St. Simons Island, located off the coast of Georgia, welcomes around 2.5 million visitors every year. It is known for its breezy beaches, relaxing marshes, and oak-shaded parks. It’s the kind of place where a picnic-perfect spot isn’t just a meal; it’s an unforgettable experience.
The best part is that most of these scenic spots are family-friendly. They offer open spaces for kids to play, shaded areas for relaxing, and breathtaking views for everyone to enjoy.
If you want to know about these picnic-perfect spots, here are some of the best places to lay down your blanket and enjoy the beauty of the island.
Six Best Picnic‑Perfect Spots for Every Traveler
Here are some of the most popular picnic-perfect spots on St. Simons Island, each offering a unique setting to relax and dine outdoors.
1. Neptune Park
Address: 550 Beachview Dr., St. Simons Island, GA 31522
Hours: Thursday–Monday, 11 AM–5:30 PM (closed Tuesdays)
This lively oceanside park is located next to the Pier Village and lighthouse. It’s the perfect spot for a family-friendly travel journey, featuring a wading pool and water gym for the kids, along with two playgrounds. Adults can enjoy the nearby golf course, open green spaces, and public grills, which are great for group picnics or casual get-togethers.
The park is especially popular during holidays and hosts many of the island’s signature events, including Memorial Day’s Taps at Twilight, the Fourth of July Celebration, and Jazz in the Park.
2. Gascoigne Bluff Park
Address: 1000 Arthur J. Moore Dr., St. Simons Island, GA 31522
Hours: Open daily, 7 AM–10 PM
Located along the Frederica River, Gascoigne Bluff is a historic site with a calm, scenic setting. The park features picnic pavilions, grills, restrooms, and walking paths shaded by giant live oaks. It’s perfect for those who enjoy grilling by the water or relaxing after exploring nearby fishing piers.
The site also has historical significance as an old lumber port, adding depth to its natural beauty. Long before that, it served as a safe and trusted camping ground for Native Americans for thousands of years.
3. Massengale Park
Address: 1350 Ocean Blvd., St. Simons Island, GA 31522
Hours: Open daily, 7 AM–10 PM
Massengale Park is a favorite for beachgoers, thanks to its direct access to East Beach. Wide grassy lawns make it easy to spread out a picnic, while shaded tables, clean restrooms, and a playground keep both kids and adults happy.
The park also has ADA-accessible pathways and plenty of parking, which is especially helpful for families or groups who want to enjoy both the beach and a relaxed picnic. For a more peaceful visit, early mornings offer gentle breezes and fewer crowds.
4. Postell Park
Address: 532 Beachview Dr., St. Simons Island, GA 31522
Hours: Open daily as a public park; special event hours (e.g., Crafts in the Village): Sat 10 AM–5 PM, Sun 10 AM–4 PM
Right in the heart of Pier Village, Postell Park offers a charming green space lined with benches and picnic tables. It’s well known for its weekend art and food markets, where visitors can enjoy a snack while exploring local crafts.
When no events are held, the park remains a peaceful spot to sit, enjoy a meal, and watch the world go by, with ocean views just a short walk away.
5. Frederica Park
Address: 2201 Lawrence Rd., St. Simons Island, GA 31522
Hours: Open daily, 7 AM–7 PM
Frederica Park is a peaceful escape away from busier areas. The park offers open fields, walking trails, a dog park, and a unique labyrinth garden for peaceful reflection. Shaded picnic areas under moss-covered oaks make it perfect for a laid-back lunch surrounded by nature.
It’s loved by families with pets, thanks to its open spaces and dog-friendly areas that make it easy for everyone to enjoy as a oicnic-perfect spot.
6. Cannon’s Point Preserve
Address: Located at 560 Cannon Point Road in St. Simons Island, GA 31522.
Hours: Open Saturday–Monday, 9 AM–3 PM (closed Tuesday–Friday)
Covering 600 acres, Cannon’s Point Preserve offers untouched natural beauty with sweeping marsh vistas, dense maritime forests, and remnants of historic structures.
However, there are no public facilities on-site, so visitors must bring their own supplies and be prepared to carry out everything they bring in. This preserve is ideal for those seeking solitude, quiet trails, and a picnic experience surrounded by unspoiled nature.
Enjoy The Picnic-Perfect Spots
When the sun is shining and the breeze feels just right, there’s nothing better than enjoying a meal outside. St. Simons Island has plenty of picnic-perfect spots where you can slow down, take in the view, and enjoy lunch under the trees, by the marsh, or close to the water.
However, make sure you stay at a comfortable resort nearby like Ocean Lodge Resort, so you can easily freshen up, grab what you need, and head back out without any hassle.
Our resort offers spacious suites, rooftop dining with ocean views, and a prime location. All of this makes it the perfect base for beach picnics, evening strolls, and everything in between.