Sapelo Island Reserve

The Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve protects 6,110 acres of high-quality saltmarsh and tidal waters in the center of the Georgia coast. The Reserve’s outreach and research initiatives focus on the island’s natural ecosystems and its cultural and historical resources. The renowned University of Georgia Marine Institute is located within the Reserve. The island has a rich Native American history, dating back more than 4,500 years. Reserve attractions include Nanny Goat Beach and the Sapelo Lighthouse. The historic Reynolds Mansion sits within Reserve boundaries and is operated as a guest lodge by Georgia’s Department of Natural Resources Parks & Historic Sites Division. The Sapelo Island Visitors Center near the mainland ferry dock welcomes visitors and educates them about the unique ecological, historical, and cultural features of Sapelo Island.