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Sapelo Island is like many of Georgia's barrier islands, yet its historical significance spans over 4,000 years and gives it a richly unique character. Once the province of the Guale Indian nation, Sapelo witnessed the territorial struggles between the Spanish, French and British. In the 19th Century, it was a successful plantation and the scene of many agricultural experiments. During the Civil War the island suffered from the devastation prevalent throughout the South, but in 1912 Howard Coffin, Hudson Motor Car Company executive, bought the island and began its rejuvenation. In 1934 tobacco magnate R. J. Reynolds, Jr. purchased Sapelo and later created the Sapelo Island Research Foundation and assisted the University of Georgia in setting up laboratory facilities. The State of Georgia purchased the northern sector of the island in 1969 for a wildlife refuge . . . a patchwork of forest, field and pond that serves as a haven for deer, wild turkey and water fowl. In 1976, another 6,100 acres was acquired and federally designated the Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve, one of 22 such Estuarine Research Reserves in the nation.
Sapelo Island's beauty and isolated nature continues to draw those who are interested in nature and who wish to preserve the delicate ecological balance of this coastal barrier island. During the 30-minute boat ride, the visitor can see stretches of smooth cordgrass marsh and various islands and hammocks. The Sapelo Island bus tour gives visitors a chance to view the marsh, the beach/dune sand sharing ecosystem and the wildlife management area. Also, nature trail, Reynolds Mansion and tabby sugar mill ruins.
Facilities on the island include restrooms and drinking fountains. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing and shoes appropriate for the season. Insect repellent is also a good item to bring along. There is not a lunch break except during the all-day tours; however, you may bring a snack. There is a stop at BJ's Confectionary or The Pig Pen in Hog Hammock for sodas and snacks. No pets are permitted.
For the island tour there is a $10 fee for adults, $6 students (ages 6-18), no charge for children under 6. Group rates available, size of group is limited. Extended tour includes both Reynolds Mansion and Lighthouse.
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