City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Sapelo Island, Georgia
Situated along the coast of Georgia between Tybee Island and St. Simons Island, Sapelo Island is a hidden gem perfect for boaters and adventurers seeking natural beauty and cultural richness. Accessible only by ferry, this barrier island offers a retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life with its pristine beaches, lush marshlands and vibrant history. Let’s check out a few things to do from private boat slip rentals.
Reynolds Mansion
Photo: Reynolds Mansion on Sapelo Island (Facebook)
Perched atop Sapelo's highest point, and part of a state park, the Reynolds Mansion stands as a testament to the island's fascinating history. Built in the early 20th century by Thomas Spalding's descendants, this grand mansion served as their winter retreat. Today, it serves as a guest house for researchers, offering a glimpse into the island's aristocratic past with its elegant architecture and lush surroundings. The park also offers a campground, an 1820s lighthouse and a 6,110-acre reserve.
Sapelo Island Lighthouse
Photo: Sapelo Island Lighthouse (Facebook)
Guiding ships along Georgia's coast since 1820, the Sapelo Island Lighthouse is a beacon of maritime history and a wonderful site to visit from private boat dock rentals. While the original lighthouse was destroyed during the Civil War, the current structure, built in 1820, still stands tall. Visitors can learn about the lighthouse's rich history and enjoy breathtaking vistas from its observation deck.
Nanny Goat Beach
Photo: Sapelo Island Birdhouses (Facebook)
Named after the feral goats that once roamed the island, Nanny Goat Beach is a secluded paradise for boaters and beach lovers to visit from marinas or private boat slips for rent. With its pristine white sand and crystal-clear water, this beach provides the perfect setting for swimming, sunbathing and beachcombing. Nature enthusiasts can also explore the nearby salt marshes, home to a diverse array of coastal wildlife.
Hog Hammock Community
Photo: Tripadvisor
At the heart of Sapelo Island lies Hog Hammock, the island's only inhabited community and a living testament to Gullah-Geechee culture. Descendants of West African slaves have called this community home for generations, preserving their unique traditions, language and cuisine. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Hog Hammock through guided tours, cultural events and interactions with locals.
Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve
Photo: Tripadvisor
Encompassing over 6,100 acres of salt marshes, tidal creeks and maritime forests, the Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve is a haven for ecological research and conservation. Explore miles of hiking trails, kayak through winding waterways and observe diverse ecosystems. Educational programs and guided tours offer insights into the island's ecological significance and the importance of coastal conservation.
The next time you’re searching for somewhere to take the boat, sail out of the private boat dock rental and head to Sapelo Island. Let us know your favorites!
