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Sapelo Island Reserve

Route 1, Darien, Georgia 31305 USA

Independent

“along Georgia's famed Colonial Coast”

The Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve is a 6,100-acre protected sanctuary on the coast of Georgia dedicated to scientific estuarine research and providing public education, outreach and coastal training opportunities. This small barrier island is a unique destination along Georgia's famed Colonial Coast. Guests begin their day at the mainland visitor center, where they can learn about Sapelo's cultural history, coastal wildlife, and complex beach and dunes systems. After a 30-minute ferry ride, they arrive at this 11-mile-long island. Guided tours highlight the African-American community of Hog Hammock, Reynolds Mansion, Nanny Goat Beach, University of Georgia Marine Institute and a restored 1820 lighthouse. Groups may stay overnight on the island at the historic Reynolds Mansion or Cabretta Campground. The unusual and lovely Reynolds Mansion features marble sculptures, an ornately decorated Circus Room, murals by Athos Menaboni, a bowling lane, billiards, library and more. Cabretta Campground is sheltered by live oaks and is just a short walk to the beach.

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Reviewed by
Lesli Peterson

Blogger
1,213 Reviews
62 Helpful

October 19, 2022

Rated 5.0

Although visitors won’t run into many people, what they will find are unspoiled beaches, dense maritime forests, miles of undisturbed salt-marsh land, a mansion from a by-gone era, and a community of slave decedents preserving an almost forgotten culture.

There is only one way to get to Sapelo Island. Take the Sapelo Island Ferry in Meridian, GA. To take the ferry, make reservations in advance, there are a limited number of spots, and they can fill up. You may even want to stay in Darien the night before.

Arrive early for the ferry, and plan to spend a little time at the Sapelo Island Visitor’s Center learning about the island and the Geechee Island people that live there, or take a walk through the Maritime Forest Nature Trail — it’s an easy 1.1 mile loop.

The ferry ride to the island is 30 minutes long.

Sapelo Island is a beautiful place and definitely worth a visit.

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