There is a place on the Georgia coast that feels like stepping back in time. A place where wild horses once roamed, where a famous actress documented the brutality of plantation life, and where today, only 32 guests at a time can experience 11,000 acres of untouched paradise.
I am talking about Little St. Simons Island.
After years of hearing whispers about this private barrier island from fellow travel writers, I finally booked my stay at the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge. And let me tell youâit exceeded every expectation.
Unlike crowded beach resorts where you fight for pool chairs, here I had seven miles of beach almost entirely to myself. No traffic. No high-rise hotels. Just the sound of waves, the call of painted buntings, and the feeling that I had discovered something truly special.
Here is everything I learned during my stayâfrom how to get there to what to pack and why this Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge is worth every penny.
What Makes the Little St. Simons Island All-Inclusive Lodge So Special?
Before I dive into the logistics, let me explain why this place is unlike any other.
Little St. Simons Island is a privately owned barrier island located off the coast of Georgia, slightly east and north of its more famous neighbor, St. Simons Island . The island spans 10,000 to 11,000 acresâdepending on which source you consultâand boasts seven miles of pristine, undeveloped beaches .
What makes this Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge unique is its exclusivity. The island has been privately owned since 1760, and for over a century, it was the Berolzheimer family’s private retreat . In the late 1970s, the family made the extraordinary decision to share this paradise with the publicâbut only in a very limited way.
Today, the Lodge on Little St. Simons Island accommodates a maximum of 32 overnight guests at any given time . That means no crowds. No waiting in line. No noise. Just you, nature, and a handful of fellow travelers who appreciate the rare gift of true seclusion.
Little St. Simons Island All-Inclusive Lodge: What’s Included in Your Stay?
Let me break down exactly what you get when you book the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge. I was honestly surprised by how much is covered.
| What’s Included | Details |
|---|---|
| Boat Transportation | Round-trip ferry from Hampton River Marina (departs 10:30 AM, returns 4:30 PM) |
| Three Daily Meals | Farm-to-table breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring local ingredients |
| Guided Naturalist Excursions | Hiking, birding, kayaking, and ecological tours led by experts |
| Recreational Equipment | Bicycles, kayaks, fishing gear, and beach gear included |
| Evening Social Hour | Appetizers and beverages before dinner |
| Access to 11,000 Acres | Seven miles of private beach and all island trails |
| Island Garden Tour | Learn about sustainable horticulture from staff |
The only things not included are alcoholic beverages (available for purchase) and gratuities (typically added to your final bill) .
Accommodation Options at the Lodge
The Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge offers six historic cottages with a total of 16 guest rooms . Here is where I stayed and what you can choose from:
| Cottage Name | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| River Lodge | Couples & solo travelers | Main lodge building with common areas |
| Michael Cottage | Families & groups | Multiple bedrooms, private setting |
| Tom House | Couples seeking romance | Cozy cottage with outdoor shower |
| Helen House | Families | Family-friendly layout |
| Cedar House | Groups | Multi-room with screened porch |
| Hunting Lodge | History lovers | Historic building with multiple rooms |
I stayed in the Tom House, and the outdoor shower was a highlight. There is something magical about rinsing off under the open sky after a day on the beach, surrounded by nothing but live oaks and salt air .
How to Get to Little St. Simons Island (It’s an Adventure)
Getting to the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge is part of the experience. You cannot simply drive up to the island. Here is exactly how I did it.
Step 1: Get to St. Simons Island
The nearest airports are:
| Airport | Code | Distance | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville International | JAX | ~80 miles | 1.5 hours |
| Savannah/Hilton Head | SAV | ~90 miles | 1.5-2 hours |
| Brunswick Golden Isles | BQK | ~15 miles | 20 minutes |
I flew into Jacksonville and rented a car. The drive through coastal Georgia was beautifulâmoss-draped oaks and marsh views the whole way.
