The Coastal Commute: Navigating The Distance Between Brunswick And St. Simons Island

St. Simons Island is a barrier island and census-designated place (CDP) located in Glynn County, Georgia, United States. It is part of the Brunswick metropolitan statistical area and is approximately 12 miles (19 km) east of Brunswick, the county seat. The distance between St. Simons Island and Brunswick is about 6 to 7 miles or 11 kilometers by car, and the drive typically takes around 11 to 15 minutes without stops.

The distance between the two places

The distance between Brunswick, Georgia, and Saint Simons Island, Georgia, is 6.13 miles in a west direction and 7 miles or 11 kilometres if travelling by car, following the Demere Road route.

The distance is the same whether flying or driving, though the time taken will differ. The flight distance is 6 miles or 10 kilometres, and the flight time is 31 minutes. The driving distance is 7 miles or 11 kilometres, and the drive time is 11 minutes without traffic. With traffic, the drive time will increase.

If you're planning a road trip, you may want to stop along the way to explore. You can check out interesting places, eat at great restaurants, and stay at recommended hotels. The total travel time for this trip, including stops, is 42 minutes.

Saint Simons Island is located southeast of Brunswick, Georgia, and is part of the Brunswick metropolitan statistical area. It is the largest of Georgia's Golden Isles, which also include Sea Island, Jekyll Island, and privately owned Little St. Simons Island.

Saint Simons Island is a barrier island, and the primary mode of travel to the island is by automobile via the F.J. Torras Causeway. The island is also served by the Malcolm McKinnon Airport, which caters to general aviation.

Travel time by car

The distance between Brunswick, Georgia and Saint Simons Island is 6 to 7 miles or 11 kilometres by car, following the Demere Road route. The average driving speed is 35.6 mph, and the total driving time is 11 minutes. However, this does not account for traffic, which can significantly impact travel time.

The cost of driving from Brunswick, GA, to Saint Simons Island is estimated to be $0.84 in gas, with an average car releasing 5.50 pounds of CO2 into the atmosphere during the trip.

There are also alternative modes of transport between the two locations, such as taxi or plane.

Travel time by plane

The distance between St Simons Island and Brunswick, Georgia is approximately 6 miles or 10 kilometres. This is the distance if you were to fly in a private jet in a straight line between the two locations.

The flight time is estimated to be 31 minutes. This is a relatively short flight in a private plane. If you were to book a commercial flight, your travel time would be longer and would include the time taken to get through security, board and taxi on the runway, and the time taken to get to and from the airport.

The distance by car is slightly longer at 7 miles or 11 kilometres. The drive time is estimated to be 11 minutes non-stop, but this could be longer depending on traffic.

Attractions on St Simons Island

St. Simons Island is a barrier island and census-designated place located in Glynn County, Georgia. It is known for its warm climate, beaches, outdoor activities, shops, restaurants, and historical sites. Here are some of the top attractions on St. Simons Island:

Fort Frederica National Monument

Fort Frederica was established in 1736 by British General James Oglethorpe to defend the southern border of his new colony of Georgia. The fort served as a crucial line of defence against Spanish incursions from Florida. Today, visitors can explore the archaeological remnants of the fort, including its defensive walls and barracks. The fort is located on the site of the Battle of Bloody Marsh, a pivotal battle in 1742 that secured Georgia's future as a British colony.

St. Simons Lighthouse

The St. Simons Lighthouse is an iconic landmark on the island. It was originally built in 1820 and restored in 1884. Visitors can climb the 129 steps to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the island and the coastline. The adjacent keeper's residence houses a museum with exhibits on the history of the lighthouse and the life of lighthouse keepers.

Christ Church

Christ Church is one of the oldest churches in Georgia, with worship services dating back to 1736. It is considered one of the most photographed places on the island, known for its beautiful stained glass windows and picturesque grounds. The church is also significant in the history of Methodism, as it is where John and Charles Wesley, the founders of the Methodist movement, preached.

