy areas.
Cost Consideration: If the price of the rental is reasonable and you’re planning to use it frequently during your stay, it can be a good deal. However, if you find that you’re mostly relying on your rental car to get around, it may not be worth the additional cost. Think about how much you’ll actually use it based on your itinerary.

Ultimately, if you're planning to spend a lot of time around the village, beach, or nearby attractions, and your family enjoys the novelty of the golf cart, it can be a great addition to your vacation. If you’re concerned about safety or find that you’re mostly driving the rental car, you may not get as much use out of it. Either way, it can be a fun experience if you decide to rent it.

Are golf cart rentals worth it?

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