From I-95, take Exit 29 or 38 and follow signs to St. Simons Island via the F.J. Torras Causeway .
Step 2: Park at Hampton River Club Marina
Once on St. Simons Island, follow the signs to the Hampton River Club Marina on the north end of the island. Free parking is available here for overnight guests of the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge .
Step 3: Take the Ferry to Little St. Simons Island
The ferry departs daily at 10:30 AM and returns at 4:30 PM .
Important: This is a private ferry. You cannot ride it unless you are a guest of the lodge or have a confirmed day trip reservation .
The ride takes about 20 minutes. I spent the whole time on the deck, watching for dolphins. (Spoiler: I saw several.)
Best Time to Visit Little St. Simons Island
Based on my experience and research, here is when you should plan your trip to the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge.
| Season | Weather | Highlights | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar-May) | 65-80°F, mild | Wildflowers, migrating songbirds, sea turtle nesting begins May | Low |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | 80-90°F, humid | Loggerhead sea turtle nesting, warm swimming | Low (but book ahead) |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | 60-75°F, pleasant | Fall bird migration, fewer insects, golden marshes | Very Low |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | 50-65°F, mild | Oyster roasts, bonfires, winter bird species | Lowest |
My recommendation: Visit in late spring (May) or early fall (October) . The weather is perfect, the bugs are manageable, and the wildlife is active.
A word of warning about summer: Mosquitoes and gnats can be intense . If you visit June-August, bring serious bug spray and consider wearing permethrin-treated clothing.
Things to Do at Little St. Simons Island
One of the best things about the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge is that your days are filled with guided activities led by expert naturalists. You can also explore on your own.
Guided Naturalist Excursions
The naturalists at the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge are phenomenal. These are not bored tour guides reading from a script. They are passionate ecologists who love this island.
Here are the activities I joined:
1. Morning Birding Walk
- Over 330 bird species have been recorded on the islandÂ
- I saw painted buntings, roseate spoonbills, and wood storks
- Binoculars are provided, but bring your own if you are serious about photography
2. Kayaking Through Salt Marshes
- Paddled through tidal creeks bordered by Spartina grass
- Spotted dolphins feeding in the shallows
- Guided tour lasted about 2 hours
3. Beachcombing on Seven Miles of Shore
- The beach is wide, natural, and almost always empty
- I found beautiful shells and watched shorebirds feed along the tide line
- Sea turtle nesting season (May-September) means the beach is patrolled daily to protect nestsÂ
4. History and Ecology Tour
- Visited sites from the island’s plantation era
- Learned about Fanny Kemble’s famous 1839 journal documenting slavery on the islandÂ
- Explored the maritime forest with live oaks draped in Spanish moss
Self-Guided Exploration
If you prefer to go at your own pace, the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge provides:
- Complimentary bicycles for exploring the island’s dirt roads and trailsÂ
- Fishing gear for surf fishing along the beach or creek fishing in tidal watersÂ
- Hiking trails through maritime forest and along the marsh edge
One morning, I grabbed a bike and rode to the beach for sunrise. I had the entire shoreline to myself. No footprints in the sand except my own. Moments like that are why this place is so special.
Wildlife You Can Expect to See
The Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Here is what I saw during my stay:
| Animal | Where to Find Them | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Bottlenose Dolphins | Tidal creeks and surf | Year-round |
| Loggerhead Sea Turtles | Beach (nesting) | May-September |
| American Alligators | Freshwater ponds | Warmer months |
| European Fallow Deer | Maritime forest | Dawn and dusk |
| Painted Buntings | Forest edges and gardens | Spring and summer |
| Roseate Spoonbills | Salt marshes | Year-round |
| River Otters | Tidal creeks | Early morning |
The fallow deer on the island are particularly strikingâthey come in three colors: solid white, dark chocolate, and tan with white spots . I spotted a white doe on my second morning, and it felt like seeing a unicorn.
Pro tip: Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens. You will want both.
