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Have you ever heard of the Golden Isles?

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If you answered no, don’t worry – most people haven’t.

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Situated on the coast of Georgia midway between Savannah and Jacksonville, FL, the Golden Isles are comprised of the mainland city of Historic Brunswick, plus four barrier islands: Sea Island, Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island, and my beloved St. Simons Island. Vast stretches of lush marshland, rustically beautiful natural beaches, and abundant wildlife define this deeply historic part of the US, not to mention my favorite feature of all: centuries-old live oak trees romantically draped in Spanish moss.

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The Golden Isles unexpectedly became “home” for me after the pandemic began, and I’ve spent the last two years rediscovering St. Simons, a place that holds cherished memories as it’s where my grandfather settled after retiring from the Navy and where I vacationed with my family as a young girl. Throughout this time, however, I haven’t ventured far beyond SSI, so I’ve made it a goal this year to explore all of the Golden Isles and to learn what makes each one unique. Just before Christmas I made my first trip over to Jekyll, and it only took one morning to understand why it is loved by so many. I snapped this photo from one of the many places I pulled over to take in the views, and I couldn’t believe my eyes to spot this live oak growing right on the beach! A sight combining two of my favorite things in the world and one that I have never seen before.

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I look forward to uncovering more of the history and beauty here in my own “backyard,” and to sharing my favorite discoveries with you. And for anyone who has been to this part of the world, I welcome all of your must-see, must-eat, and must-do suggestions!