Travel Budget for Saint Simons Visit Saint Simons on a Budget or Travel in Style

Saint Simons, Georgia, United States of America

Saint Simons is a relaxing island known for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're eating the delicious cuisine or relaxing on the beaches, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Saint Simons, all while staying within budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Saint Simons?

You should plan to spend around $211 per day on your vacation in Saint Simons. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $83 on meals
  • $49 on local transportation
  • $200 on hotels

A one week trip to Saint Simons for two people costs, on average, $2,954. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $211
  • One Week Per person
    $1,477
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $2,954
  • One Month Per person
    $6,330
  • One Week For a couple
    $2,954
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $5,908
  • One Month For a couple
    $12,660
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Saint Simons cost?

A one week trip to Saint Simons usually costs around $1,477 for one person and $2,954 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Saint Simons on average costs around $2,954 for one person and $5,908 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Saint Simons will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Saint Simons on average costs around $6,330 for one person and $12,660 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Saint Simons expensive to visit?

Saint Simons is a terrific island that brings in many travelers, showcasing a range of travel styles and spending choices. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.

Although Saint Simons can be quite pricey if you let it be, you can cut costs by eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying the free hiking trails.

On average, budget travelers spend $93 per day, mid-range travelers spend $211 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $401 per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Saint Simons.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Saint Simons is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Portland or Boone.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Saint Simons Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Saint Simons?

The average Saint Simons trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Saint Simons travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Saint Simons cost?

Saint Simons on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$44 $100 $188
Local Transportation 1 $21 $49 $93
Food 2 $36 $83 $158
Entertainment 1 $7.19 $16 $31
Alcohol 2 $13-39 $30-90 $57-172

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to be realistic about your travel budget when visiting Saint Simons. Although some travelers believe they can get by on a shoestring budget, most people aren't comfortable with that type of travel. Consider what you enjoy on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you like staying in resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, or hostels? Are dining out and visiting attractions a priority? Your preferences will affect your overall budget and itinerary.

What Does It Mean to Be a Budget Traveler?

Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $93 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.

For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.

While food is a highlight for every visitor in Saint Simons, budget travelers often opt for street food or cook in their hostel, which can prevent them from enjoying the exquisite culinary offerings.

What Makes You an Average Traveler?

If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll likely opt for a mid-range hotel, dine at trendy restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Most guests in Saint Simons will want to take in the essential attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Remember, most activities come at a cost. Hence, it's realistic to anticipate your daily budget will be about $211 per person, per day.

What Luxury Travel Looks Like

If you're looking for a complete getaway that features every luxury and a high level of service, plan on a cost of about $401 daily. To enjoy nicer hotels, dine at award-winning venues, indulge in extravagant experiences, and travel around the island with taxis or private drivers, you'll need to set aside a luxury budget.

Accommodation Budget in Saint Simons

The hotel prices in Saint Simons might surprise you. Some places charge much more for added luxury and amenities, especially during peak season. In the off-season, a room averages $402, but during peak summer season, expect to pay around $750. Prices vary from $214 to $2,176, but hostels are often cheaper. Booking in advance and traveling during the low season can help save you money.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Saint Simons for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $200. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $100 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $100
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $200

Hotels in Saint Simons

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Saint Simons

The average hotel room price in Saint Simons based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $402 in the low season and $750 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Saint Simons include:

  • Hampton Inn St Simons Island starting at $218
  • Sea Palms Resort starting at $215
  • Epworth By The Sea starting at $191
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Saint Simons

When visiting Saint Simons with your family, look for an apartment or accommodation that offers more space to keep everyone comfortable.

Visiting in the low or shoulder season, rather than summer, will allow you to find cheaper accommodation and fewer tourists.

Even though Saint Simons is a big tourist draw, its smaller size means that accommodations can be in high demand. Make sure to book early if you plan to visit during summer.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Saint Simons

Saint Simons does not has a good public transit system. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.

In some areas, Saint Simons is relatively walkable, allowing you to enjoy the sights with ease. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (poor)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (good)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $49 per person, per day, on local transportation in Saint Simons. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Saint Simons is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $49

Transportation Tips

If you're taking a car, verify that your hotel offers convenient parking.



Flights to Saint Simons
How much does it cost to go to Saint Simons? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Saint Simons
The price of renting a car in Saint Simons will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Saint Simons

Make sure to enjoy the fantastic food in Saint Simons by taking the time to savor all the local flavors. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Saint Simons can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Saint Simons is $83 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $83

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Saint Simons is around $83 ($83) per person, with previous travelers spending from $36 to $158. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Saint Simons are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $8 to $25
  • Lunch: $12 to $33
  • Dinner: $25 to $58
  • Coffee: $7
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $12

While Georgia is known for is low country cooking and barbeque, the closer you get to the coast the more likely you are to come across the southern take on seafood. Being an island, Saint Simons offers restaurants that serve fresh local catches every day. The Half Shell, Crabdaddy’s Seafood Grill, and Iguanas Seafood Restaurant all serve dishes like crab bisque, Cajun-style peel & eat shrimps, shrimp and grits, oysters, crab cakes, scallops, clams, and po boy that will have you feeling like a true Georgian southerner. And if you are craving the savory sauces, a place like Southern Soul Barbeque specializes in oak-smoked meats and homemade BBQ sauces to satisfy that pang. Other notable restaurants include Palmer’s Village Cafe, Halyards, Tramici, and Barbara Jean’s-a homey diner featuring Southern favorites, seafood dishes, and renowned crab cakes.

