Protected lands set the stage for a naturally wonderful visit to St. Marys, Georgia
ST. MARYS, GEORGIA–MARCH 2024–In Southeast Georgia, where the rivers flow to the ocean and the maritime forest and rich wetlands meet the coastline, there is a love of the land that has stood the test of time. Located less than an hour’s drive north of Jacksonville, Florida off I-95, the city of St. Marys is built on coastal culture and is the centerpiece of a destination known for its protected lands and accessible waterways. This is the perfect location for a back-to-nature getaway amid a diverse landscape and a relaxing home base.
St. Marys’ historic waterfront district is an ideal spot to spend a few days enjoying coastal Georgia’s natural beauty. It’s also a welcoming destination for visitors, with its walkable downtown streets lined with local retail shops and restaurants and a variety of unique lodging options.
Where downtown meets the river, St. Marys Waterfront Park (100 West St. Marys Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-510-4041) is a beautiful green space to enjoy views of shrimp boats and pleasure craft or experience a magnificent sunrise or sunset. The park includes a pier and fountain, paved walkways and pavilions and lots of spots to sit and enjoy the scenery.
Nearby is the departure point for ferry trips to the region’s best-known natural attraction. Only accessible by ferry, Cumberland Island National Seashore, is a national treasure that combines pristine maritime forests, undisturbed beaches and miles of remote trails. The National Park Service has managed the island for five decades, preserving the delicate balance of public enjoyment and preservation. Cumberland Island includes a designated wilderness area, historic sites, cultural ruins, undeveloped beaches, critical habitat and bird and sea turtle nesting areas. 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 there for hundreds of years.
Back on the mainland there’s a new, 11-mile trail being developed to connect the Waterfront Park to one of Georgia’s gems, Crooked River State Park. The St. Marys Tabby Trail is being designed as an educational and scenic multi-use path, with comfort stations. Portions of the trail are still under construction. An interesting stop on the trail is the McIntosh Sugar Mill Tabby Ruins (3013 Charlie Smith Senior Parkway, St. Marys, Georgia 31558). The ruins are of a tabby sugar works built soon after 1825, using the first horizontal cane mill worked by cattle power. The mill was also used as a starch factory, producing arrowroot starch in large quantities.
Crooked River State Park (6222 Charlie Smith Senior Highway, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-882-5256) has nature trails winding through maritime forest and salt marsh. Hikers who walk amid the Spanish moss-draped trees and palmettos are sure to see lots of native wildlife, including gopher tortoises, Great Blue Herons and many other birds. The park’s nature center features fish, snakes, turtles and other animals native to coastal Georgia. Paddlers who bring their own boats or boards can enjoy the inland waters or take the shortest route to Cumberland Island National Seashore, across the Intracoastal Waterway.
St. Marys is also home to stops along the Colonial Coast Birding Trail, which includes 17 sites along Georgia’s coast. More than 300 species of birds have been spotted along the birding trail and each site offers unique viewing opportunities, all year long. This is also a launch point for the Southeast Coast Saltwater Paddling Trail which stretches more than 100 miles from the St. Marys River to the Savannah River Sound. A majority of the trail is for intermediate to advanced paddlers only, so contacting an experienced outfitter or guide is highly recommended. The trail is divided into 11 sections starting at St. Marys and going north.
If you go
Bike, kayak and SUP rentals are available from Knuckleheads Kayak Adventures (201 West St. Marys Street, St. Marys Georgia 31558; 912-882-3512).
Ferry reservations for trips to Cumberland Island National Seashore must be made in advance. For more information and reservations, contact Cumberland Island Ferry (113 St. Marys Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 877-860-6787).
Where to eat
Spouses Bakery (901 Dilworth Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-439-3364) is a favorite spot for morning fare and lunch specials, including soups, specialty sandwiches and more.
Cedar Oak Café (304 Osborne Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-882-9555) serves up morning coffee along with breakfast and lunch. Indoor and outdoor seating is available.
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. Seafood favorites fill the menu along with an extensive list of appetizers, salads and sandwiches.
The Riverside Café (106 West St. Marys Street, St. Marys, Georgia 31558; 912-882-3455) menu features soups, salads, specialty sandwiches and Greek-style platters including bifteki, moussaka and pasticcio. Open for lunch and dinner.
Locals Dockside (307 West St. Marys Street, St. Marys Georgia 31558; 912-510-8577) is a seafood restaurant and steak house serving the best of local fare. A new addition to the local food scene, this spot has an extensive menu, from appetizers to desserts, featuring favorites like scallops, oysters and seafood platters.