The Grey Owl Inn tops the list with a 9.1 rating, spotless 9.5 cleanliness, and a legendary breakfast. For oceanfront views and a full-service restaurant, The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort brings the resort energy. St. Simons delivers at every price point.
St. Simons Island mixes marsh views with laid-back coastal living, and these 11 hotels prove it.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 11 properties and over 4,000 verified guest reviews to build this list, prioritizing properties with an 8.3/10 average guest score and concrete location data.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best overall: #7 The Grey Owl Inn→ Rates
- Best for beach access: #8 Hotel Simone→ Rates
- Best for families: #5 Hampton Inn St. Simons Island→ Rates
#2 Best Western Plus St. Simons→ Rates - Best value: #4 Queen’s Court Inn→ Rates
#1 Ocean Inn & Suites→ Rates - Pet-friendly: #10 Home2 Suites By Hilton→ Rates
- Best for couples: #7 The Grey Owl Inn→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Ocean Inn & Suites | (1100+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Best Western Plus St. Simons | (750+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Sea Palms Resort | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Queen’s Court Inn | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Hampton Inn St. Simons Island | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 6. The King and Prince Resort | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 7. The Grey Owl Inn | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Hotel Simone | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Holiday Inn Express St. Simons | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Home2 Suites By Hilton | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Ocean Lodge Resort | (30+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: Top Hotels in St. Simons Island GA
1. Ocean Inn & Suites
The Vibe
Ocean Inn & Suites is the budget-friendly anchor on Beachview Drive. The location scores a 9.5, and you’re 200 yards from the sand — though the direct beach access isn’t a swim point at high tide. The outdoor pool and free parking make it a no-fuss base for exploring St. Simons.
What You Actually Get
Standard King rooms come with stand-up balconies and residential views, while Deluxe Kings upgrade you to a sit-down balcony. Wi-Fi scores an 8.3, and there’s an on-site restaurant for reservations. The damage deposit is $100. Guests consistently praise the staff (8.6) and location, though facilities (7.2) show their age. Skip this if you need modern luxury — grab it if you’re prioritizing access and price.
Choose this if: You want a hotels in St. Simons Island GA experience that’s cheap and central — location is the star here, not the room.
2. Best Western Plus St. Simons
The Vibe
Best Western Plus sits on Main Street, minutes from the public beach, shopping village, and lighthouse. It’s a reliable, family-friendly pick with an outdoor pool and a garden. The 9.2 staff score tells you everything — guests say check-in staff go the extra mile when reservations go sideways.
What You Actually Get
Cleanliness (8.8) and comfort (8.8) are consistent. The hot breakfast is a draw, with multiple options and served fresh. Pets are allowed with possible charges. Wi-Fi clocks in at 8.8, and free parking is included. Groups booking 9+ rooms face different policies. The property doesn’t face the ocean but is a short drive to the beach — guests rate the location 9.1 regardless.
Choose this if: You need a pet-friendly hotels in St. Simons Island GA with a solid breakfast and consistent quality.
3. Sea Palms Resort St Simons Island
The Vibe
Sea Palms is a 4-star resort that feels miles away from the strip — it’s quiet, with beautiful marsh scenery and a staff score of 9.0. Guests return year after year for the peace and the full-service restaurant. The outdoor pool and fitness center round out the amenities.
What You Actually Get
This property doesn’t have disability-accessible guestrooms, but the marsh views are unmatched. Cleanliness (8.7) and comfort (8.8) are strong, while value (8.2) reflects the resort pricing. Wi-Fi scores 8.5. Pets are allowed on request with charges. Breakfast-to-go is available for early departures. Unlike #2, this is a full resort experience — expect to spend more time on-site.
Choose this if: You want a resort stay with marsh views and don’t mind driving to the beach.
Check Tonight’s Price for Sea Palms Resort St Simons Island →
4. Queen’s Court Inn
The Vibe
Queen’s Court Inn is a retro charmer on Kingsway. The location ties with Ocean Inn at 9.5, but the staff (9.3) and Wi-Fi (9.4) blow past it. Guests call it “perfect lil stay” for its walkability — you’re surrounded by locally owned restaurants and shops without needing a car.
What You Actually Get
The 2-star rating undersells the experience. Cleanliness (8.8) and comfort (8.7) are solid, and the shaded outdoor pool is a bonus. Check-in ends at 9:00 PM, so plan accordingly. Minimum check-in age is 21. No pets allowed, no restaurant on-site — but the neighboring dining options make up for it. Value scores 8.7, making it one of the best bang-for-buck picks.