Dining at the Little St. Simons Island All-Inclusive Lodge
Let me take a moment to talk about the food, because it deserves its own section.
The Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge serves three meals daily, and everything is fresh, local, and delicious. The culinary team sources ingredients from the island’s organic garden and local purveyors .
What I Ate
| Meal | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | Shrimp and grits, fresh-baked pastries, seasonal fruit, made-to-order eggs |
| Lunch | Picnic-style meals (packed for you to take to the beach or enjoy at the lodge) |
| Dinner | Multi-course meals featuring fresh seafood, local meats, and garden vegetables |
| Evening Social Hour | Appetizers and beverages before dinnerâa great chance to mingle with other guests and naturalists |
One night, dinner included fish that had been caught that morning by local fishermen. Another night, the salad greens came straight from the garden we had toured earlier that day. The connection between the land and the plate is palpable here.
Dietary restrictions? The lodge accommodates vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other special diets with advance notice .
Day Trips to Little St. Simons Island
Can’t stay overnight? The Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge also offers day trips for visitors who want a taste of the island without an overnight stay .
Day Trip Details
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Schedule | Typically Tuesday through Friday (seasonal variations) |
| Departure | 10:30 AM from Hampton River Marina |
| Return | Approximately 4:30 PM |
| Cost | ~$95-200 per person (varies by season and package) |
| Includes | Round-trip boat transportation, guided island tour, lunch, beach time |
| Reservations | Required in advance (call 888/733-5774) |
A day trip is a great option if you are staying elsewhere on St. Simons Island and want to experience Little St. Simons without the full lodge stay. However, I strongly recommend staying overnight if you can. The magic of the island really reveals itself after the day-trippers leave and the sun begins to set over the marsh.
What to Pack for Little St. Simons Island
Based on my experience at the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge, here is exactly what you need to bring.
| Essential | Why You Need It |
|---|---|
| Lightweight, breathable clothing | The Georgia coast is humid, especially in summer |
| Neutral colors | Bright colors can disturb wildlife |
| Hat and sunglasses | Sun protection is essential on the beach |
| Sunscreen (reef-safe) | Protect yourself and the marine environment |
| Insect repellent | Mosquitoes and gnats can be intense, especially in summer |
| Binoculars | For birding and wildlife viewing |
| Camera with zoom lens | You will want to capture the painted buntings and dolphins |
| Comfortable walking shoes | For hiking and exploring |
| Water shoes | For kayaking and walking on shell-strewn beaches |
| Rain jacket or poncho | Afternoon showers are common in summer |
| Reusable water bottle | Stay hydrated during excursions |
What NOT to bring:
- Pets (not allowed on the island)Â
- Large coolers (limited space on the ferry)
- Drones (require a permit)
Practical Tips for Your Stay
Before you book the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge, here are a few things you should know.
Connectivity and Technology
- Cell service is very limited on the islandÂ
- WiFi is available at the lodge (but honestly, you probably won’t use it much)
- No televisions in the roomsâthis is by designÂ
- Embrace the digital detox. You are here to connect with nature, not your phone.
Check-In and Check-Out
- Check-in:Â 11:30 AM (when the ferry arrives)
- Check-out:Â 8:00 AM (before the departing ferry)Â
Yes, check-out is early. This allows the staff to prepare the cottages for incoming guests. Plan accordingly.
Gratuities
- Gratuities for staff are typically added to your final bill
- Confirm the policy when you book
Eco-Friendly Practices
The Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge is committed to conservation . Please follow these guidelines:
- Stay on designated trails and beaches
- Observe wildlife from a respectful distance
- Take only photographs, leave only footprints
- Use reef-safe sunscreen
- Respect nesting areas for birds and sea turtles
Guest Reviews: What Others Are Saying
I am not the only one who has fallen in love with the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge. Here is what recent guests have shared:
*”We had such an amazing stay in early March, 2025. From Savannah, The Lodge at LSSI has been on our bucket list for some time. The Nature Staff is so well-informed. The culinary and service staff did an amazing job with meals. We enjoyed our stay so much, I rebooked the same suite for March, 2026.”*
“This place is truly paradise on Earthâa beautifully preserved, naturally untouched island. It’s a celebration of nature in all its glory. The long stretch of Atlantic Beach offers a perfect view for spotting dolphins and whales, which we were lucky to see nearly every time we biked or walked along the shore.”
