One of the best things about purchasing St. Simons Island real estate at the extraordinary community of Frederica is that you are within minutes of the best that this coastal town has to offer. From historical sites to recreation and dining there is plenty to do and explore on St. Simons Island.
Historical Sites
As the largest of the Golden Isles, St. Simons Island has a rich and long history from fishing to agriculture and much more. Many of the historical sites on St. Simons Island have been preserved and are available for those history buffs looking to learn a little more about the surrounding area. Here is a list of historical sites on St. Simons Island that you might want to check out:
- St. Simons Island Lighthouse – Since 1810, a lighthouse has served as an aid to navigation, shining brightly over St. Simons Island. After the destruction of the original lighthouse in 1862, a second lighthouse was built in 1872 and while still operational, it now serves as a museum. Visitors are invited to climb the lighthouse’s 129 steps to experience views of neighboring Jekyll Island, Brunswick and the south end of St. Simons Island.
- Christ Church – Since 1736, church goers have attended services at Christ Church at Frederica. Today, the church serves as one of the oldest active churches in Georgia and is also available for touring every day except Monday from 2 to 5 p.m.
- Fort Frederica National Monument – Fort Frederica and its troops stood strong in 1742 to defeat the Spaniards and ensure that St. Simons Island became a British colony. The archeological remains of Frederica remain and are available for individuals to visit daily. The visitor center theatre also showcases a 23 minute film, History Uncovered, every 30 minutes from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Bloody Marsh – During that same battle in 1742, English and Spanish forces fought in an encounter later known as the “Battle of Bloody Marsh.” The battle was a British victory that ended the Spanish claim to Georgia. The battle site is located off of Demere Road and is open 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. seven days a week.
- Maritime Center at Historic Coast Guard Station – Explore the history of the barrier islands when you visit the Maritime Center at the Historic Coast Guard Station. Located next to the St. Simons Island Lighthouse, this one hour museum tour is available Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
- Ghost Walk – Experience spooky stories of local folklore, mystery and fright when you experience St. Simons Island history through a 90 minute ghost walk. A tour guide will regale you with stories and light your way as you travel along the water’s edge and through the streets of the old village and parks. Tour days vary with all tour beginning at 9 p.m. at the entrance of the St. Simons Island Pier. For more information, visit www.ghostwalkofstsimons.com.
- Your Moped Operandi – Get a behind the scenes tour of St. Simons Island when you rent a moped from Your Moped Operandi. From scavenger Hunts to Birthday Parties, Your Moped Operandi allows you to explore the history of St. Simons Island while spending time with the entire family.
Recreation
From kayaking to golfing there are plenty of opportunities to get in a little exercise while you enjoy the natural beauty of St. Simons Island. Here is a list of just a few opportunities to get active when you live on or visit St. Simons Island:
- Barry’s Beach Service – Barry’s Beach Service offers residents an opportunity to explore the island by kayak, sailboat, bike or paddle board. Private lessons are available, as well as beach chairs and umbrellas for those looking to relax on the sand. In addition to two Ocean Motion locations on the Island, rentals from Barry’s Beach Service are available under the yellow umbrellas located in front of the King and Prince Beach Resort and The Beach Club/North Breakers condominiums.
- Southeast Adventure Kayaking – Conveniently located in the Pier Village, Southeast Adventure Outfitters offers individuals an opportunity to explore the islands waterways by kayak or paddle board.
- Fishing – There are several local charter fishing trips available for those looking to catch and serve some fresh seafood for dinner. Within 45 miles of the Georgia coast, individuals will enjoy trolling for king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, cobia, grouper, snapper, amberjack and many more.
- When it comes to recreation on the island, the extraordinary community of Frederica is unparalleled. Homeowners at Frederica have access to all of Frederica’s incredible amenities through a membership in the Frederica Golf Club. Located in the middle of St. Simons Island real estate at Frederica, amenities include an acclaimed Tom Fazio golf
ourse, renowned golf practice facilities, golf learning center, 35,000 square foot clubhouse, boathouse, outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, well-equipped fitness facility and an equestrian center. For more information on Frederica, visit www.fredericaliving.com.
Dining
One of the best parts about coastal living is the food! From fresh seafood to small town atmospheres, these restaurants provide the perfect end to a day exploring the island. Here are some of our local favorites:
- Frederica House – If you are looking for southern charm then Frederica House is the restaurant for you. With a cozy cottage atmosphere and a menu that includes seafood, choice steaks, chicken and pasta dishes, Frederica House is sure to offer the perfect dining experience for everyone in your family. The best news is that Frederica House is located within minutes of your St. Simons Island home at Frederica.
- Palm Coast – Offering a mix of coffee, casual food, craft beer and live music, Palm Coast is the place to visit on St. Simons Island. The menu offers a wide-variety of options with sandwiches, salads, burgers and wraps available. Palm Coast is the No. 1 place for live music in coastal Georgia, so check it out and enjoy a great evening under the oaks.
- The Crab Trap – You can’t visit St. Simons Island without eating some fresh seafood and The Crab Trap is a favorite among locals and tourists. With a menu that features some of the finest local shrimps, scallops, oysters and fish, you are sure to get your seafood fix at The Crab Trap.
- Bennie’s Red Barn – Bennie’s Red Barn is the oldest privately owned restaurant on St. Simons Island and no visit to the island is complete without a trip to the Red Barn. Menu items include steaks grilled to perfection over an old-fashioned open oak flame, seafood, chicken and spaghetti dishes. Their private dining room is also perfect for a rehearsal dinner, family reunion or conference.
- The King’s Tavern Restaurant – Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner while taking in breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean when you dine at The King’s Tavern Restaurant. Offering an elegant southern atmosphere, The King’s Tavern Restaurant provides a fresh farm-to-table menu with local favorites available throughout the day.
When you purchase a luxury new home on St. Simons Island at Frederica, you get not only a spacious new home, but also the opportunity to enjoy a fantastic coastal lifestyle. Traton Homes is now selling beautiful homes at Frederica priced from the low-$800,000s. For more information and to sign-up for the community’s VIP List, call 912-634-1500 or visit www.TratonHomes.com.