Swim at the Beach

Through the ages Cumberland's beach has been popular for recreation.

NPS photo

The beach on Cumberland Island is one of the highlights of the park. The wide open beaches invite long walks and the summer heat makes the ocean tempting to jump in. Swimming in the ocean is welcome on Cumberland Island. Ocean swimmers should be aware of the potential hazards that could be present in and near the ocean including rough surf, rip currents, and ocean animals with teeth and stingers.  

There are no lifeguards on the island, so safety is your responsibility. Make sure you have another person with you and keep a close eye on your kiddos.  

Wind and ocean conditions can cause rip currents to be present. Rip currents are powerful currents of water moving away from shore. They can sweep even the strongest swimmer away from shore. If caught in a rip current, don’t panic. Don’t swim against the current. Swim parallel to the shore, out of the current. If you can’t escape, float or tread water. Check the rip current risk at the National Weather Service webpage or at the Sea Camp ranger station weather board.  

Beach crossings are marked with a black and white pole. Please only cross at designated crossings and stay off the sand dunes to limit impact on this sensitive habitat.  

Sea Camp Beach is the closest beach to the ferry dock. At just over half a mile, the path leads through the maritime forest, past the campground bathhouse, and over the boardwalk to the beach. The bathhouse can be a great place to retreat to use the facilities or fill up water bottles. Hydration is key anytime, but especially in the hot summer months. 

Further north or south on the island? There’s likely a beach crossing near you. There are ten beach crossings in total. These are marked with a black and white pole. Keep in mind, if you are a day visitor and seeking out a more remote section of beach, you will need to backtrack that distance to the Sea Camp dock for your return ferry trip.  

Details

Activity

Saltwater Swimming

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

Accessing the beach visitors will traverse several types of surfaces including well packed trails, sand roads, wooden boardwalks, soft sand dunes and hard packed beach sand.