Choose this if: You want to walk everywhere and prioritize Wi-Fi speed and location over frills.
5. Hampton Inn St. Simons Island
The Vibe
Hampton Inn hits 8.9 overall with a staff score of 9.4 — the second-highest staff rating on this list. Guests mention the quiet atmosphere despite nearby air traffic, and the heated pool with hot tub is a family favorite. Free hot breakfast and free parking keep things simple.
What You Actually Get
Cleanliness (9.2) and comfort (9.1) are excellent. Facilities score 9.0, including a fitness center and outdoor sundeck. No pets allowed, and groups booking 9+ rooms face different policies. Location (9.2) puts you on Demere Road, close to restaurants and shops. Unlike #7, this is a straightforward chain property with consistent execution — exactly what you expect from Hampton.
Choose this if: Consistency, a heated pool, and a strong breakfast matter more than beach proximity.
6. The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort
The Vibe
The King and Prince is the classic St. Simons beachfront resort — ocean views, an 18-hole golf course, and a restaurant that guests consistently rave about. The location (9.2) is unbeatable for beach lovers, though the overall rating (7.7) reflects some dated facilities. Value scores a 6.8, so you’re paying for the view.
What You Actually Get
Comfort (8.1) and beds are highly rated. The resort fee covers 24-hour security, in-room coffee, two bottled waters daily, and shuttle service to the golf course. Pets are allowed in specific buildings — call ahead. The check-in window is narrow (4-6 PM), so plan travel accordingly. Unlike #8, this is a full resort with dining and activities on-site.
Choose this if: Beachfront access and on-site golf are non-negotiable for your trip.
Check Tonight’s Price for The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort →
7. The Grey Owl Inn
The Vibe
The Grey Owl Inn tops this list with a 9.1 overall rating. It’s a bed and breakfast that feels secluded but sits on a main road, close to the beach. Staff (9.5), cleanliness (9.5), and comfort (9.6) are near-perfect. The hot tub and included breakfast seal the deal for couples and solo travelers.
What You Actually Get
Wi-Fi scores a perfect 10.0 — the fastest connection of any property here. Breakfast is included and guests call it “wonderful.” Children are not allowed, making this an adults-only retreat. All rooms have elevator access. Check-in is a tight window (4-5 PM), so communicate your arrival time. Nearby restaurants include Fiddler’s, Crabdaddy’s, and Georgia Sea Grill.
Choose this if: You’re an adult couple seeking top-tier hospitality and a quiet, clean escape.
8. Hotel Simone
The Vibe
Hotel Simone ties with The Grey Owl Inn at 9.1 overall but edges ahead with a 9.6 location score — the highest on this list. You’re a 3-minute walk from East Beach. The rooftop pool is a hit, and rooms come with full-size refrigerators. It’s a modern 4-star with a 9.4 staff score.
What You Actually Get
Cleanliness (9.3) and comfort (9.4) are excellent. The pet fee is $100, and pets are welcome. Wi-Fi scores 9.4. Rooms have bike racks available — bring your locks. The property is fully accessible. Unlike #6, this is a boutique experience with a rooftop pool rather than a sprawling resort. Check-out extends to 12 PM, a generous window for late sleepers.
Choose this if: Beach proximity, a rooftop pool, and pet-friendly policies are at the top of your list.
9. Holiday Inn Express Saint Simons Island by IHG
The Vibe
Holiday Inn Express on Main Street is the reliable IHG option. Staff scores 9.1, and guests rave about the cinnamon rolls at breakfast. The outdoor pool is open seasonally, and free parking keeps costs down. It’s about 3 miles from the beach, so you’ll need a car.
What You Actually Get
Cleanliness (8.4) and comfort (8.3) are solid for the price. Wi-Fi scores 8.4. No pets allowed, and groups booking 6+ rooms face different policies. The location (8.8) is convenient for accessing the island’s main road. Unlike #2, this is a simpler experience — no garden, no frills, but the breakfast is a standout.
Choose this if: You want a low-cost stay with a great breakfast and don’t mind driving to the beach.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Express Saint Simons Island by IHG →
10. Home2 Suites By Hilton St. Simons Island
The Vibe
Home2 Suites is the extended-stay specialist on this list. It’s pet-friendly with a reasonable fee structure — $50 for 3 nights or less, $75 for 4+. Guests rave about the customer service from Danita, Tashawna, and Mike. The soundproof rooms help despite being near the airstrip.
