There are so many things to see and do in the Golden Isles! We'll be featuring a variety of tours and things to do on these pages, so check back often!
Fort King George:
Fort King George is the oldest English fort remaining on Georgia's coast. From 1721 until 1736, Fort King George was the southern outpost of the British Empire in North America. A cypress blockhouse, barracks and palisaded earthen fort were constructed in 1721 by scoutmen led by Colonel John "Tuscarora Jack" Barnwell. For the next seven years, His Majesty's Independent Company garrisoned the fort. They endured incredible hardships from disease, threats of Spanish and Indian attacks, and the harsh, unfamiliar coastal environment. After the fort was abandoned, General James Oglethorpe brought Scottish Highlanders to the site in 1736. The settlement, called Darien, eventually became a foremost export center of lumber until 1925.
Using old records and drawings, this 18th century frontier fortification on the Altamaha River has been reconstructed for public tours. Structures include a blockhouse, officers' quarters, barracks, a guardhouse, moat and palisades. A museum and film cover the Guale Indians, the Santo Domingo de Talaje mission, Fort King George, the Scots of Darien and 19th century sawmilling when Darien became a major seaport. In addition to the many fort buildings, remains of three sawmills and tabby ruins are still visible. This site is on the Colonial Coast Birding Trail.
The myriad historic sites in the Golden Isles offer history buffs an opportunity to take a step back in time with reenactments, interpretive tours, and crafts demonstrations at many famous landmarks.
The St. Simons Island trolley takes you on the path of over 400 years of history and folklore.
Horse drawn carriage rides and horseback riding on the beach both offer a leisurely way to tour the Golden Isles.
Located in Pier Village on St. Simons Island is the 1872 lighthouse keeper's home alongside the 104 ft. lighthouse, both of which have been beautifully restored and are considered to be the oldest brick structures in Glynn County. Visitors are welcome to tour the lighthouse and keeper's home which have been converted into a museum and gift shop. For more information, call (912)638-4666 or check out their website at www.saintsimonslighthouse.org.
Some of the outdoor activities in the Golden Isles include jet skiing, sailing, (boat rentals are available) fishing charters, nature tours, and kayak tours.
Golden Isles Eco-Tours, Sightseeing Boat Tours
The abundant bird and wildlife presents an exciting opportunity for photographers and nature lovers. Fishing trips are available throughout the islands.
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