Picturesque maritime streets and centuries-old architecture continue to make the historic district of Saint Marys, Georgia a must-see for supporters of historic-coastline preservation.
Formally established as a coastal town in the fall of 1787, the area surrounding Saint Marys, including Cumberland Island, had been explored by the Spanish as early as 1566, making it one of the first locations in the United States to entertain European guests (Saint Augustine, Florida, the nation’s oldest city, was founded one year earlier in 1565). A few things have changed since the late 18th century, but the town has managed to keep its colonial feel with the upkeep of historic properties, as well as the lack of major development that is characteristic of many destinations along Georgia’s golden coast.
Saint Marys provides visitors to the area with a quiet yet fulfilling tour of a town with centuries of history under its belt. The heart of Saint Marys is the downtown block, the small three-way intersection of Osborne Street and Saint Marys Street. Here you can find the Riverview Hotel, the closest lodging to the Cumberland Island Ferry and Visitor Center, right across the street.
If you’re planning on visiting Cumberland Island, which is just a forty-five minute ferry ride away from Saint Marys, then you may consider giving the Cumberland Island Ferry and Visitor Center a call before planning your trip. Booking weeks in advance is always a good idea, considering that available spots on the ferry fill up fast during the busy months.
If you’re looking for some great seafood, then Saint Marys is sure to please your palate. Lang’s Marina Restaurant caters to the downtown crowds coming in off of the afternoon ferry from Cumberland Island, with their convenient location right next to the Howard Gilman Memorial Waterfront Park. If you’d rather avoid the downtown crowds and are willing to drive a couple of miles back towards the inland, then Saint Marys Seafood and More may be right up your alley.
There are plenty of things to do in Saint Marys to keep you busy during your trip to the southernmost town on the Georgia coast – especially if you’re a history buff. Plan ahead, book hotel and ferry reservations well in advance, and bring along a reliable travel guide covering St. Marys and Cumberland Island. You’ll be sure to get the most out of your stay in the nation’s second oldest city, and may even learn a thing or two about our nation’s history to boot.
