This coastal beauty is a sight to behold
ST. MARYS, GEORGIA–FEBRUARY 2026–St. Marys’ location on Georgia’s southern coast is known for its small-town charm and its easy access, just east of I-95, less than an hour’s drive north of Jacksonville, Florida. Once here, many visitors find St. Marys’ views to be its most endearing feature. From its downtown waterfront to its scenic trails, the beauty and variety are an integral part of any visit and add special memories to last long after the trip.
St. Marys Waterfront Park (201 St. Marys Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-882-4000) is central to the coastal character of this historic downtown. The heart of the town’s waterfront, the park is a beautiful greenspace with views of the river and beyond. There are benches beneath the oaks, walkways, a fountain and a pier.
Just steps away is the Cumberland Island Visitor Center (113 St. Marys Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-882-4336). From the second-floor balcony, the view of the waterfront is even more alluring. It’s here that many embark on an on-the-water experience that takes them on a cruise from the nearby ferry dock to the historic and beautiful Cumberland Island National Seashore. This remarkable island is a natural gem only accessible by boat. Once there, the sandy trails, historic sites and beautiful beaches combine for a combination of views for all to enjoy.
The St. Marys River is a paddler’s paradise for kayaking or paddleboarding. From colorful sunrises to afternoon dolphin encounters, the experience can be magical. Paddling gear as well as guided trips are available through Knucklehead’s Water Rentals (201 W. St. Marys Street; 912-882-3512) and Adventures Up the Creek (912-882-0911 or 904-999-4919). Options include a harbor tour, sunset marsh paddle, Crooked River State Park paddle and more.
The nearby 500-acre Crooked River State Park (6222 Charlie Smith Senior Highway, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-882-5256) has three kayak trails ranging from 4.3 miles to 8.4 miles, for those who want to take to the river for adventure. But the park, perched on the banks of the Intracoastal Waterway amid the beauty of the maritime forest, is not only popular with kayakers. Hikers can walk amid moss-draped oaks, palmetto thickets, salt marsh and more and are likely to encounter gopher tortoises, fiddler crabs, herons and a myriad of other wildlife. Both campsites and cottages offer outstanding views.
Those who enjoy the view from a bicycle have plenty of scenic trail options here. The St. Marys Tabby Trail is an 11-mile bike and multi-use hard surface path from St. Marys Waterfront Park to Crooked River State Park. While some sections are still in progress, there are comfort stations along the way. To the west, Woodbine River Walk & Rail Trail is a three-mile trail popular for walking and biking. The scenery includes wetlands, live oaks and Victorian homes. The Satilla River Waterfront Park, at the northern end, features a boardwalk observation pier. Bicycle rentals are available from Camden Bicycle Center (1929 Osborne Road, St. Marys Georgia 31558; 912-576-9696).
Just 45 minutes inland from St. Marys is the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge (2700 Suwannee Canal Road, Georgia Highway 121/23, Folkston, Georgia 31537-7906; 912-496-7836). The largest refuge east of the Mississippi River, it is comprised of 407 acres which include unique waterways, home to a host of indigenous species. Boat tours are offered daily and take visitors on a scenic journey filled with view of gators, turtles and an amazing list of birds.
Where to eat
St. Marys Harbor Restaurant (106 St. Marys Street W., Suite C, St. Marys, Georgia, 31558; 912-882-3466) boasts homemade meals with the best views in town and a relaxing coastal atmosphere. The extensive menu ranges from breakfast specialties to a variety of soups, salads and sandwiches to entrees featuring seafood, steak and pasta.
Locals Dockside (307 West St. Marys Street, St. Marys Georgia 31558; 912-510-8577) is a favorite seafood and steak spot serving an extensive menu featuring the best of local fare. Seafood dishes present creative preparations of fish, scallops and oysters and seafood platters are always popular. The succulent steaks and outstanding desserts also draw praise, as does the extensive cocktail and beer menu.
Seagle’s Restaurant & Captain Seagle’s Saloon (105 Osborne Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-882-3242) is located in a beautiful historic building on the waterfront and is St. Marys oldest dining establishment. Seafood favorites fill the menu along with an extensive list of appetizers, salads and sandwiches. This local hot spot features a restaurant, saloon and patio bar and is popular for its live music and special events.
Southern River Walk (101 Stable Alley East, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-439-3806) is a bar, grill and arcade just steps from St. Marys waterfront. A tasty variety of burgers, tacos and entrée specials are served in a casual sports bar atmosphere.