A Small Coastal Town with Award-Winning Charm, History, and Outdoor Adventure
Discover Why St. Marys, GA is a Hidden Gem on the Georgia Coast
Tucked along Georgia’s southeastern coast, St. Marys is a picturesque coastal town that has gained national recognition for its charm, history, natural beauty, and welcoming community. Known as the “Gateway to Cumberland Island,” this award-winning town offers a high quality of life, top-rated schools, and endless outdoor recreation, making it an ideal place to call home.
With numerous accolades from Southern Living, USA Today, and other national publications, it’s no surprise that more people are discovering the magic of St. Marys. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to retire, a charming town to raise a family, or an outdoor lover’s paradise, St. Marys offers a little bit of everything.
At Atlantic Salt Realty, we specialize in helping buyers find their dream home in St. Marys. If you’re considering a move, we’d love to show you why this coastal gem is one of the best places to live in Georgia.
👉 Ready to explore homes in St. Marys? Contact Atlantic Salt Realty today!
National Recognition: A Town Worth Moving To
St. Marys has been consistently ranked among the best small towns in America. Here are just a few of its prestigious awards:
- “The South’s Best Small Towns” – Southern Living
- “Best Coastal Small Town” – USA TODAY 10Best
- “Top 20 Best Small Towns in the South” – USA TODAY
- #1 Small Town to Retire – Money Magazine
These accolades highlight what residents already know—St. Marys is one of the most desirable places to live, work, and explore.
1. A Coastal Town with Historic Charm
St. Marys is more than just a beach town—it’s a historical treasure. Its beautifully preserved downtown district offers:
- Charming 18th- and 19th-century architecture
- Locally owned shops, cafes, and restaurants
- Community events & festivals celebrating local culture
Walking through downtown St. Marys feels like stepping back in time, yet it offers all the modern conveniences and amenities you’d expect from a growing coastal community.
2. A Nature Lover’s Paradise – The Gateway to Cumberland Island
St. Marys is famously known as the Gateway to Cumberland Island, Georgia’s largest and most pristine barrier island. This protected national seashore is home to:
- Unspoiled beaches and dunes
- Wild horses roaming freely
- Maritime forests & nature trails
- Historic ruins like the Dungeness Mansion
- #1 Most Beautiful Wilderness Beach – Travel Channel
For those who love kayaking, hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching, St. Marys is a dream destination. Whether you want to explore the salt marshes, paddle through scenic waterways, or take a ferry to Cumberland Island, the outdoor possibilities are endless.
3. Award-Winning Schools & Family-Friendly Living
For families looking to settle in a safe, welcoming community, St. Marys offers top-tier education options.
- Camden County High School is ranked in the top 1% in the country
- Excellent public & private school options
- A strong sense of community & family-friendly atmosphere
Whether you’re raising a family or looking for a town where your kids will thrive, St. Marys’ award-winning schools make it an ideal place to call home.
4. A Haven for Outdoor Enthusiasts
If you love spending time outside, St. Marys is the perfect place to live. Some of the area’s best outdoor activities include:
- Fishing & Boating – Enjoy deep-sea fishing or take a boat out on the St. Marys River.
- Hiking & Biking – Explore trails through maritime forests and marshlands.
- Golfing – Tee off at top-rated golf courses like Osprey Cove.
- Wildlife Watching – Spot dolphins, wild horses, and exotic birds in their natural habitats.
With year-round mild temperatures, residents can enjoy the coastal lifestyle every day.
5. Affordability & Small-Town Living with Big Benefits
Unlike many high-priced coastal destinations, St. Marys offers affordable living without sacrificing quality.
- Lower cost of living than other coastal towns
- Affordable waterfront properties & spacious homes
- Scenic views without the premium price tag of larger cities
Residents enjoy a slower pace of life, yet they’re just a short drive from Jacksonville, FL, where they can access big-city amenities, shopping, and an international airport.
6. A Thriving & Welcoming Community
One of the best things about St. Marys is its strong sense of community. Residents enjoy:
- Annual festivals & community events
- Local seafood restaurants & farmers markets
- A close-knit, friendly atmosphere where neighbors know each other
With a low crime rate, high quality of life, and rich cultural history, it’s easy to see why so many people love living in St. Marys.
7. An Ideal Place for Retirees
St. Marys is consistently ranked as one of the best coastal towns for retirement, thanks to:
✔️ Low taxes & affordable cost of living
✔️ Mild year-round weather
✔️ Easy access to healthcare & essential services
✔️ #1 Southeast State to Retire – Kiplinger’s Magazine
With its relaxed atmosphere, strong sense of community, and beautiful natural surroundings, St. Marys is a retiree’s paradise.
Is St. Marys the Right Place for You? Let Atlantic Salt Realty Help!
With its award-winning reputation, stunning coastal scenery, and welcoming community, St. Marys is one of the best places to live in Georgia. Whether you’re buying your first home, relocating for a fresh start, or searching for the perfect retirement destination, St. Marys offers a little something for everyone.
At Atlantic Salt Realty, we help buyers find their dream home in St. Marys. Our local expertise and personalized approach ensure that you find the perfect property to fit your lifestyle and budget.
👉 Ready to make St. Marys your home? Contact Atlantic Salt Realty today to start your journey!