“Beautiful island perfect weekend getaway. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable. Loved learning the history and seeing it first hand.”
These reviews reflect exactly what I experienced: exceptional hospitality, incredible wildlife, and a profound sense of peace.
Little St. Simons Island vs. Other Georgia Islands
How does the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge compare to other destinations in Georgia’s Golden Isles?
| Island | Access | Crowds | Accommodations | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Little St. Simons | Private ferry | Very Low (32 guests max) | Lodge (all-inclusive) | Ultimate seclusion, eco-travel |
| St. Simons Island | Car bridge | High | Hotels, vacation rentals | Families, dining, golf |
| Jekyll Island | Car bridge | Moderate-High | Hotels, campgrounds | History, biking, family activities |
| Sea Island | Car bridge | Low-Moderate | Luxury resorts | Luxury, golf, spa |
| Cumberland Island | Public ferry | Low (300 visitors/day) | Camping, one lodge | Wild horses, backpacking |
If you want true seclusion and all-inclusive convenience, the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge is the best choice.
Is the Little St. Simons Island All-Inclusive Lodge Worth the Cost?
Let me be honest: staying at the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge is not cheap. Room rates start around $525-$675 per night depending on the season and room type .
However, when you consider what is includedâmeals, activities, equipment, and transportationâthe value becomes clearer. You are not just paying for a room. You are paying for access to one of the most pristine, protected natural landscapes on the East Coast.
Who is this for?
- Nature lovers and birdwatchers
- Couples seeking a romantic, secluded getaway
- Families who want to disconnect from technology and reconnect with each other
- Eco-travelers who appreciate conservation-focused tourism
Who might want to look elsewhere?
- Travelers seeking nightlife, shopping, or luxury spas
- Anyone who cannot live without cell service and TV
- Budget travelers (this is a splurge destination)
For me, the experience was worth every dollar. The memories of sunrise on an empty beach, the thrill of spotting a painted bunting, and the simple joy of biking through a live oak forestâthose are not things you can put a price on.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Book the Little St. Simons Island All-Inclusive Lodge
In a world of crowded beaches and overdeveloped coastlines, Little St. Simons Island remains a sanctuary. The Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge offers something increasingly rare: true wilderness, genuine hospitality, and the space to breathe.
I left the island feeling restored. My lungs were full of salt air. My camera roll was full of wildlife photos. And my heart was full of gratitude for places like this that still exist.
If you are ready to experience one of Georgia’s best-kept secrets, book your stay at the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge. Just don’t tell too many people. Some secrets are worth keeping.
Frequently Asked Questions About Little St. Simons Island
Q: Can you visit Little St. Simons Island without staying overnight?
A: Yes. Day trips are available on select days and include boat transportation, a guided tour, and lunch. Reservations are required .
Q: How do I make a reservation for the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge?
A: Call the lodge directly at 888/733-5774 or book through their website .
Q: Are children allowed at the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge?
A: Yes, the lodge is family-friendly and welcomes children .
Q: Is the Little St. Simons Island all-inclusive lodge accessible for guests with disabilities?
A: Accessibility is limited due to the natural terrain and boat access. Contact the lodge directly to discuss specific needs .
Q: What is the history of Little St. Simons Island?
A: The island has been privately owned since 1760. It was once part of Pierce Butler’s plantation empire, and Fanny Kemble documented her 1839 visit in her famous journal. The Berolzheimer family owned it as a private retreat from 1908 until opening the lodge in the late 1970s .