Hike to Sea Camp Beach

There are plenty of opportunities for exploration on Cumberland Island's miles of beach.

NPS/ Audrey Bohl

Cumberland Island’s beach is pristine. Any trip to the island is not complete without a trek over the dunes to the wide open beach. If you just want to spend the day at the beach, the easiest crossing is at Sea Camp. The trail winds just over half a mile through the maritime forest. Take a moment to admire the live oak trees overheard that have been shaped by the wind and salt spray. Stop at the campground bathhouse to fill your water bottle and use the restroom before heading to the boardwalk which leads you out of the forest and over the dunes. The sand dunes are a great place to look for animal tracks. Make sure you stay on the boardwalk and path to avoid damaging the sensitive dunes. At the end of the boardwalk, there is a short section of soft sand before you get to the beach. Make a note of the black and white striped pole, as this indicates where to cross the dunes when leaving the beach. 

Feel free to go swimming, but keep in mind there are no lifeguards on the beach so swim at your own risk. You may collect unoccupied sea shells from the beach, but everything else is protected in the National Park.  

Details

Duration

20-30 Minutes

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

Pets are not allowed on the ferry, but are allowed on private boats. They must be leashed at all times. Please pick up after your pet and pack out the waste.

Activity Fee

Yes

All visitors 16 or older must pay the park entry fee or have an America the Beautiful pass with them. Fees can be paid on the island at self-pay stations located at each dock or in person at the Mainland Visitor Center. You may also pay your entrance fee in advance online at www.pay.gov.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Accessibility Information

This hike traverses several surfaces including well-packed trails, boardwalk and soft sand dune. There are no paved surfaces.