Cumberland Island, Georgia is probably a place many people have never heard of. It is considered Georgia’s largest and Southernmost barrier island. Located around seven miles east of St. Mary’s, Georgia, the Island is only accessible by boat. And best of all, its car free. Can you imagine now traffic? 

I added Cumberland Island years ago to my travel bucket list, mainly because wild horses run the pristine beaches, for the untamed forests, but also because this was the destination John F. Kennedy Jr. married his beloved Caroline.

Below are a few things to know before traveling to the island:

• The ferry to the island only runs a few times a day and you have to go to St. Mary’s to board. Make sure you arrive an hour before departure.
• You may want to bring food and water because there is no place on the island to pick any up. Did I say it’s remote and untouched?
• There are private residences on the island so please respect the signs. 

If you prefer to not camp on the island you can stay in a hotel nearby in Amelia, Florida or Jekyll Island. There is one hotel on the island, Greyfield Inn, but it’s quite expensive per night.

Greyfield Inn was built by the Carnegie family so you will get to enjoy their families history in the hotel library.

There are great things to do with the family from visiting the ruins, kayaking, gazing at the wildlife to learning the islands rich history.

Today, a lot of the the island is protected as a National Seashore, accessible only by a ferry boat. It is truly a beautiful place to camp, hike and explore the untouched remoteness. You don’t find many places like this so enjoy the outdoors if you get to go. 

If you have been to the Island, drop us a comment with your experience. Our readers would love to hear more stories. Xoxo

Blog by Krista