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St. Simons Island Bike Routes Map
Cycling has been a part of my life for 20 years. It has taken me all over the U.S. working professional races. Fortunately, giving me the opportunity to be up and close to those cyclists you’ve heard about on the news. Well, maybe not THAT close! My husband would describe my working the races as, “chasing men in tight bike shorts.” But, I digress.
It was, however, “chasing men in tight bike shorts” that took me places in the U.S. thatwere more bike friendly than Georgia. That is something I wanted to see in my state. Now I serve on the Board of Directors of Georgia Bikes, the state bike advocacy organization, and work to make my state and my community safer places for cycling.
We are blessed with miles of multi-use paths that weave about our island, canopied by 100 year-old oaks that beckon us to slow down and listen to the whispers of what these gentle giants have seen over the years. So lose that car, get on a bike and explore the island. Here are some fun cycling options on the island that offer you opportunities to get sand between your toes, food in your belly, and provide you with an education to boot.
THE BEACH BUM RIDE
Our beautiful beaches are what most people come here to enjoy, so let’s start there. This first route is a more relaxed ride that meanders across the southern tip beaches. All you need are flip flops, a beach cruiser, and some sunscreen. This ride will transport you and your family to the parks, village and the 41 beach accesses dotted around the island in style and ease.
You can start anywhere on the island and make your way through Pier Village, stopping for a meal or a snack. Head to the Neptune Park Fun Zone for a dip in the pool or to play putt-putt. Cruise and explore each of the beach accesses to find your favorite spot to lounge and play in the surf. Depending on the wind and the tide, cruise to Massengale Park or the Coast Guard Station and ride the beach north to Gould’s Inlet. However, be aware that the tides move quickly and change 8-10 feet, so timing is important in planning your route.
GET YOUR GRUB RIDE
A second route explores the eating options on the island. Pier Village, the Redfern Village area and Shops at Sea Island and The Market at Sea Island have excellent eatery options. From Pier Village to The Shops at Sea Island is approximately 6 miles one way. This ride could be combined with the longer Monument ride as a preliminary “fuel stop.”
MONUMENT RIDES
Finally, the third route explores St. Simons Island history and the most picturesque spots on the island that our forefathers chose for their beautiful home sites, strategic defenses against the enemy and church services. This ride, because of length, is broken up into north and south routes. The length, variance of terrain and amount of time for stopping and visiting each attraction, will require more sturdy shoes like running or hiking shoes to encounter different walking surfaces throughout the day. You may want to plan to pack or schedule extra hydration and a snack or meal for this ride. And don’t forget your camera!
For the Southern Monument Ride, Gascoigne Bluff, Pier Village or East Beach are all easy starting points to capture a glimpse of the past of St. Simons Island. Start clockwise or counter-clockwise, no matter, take your time and get to know the island. Pier Village (known as The Village) is the hub of St. Simons Island. The St. Simons Lighthouse draws many visitors to its steps. Climb the stairs and get a bird’s eye view of the island and learn its history. Move on down Beachview or Demere and check out the markers on your way to Bloody Marsh. Discover what battle happened at this site and enjoy the eastern view over the marsh. Work your way to Gascoigne Bluff, the site of Hamilton Plantation and early lumber mills. Visit Epworth and the Arnold J. Moore Methodist Museum to learn about the church’s historic beginnings on St. Simons. Make your way back to the Village down Kings Way and stop by Avenue of Oaks, which was once the road leading up to Retreat Plantation and is one of the most photographed spots on the island.
The Northern Monument Ride takes you to the farthest and northernmost point on the island. Depending on your riding ability and stamina (the island from southern to northern tip is 13 miles), you may want to take bikes to Christ Church or Fort Frederica. Pack your hydration and favorite picnic for this ride and enjoy the view.
Biking north on Frederica Rd., heading toward the fort, there are several monuments on each side of the road that depict community life of the early settlers. Continuing, you will see historic Christ Church. Its cemetery is the burial site of many citizens famous and infamous. Heading north on Lawrence Rd., markers illustrate the many plantations that occupied this end of the island, with ruins still existing in Cannon’s Point and Hampton Point. At this writing Cannon’s Point will be open to the public on a limited basis in the near future, so check ahead. The Hampton Plantation ruins are on Hampton Point Rd. along the last mile before the marina.
If you are on vacation and in training and want a longer cycling option, ride over the causeway to Glynn Avenue, turn left, continue over the Sidney Lanier Bridge, turn left and take the causeway to Jekyll Island and ride back. That will give you a 50 plus mile trek. If you are looking for a fast-paced ride, VeloBrew Cycling Club meets on Saturday mornings and Thursday evenings and welcomes you to join them.
Now get on your bike and get out there! Take some time to slow down, take in a little history, and enjoy the view. It just makes you feel better.
If you want more information about local cycling opportunities, please contact me at btgisles@gmail.com.
