St. Simons Lighthouse Museum

St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum

610 Beachview Drive

St. Simons Island, Georgia 31522

912-634-7090

Website: https://www.coastalgeorgiahistory.org/visit/st-simons-lighthouse-museum/

St. Simons Island has long been defined by its coastal location on the Atlantic. Its history as a major port city means that this scenic destination comes with an important as well as charming maritime culture. Nothing speaks more directly to this past than the iconic St. Simons Island lighthouse. While the lighthouse still serves as an essential navigational aid for vessels, it has expanded its presence to include a museum. Visitors to St. Simons Island who are interested in learning more about the area’s maritime past and present won’t want to miss a trip to the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum.

St. Simons Lighthouse Museum: Illuminating the Coast

Standing tall at 610 Beachview Drive, the St. Simons Lighthouse and Museum is easily identifiable by the stark, white façade that rises against the water. While the original lighthouse was built in 1810 at the hands of James Gould, the lighthouse visitors encounter today are the efforts of reconstruction done in 1872 after Confederate soldiers demolished the original in an attempt to gain ground during the Civil War. Not only is the St. Simons Island lighthouse impressive to behold, it’s even more amazing when it’s understood that this is one of only 5 lighthouses that Georgia calls its own today.

Making the Most of a Visit

Those looking for a sweeping panoramic view at the St. Simons lighthouse will want to tighten up their laces and get ready to face the 129 steps that lead to the top balcony. Once you’ve made it this far, feel free to step back and soak up the sights as distant Jekyll Island and Brunswick come into mesmerizing view. When you’ve taken your photographs and walked the circumference of the lighthouse, make your way back down and take some time to browse the museum exhibits in the former keeper’s house. This Victorian-style building is home to a variety of artifacts and displays that highlight the history of the lighthouse and its many keepers over time. Adults can enjoy the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum for a ticket price of $12 while children can enter for $6.

Nearby Landmarks and Restaurants to Enjoy

It comes as no surprise that a trip to the iconic St. Simons Lighthouse and museum is a highlight event for many visitors to St. Simons Island. Whether you’re here for the history or the architecture, it’s bound to be a delight. This beautiful and intriguing landmark is as meaningful as it is mesmerizing and as an added bonus, sits near a variety of other exciting landmarks and restaurants that are worth exploring while you’re in town. When you’re looking to expand on that already wonderful itinerary, don’t forget to add the following to the list.

Sandcastle Café

Easily found at 117 Mallery Street, the Sandcastle Café is a great place to power up for the day before you even set foot at the St. Simons Island Lighthouse and Museum. This welcoming and charming destination is known for its savory breakfast buffet but also serves up lunch selections as well. It’s decidedly inviting and laid-back, making it the perfect place to enjoy a delicious breakfast, but just as well-suited to a mid-day seafood dish. The Sandcastle Café is open from 8:00 am until 2:00 pm daily. Whether you’re in the mood for waffles and bacon or garden salads and friend shrimp, this is the place to enjoy it all. Sandcastle Café has been a savor staple of flavor on the island since 1989, meaning the delicious fare comes with a legacy of satisfaction.

A Beautiful Stay on St. Simons Island

Lilmar Vacations believes every trip to St. Simons Island should be unforgettable. Let us help you book a beautiful and customized vacation rental while you’re here. We’ll make sure the property you choose feels like your home away from home the minute you walk through the front door.

St. Simons Island trip!