Cumberland Island is Georgia's unique jewel. Not only is it designated as a National Seashore, it has the distinction of being America's largest wilderness island, and boasts 17 miles of fabulously pristine sandy beaches. While a visit here requires some planning, it is undoubtedly worth the trip.

Those searching for a mega beach resort should look elsewhere. Cumberland Island is a calming, peaceful island where visitors enjoy simple pleasures such as beach combing, observing wild horses, and listening to the sounds of a variety of birds that call this special island home. It would be difficult to find another place with such natural beauty.

There is an unbelievable variety of wildlife on the island. Visitors may see grandiose sea turtles, feral hogs, whitetail deer, wild turkeys, and armadillos. Cumberland Island offers bird watchers a special delight. As part of the 18 site Colonial Coast Birding Trail, Cumberland is home to brown pelicans, great herons, and painted buntings, just to name a few. Guided naturalist tours are available and interpretive programs are conducted daily.

Lodging options are limited to camping, and the luxurious Greyfield Inn. Both offer visitors a unique way to explore this gorgeous island. Campers must be well prepared, and bring with them everything they'll need. The only amenities offered by the National Park Service are bathrooms and water fountains. The historic Greyfield Inn was built in 1900 for the daughter of Thomas and Lucy Carnegie, and provides guests with everything imaginable.

While on the island, visitors should consider exploring the majestic ruins of Dungeness. This was the original island estate, built by Thomas and Lucy Carnegie in the late 1800s.

The Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum is located in St. Marys. This outstanding museum offers insight into the lives of the people that once inhibited the island- from Native Americans to the elite Carnegie family. Nearby, visitors will catch the ferry that transports them to Cumberland Island.

Cumberland Island is a barrier island, located on the southeastern most tip of Georgia. It is seven miles east of St. Marys, Georgia, and accessible by ferryboat from St. Marys and from Amelia Island, Florida.