Looking for a laid-back, family-friendly getaway? Head to St. Marys, Georgia! Under two hours south of Savannah and an hour north of Jacksonville, this charming waterfront town has a little bit of everything from walkable streets, museums full of local history and outdoor adventures to tons of kid-friendly activities. Here’s how to make the most of your visit with the whole crew.
Adventures They’ll Love
Historic downtown St. Marys is perfect for exploring with kids. You’ll find some great local shops, from sweet treats to collectible items:
- Market on the Square is a favorite for candy, ice cream, and colorful accessories.
- D-Vine Sports Cards & Collectibles has all kinds of sports cards and game gear that kids (and grown-ups!) will love.
Want to make getting around even more fun? Rent a golf cart or bike and cruise through town in style. Camden Bicycle Center has bike rentals for all ages.
St. Marys is the perfect Summer getaway with kid-friendly attractions, casual restaurants, and summer camp programs that are packed full of fun, adventure and learning. Families can create unforgettable memories while exploring the natural beauty of our rivers, marshes and Cumberland Island. Visitors can plan daytrips to the beaches of St. Simon’s or Jekyll Island while taking advantage of our small-town atmosphere and affordable lodging rates and options.
angela wigger, city of st. mary’s director of tourism
Fun Times on the Waterfront
St. Marys Waterfront Park is a go-to spot for daily adventures. Think palm trees, birds soaring, fish jumping, and boats floating by. You’ll see something different every day. In the park you’ll find:
- A playground and picnic area
- A riverwalk and pier
- A gorgeous fountain
- Pet-friendly green space
- Annual festivals and events
It’s a great place to relax or kick off a day of exploring.
Submarines, History, and Hands-On Fun
Directly across from the waterfront park, the St. Marys Submarine Museum dives into the fascinating world of America’s submarine fleets. It’s the largest museum of its kind in the south and is packed with cool stuff including:
- Real submarine artifacts and models
- A working periscope with views of the water
- Historic documents and photos
Kids love the hands-on vibe, and adults will appreciate the rich history.
Just a few blocks away, the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum tells the story of the island just off the coast—from Native American settlements to colonial times and beyond.
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Want to visit the island itself? You can! Book a spot on the ferry at the Waterfront Visitor Center and spend the day hiking, beachcombing, or taking a guided tour on Cumberland Island. There are even wild horses on the island – sure to thrill your little guys and the big ones too! To make the most of your visit book a walking tour with a local guide.
Want to stay in the loop about all the coastal Georgia goodness? Join our “Coastal Insider” family and we’ll keep you posted on everything happening from Savannah to St. Mary’s. We’re talking new restaurants, hidden gem boutiques perfect for treasure hunting, and events that’ll have you feeling like a local in no time.
Outdoor Fun at Crooked River State Park
For more wilderness, but on the mainland so you can drive there, head to Crooked River State Park. This 500-acre park is loaded with family-friendly activities:
- Four hiking trails
- Kayaking routes
- Fishing spots and a boat ramp
- Mini-golf and geocaching
- A nature center with turtles, snakes, and fish
There’s even a historic sugar mill ruin nearby, great for exploring and fabulous photo opportunities.
Hidden gems like St. Marys are just one of many reasons we think you should pick Georgia over Florida this summer!
Creative Time and Playing in the Water
Looking for a rainy day activity or some creative fun? Check out Marsh Mud Pottery Studio at 815 Osborne Street, where kids and adults can pick out and paint their own pottery piece. They have plenty of colors and styles to choose from.
And when the sun’s out, cool off at the St. Marys Aquatic Center. With a lazy river, thrilling water slide, splash playground, and lap pool, there’s something for everyone. Shaded cabanas and a snack bar make it easy for parents to relax, too.
More Family Friendly Locations in Coastal Georgia:
- Jekyll Island is also full of historical sites and fun for the kids.
- St. Simons Island is one of the top beach towns in the south per Southern Living and most underrated U.S. vacation spot by Travel + Leisure.
- Brunswick is just minutes north of St. Mary’s and is also full of Fun Things to Do!
Where to Stay with the Family
St. Marys offers a wide range of family friendly places to stay, from cozy cottages to campgrounds:
Vacation Rentals
- Borne 605: A Vacation Rental Village offers options from 1- to 3-bedroom homes. Norris Cottage is an adorable two bedroom in the heart of downtown—perfect for walking to shops, restaurants, and the ferry dock.
- A full range of rentals in St. Mary’s can be found here.
Inns & B&Bs
- The Goodbread House Inn has Southern charm and a prime location near the waterfront. The front porch is an amazing spot to unwind after a busy day.
- Spencer House Inn is a Victoria era architectural gem in the heart of St. Mary’s. Not only are they family friendly, but they’re pet friendly too!
Camping
- For a more rustic experience, Crooked River State Park has wooded campsites and cottages nestled by this beautiful coastal Georgia tidal river. This is the spot for nature lovers and star gazers!
If you prefer to be closer to (or right on) the beach head just a few miles north to Jekyll Island or St. Simons Island. You can make easy day trips to St. Mary’s from either of those barrier islands.
If you’re at St. Mary’s in the fall (or anywhere along the Georgia coast) be sure to check out Fall Events in Coastal Georgia. There’s always something fun going on!
Final Thoughts
Whether your family loves history, the outdoors, or just spending time together in a unique small town setting, St. Marys is a hidden gem. With something fun to do around every corner, it’s a perfect destination for making memories with the kids one splash, stroll, and ferry ride at a time.
Currently planning a trip? Here are some helpful resources:
- Find the best hotel options here.
- Book the cheapest flight here.
- Find tons of tours and activities here.
- Book your rental car here.
More about coastal Georgia
- The Best Small Towns on the Georgia Coast for Retirees
- Georgia Beaches Ranked: A Local’s Guide to the Best Spots
- What to Eat on the Georgia Coast: Dishes You Need to Try
- 15 Best Attractions in Tybee Island
- Exploring Darien, Georgia: Things to Do in this Georgia Hidden Gem
- Coastal Georgia RV Resorts
- The Best Time to Visit Savannah
- Free Things to Do in Savannah
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