The stretching between Savannah and Jacksonville may look like another highway on the map, but the Georgia coastal route is full of unexpected treasures that will turn easy driving into unforgettable adventures. You will find everything from the smallest church in America to the world-class sea turtle hospital, plus the pure barrier islands where wild horses roam. This is not your typical interstate slog, each stop offers something completely different, whether you are looking for spiritual reflection, wildlife meeting, or stepping back in time in a remote island paradise. Your camera packs, comfortable walking shoes, and maybe some bug spray, as you will experience a true type of southern charm and natural beauty that makes the road trip a magical.
Only one mile south of I-95 in Exit 67, you will find what is considered the smallest church in America, measuring a comfortable 10 × 15 feet. This small shelter was lovingly built in 1949 by Mrs. Agnes Harper’s local grocery store as a place of meditation for tired tourists, and today it is still open 24/7 for anyone looking for peace. The charming chapel has an amazing colored glass window originally imported from England. This is something that will blow your mind, the land is legally considered Jesus Christ. After a terrible fire in 2015, the community united to rebuild this beloved landmark, which was redeemed in 2017. You can step into the intimate space sitting 12-15 people, sign a guest book, and if you are lucky to visit the third Sunday of the month, you may be able to catch a service that is not led by local ministers.
This recovery facility is Georgia’s only sea turtle hospital and must see wildlife fans. Since opening in 2007, they have treated more than 3,000 patients with an impressive 60% release rate for sea turtles, making it educational experience and conservation success stories. The center offers interactive exhibitions and hospital visits behind the screen where you can see the recovery process in action, giving you a real appreciation for this ancient sailor. If you visit during the nesting season (May to October), book one of their night or dawn patrol programs to see nesting or hatching with field biologists, this is an experience you will never forget. Remember to bring red lights only if you plan any beach activities during the turtle season, as regular lights can distinguish between moms and children. Your entry allows for re -entry throughout the day, so you can easily combine it with other Jekyll Island attractions.
Your gateway to Georgia’s largest and most pure Barrier Island starts at the charming St Marys Visitor Center, where you will catch a 45 -minute trip to Cumberland Island. Beaches and forests that have not been developed in 18 miles are home to more than 300 species of birds, wild horses, crocodiles, and serve as Georgia’s main turtle turtle nesting sites. The interesting history of the island includes native people to the Spanish mission to a luxurious Carnegie family estate, including a beautiful Dungeness ruins that create incredible pictures. Ferry bookings are very important, especially during the peak season, with tickets about $ 20 for adults and $ 15 for children, plus an additional $ 5 if you carry a bike. Once on the island, you will have more than 50 miles from the climbing path to explore, but come ready with serious bug spray since mosquitoes, lice, and not to see-UMS can be relentless, especially in the summer. Remember to keep your distance from wild horses, they may look magnificent, but they are unpredictable wild animals and cannot be fed or approached.
Your final stop takes you to Catty Shack Ranch Jacksonville, providing a home to save big cats and other exotic animals. This non -profit sanctuary operates with strict breeding, no sales, no trade policy, ensuring that every tiger, lion, cougar, tiger, bear, and fox you will find have found their permanent retirement home. You can choose from a day -to -day visit (daily evening), breastfeeding (Friday and Saturday nights), or enrichment visits (Sunday), each offering a unique perspective on animal care and behavior. The real night of the night -the great, watching the beautiful cats eating up to 600 pounds of meat while the executive director shares an exciting story that will give you fun in the best way. The facility is fully accessible to dirt and wrapped grass, making it easy to navigate with a wheelchair or baby car. Do not go without visiting their gift shop, where every purchase directly supports this incredible animal care, or consider “adopting” one of the residents to contribute to their ongoing well -being.
Your Georgia beach adventure awaits!
From signing a guest book in the smallest church in America to watch the big sea turtle -healing and returning to the ocean, you have a savannah to the Jacksonville Journey that will give you goosebumps and memories of survival. Each stop offers something completely different, so whether you’re a historical fan, a wildlife fans, or someone who just likes to find a hidden gem, this Georgia adventure is protected. So gas on the car, take your surprise, and be prepared to experience a true Southern magic type that reminds you why road trips are still the best way to explore America.