This article by Sheila Gaspers published on the Tango Diva Blog introuduces St. Simons Island and King and Prince with some history and description of the area. She then provides information on The King and Prince Resort and its amenities.
April 13th, 2011 by Sheila
Georgia welcomes thousands of visitors to its coast each year. The natural beauty and the rich history of its barrier islands, treasured living sanctuaries, are important to the Georgia Coast’s continued universal tourism appeal and year-round draw.
St. Simons Island is counted among Georgia’s four barrier islands that are accessible by car. This important distinction combined with St. Simons proximity to Historic Savannah, Atlanta and North Florida, has moved the island up the ranks to a top pick position as a preferred Southeast vacation destination.
Pristine family friendly beaches, miles of hiking and biking trails, unique shopping and unlimited dining options, combined with the region’s cultural, historical and natural assets keep visitors coming back for more.
Prior to World War II, the island’s tourism efforts suffered; St. Simons struggled to compete with the newly fashionable hot spots like Palm Beach. Moreover, the island culture was lacking – essentially too conservative to retain and attract visitors and new residents.
It was only when the island’s only private beach and dance club, changed hands and rose to new hospitality heights that positive change ensued. The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort celebrating over 76 years of service this year, has been instrumental in shaping and defining the island experience. The resort has received countless awards. Recognized by the National Register of Historic Places and an active member of Historic Hotels of America, the resort is true to its rich historical roots. An illustrious past and a reputation for superior service, refined accommodations and savory cuisine have elevated the King and Prince Resort to a status well worthy of its title as ”the island’s most cherished retreat”.
Sweeping ocean views, spectacular sunsets, and quiet magical moments…are the norm at this beautiful seaside resort.
A welcomed change from the urban jungle, island life is slow and easy. Everything is within reach by bike or foot. Serenity reigns supreme. One learns quickly that all schedules adhere to island time.
The King & Prince Resort is committed to keeping guests happily engaged. Activities abound! There are five pools, a fitness center, jacuzzi, tennis courts and miles of oceanfront beach.
And, to the delight of many…there is Golf…and a Spa.
The newly renovated 18-hole PAR 72 Golf Course is located offsite just minutes away on the north end of the island. The King & Prince Golf Course at Hampton Club, designed by legendary architect Joe Lee is best known for its unparalleled scenic beauty – dramatic moss-draped oaks, vast salt marshes, lagoons and lakes that are woven throughout the green. The near $4 million facelift enhanced and expanded the course; a new irrigation system, a chipping green, fairway bunkers and a variety of quality grasses were among the upgrades. Avid Golfers can take a sneak peak by accessing the 3D animated fly-over tour online. Director of Sales, Bud St. Pierre is a huge fan of the new hi-tech tour – “It’s an in-depth virtual tour where one can see bridges, bunkers, shapes of the ponds, sprawling live oaks, expansive marsh views and more. It even includes a full course map, score card and vibrant photos.”
Resort Guest Rates start at $79 per person (includes green fees and half-cart)
The Spa, suitably named The Royal Treatment Cottage, operates out of a small converted 3 bedroom bungalow within the resort complex. Guests can enjoy massage treatments that span a variety of disciplines and techniques including Swedish, Deep Tissue, Aromatherapy and Reflexology. Services are limited at this time so book ahead.
Location: St. Simons Island – Georgia Coast. Easy access from I-95 (exits 29, 36 or 39). Less than 70 miles from Jacksonville International Airport and the Savannah Airport.
Rooms & Rates: 195 Guest Rooms. Rates are Seasonal. Range: $119-$1000
Contact Reservations for Special Package Savings.
There is an impressive selection to please even the most discerning travel diva – from modern to historic, standard room to oversized suite, and ocean to resort views. The resort also offers a 2 or 3 bedroom villa complete with a full kitchen, spacious living area, patio and/or balcony, as well as, a private building pool and hot tub. For those who desire ultimate luxury and privacy, you can choose from one of six unique residences.
Visit the resort’s website for full descriptions and floorplans.
My top picks for the ultimate girlfriend getaway: (1) The Tabby House, a luxurious Mediterranean style retreat with wrap-around porches on two levels; (2) the Wesley Cottage, a quaint one-story/one bedroom beach bungalow with kitchen, living & dining room, pull out sleeper sofa, as well as, a private backyard surrounded by its very own white picket fence; (3) The Oleander Building’s Ocean View Room, offering quiet comfort with 2 queen beds and private balcony.
Standard In-Room Amenities: Telephone, Digital Clock, Hair Dryer, Coffee-Maker, Large Flat Screen TV, DVD/CD Player, Mini-fridge, quality bath toiletries, and complimentary Wi-Fi Access.
Restaurants & Bars: You don’t need to look beyond the resort grounds for the finest authentic Southern cuisine and the Georgia Coast’s freshest seafood. Think Wild Georgia Shrimp…and you are a goner from the moment you arrive!
From formal to casual settings, the resort offers some of the best dining on the island.
The Friday Night Seafood Buffet is legendary and should not be missed!
Hosted in a phenomenal historic setting, the resort’s oceanfront Delegal Room adorned with 11 stained glass window masterpieces depicting scenes of island history, this elaborate buffet dinner is an unforgettable sumptuous feast guaranteed to tantalize all your senses.
Do not dismay…satisfy those next day hunger pangs at the hotel’s Kings Tavern or outdoor Paradise Beach Bar & Grill.
Fresh, Healthy, Fresh and Delicious are on the menu 24/7!
The King and Prince Resort invites you to unwind in the sunshine and frolic in the ocean surf.
Relax, renew and revel in the simple pleasures of this Coastal Georgia gem.
Book your escape package today online or call: 800-342-0212
For all your Coastal Georgia travel planning needs, visit the Brunswick-Golden Isles Tourism website or call 800-933-COAST.
For “St. Simons Discovery” recommendations, please check my blog posts for insights – from fun outings to food – that will inspire and enhance your island adventure.
