About this city
Also known as: Gateway to Cumberland Island
Positioned on the north bank of the St. Marys River along the Atlantic coastline in southernmost Georgia, St. Marys is the state's second-oldest city and the historic county seat of Camden County. Established in 1787 and formally incorporated in 1802, the town originally thrived as a vital maritime shipping port, lumber fabrication center, and a base for early naval operations during the War of 1812. In the late 20th century, its strategic marine value was reinforced with the construction of the massive Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, the East Coast homeport for the U.S. Navy's nuclear Ohio-class submarines. Today, St. Marys carefully balances its high-security defense economy with a picturesque, oak-lined historic waterfront downtown that acts as the primary ferry gateway to Cumberland Island.
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Economics & Local Vibe
Practical Tourism Metadata
Suggested stay: 1–2 days
Board the passenger ferry to explore the wild beaches of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Tour the interactive train cars and engines at the St. Marys Express Railroad Museum. Stroll the historic waterfront park to watch sailboats at sunset.
