Highly Rated in St Simons Island

Q: What does "Highly Rated" mean on Best by Locals?

Highly Rated listings earned top marks from visitors and locals based on Google ratings, repeat visits, and editorial review. It's a step below "Best of" but still a strong endorsement.

Q: How many highly rated spots are in St Simons Island?

19 listings currently hold the Highly Rated badge in St Simons Island, spanning restaurants, activities, and services.

Q: What's the difference between "Best of" and "Highly Rated"?

"Best of" winners topped community polls in a specific category. "Highly Rated" recognizes consistently excellent quality across the board — both are worth visiting.

Browse highly rated restaurants, activities, and services on St. Simons Island, GA.

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Iguanas Seafood Restaurant

Voted the Best Seafood Restaurant on St Simons Island 2025, serving fried shrimp and local catch along with all of the free ice cream you can eat, centrally located in the Pier Village.

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Beachcomber

Beachcomber BBQ Beachcomber BBQ & Grill is a laid-back island favorite serving authentic, slow-smoked barbecue just steps from the beach on St. Simons Island. Known for its “low and slow” cooking style, this casual spot dishes up pulled pork, brisket, ribs, smoked turkey, and classic Southern sides like baked beans, coleslaw, and Brunswick stew. The menu also features burgers, sandwiches, and family-friendly options, making it perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal. With a full bar, cold beer, and an impressive bourbon selection, the atmosphere is fun, social, and unapologetically casual. Outdoor seating, live music, and a pet-friendly vibe make it a true beachside hangout. Why travelers love it: Authentic BBQ, cold drinks, live music, and a relaxed, beachy vibe that delivers a true taste of St. Simons Island.

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CJ's Italian Restaurant

CJ’s Italian Restaurant is a longtime St. Simons Island favorite serving authentic, made-from-scratch Italian comfort food in a cozy, casual setting. Established in 1988, it’s known for its handcrafted pizzas, house-made sauces, and classic dishes that deliver an old-school, family-style dining experience. The menu features a wide variety of options including hand-tossed and deep-dish pizzas, baked pastas, chicken parmesan, strombolis, and fresh salads, all made with quality ingredients and bold flavors. Generous portions and build-your-own options make it a go-to for families and groups. With its relaxed atmosphere and strong local following, CJ’s is a reliable choice for both dine-in and takeout. Why travelers love it: Authentic Italian flavors, standout pizzas, generous portions, and a casual, family-friendly vibe that makes it a true island staple.

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Palmer's Village Cafe

A popular cafe in the Pier Village offering one of the best breakfast and brunches on the island.

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Certified Burgers & Beverage

Certified Burgers & Beverage is a locally loved, family-owned spot on St. Simons Island known for serving up some of the most creative and flavorful burgers in the Golden Isles. Since opening in 2016, it has built a strong reputation for high-quality, made-from-scratch food, featuring house-made sauces, unique burger creations, and fresh ingredients in every dish. The menu goes beyond the basics with inventive options, hand-cut sides, fresh salads, and indulgent milkshakes, all paired with a full bar and an impressive whiskey selection. With full table service, a relaxed atmosphere, and a dog-friendly patio, it’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a great meal. Why travelers love it: Unique, chef-inspired burgers, fresh house-made ingredients, great drinks, and a casual yet elevated dining experience that makes it a standout local favorite on St. Simons Island.

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Crabdaddy's Seafood Grill

Crabdaddy’s Seafood Grill is a longtime St. Simons Island favorite known for fresh, locally sourced seafood and a warm, family-driven dining experience. Established in 1988, this beloved restaurant blends coastal flavors with Southern influences, creating a menu rooted in tradition and quality. The menu features standout dishes like shrimp and grits, crab cakes, and fresh catch seafood prepared grilled, blackened, or fried. Signature touches like homemade crab soup, family-style salad, and classic desserts make every meal memorable. With its welcoming atmosphere and strong local following, Crabdaddy’s offers a perfect balance of casual comfort and elevated coastal dining. Why travelers love it: Fresh local seafood, signature Southern dishes, and a warm, family-style experience that makes it a must-visit island staple.

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Georgia Sea Grill

An island favorite and upscale restaurant offering fresh, coastal-inspired seafood dishes.

Ziggy Mahoney's

Blends lively pub vibes with comfort food, pool tables, live music, and casual American fare.

Open 24 Hours

Free

St Simons Island Tree Spirits

Magical carved tree spirits found in trees spread throughout the island.

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$$$

Anchor Excursions

Anchor Excursions on St. Simons Island offers guided 2-hour boat tours exploring the history, ecology and wildlife of the Golden Isles, sunset cruises with hibachi dinner and live music, and ferry rides between St. Simons and Jekyll Islands

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Bubba Garcia's Mexican Cantina-SSI

Bubba Garcia’s is a vibrant, island-style cantina in Redfern Village on St. Simons Island, serving up a fun mix of Mexican-inspired flavors with Southern and coastal influences. Known for its lively, laid-back atmosphere, it’s a go-to spot for tacos, burritos, fajitas, and creative dishes made with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Guests can enjoy handcrafted margaritas, a wide tequila selection, and cold beer while relaxing on the porch or gathering with friends. The festive vibe and welcoming energy make it perfect for casual dining or a fun night out. Why travelers love it: Flavor-packed tacos, great margaritas, and a lively cantina atmosphere that delivers a fun, social island experience.

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Free

Christ Church Frederica

A church deep in history that began in 1736 with the missionary efforts of Charles and John Wesley.

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Coastal Coffee Café, and Catering Co.

Coastal Coffee is a cozy, locally loved café on St. Simons Island known for its small-batch coffee and fresh, made-to-order menu in a relaxed, welcoming setting. This neighborhood favorite offers a comfortable spot to start your day or enjoy a casual break. The menu features specialty coffee drinks, pastries, breakfast favorites, and light lunch options like sandwiches and baked goods, all crafted with quality ingredients. Its simple, laid-back atmosphere makes it easy to grab a quick bite or sit and unwind. Why travelers love it: Great coffee, fresh breakfast and lunch options, and a cozy, local vibe that makes it a dependable stop on St. Simons Island.