Cumberland Island National Seashore, just off the coast of southern Georgia, is a breathtaking destination known for its pristine undeveloped beaches, rich history, and wildlife viewing opportunities. When planning your visit, you’ll need places to stay near Cumberland Island. We’ve explored throughout the area and compiled our favorites to share with you!
Whether you’re looking to relax on the white sand beaches, explore the winding biking trails, or delve into the island’s intriguing history, Cumberland Island is the perfect spot for an off-the-grid getaway.
You just have to reach the island! Taking the Cumberland Island Ferry is a relatively easy task, but especially if you book the first ferry trip of the morning, you’ll be looking for places to stay near Cumberland Island, Georgia.
We’ve compiled our favorite places to stay near the Cumberland Island Ferry, so you can explore the town of St. Marys and easily be ready to head out to Cumberland Island.
Short on time? Here are our favorite places to stay near Cumberland Island, GA:
| ➡️ Best Budget Hotel | Surestay Plus by Best Western Kingston |
| ➡️ Best Luxury Resort | Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island |
| ➡️ Best Bed & Breakfast | Goodbread House Bed & Breakfast Inn |
Hotels Near Cumberland Island
When planning a visit to Cumberland Island, Georgia, you’ll need to decide whether you’re planning to take advantage of the primitive camping on the island or take a day trip to Cumberland Island while spending time in a nearby town.
Whether you’re seeking luxury or budget-friendly options, there are plenty of hotels and accommodations near the Cumberland Island ferry to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a waterfront stay or a charming bed and breakfast, there is a perfect place to stay near Cumberland Island.
Riverview Hotel
The Riverview Hotel is a popular hotel located near Cumberland Island in Georgia. You can’t get a much more convenient place to stay near the Cumberland Island ferry dock. This historic inn is right across the street!
This hotel offers a range of amenities to ensure a pleasant experience for its guests. From spacious and uniquely appointed rooms to complimentary breakfast, the Riverview Hotel goes above and beyond to cater to its visitors.
➡️ Check Availability and Book the Riverview Hotel
For those planning a day trip to Cumberland Island, the Riverview Hotel offers a brown bag lunch, typically including a sandwich, chips, fruit, and a drink, to enjoy while exploring the island. Just make sure you order your lunches the night before, so staff can have them ready for you prior to departing for your ferry ride.
Please note that this hotel is a historic property, and there are no elevators in the building. Rooms are arranged on 2 floors.
Surestay Plus Hotel
While it’s a little further from the dock, the Surestay Plus Hotel is a delightful hotel offering comfortable accommodations and convenient amenities. Situated in the heart of St. Marys, this hotel is the perfect base or stopover while exploring the area.
Guests at the Surestay Plus Hotel can enjoy the hotel’s prime location in St. Marys, with easy access to not only Cumberland Island, but also Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, and Jekyll Island.
➡️ Click to Book the Surestay Plus Hotel St. Marys
Whether you want to spend your days lounging on the beautiful beaches with the wild horses of Cumberland Island National Seashore or exploring other nearby attractions, this hotel is a perfect choice.
With its close proximity to Jacksonville Airport, only about 30 minutes to the south, and easily accessible off of I-95N, the Surestay Plus Hotel is also a great option for travelers coming from afar.
The hotel provides guests with convenient access to major highways, without having to detour too much and waste time on the road. It also offers a range of amenities including complimentary breakfast.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Kingsland
The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Kingsland is the ideal choice for travelers visiting the Cumberland Island area for a quick stop. Conveniently located right off of I-95 and just 15 minutes from the Cumberland Island Ferry dock, this hotel offers a comfortable stay with a range of amenities and easy access.
One of the highlights of this hotel is its complimentary breakfast. Those Holiday Inn Express breakfasts are always a treat with plenty of options. Whether you prefer a quick grab-and-go bite with fruit and a bagel or a leisurely hot breakfast, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites has you covered.
We always have a great experience at Holiday Inn Express properties, and this one is no different.
➡️ Click Here to Book the Holiday Inn Express Kingsland
Cheap Hotels Near Cumberland Island
If you’re planning a trip to Cumberland Island, Georgia and you’re on a budget, don’t worry! There are plenty of cheaper hotels and affordable accommodations in the area to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway or a longer stay, you’ll find budget-friendly options for places to stay near Cumberland Island that won’t break the bank.
A great option is the SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western in Kingsland. This hotel offers comfortable rooms at affordable rates. Everything we’ve seen is under $100, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.
This hotel is especially great because you can be at the Cumberland Island Ferry dock in less than 10 minutes by driving!
Another option is the Microtel Inn Kingsland, which offers competitive prices right off of I-95.
The Microtel is further from the ferry dock and the charming little town of St. Marys, Georgia. It typically takes about 20 minutes by car to get there. However, if you’re looking for convenience to the interstate and planning a quick day trip to Cumberland Island, this would be a budget-friendly place for you.
We always recommend reading the reviews on budget-friendly places before booking. That way, you can consider the pros and cons, deciding which place is best for you!
Luxury Hotels Near Cumberland Island
If you’re seeking a more luxurious experience during your stay near Cumberland Island, there are several upscale options available. Addressing both comfort and elegance, these hotels provide top-notch amenities and impeccable service.
One such option is the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. This exquisite beachfront property located on Amelia Island is just a short 45-minute drive from access to Cumberland Island. This upscale five star hotel offers stunning ocean views, spacious suites, and a variety of amenities, including multiple swimming pools, and a full-service spa.
