Getting Oriented

Getting Oriented

Coastal Georgia is a complex jigsaw wending its way from the ocean and tidal marshes inland along the intricate network of rivers. U.S. 17, the old coastal highway, gives you a taste of the slower, more rural South. But because of the subtropical climate, the lush forests tend to be dense along the mainland and there are few opportunities to glimpse the broad vistas of salt marsh and islands. To truly appreciate the mystique of Georgia's coastal salt marshes and islands, make the 40-minute ferry crossing from Meridian to Sapelo Island.

Sapelo Island. Reachable only by ferry from Meridien, less-developed Sapelo is the home of the Geechee, who are descended directly from former African slaves. Note that you must have a reservation for a day tour or a reservation to camp or stay at one of the island's small hotels in order to take the ferry over.

Little St. Simons Island. Little St. Simons, a private island with accommodations for a limited number of overnight guests and day-trippers, is accessible by private launch from the northern end of St. Simons.

Sea Island. One of the wealthiest private communities in the U.S., Sea Island is accessible only to residents and guests at The Cloister, the island's swanky resort hotel.

St. Simons Island. The most developed of the Golden Isles is a well-rounded vacation destination with a variety of hotels and restaurants in varying price ranges.

Jekyll Island. Once the playground for the rich and famous, Jekyll is now more egalitarian. It's pristine beaches are uncommercialized and open to all, and the range of resorts and restaurants appeals to a wide range of travelers.

Cumberland Island. Reachable only by ferry, this virtually pristine island is a national seashore and has only one accommodation (a former Carnegie family mansion) and a few campgrounds.

Okefenokee National Wildlife Range. The Okefenokee is a mysterious world where, as a glance at a map will indicate, all roads suddenly disappear. This large, interior wetland is navigable only by boat, and it can be confusing and intimidating to the uninitiated. None of the individual parks within the area give a sense of the total Okefenokee experience—each has its own distinct natural features. Choose the park that best aligns with your interests and begin there.