Breathtaking beaches come in the form of St. Simons Island, a barrier isle on Georgia's coast just east of Brunswick, approximately 1.5 hours from Savannah. With remarkable scenery, a fascinating history, unique shops and challenging golf courses, the island is a must-visit to relax and get away from it all.

Check out Fort Frederica National Monument, the archaeological remnants of the island's first European settlement, or make your way to Neptune Park, an oceanfront park next to the St. Simons Island Lighthouse that offers a playground, picnic area, casino and pool. Cannon’s Point Preserve features 660 acres of greenery and Late Archaic shell rings dating back to 2500 BCE.

Bring Fido along for a bright-blue sky day on East Beach, rent bikes and cruise along King's Way, pop by a local tackle shop to get outfitted for a day on the pier or kayak under the sun in the Saint Simons Sound. Go birding as you even out your stroke at Retreat Golf Course, or feel the sea breeze in your hair as you putt at Seaside Golf Course.

Head to Pier Village for more than 50 shops and restaurants. Savannah Bee Company, Pier Village Market and the Live Oak Gift Shop located in the Golden Isles Welcome Center all offer up specialty items for those back home. Snack on a sweet treat from St. Simons Crepes while you wait for a table at Barbara Jean’s, Iguanas Seafood Restaurant or Brogen’s South.

Mid-January brings the St. Simons Land Trust Oyster Roast, featuring vendors, live music and, of course, oysters. In late spring and summer, loggerhead sea turtles arrive on the beach to lay their eggs. These adorable babies will make their way into the sea after they hatch in the ultimate marathon. Plenty of events happen year-round on the island, so plan your trip around them.

Book your stay at Hotel Simone, Ocean Inn & Suites or The King and Prince Beach & Golf Club, and when the sun begins to set, walk around the island looking for tree spirits.