This Island-Hopping Experience Is A Weekend Adventure To Some Of Georgia’s Best Barrier Islands
By Marisa Roman|Published December 27, 2021
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Marisa Roman
Author
A New Jersey native with over 15 years of writing experience, Marisa has studied at both New York University and Florida International University. She has lived all over the country, including a decade stint in South Florida. Marisa is well-versed in exploration as she travels a good majority of the year in her self-converted Sprinter van. Her articles have been featured in various notable publications over the years, she has a published collection of short stories, and three completed screenplays under her belt.
While we might not have the Caribbean islands in such close proximity like Florida does, Georgia does have its own set of islands that are worth taking a weekend to explore. Georgia’s barrier islands are some of the most beautiful vacation destinations in the entire state. With sandy beaches, soft breezes, and tons of varied wildlife, each of these barrier islands offers a little something different. Barrier islands are found along the entire eastern seaboard of the United States, and Georgia has quite a few that people will come from all over to explore. We’ll start this island-hopping adventure from north to south, but really wherever you want to begin is fine, too. Ready for a picture-perfect weekend adventure?
Note: not all of Georgia’s barrier islands are open to the public. For instance, St. Catherine’s Island and Wolf Island do not allow public access.
Tybee Island is easily one of the most exciting and popular barrier islands in Georgia. Popular since the late 1800s, people head to Tybee Island from Savannah in order to enjoy the white, sandy beaches, the historical spots, and the still-functioning lighthouse. This is the perfect place to kick off this island-hopping adventure.
Visiting Wassaw Island isn’t going to be as easy as visiting Tybee Island. Access to this wildlife refuge is by boat only, and you must make your own arrangements or use your own vessel. There are also companies that offer tours to this unspoiled barrier island, whether by boat or kayak.
Similar to Wassaw Island, Ossabaw Island is also pure unspoiled natural beauty. Largely known as a nature and heritage preserve, visitors cannot go beyond the dunes of this island unless their visit is in compliance with the Heritage Preserve Act. But, you can still visit the beautiful beaches from sun up to sundown.
Visitors to Sapelo Island can take the mainland ferry over to the barrier island for an afternoon of adventure. Just make sure you pre-register in advance! This state-managed barrier island is the fourth largest in the Georgia chain and has tons of opportunities to stay, play, and enjoy the area.
Wolf Island, Georgia should only be enjoyed from afar - by that we mean never actually set foot on the island. The waters surrounding this Wildlife Refuge are open for recreational activities like crabbing, fishing, and the like, but the beaches and upland areas are closed to the public. But, you can still certainly see from the water why this barrier island is so special.
What remains so fascinating about Little St. Simons Island, Georgia is the fact that it is almost virtually untouched in terms of landscape. With 11,000-acres of space, this fragile and delicate natural gem even offers overnight accommodations within historic cottages because there is so much to do and see.
Sea Island is next up on the list and this one is about as high-class as it gets, especially with the resorts here. Since 1928, Sea Island, Georgia has become a coveted place to vacation, largely due to The Cloister at Sea Island. With five miles of private beaches, you’ll want to plan in advance if you’re going to spend the night here.
St. Simons Island is another incredibly popular barrier island in Georgia, known for stretches of beach and delightful salt marshes. There are also tons of historical attractions to enjoy while you’re here, from the St. Simons Lighthouse to St. Simons Pier. Plus, you’ll have plenty of opportunities here to shop, dine, and relax.
Jekyll Island is owned by the state and is known for natural beauty, expansive beaches, and family-friendly things to do. History buffs can enjoy an amalgam of attractions throughout the island, while anyone looking to relax can kick back on the beach and dig their toes in the sand. Just make sure while you’re there you check out places like the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and Driftwood Beach.
Saving the best for last, are we? Cumberland Island is the largest of the barrier islands in Georgia and it is filled with things to do. Known for wild horses roaming about, natural beauty at every turn, and historic ruins worth hiking to, this barrier island has it all. If you want to stay overnight, make sure you bring a tent. There is nothing like camping near the water, waking up to the sounds of nature under swaying Spanish moss.
Have you been to any of Georgia’s barrier islands before? Share with us your favorite in the comments section! We’d also love to hear about any excursions or adventures you’ve had on these islands, too!
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