City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Cumberland Island, Georgia
At 17.5 miles long, Cumberland Island is the largest and southernmost barrier island along Georgia’s coast. It’s a natural paradise rich in history, wildlife and scenic landscapes. With untouched maritime forests, expansive salt marshes and pristine beaches, it’s the perfect destination for visitors looking to experience unspoiled beauty and explore a bit of the state’s history.
Accessible only by ferry, Cumberland Island is located between Amelia Island, Florida and St. Simons Island, Georgia. It offers unique attractions that blend nature with traces of its storied past. Here's a look at some must-see spots on Cumberland Island, whether you’re spending time at private boat slip rentals or marinas on the mainland.
Dungeness Ruins
The Dungeness Ruins are one of the most iconic landmarks on Cumberland Island. Once a grand mansion built in the late 1800s by Thomas Carnegie, brother of steel magnate Andrew Carnegie, Dungeness was an extravagant symbol of the Carnegie family’s wealth. The mansion burned down in the 1950s, but the ruins remain an atmospheric reminder of the island’s Gilded Age history.
Strolling through these remnants, visitors can get a feel for the island's past grandeur while catching glimpses of wild horses that often graze near the ruins, adding to the surreal beauty of the site.
Plum Orchard Mansion
Another Carnegie legacy, Plum Orchard Mansion is a beautiful example of Georgian Revival architecture and offers visitors a look into the lavish lifestyles of the early 20th century. This 20,000-square-foot mansion was built in 1898 for Carnegie’s son George. Today, it’s preserved by the National Park Service and is open for tours that take you through the grand halls, bedrooms and even an indoor pool. Walking through Plum Orchard Mansion gives visitors a unique insight into the opulent world of the Carnegies and their impact on the island.
Sea Camp Beach
One of Cumberland Island’s most stunning natural attractions, Sea Camp Beach offers more than 17 miles of unspoiled shoreline to visit from a private boat lift or marina. With soft white sand and clear blue water, it’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing and picnicking. The beach is a popular spot for birdwatching, attracting species like pelicans, ospreys and gulls. Sea Camp Beach is the perfect place to relax and take in the island's beauty away from the bustle of mainland life.
Wildlife Viewing
Cumberland Island is home to many wildlife, including the famous wild horses that roam freely. The horses are believed to have descended from animals brought by Spanish settlers in the 16th century and add a sense of mystery to the landscape.
The island also hosts armadillos, white-tailed deer and a variety of bird species, from migratory shorebirds to bald eagles. Nature enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to observe these animals in their natural habitats, whether in the island’s woodlands, dunes or marshes.
The Ice House Museum
Located near the Dungeness dock, the Ice House Museum offers an in-depth overview of Cumberland Island’s history, from its Native American origins and colonial period to its days as a plantation and Carnegie estate.
With exhibits displaying artifacts and information on the island’s natural and human history, the museum provides a valuable context for everything visitors see during their exploration. The Ice House Museum is a great starting point for anyone new to the island or visiting from a private boat dock rental.
Cumberland Island National Seashore
The Cumberland Island National Seashore is a federally protected area that encompasses the entire island and preserves its landscapes and ecosystems. The Seashore offers camping at three sites: Sea Camp, Stafford Beach and wilderness backcountry camping. Each site allows visitors to enjoy the solitude and natural beauty of Cumberland Island up close. Backpacking and camping in this area are ideal for adventurous travelers.
