Dungeness Dock

Near Dungeness Dock, several excellent dining options are available in St. Marys. Locals Dockside is a popular choice for seafood and steak, offering a cozy atmosphere with outdoor seating and a great selection of beers and cocktails. Another favorite is Southern River Walk, known for its Southern cuisine, live music, and rooftop seating. For a casual dining experience, St Marys Seafood & More offers a wide variety of seafood dishes in a lively setting. Seagles Restaurant provides a historic dining experience with a focus on seafood. Lastly, Riverside Cafe offers a cozy setting with great coffee and desserts.

For accommodations near Dungeness Dock, St. Marys offers several comfortable options. The Riverview Hotel is a relaxed choice with a restaurant and bar, located across from the river. The Spencer House Inn is a historic bed and breakfast with elegant rooms and verandas. For a more luxurious stay, the Goodbread House offers quirky romance-themed rooms. In nearby Kingsland, the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson provides a convenient stay with free breakfast and an indoor pool.

On Cumberland Island, amenities are limited but well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts. The Sea Camp Ranger Station offers bike rentals, and campers can rent carts for transporting gear. Restrooms are available at the Ranger Station and near some of the historic sites. There are no showers or picnic areas on the island, emphasizing its natural and undeveloped state. Visitors must bring their own food and water, as there are no dining facilities on the island.

For those arriving by private boat, docking is available on a first-come basis at the Sea Camp and Dungeness docks, with some restrictions. The island's remote nature means that visitors must be self-sufficient and prepared for their stay.

In St. Marys, amenities are more readily available, including restaurants, shops, and hotels with full services like Wi-Fi and breakfast.

Cumberland Island offers a variety of activities for visitors. Hiking and walking are popular, with trails that explore the island's diverse habitats, including beaches, forests, and marshes. Camping is available at designated sites, providing an immersive experience with nature. Wildlife viewing is another highlight, with opportunities to see wild horses, dolphins, and numerous bird species. The island's historic sites, such as the Dungeness Ruins, offer a glimpse into its rich past.

For those interested in water activities, swimming and beachcombing are enjoyable pastimes. However, kayaking and canoeing are not supported by the ferry service, so visitors must arrange private transportation for these activities.

The Lands and Legacies Tour is a guided van tour that explores the island's history and natural beauty, providing a comprehensive experience for visitors.

Cumberland Island offers limited accessibility options due to its natural and undeveloped state. The ferry service does not accommodate wheelchairs beyond the dock areas, and the island's trails and beaches are not wheelchair accessible. However, the Visitor Center in St. Marys provides accessible facilities, including parking and restrooms.

For those with mobility issues, it is advisable to plan carefully and consider the challenges of navigating the island's terrain. In St. Marys, many restaurants and hotels offer wheelchair-accessible facilities, making it easier for visitors with disabilities to enjoy their stay.

Parking for visitors to Cumberland Island is available in St. Marys. The official parking lot for the park is located a block west of the Visitor Center, and there is also free roadside parking available. Vehicles must be parked in these designated areas, as parking in front of the Visitor Center is only allowed for dropping off equipment or checking in for the ferry. Vehicles left after the ferry departs will be towed.

The parking lot offers ample space for both day visitors and campers, with handicap parking available. It is important to lock vehicles and not leave valuables in sight.

On the island itself, there are no parking facilities for cars, as the island is only accessible by foot or bike.

Cumberland Island has a fascinating history, having been inhabited by various cultures, including Native Americans and wealthy industrialists like the Carnegies. The island is also known for its wild horses, believed to be descended from horses brought by Spanish settlers in the 16th century.

The island's unique ecosystem supports a wide range of wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and over 300 species of birds. Its pristine beaches and undeveloped nature make it a rare gem along the U.S. East Coast.

The island has been affected by significant historical events, including the Civil War and the Gilded Age, when it was a popular retreat for the wealthy.

Cumberland Island is rich in attractions, both natural and historical. The Dungeness Ruins are a major draw, offering a glimpse into the island's past as the site of a grand mansion built by the Carnegie family. The island's pristine beaches, such as Dungeness Beach and Sea Camp Beach, are perfect for relaxation and beachcombing.

The island's diverse wildlife, including wild horses and numerous bird species, makes it a haven for nature lovers. The First African Baptist Church, a historic site, is another significant attraction.

In St. Marys, nearby attractions include the Crooked River State Park, which offers boating and hiking opportunities, and the historic downtown area with its shops and restaurants.