Planning a trip to Cumberland Island

Getting There -- The only public transportation to the island is via the ferry from St. Marys on the mainland. (Get to St. Marys on Ga. 40 from I-95 or U.S. 17.) You must reserve passage on the ferry; contact the National Park Service, Cumberland Island National Seashore (tel. 912/882-4335; www.nps.gov/cuis). There are two trips daily from March through November every day at 9am and 11:45am, returning 10:15am and 4:45pm; there is also an additional departure at 2:45pm Wednesday through Saturday up to September 30. December to February the ferry departs 9am and 11:45am Thursday through Monday, returning at 10:15am and 4:45pm. In summer, book as far in advance as possible. The fare is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, and $14 for children 12. These fees are in addition to the island admission fee, which is $4 for ages 16 and above (good for 7 days).

Bike rentals are first-come first-served and are beach cruiser–type bikes. Rentals are $16 per day, or $20 if keeping the bike over night. Camping is $4 per night, or $2 for backcountry camping.

If you plan to stay overnight in the hotel, the best way to reach Cumberland is by the Greyfield Inn ferry, the Lucy R. Ferguson, which maintains a regular schedule to Fernandina Beach, Florida. Reservations are necessary and must be made through the Greyfield Inn.

Visitor Information -- Information is available from the Greyfield Inn or from the National Park website.