City Guides Beeline for the Beach on St. Simons Island When Spanish explorers landed almost 500 years ago in what is now Georgia, gold was the aim of their quest. Instead, they discovered another treasure – the coast’s spectacular natural beauty on full display at one of the state’s beloved barrier islands. Miles of wave-kissed beaches on St. Simons Island make it a prime destination for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, while its maritime forests and sand dunes are ideal for spotting wildlife, from blue herons and bald eagles to sea turtles. GOULD’S INLET, ST. SIMONS ISLAND/BENJAMIN GALLAND EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG 119