St. Marys

St. Marys, Georgia, is a captivating coastal city on the southernmost tip of the state, where the St. Marys River greets the Atlantic. Often called the "Gateway to Cumberland Island," it serves as the departure point for the ferry to the unspoiled Cumberland Island National Seashore, celebrated for its wild horses and venerable ruins.

Beyond its role as a launching pad to the barrier islands, St. Marys itself offers a preserved slice of the Old South. Its historic downtown, with broad, oak-lined avenues, displays 19th-century architecture and a relaxed, unhurried rhythm. This appealing waterfront community, one of Georgia's oldest towns, invites visitors to explore its deep past, from Native American origins to its strategic military chapters, all while savoring genuine Southern hospitality.

From Buttermilk Bluff to Bustling Seaport

Before European settlement, the land that would become St. Marys was inhabited by the Timucua Indians, specifically the Mocama. Spanish missions were established in the area during the 16th and 17th centuries, with Santa Maria on nearby Amelia Island, Florida, being a possible namesake for the town. The British Colonial Council first considered the site for a city in 1767, initially naming it Buttermilk Bluff. After the American Revolution, the land, confiscated from loyalist brothers of the royal governor, came into the possession of Jacob Weed. In 1787, Weed and nineteen other men signed the "Articles of Agreement" on Cumberland Island, delineating the town with its distinctive 100-foot-wide streets. St. Marys was officially established as a town by an act of the Georgia Legislature in 1792 and incorporated in 1802.

As a natural deep-water harbor shielded by Cumberland Island, St. Marys swiftly became an active seaport, facilitating trade and shipbuilding. By the mid-1840s, it ranked as Georgia's fifth-largest city. Its strategic location, however, also drew it into major conflicts. During the War of 1812, the British captured St. Marys and Fort Point Peter in 1815. The town was plundered, and its population significantly reduced. The Civil War brought further hardship, with Union gunboats shelling the waterfront. Despite these challenges, St. Marys rebuilt, and by the 1870s, it was a flourishing town once again.

The 20th century saw the rise and fall of industries like the Gilman Paper Company, which brought employment but eventually closed. A significant development was the establishment of the Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base in 1955, the largest peacetime construction project in Navy history, which continues to be a major economic driver. Today, St. Marys thrives on its heritage and ecotourism, recognized for its appeal and as a gateway to natural wonders.

Begin your exploration at the St. Marys Waterfront Park, a serene spot for observing shrimp boats and taking a walk along the boardwalk. From here, board the ferry to Cumberland Island National Seashore to discover wild horses, untouched beaches, and the Dungeness ruins.

Back on the mainland, immerse yourself in history with the St. Marys History Walk, a 600-foot trail with interpretive panels detailing the area's past, located near Oak Grove Cemetery. Visit the St. Marys Submarine Museum, which offers exhibits on submarine history and a working periscope, adjacent to the Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base. Explore the historic downtown, where you'll find beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings, distinctive shops, and eateries. Do not miss Orange Hall, a fine example of Greek Revival architecture, which is open to the public as a house museum. The First Presbyterian Church, with its Paul Revere-cast bell, is another notable historic structure.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, Crooked River State Park offers walking paths through maritime forests and salt marshes, along with opportunities for birdwatching and boating. The St. Marys Tabby Trail provides an 11-mile path for biking and walking from the waterfront to Crooked River State Park. You can also enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding through the tidal marshes.

St. Marys enjoys a mild, subtropical climate, making it pleasant for visits throughout much of the year. For warm-weather activities, the most agreeable times to visit are from late March to mid-May and from early October to mid-November, when temperatures are comfortable and humidity is lower. Spring and autumn offer moderate temperatures, ranging from 65°F to 86°F (18°C to 30°C), and fewer rainy days compared to summer.

The summer months, from June to August, are the warmest, with average highs around 90°F (32°C), but also the wettest and most humid. Winters are generally mild, with average temperatures in December ranging from 53°F to 67°F (11°C to 19°C), making it a good time for sightseeing without the heat.

St. Marys is situated on the southernmost reach of the Georgia coast, approximately six miles from the Atlantic Ocean and just off Interstate 95. The St. Marys Welcome Center, located at 400 Osborne Street in the historic district, is an excellent first stop for brochures, maps, and information on local attractions, dining, and lodging. They also offer a 15-minute video about St. Marys and Cumberland Island. Golf cart rentals are available for exploring the downtown area. Many historic inns and bed and breakfasts are available for lodging in the downtown area, along with various cafes and restaurants. Reservations for the Cumberland Island Ferry are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, as tickets can sell out in advance. The town hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including the popular Rock Shrimp Festival in the fall.