Another fantastic choice is the Omni Amelia Island Resort, located on Amelia Island as well. Boasting a 4-star rating, this resort offers beautiful beaches and an array of recreational activities. Request a sunrise view room and wake up early to enjoy stunning views of sun coming up over the ocean.
When looking for a luxury stay near Cumberland Island, these hotels guarantee a memorable and indulgent experience. Whether you prefer beachfront extravagance or historic charm, these properties provide the perfect setting for a truly exceptional stay.
Bed & Breakfasts near the Cumberland Island Ferry
When visiting Cumberland Island, there are two delightful bed and breakfast options near the Cumberland Island Ferry dock that offer a charming and inviting experience.
These accommodations provide a cozy and personalized stay, allowing guests to relax and feel at home while exploring the area.
From historic buildings to idyllic settings, these bed and breakfasts offer a unique and intimate atmosphere.
Goodbread House Bed & Breakfast Inn
The Goodbread House Bed & Breakfast Inn offers guests a charming and comfortable stay in a historic setting. This beautiful inn is known for its warm hospitality and delightful accommodations.
This makes an excellent spot to stay while taking a day trip to Cumberland Island because their staff will help you secure ferry tickets and even pack a picnic lunch for your group! The visit can’t get much easier!
After having the trip to Cumberland Island planned, you can walk to catch the ferry. It’s only a couple of blocks away.
➡️ Click Here to Check Availability at the Goodbread House
Then, you’ll have a cozy place to stay after spending the day in the sun, visiting with the wild horses of Cumberland Island, and searching for shark teeth.
The Goodbread House Bed & Breakfast Inn features elegantly appointed rooms, each with its own unique decor and character. The inn also provides a delicious complimentary breakfast, allowing guests to start their day with a hearty meal before exploring.
With its prime location in downtown St. Marys, guests have easy access to the town’s shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Spencer House Inn Bed & Breakfast
Located right in the charming town of St. Marys, Georgia, Spencer House Inn Bed & Breakfast offers a historic and unforgettable stay in the heart of downtown. Just a couple of blocks from the Cumberland Island ferry dock, this elegant inn is the perfect choice for visitors looking to explore the area.
The Spencer House Inn, with its distinctively colored exterior and welcoming porches, exudes southern charm and hospitality. The inn features beautifully appointed rooms, each with its own unique character and style.
➡️ Click here to Check Availability at the Spencer House Inn
One of the notable highlights of the Spencer House Inn is its delicious homemade breakfast, served each morning in the charming dining room. Guests can start their day with a tasty assortment of fresh pastries, fruit, and savory dishes, all prepared with care by the inn’s friendly staff.
The inn’s convenient location allows guests to easily explore downtown St. Marys, with its quaint shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
Attractions to Visit Nearby
When staying near Cumberland Island, Georgia, you’ll find plenty of other attractions to explore, too. From beautiful beaches to historical landmarks, this coastal area of southern Georgia is a hidden gem.
Downtown St. Marys is a great spot to explore, with its charming shops, restaurants, and historical sites.
If you want to explore further, though, these are a few of our favorite places.
Amelia Island
Just a short distance away from Cumberland Island, Georgia, lies the enchanting Amelia Island in Florida. Known for its stunning beaches and luxurious resorts, Amelia Island is a popular destination for those seeking a relaxing coastal getaway in a more developed setting.
Amelia Island is where you’ll find some of the most luxurious places to stay near Cumberland Island.
Stroll along the pristine sandy beaches, bask in the warm Florida sun, and immerse yourself in the island’s vibrant maritime culture.
Discover Amelia Island’s abundant outdoor activities, from kayaking through salt marshes to spotting wildlife in the scenic state parks. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking relaxation, Amelia Island promises an unforgettable and rejuvenating experience.
Fernandina Beach
Even though it is located on the stunning Amelia Island, we thought Fernandina Beach was worth specifically mentioning. It’s is a charming coastal town on the barrier island.
Explore the historic streets of Fernandina Beach, the island’s quaint Victorian-era town, where well-preserved architecture and charming boutiques await.
Take leisurely walks along the historic streets, where you’ll find an array of delightful eateries serving fresh seafood and southern cuisine.
The pristine beaches beckon for sun-soaked afternoons and leisurely beachcombing. Whether it’s browsing the charming boutiques, delving into the area’s rich maritime history, or simply unwinding on the sandy shores, Fernandina Beach promises a memorable and rejuvenating coastal getaway.
Jekyll Island
Visiting Jekyll Island, Georgia, is a delightful contrast to what you’ll find on Cumberland Island. This serene barrier island offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and recreational activities.
The historic Millionaires’ Village showcases grand mansions from the Gilded Age, giving a glimpse into the island’s past.
The pristine beaches invite sunbathing, beachcombing, and water sports. Biking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities offer a chance to connect with nature. You can even visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, a rescue and rehabilitation facility located on Jekyll Island.
Golfers can tee off at the island’s acclaimed golf courses, surrounded by scenic vistas. With its charming shops, delectable restaurants, and laid-back ambiance, Jekyll Island promises an unforgettable escape.
If you’re planning a trip to Cumberland Island, and wondering where to stay, you have several great options. Whether you prefer a luxury resort, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a traditional hotel room, there are accommodations to suit every taste and budget near Cumberland Island.
From the historic charm of St. Marys to the peacefulness of the nearby coastal towns, you’ll find a variety of places to stay that will ease your trip and allow you to experience this beautiful island.
So, no matter where you stay near Cumberland Island, you’re sure to have a memorable and enjoyable visit.
