St. Simons Island has been a popular vacation destination since native Americans shared the rich bounty of these islands hundreds of years ago. They were here when Oglethorpe arrived from England to settle Georgia as the 13th colony in 1733. <br> Today the landscape looks much the same, with moss-draped oaks, shady lanes and creek-fed pockets of marsh - a thriving habitat for birds and a diverse range of other wildlife, from turtles to armadillo and deer. <br> The Pier Village is the Island's historic area. Near the lighthouse and playground, you'll find specialty shops, boutiques and excellent restaurants along Mallery Street, in addition to other island shopping areas, be sure to try them all!