World War II Home Front Museum

The World War II Home Front Museum, located in the Historic Coast Guard Station at East Beach, showcases the role of the Golden Isles and Brunswick during World War II. The museum features interactive exhibits, artefacts, and audiovisual displays that provide insights into the challenges faced by Americans on the home front and the contributions made by women and minorities during the war.

Neptune Park

Neptune Park is a popular oceanfront public park that attracts families and visitors. It features a swimming pool, miniature golf course, fishing pier, playgrounds, picnic areas, and benches for relaxation. It is also home to the St. Simons Lighthouse and Museum, making it a convenient stop for visitors.

Cannon's Point Preserve

Cannon's Point Preserve is a 600-acre nature preserve located on the northeast corner of the island. It offers a rare look at the historic plantation culture of the Georgia Coast. The preserve includes a salt marsh, tidal creek, river shoreline, and ruins of a 17th-century plantation house and slave quarters. It is open to the public on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays, offering opportunities for hiking, bicycling, birdwatching, and picnicking.

In addition to these highlights, St. Simons Island offers a variety of other attractions, including the Avenue of the Oaks, Wesley Memorial & Gardens, the Arthur J. Moore Methodist Museum, Epworth By the Sea, the Coastal Georgia Historical Society, and a vibrant dining and shopping scene.

Hotels on St Simons Island

St. Simons Island is a barrier island and census-designated place (CDP) in Glynn County, Georgia, United States. It is part of the Brunswick metropolitan statistical area and has a population of 14,982 as of the 2020 census. The island is a popular tourist destination, known for its warm climate, beaches, outdoor activities, shops, restaurants, historical sites, and natural environment.

• The Inn By Sea Island: This charming seaside hotel offers spacious rooms, beautiful decor, and golf opportunities. Amenities include a pool, bar, complimentary breakfast, laundry, and parking. It is conveniently located near shops and restaurants.
• Ocean Inn & Suites: This hotel offers free covered parking with elevator access and is located close to parks, the ocean, and other amenities. It features scenic lighthouse views, spacious rooms, and balconies, and is within walking distance to shops, restaurants, and the waterfront.
• Home2 Suites by Hilton St. Simons Island: This hotel is conveniently located near the airport and island attractions and dining options. It offers spacious rooms, kitchen amenities, an exercise room, and a unique pool overlooking the runway.
• Ocean Lodge Resort: This resort features a penthouse suite with stunning ocean views, a rooftop bar, charming "old world" ambiance, and a well-appointed kitchen. The spacious and comfortable rooms have balconies, and the resort is conveniently located near attractions.
• Village Inn and Pub: This quaint hotel has a bed and breakfast atmosphere and is centrally located near shops, restaurants, and attractions. It features a charming on-site pub with live music.
• Saint Simons Inn by the Lighthouse: This hotel offers easy access to the beach, restaurants, bars, and shopping. It has clean, charming rooms, some with balconies and great views. A complimentary continental breakfast and 24/7 coffee are also available.
• Hampton Inn St. Simons Island: This hotel is conveniently located near historical sites, restaurants, and shops. It features a peaceful atmosphere, a well-maintained pool area, and friendly staff.
• The Lodge at Sea Island: This luxurious golf resort offers pristine courses, stunning marsh and oak tree views, personalized service, and 5-star amenities. It is ideal for meetings and relaxation, with activities for golfers and non-golfers alike.
• The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort: This charming island resort boasts beautiful ocean views, a variety of nearby restaurants and shops, spacious rooms, multiple pools, and oceanfront cabana rooms. It is a historic property with well-maintained grounds.
• Best Western Plus St. Simons: This hotel offers a charming island setting with friendly staff, family and pet-friendly policies, comfortable accommodations, ample amenities, and a well-maintained pool and hot tub. It is great for both business trips and vacations.
• Holiday Inn Express Saint Simons Island: This quiet, well-located hotel offers friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and an enjoyable pool. It is close to the beach, town centre, shopping, and dining options. A good breakfast selection is also available.

These are just a few of the many great hotel options available on St. Simons Island. Each hotel has its own unique features and amenities, so you can choose the one that best suits your preferences and needs.

Frequently asked questions