What You Actually Get
Cleanliness (8.8) and staff (8.9) are strong. Wi-Fi scores 7.5 — the lowest on this list, but rooms have full kitchenettes. There’s no ocean view, but you can watch planes come and go. The outdoor pool and fitness center are available. Unlike #5, this is designed for longer stays with more space and kitchen amenities.
Choose this if: You’re staying 4+ nights with a pet and need kitchen facilities.
Check Tonight’s Price for Home2 Suites By Hilton St. Simons Island →
11. Ocean Lodge Resort
The Vibe
Ocean Lodge Resort is an apartment-style property across the street from the beach. Location scores 9.3, and the Wi-Fi hits a perfect 10.0. Guests love the spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and the on-site restaurant — Rooftop at Ocean Lodge serves American cuisine in a relaxed setting.
What You Actually Get
Breakfast is included with your stay. The property has a garden and terrace, plus free parking. Comfort (8.3) and cleanliness (8.2) are decent. Unlike #1, this is an apartment setup — you get more space and a kitchen-like feel. The ID verification process happens immediately after booking, so have your documents ready.
Choose this if: You want a spacious apartment near the beach with an on-site restaurant.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#7 The Grey Owl Inn
9.1 overall rating, 9.5 cleanliness, 9.6 comfort, and a breakfast that guests call wonderful — nothing else comes close.
💰 Best Value
#4 Queen’s Court Inn
8.4 rating at a 2-star price, 9.5 location, and the fastest Wi-Fi (9.4) of any non-perfect score property — hard to beat.
🏖️ Best Beach Access
#8 Hotel Simone
9.6 location score and a 3-minute walk to East Beach — the closest you can stay to the sand without being at a resort.
How We Ranked These St. Simons Island GA Hotels
We evaluated 11 properties on St. Simons Island, cross-referencing over 4,000 verified guest reviews. Every hotel was scored across staff, cleanliness, comfort, value, location, facilities, and Wi-Fi to create a balanced ranking.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 10+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and value — the categories that drive repeat bookings
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Distance to East Beach, Beachview Drive, and Kingsway walkability
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at these St. Simons Island hotels?
Yes, but only at select properties. Best Western Plus St. Simons (#2) allows pets with possible charges. Sea Palms (#3) and Hotel Simone (#8) allow pets on request with a $100 fee. Home2 Suites (#10) is the most pet-friendly with fees starting at $50 for stays up to 3 nights. The King and Prince (#6) allows pets in specific buildings only — call ahead. The remaining properties do not allow pets.
Which hotels offer free cancellation?
Most properties on this list have cancellation policies that vary by room type and booking date. Hampton Inn (#5) and Home2 Suites (#10) typically offer flexible options if booked directly. Queen’s Court Inn (#4) checks cancellation by stay dates on booking. Always check the specific policy for your dates — some prepaid rates are non-refundable while standard rates allow free cancellation up to 24-48 hours before check-in.
Can I check in late at any of these properties?
Yes, several properties have late check-in options. Ocean Inn & Suites (#1) and Hotel Simone (#8) accept check-in until 12:00 AM. Ocean Lodge Resort (#11) allows check-in until 11:00 PM. However, Queen’s Court Inn (#4) stops check-in at 9:00 PM, and The Grey Owl Inn (#7) has a tight 4:00-5:00 PM window. Always communicate late arrivals directly with the property.
What’s the best time to visit St. Simons Island?
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the best weather with lower humidity and fewer crowds. Summer brings peak season rates and full occupancy at properties like Sea Palms (#3) and The King and Prince (#6). Winter is mild but some amenities like outdoor pools may be closed. Book 2-3 months ahead for spring and fall visits.
How do I get from Jacksonville Airport to St. Simons Island?
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is about 49 miles from St. Simons Island — roughly a 1-hour drive. Renting a car is the most common option since many hotels offer free parking (all properties on this list do). Sea Palms (#3) does not offer airport transfers from JAX but can arrange Brunswick airport transfers for a fee. Ride-share services cost around $80-120 one way.
What’s the most walkable area in St. Simons Island?
Kingsway and Beachview Drive are the most walkable areas. Queen’s Court Inn (#4) on Kingsway puts you within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and the pier. Hotel Simone (#8) on Ocean Blvd is a 3-minute walk to East Beach. Ocean Inn & Suites (#1) on Beachview Drive is close to dining but the direct beach access is limited at high tide. For walkability, Queen’s Court Inn is the top pick.