Visiting this coastal Georgia treasure is a must for nature, history and adventure lovers
ST. MARYS, GEORGIA–APRIL 2026–St. Marys is a special place on Georgia’s southern coast. The heart of this historic coastal gem is its walkable downtown adjacent to a sprawling waterfront park. While it is less than an hour’s drive north of Jacksonville, Florida, just east of Interstate 95, it feels a world away and offers a welcome respite to those who want an authentic experience and want to savor both the personality of its people and bounty of its waters.
A special part of the St. Marys vacation for many is exploring the landscapes and stories of Cumberland Island. The island, described as magical by some, is preserved as the Cumberland Island National Seashore and is only accessible by boat. A day trip to experience the coastal beauty and historical significance of Cumberland Island is a vacation highlight for those who love coastal beauty, history and a bit of outdoor adventure. It’s also an intriguing location for those enthralled by the stories of JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette’s wedding on the island, brought to the national forefront again with the release of the FX limited-series “Love Story.”
The experience begins at the Cumberland Island Visitor Center (113 St. Marys Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-882-4336) where visitors with ferry reservations (strongly recommended) check in and others get instructions on planning their trip. Those who want to take their bike to explore the island can reserve a space for that on the ferry, as well. The Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum is also located here and offers visitors a glimpse into thousands of years of island history and human experience and influence on its landscape and culture. Ferry cruises leave twice daily from the nearby dock to make the seven-mile journey east, which takes about 45 minutes and brings passengers to the dock on the island. There are no shops or restaurants on the island, so visitors should bring their own food, drinks and picnic supplies to ensure the most enjoyable experience.
The National Seashore includes a designated wilderness area, undeveloped beaches, historic sites, cultural ruins and diverse coastal habitats and nesting areas for indigenous wildlife. There are more than 50 miles of trails and roads as well as 18 miles of beach. Hiking, biking, camping, birdwatching and beachcombing are popular activities on the island. Wild horses, delivered to its shores by the Spanish, have roamed the island wild for hundreds of years.
While many choose to explore on their own, there are interpretive and educational programs available, and guides share compelling stories of the many people who have shaped and been shaped by Cumberland Island. One popular way to explore the island is to take in its south end, where the Dungeness Ruins are located. There are opportunities for both a free, ranger-led “Footsteps” walking tour, which is available as staffing allows, and a paid historian-led Haunting Ruins and Wild Horses walking tour with Molly’s Old South Tours (904-735-8243). Molly’s also offers private, customized tours. For more of a VIP experience, the Lands and Legacies Tour offers interpretive tours via passenger van to historic locations around the island including a tour of Plum Orchard Mansion, the Settlement (including the First African Baptist Church), Cumberland Island Wharf and other sites along the main road.
After a day of exploring, the ferry ride back to St. Marys offers another on-the-water experience and a new view of the quaint town during approach to the dock.
The dock sits just a short walk from the beautiful St. Marys Waterfront Park (201 St. Marys Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-882-4000), the perfect spot for watching vessels come and go, enjoying the colors of sunrise or sunset or taking in one of the area’s waterfront events. The heart of this historic downtown, the park is filled with oak trees, paved walkways and pavilions, a pier and fountain and plenty of benches for sitting under the trees. It is the perfect spot to reflect on the day’s island adventure and choose the perfect spot to enjoy dinner in St. Marys.
Where to eat
Captain Seagle’s Restaurant (105 Osborne Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-882-3242) is a perennial favorite where the extensive menu features oysters, shrimp, scallops and more.
Locals Dockside (307 West St. Marys Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-510-8577) offers waterfront dining featuring delicious seafood and steaks and inventive chef specials.
St. Marys Harbor Restaurant (106 St. Marys Street West, Suite C, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-882-3466) boasts great seafood and waterfront views. From steak and shrimp to lump crab grilled cheese, the menu is diverse and tasty.
Southern River Walk Bar & Grill (101 East Stable Alley, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-439-3806) offers a dining experience that includes breakfast, lunch and dinner. Outdoor bar, live music and an arcade are all part of the atmosphere.