A natural break between St. Simons and Jekyll islands forms a waterway into the Brunswick River and the Georgia mainland. The St. Simons Lighthouse, one of the enduring beacons on the coast, stands on the south side of St. Simons Island. marking the entrance to the sound. The original lighthouse, built in 1810, was one of the first brick structures on the island, but destroyed by Confederate forces during the Civil War. The replacement lighthouse and keeper’s dwelling, built in 1872, make up today's St. Simons Lighthouse Museum. Lighthouse guests may climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the Georgia coast, nearby Jekyll Island, the mainland and the south end of St. Simons Island. Open at various hours every day of the week, there is a modest fee for entrance to the lighthouse museum.
   Not long after the Civil War, St. Simons Island became a tourist destination, with access only by boat. After a causeway bridge was built in 1938, the island became famous as one of the popular Golden Isles. Favored by mild weather and cool Atlantic breezes, island guests find the perfect recipe for year long vacationing. All along the Georgia coast, guests and residents find places for swimming, sailing, and fishing all along a string of beautiful beaches. Golfing enthusiasts enjoy the deep green fairways, while history buffs trace the beginnings of Oglethorpe's settlements, antebellum homes, and the area's true southern historic districts.
   This enchanting scene, with its glowing ball of fire tempered by an early morning mist, will certainly cast a spell on any would-be vacationers.

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