12th Street Public Beach Access

Near the 12th Street Public Beach Access, there are several excellent dining options. Porch offers Southern favorites with a focus on fried chicken and catfish, set in a cozy outdoor area. Fiddlers is known for its seafood and nautical-themed dining space, ideal for both lunch and dinner. Barbara Jean's serves up seafood and homemade comfort foods in a homey setting. For a more casual experience, The Half Shell SSI provides a laid-back atmosphere with seafood and American dishes. These restaurants offer a variety of options to complement a beach day with delicious meals and warm hospitality.

While there are no hotels directly on the beach at 12th Street Public Beach Access, St. Simons Island and nearby Jekyll Island have plenty of accommodations. The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort in St. Simons Island offers historic charm with golf, spa facilities, and beach access. On Jekyll Island, the Holiday Inn Resort Jekyll Island, an IHG Hotel, provides a modern beachfront stay with amenities like a cafe and outdoor pool. Another option is the The Westin Jekyll Island Beach Resort, offering upscale accommodations with ocean views.

The 12th Street Public Beach Access itself lacks extensive amenities but benefits from its proximity to St. Simons Island's central area. Nearby, facilities for restrooms are available at the larger public access points like Massengale Park and the Coast Guard Station, both of which offer free parking and public restrooms. For rentals, services like Barry's Beach Service offer equipment for beach activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding. The relaxed atmosphere of the beach encourages visitors to bring their own chairs and umbrellas to spend the day lounging in the sand.

St. Simons Island beaches, including the 12th Street Public Beach Access, are ideal for swimming and water activities. Stand-up paddleboarding is popular due to the calm waters at low tide. Visitors can also engage in activities like kayaking, fishing at nearby spots like Gould's Inlet, and biking along the island's bike paths. For families, the beach offers a serene environment for picnics and walking. During peak summer months, lifeguards are on duty to ensure safety for swimmers.

Disability access at the 12th Street Public Beach Access is limited, but nearby larger access points like Massengale Park and the Coast Guard Station offer wheelchair-accessible paths and restrooms. Massengale Park also features ADA-accessible mats to assist in getting onto the beach. These facilities ensure that visitors with disabilities can enjoy the beach with relative ease.

Parking at the 12th Street Public Beach Access is free, though spaces are limited. Visitors often find themselves parking along nearby streets when the dedicated lots are full. For larger groups or those requiring more space, heading to facilities like Massengale Park or the Coast Guard Station provides ample free parking. It's essential to follow posted parking signs to avoid fines.

St. Simons Island has a rich history, with the St. Simons Lighthouse being one of its most iconic landmarks. The island is also famous for its haunted tales, including the legend of the driverless ghost carriage. The Golden Isles area, where St. Simons is located, is known for its pristine natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The combination of culture, nature, and folklore makes the island a fascinating place to explore beyond the beach.

St. Simons Island is surrounded by numerous attractions. The St. Simons Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding landscape. Fort Frederica National Monument provides historical insights into the island's past. For nature lovers, the Cannon's Point Preserve is a haven for exploring local flora and fauna. Additionally, the St. Simons Island Pier at Gould's Inlet is a great spot for fishing and sunset gazing. These attractions complement a day at the beach with a mix of history, nature, and scenic beauty.