Call Us: (912) 428-7579
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Call Us: (912) 428-7579
For Kish, Jay, and Shirin Kanji, what began as a small, family-run hospitality venture in Gainesville, FL in 1980 has since flourished into a diverse portfolio of properties spanning the southeastern United States. Their vast experience extends to Georgia’s Golden Isles and the crown jewel of St. Simon’s Island, where owners and guests remain the focal point.
After founding Impact Holdings initially with the purchase of a 34-room motel in Gainesville, the Kanji family quickly acquired extensive knowledge across hotels, retail, and home services. Their expertise includes having managed hotels for renowned brands such as Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt.
Through it all, the Kanji family’s foundation remains firmly rooted in hospitality. Their deep knowledge in this area has instilled a strong commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences with care, consistency, and excellence. As lifelong residents in the southeastern U.S. region, the Kanji family is passionately dedicated to strengthening and supporting their communities.
St. Simons Island is the jewel of Georgia’s Golden Isles. Spanning over 12 miles in length and approximately 3 miles at its widest point, St. Simons Island is the longest of four islands situated just off the coast of Brunswick on Georgia’s mainland. Its dramatic tides, awe-inspiring Spanish moss laden oaks, and relaxed vibe make St. Simons Island the perfect destination for a laidback beach vacation on the southeastern coast.
Located midway between Savannah, GA and Jacksonville Beach, FL, Georgia’s Golden Isles also include Little St. Simons Island, Sea Island, and Jekyll Island. Together with St. Simons Island, these Atlantic coast destinations are consistently named by Travel + Leisure among the World’s Best U.S. Islands. These golden treasures offer plenty of opportunities for golf, kayaking, fishing, bike riding, and more. Fun fact: St. Simons Island is home to more pro golfers per capita than anywhere on the planet!
A favorite Georgia beach retreat, St. Simons Island provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Visitors to the island are similarly drawn to its rich history and maritime heritage. Many enjoy exploring Fort Frederica on the northern side of the island, or climbing the 129 steps to the top of St. Simons Lighthouse in Pier Village on the southern tip. Others seize the opportunity to fish off the expansive pier, or simply marvel at the area’s dramatic tidal swings, which can range from 6 to 10-feet. With over 30 beach access points (and free parking!), travelers to St. Simons Island can readily enjoy its pristine shoreline, as well as the tidepools and sand bars that emerge at low tide.
Whether it’s the breathtaking sunsets, the hue that settles over the island’s marshes during winter, or legends of Spanish explorers seeking treasure, St. Simons Island lives up to its golden reputation.
When driving, access to St. Simons Island is just off I-95, via the F.J. Torras Causeway in Brunswick, GA. Additionally, it’s about a 4½ hour drive from Atlanta, or a 1½ hour drive from either Savannah, GA or Jacksonville, FL.
If flying to St. Simons Island, the Brunswick Golden Isles airport (BGK) has a Delta connection with one hour flights connecting to Atlanta, or you may choose to fly into Savannah or Jacksonville and rent a car – though it’s more fun to get around the island by golf-cart or bicycle.
East Beach, Messengale Park Beach, and Gould’s Inlet on St. Simons Island offer expansive beaches and plenty of family-fun. It’s important to keep in mind part of the wonder of the area are the dramatic high and low tides. The lapping waves at low-tide offer good swimming, paddling, and kayaking opportunities, plus you’ll have fun exploring tide pools. Check local tide charts, and avoid swimming out to sandbars as the tide comes in. Of note, there are lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day through Labor Day on several area beaches (generally from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
Stay alert to signage as some beaches on St. Simons Island only allow pets during certain seasons or times. On East Beach, for example, dogs are not allowed on the beach from Memorial Day to Labor Day from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. (From 6 p.m. – 9 a.m., pets are allowed on the beach with or without a leash, but must be under the owner’s control).
With plenty of marsh area on the island, yes, alligators can be spotted from time to time. They often like to cool off near ponds on area golf courses, so be sure to keep your distance.
