The very first residents of St. Simon's Island came to the area to fish around the year 2000 BC. Although there is evidence of these ancient settlers, there is very little that is known about them. Between their initial arrival and the arrival of European colonists in the area, the Timucuan tribe lived in the area now known as St. Simon's Island. It was the Timucan people who made contact with the first Europeans in the area, but no direct descents of the tribe live in St. Simon's Island in modern times. In the 17th century, conflict erupted between the Spanish settlers and the English, though it was the Spanish who most significantly influenced the culture of the area during the 16th and 17th centuries.
The economy of St. Simon's Island is primarily based on the tourism industry, but there are a few companies, such as Rich Products, who have small seafood processing and packing plants in the area. There are a number of hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops and other tourism based enterprises along the coast as well as on the island. In recent years, due to a troubled economy in the United States and around the world, tourism has decreased slightly. However, prospects look promising as prices for accommodations and meals on St. Simon's Island are slightly cheaper than in nearby Savannah, Georgia or Jacksonville, Florida.
St. Simon's offers locals and visitors alike plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. With a moderate winter climate and warm summers, it is easy to spend time outside during every month of the year. Some of the most popular activities include kayaking at sea, boating, fishing on the coast and deep at sea, birdwatching, swimming and windsurfing. These activities combine to make St. Simon's Island an attractive destination for families, couples and groups.
