05/15/2026
You may know St Marys as the jumping-off point for Cumberland Island.... But the town itself is genuinely wonderful — a welcoming waterfront, great food, and some of the best access to coastal wildlife in Georgia.
Here's how I spent two days there:
Day 1 started at , where the salt marsh trails wind through Spanish moss-draped oaks, and the light on the water stops you in your tracks. If you're lucky, you'll encounter a gopher tortoise wandering the paths like they own the place. (They do.)
From there, I wandered the St Marys waterfront — a riverside walkway worth the stroll, with a lovely courtyard fountain.
That evening, dinner at , which delivers exactly what a good taco cantina should: bold flavors, a lively patio, and zero regrets. I finished the day watching the sun go down over the marsh—classic lowcountry beauty.
Day 2 began at — a nautical-themed gem right on the waterfront that opened in 2024 and already feels like it's been there forever. Try the avocado toast!
Then the ferry to Cumberland Island. Wild horses moving through the dunes. Beaches so wide and empty they feel like a secret. Live oaks heavy with moss, ruins half-swallowed by vines — it's like stepping into a gothic novel someone left unfinished, and I mean that as the highest compliment.
Tip: Rent a bike from Camden Bicycle Center so you can maximize your time on the island!
I wrapped up the trip with sunset and fresh seafood at Locals DockSide, right on the St Marys River. Their private dock offers one of the best sunset views in town.
Have you been to St Marys or Cumberland Island?? LMK in the comments!
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