The Georgia Coastline: Exploring Barrier Islands and Hidden Histories

The Georgia coastline is a dynamic blend of barrier islands, saltwater marshes, and ancient oak forests. Serving as a natural buffer against Atlantic storms, these islands have witnessed a diverse tapestry of inhabitants, from Indigenous peoples and Spanish missionaries to pirates, plantation owners, and industrial magnates.

Cumberland Island

A Secluded Retreat

Cumberland Island, Georgia’s largest barrier island, unfolds its rich history through Greyfield Inn. Accessible only by private ferry, the inn, originally built by industrialist Thomas Carnegie, offers a glimpse into the island’s past. Amidst evening meals requiring jackets for men and wild horses grazing on the lawn, Cumberland’s history comes alive, including the site of John F. Kennedy Jr.’s wedding.

Sapelo Island

A Cultural Tapestry

Sapelo Island, with its undeveloped beaches, presents a unique tension between preservation and neglect. Home to the Gullah-Geechee community, Sapelo’s Chocolate Plantation ruins and slave quarters speak to the island’s complex past. Families tracing their roots back ten generations offer a rare connection to African American ancestry, making preservation crucial.

Sea Island

Where History Meets Luxury

Sea Island, intertwined with Sapelo’s history, stands as an exclusive enclave with the historic Cloister at Sea Island Resort. Dating back to 1928, this Spanish-colonial-style resort reflects the region’s wealthy ownership. Hosting presidents and industry titans, Sea Island combines elegant getaways with preservation efforts, emphasizing the need to protect even well-secured spaces.

Little St. Simons Island

A Pristine Wilderness

Little St. Simons Island, largely untouched for centuries, unfolds as a pristine escape. With private boat access and a conservation easement, the island remains unspoiled, offering an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. Conservation efforts led by former U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson Jr. ensure perpetual protection, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the island’s natural wonders, from fishing and kayaking to witnessing the hatching of sea turtles.

Exploring Georgia’s barrier islands unveils not only breathtaking landscapes but also the importance of preserving the intertwined histories of these secluded paradises. Each island tells a story of resilience, from the days of plantations and slavery to the present, emphasizing the need to protect both ecosystems and cultural heritage for generations to come.