Experience the Golden Isles from Home: Top Books and Movies Set on St. Simons, Jekyll, and Beyond
Even if the Golden Isles feel distant, you can bring the rich history, captivating characters, and stunning landscapes of St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island, and Brunswick right into your living room. Dive into this curated selection of books and films inspired by these coastal gems. Let your imagination transport you through timeless stories—both fictional and historical—that define the Golden Isles.
Books Set in the Golden Isles
Nothing beats curling up with a compelling book that immerses you in vivid characters and narratives. These expert-recommended titles are available at the Golden Isles Welcome Center on St. Simons Island, local bookstores, and major online retailers.
For Young Readers
The Princess and The Crab: Crafted by the owners of the King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort for their children, this charming picture book offers a playful coastal twist on the classic "Princess and the Frog" tale. It weaves in key Golden Isles historical sites, blending fun with education.
Paca & His Pals Visit St. Simons Island: This locally produced coloring book provides endless entertainment for kids. Follow Paca the bear and his friends as they explore the island's beaches and landmarks.
For History Enthusiasts
Images of America Series: Journey through time with photographic histories of the Golden Isles across the 19th and 20th centuries. From the F.J. Torras Causeway construction to the golden era of the Jekyll Island Club, discover dedicated volumes for each island.
A Historical Crash Course on Coastal Georgia and the Golden Isles: Local historian Buddy Sullivan and writer Larry Hobbs deliver a concise 70-page overview packed with facts from the 1500s onward, revealing the region's deep heritage.
Journal of a Residence on a Georgian Plantation in 1838-1839: English actress Fanny Kemble's firsthand account as the wife of plantation owner Pierce Butler exposes the brutal realities of coastal Georgia's plantation era—a pivotal work in American literature.
For Romance Lovers
Eugenia Price's St. Simons Trilogy: Beloved locally, this iconic series—Lighthouse, New Moon Rising, and The Beloved Invader—blends history and fiction. Join James Gould building the St. Simons Lighthouse, experience the Couper family at Cannon's Point, and let Eugenia Price inspire your next Golden Isles visit.
Splendid Isolation: Local author Pamela Bauer Mueller vividly recreates Jekyll Island Club's heyday, following four staff members amid America's elite families and the island's exclusive allure.
For Visual Dreamers
Island Time & Island Passages: These stunning coffee table books by Jingle Davis and photographer Ben Galland showcase breathtaking images alongside histories from Native American times through today, capturing the islands' pristine beauty.
Movies and TV Shows Filmed in the Golden Isles
Stock up on popcorn and settle in for films and series shot amid the Golden Isles' iconic settings—perfect for your next binge-watch.
Feature Films
Live by Night (2017): Ben Affleck directs and stars in this Prohibition-era tale with Elle Fanning, Zoe Saldana, and Sienna Miller. Watch Historic Downtown Brunswick transform into vibrant Ybor City, Florida.
Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues (2013): Will Ferrell's comedy sequel features scenes on St. Simons Island, including a replica St. Simons Lighthouse and an unforgettable beach wedding with Kristin Wiig.
X-Men: First Class (2011): Marvel fans will spot thrilling waterway action filmed offshore of Jekyll Island.
The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000): This family-friendly golf drama starring Will Smith and Matt Damon was shot on Jekyll Island and at the Jekyll Island Club Resort, evoking Bobby Jones' era.
Glory (1989): Matthew Broderick leads this Civil War epic about the Union's first all-Black regiment. Filmed on Jekyll Island, it inspired the name of Glory Beach, where crews built the scenic boardwalk through dunes and forest.
TV Series
The Walking Dead (Season 7, Episode 15): Iconic Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island stars in zombie survival action.
HGTV Shows: Catch the Golden Isles in Beachfront Bargains and Island Life. St. Simons Island hosted HGTV's 2017 Dream Home giveaway.