Food & Dining Tips

When dining out with children, prioritize restaurants with a kids' menu. This can help you save a fair amount of money, as those options are typically less expensive. Some eateries might not showcase kids' meals on their menus, so it's a good idea to check with the waiter.

Many accommodations feature breakfast in their rates, while some may charge additional fees for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly from one hotel to another. Knowing this information ahead of time helps you decide if you need to spend extra money. A tasty hotel buffet could be worth the expense, or a nearby bakery or cafe might offer a more affordable choice.

Keep a water bottle handy instead of purchasing drinks everywhere. It's also better for the environment.

When planning a tour, don't forget to look into which meals are covered. You may be responsible for some of your own food, which could impact your budget significantly.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Saint Simons

It's not surprising that visitors come to Saint Simons, as it offers food, beaches, family-friendly activities, and romance.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Saint Simons typically cost an average of $16 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $16

On the north end of the island, besides the beauty of untouched ecosystems, one of the main attractions is the Fort Frederica National Monument. Established by General James Edward Oglethorpe in 1736, the fort was meant to protect the Georgia border from Spanish invaders to the south. The history of the community that lived there and the battles that were waged is one of great importance to the island. Also nearby is the Christ Church, a beautiful Episcopal church at which Methodism founder John Wesley preached to the Frederica congregation. The historic chapel is quaint, set upon enchanting grounds with shady trees draped with Spanish Moss.

On the south end of the island, the Saint Simons Island Lighthouse stands as the major landmark. The historic coastal property also houses a museum with educational exhibits about the island’s beginnings as well as its maritime history. Visitors can also tour the lighthouse itself, with great views from the top.



With bike paths lining every major street on the island, cycling is a common way to navigate and take in the sights of Saint Simons Island. Fishing and crabbing are also very popular, especially from the fishing pier at the end of Mallery Street in the Pier Village. Sea kayaking and canoeing are a great way to explore the waterways of the island, with tours operated by Southeast Adventure Outfitters if you are looking for a more guided experience. Other prevalent water activities on the island include boating, deep sea fishing, angling, swimming, windsurfing, birdwatching, beachcombing, and parasailing.

Saint Simons Island is also home to seven golf courses, which makes it a destination known to golfers around the world. The PGA Tour’s RSM Classic (formerly McGladrey Classic), is held annually in November at the Sea Island Golf Club on St. Simons Island.

As far as events go, there are frequent arts, crafts, and antiques festivals on weekends in the Village area of the south end. Over the Fourth of July weekend, the Village hosts the Sunshine Festival, with a noteworthy fireworks display in the evening. In the spring and summer months, the Jazz in the Park series is held Sundays on the lawn of the St. Simons lighthouse, and in temperate weather it is common to hear music jam sessions in Neptune Park in the Village. Bluegrass music is usually featured on Tuesdays during this time.

Sightseeing Tips

Beaches:
A lot of tourists head to Saint Simons for some beach relaxation. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

Shopping:
Shopping here is something you definitely shouldn't overlook. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.



Nightlife Budget in Saint Simons

The nightlife in Saint Simons offers a relaxed and calm vibe. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $60 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Saint Simons per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $60
Nightlife Tips

Nights out are a travel highlight, but reducing your drink tab is a smart way to stretch your budget further.



Budgeting and Travel Tips for Saint Simons

  • When it's peak season in summer, expect to pay more and see more people in the island. Save some cash and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere by visiting during the shoulder or low seasons.
  • Traveling at a slower pace can help you save money and truly appreciate the beauty around you. Overloading your itinerary with activities can lead to excessive spending. However, taking it easy and enjoying the moment usually results in a lighter wallet.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Saint Simons doesn't have many public transport options available. You may want to consider renting a car or setting up transportation ahead of time, like booking a tour. Just be aware that this might affect your budget elsewhere.
  • Hostels are scarce in Saint Simons, so if you're expecting a low-cost dorm stay, you might need to change your approach. Seeking out a cheap hotel or an apartment rental could be a smart move.
Traveling in Saint Simons
Saint Simons St. Simon's Island, Georgia

Located just off the coast of southern Georgia, Saint Simons Island is the largest of the state’s renowned "Golden Isle's." Visitors are drawn to the Island for its warm climate, beaches, variety of outdoor activities, shops and restaurants, historical sites, and its natural environment. With most of the natural marsh and woodlands to the north and the commercial attractions centralized in the south, Saint Simons has a little taste of everything for all who come to see it.



Neighborhoods & Around

Saint Simons Pier Village is the southernmost neighborhood on the island. Located just off the beach, the area is rich in shopping and dining, like any good resort town should be. The entire village is walkable with unique shops from bookstores and jewelry boutiques to sweet shops and bakeries, in addition to the restaurants that cater to lunch and dinner. Throughout town there are also little apartments and coastal homes, some available to rent for vacationers and others the homes of the island residents. There is also a public park and parking area near the water by the fishing pier, as well as an outdoor, ocean-side, pool open to the public, located right next to the Saint Simons Island Lighthouse.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.