There’s even more beachfront bliss to be found on Cumberland Island, the largest and southernmost barrier island in Georgia. An hour south of Jekyll Island, this relatively undeveloped area offers an incredible blend of nature and history.
The town of St. Marys serves as the gateway to Cumberland Island. It’s where you’ll hop on a 45-minute ferry – leaving your car behind – and sail towards the stunning Cumberland Island National Seashore. Spend your day lounging on the 30 kilometers of beach, trekking the many hiking trails and spotting sea turtle nests and wild horses. History buffs can’t miss a ranger-led tour of the island’s historic sites, including the Dungeness Historic area, where the ruins of industrialist Thomas Carnegie’s lavish home still stand.
To head home, take the ferry back to the mainland and make the 30-minute drive to Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) just over the state line in Florida. Your Georgia road trip may come to a close, but the memories you’ve made in these Southern gem cities will last a lifetime.