Sapelo Island Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Island

Facts and practical information

Sapelo Island, located in McIntosh County, Georgia, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and a tranquil atmosphere. With its pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and fascinating cultural heritage, this island destination has something to offer for every traveler.

Nature enthusiasts will be in awe of the unspoiled beauty of Sapelo Island. The island is home to several protected areas, including the Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve, which preserves the delicate ecosystem of the island's salt marshes, beaches, and maritime forests. Visitors can explore these untouched landscapes through guided tours, hiking trails, and wildlife spotting.

For those seeking relaxation, Sapelo Island boasts miles of pristine sandy beaches, where visitors can soak up the sun, swim in crystal-clear waters, or simply unwind amidst the soothing sounds of the ocean waves. The peaceful ambiance of the island makes it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

History buffs will be captivated by the rich cultural heritage of Sapelo Island. The island was once home to a thriving Gullah-Geechee community, descendants of enslaved West Africans who have preserved their unique language, traditions, and arts for generations. Visitors can immerse themselves in this vibrant culture by visiting the historic Hog Hammock community, exploring the Sapelo Island Cultural and Revitalization Society Museum, or attending one of the island's annual festivals celebrating Gullah-Geechee heritage.

In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Sapelo Island is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The island offers opportunities for fishing, boating, kayaking, and birdwatching, allowing visitors to connect with nature and indulge in their favorite outdoor activities.

Alternative names: Elevation: 3 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 31°25'43"N, 81°15'42"W

Location

GeorgiaUnited States

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Sapelo Island Top Attractions

Sapelo Island Attractions - What to See and Explore

Sapelo Island offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Sapelo Island Light, Behavior Cemetery, Sapelo Island Range Front Light, First African Baptist Church at Raccoon Bluff. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Lighthouse • Vernacular architecture
Sapelo Island Light
Sapelo Island Lighthouse is a lighthouse in Georgia, United States, near the southern tip of Sapelo Island. It is the nation's second-oldest brick lighthouse and the oldest survivor among lighthouses designed by Winslow Lewis.
Cemetery
Behavior Cemetery
Behavior Cemetery is a historic cemetery on Sapelo Island outside Hog Hammock, Georgia. The African-American cemetery is believed to date to before the American Civil War although the earliest marker is dated to the late 19th century.
Lighthouse • Vernacular architecture
Sapelo Island Range Front Light
The Sapelo Island Range Front Light is a lighthouse range light on Sapelo Island, Georgia, U.S. It is near the Sapelo Island Light and is a contributor to its 1997 National Register of Historic Places nomination.

Day trips

Sapelo Island – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Sapelo Island, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Fort Pulaski National Monument (Tybee Island), Fort King George Historic Site (Darien), Grayson Stadium (Savannah).

47 milesNE
Civil War landmark with trails and tours
Fort Pulaski National Monument, Tybee Island
Fort Pulaski National Monument stands as a testament to the transformative power of technology in warfare and the rich history of the United States. Located near Tybee Island in Chatham County, Georgia, this national monument was named after the Revolutionary War hero...
10 milesSW
Museum, Historical place, Military museum
Fort King George Historic Site, Darien
Fort King George Historic Site is a window into the early colonial history of the United States, located in the charming city of Darien, Georgia. This fort, nestled in McIntosh County, Georgia, is a reconstruction of the original Fort King George, the southernmost...
44 milesN
Arenas and stadiums, Sport venue, Sport
Grayson Stadium, Savannah
Grayson Stadium stands as a historic landmark in the heart of Savannah, Georgia. This classic ballpark, known for its intimate and nostalgic atmosphere, has been a cornerstone of the city's sports culture since its opening in 1926.
47 milesN
Museum, History museum, Military museum
Fort James Jackson, Savannah
Nestled on the banks of the Savannah River, Fort James Jackson stands as a silent sentinel to Georgia's storied past. This historic fortification, now a museum in Chatham County, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the military history of Savannah and the United...
22 milesS
Museum, History museum
St. Simons Island Light, Saint Simons Island
Standing as a beacon of maritime history on the southern coast of Georgia, the St. Simons Island Light is an iconic lighthouse that has been guiding sailors safely to shore since its establishment. This historical lighthouse, nestled in the heart of St.