So What are the Golden Isles

By
Real Estate Agent with Real Estate Professionals of Glynn

For those who are unfamiliar with what exactly composes the "Golden Isles" it is composed of Georgia barrier islands from about Patterson Island down through Cumberland Island just off the coast of Camden County Georgia.  In between you have such well known islands as Sapelo, Hird, Black, Saint Simons, Sea and Jekyll Islands composing the most easily recognized.  All of these islands with the exception of Saint Simons, Sea Island Hird Island and Jekyll are accessible by sea only.  Of these Hird is accessible by Air and Sea with no land bridge or causeway.  In terms of population Sapelo and Cumberland are populated by families who have held the properties for generations, limited over night accommodations or Federal or State of Georgia oceanic study facilities.

Black Island is one of the most unique islands in the chain.  It is known as the eco-colony.  All residential housing with gated access it has maintained the entire interior of the island in its natural state of an oak grove while permitting construction of 1 to 4 acre exterior lots which wrap the island.  It is also accessible by boat and offers a wondrous view of Sapelo Island Lighthouse.  As a point of fact the oaks of Black Island were utilized in the construction of the Sailing Ship US Constitution. Black Island is located a short distance from Darien the county seat of McIntosh County which still maintains its image as a small coastal fishing village.

The next significant island in the chain is Saint Simons Island.  Accessible by roads, sea and air it is considered a residential island with housing ranging from the low $200,000 to multi-million dollar estates on the Hampton River, Dunbar Creek or other navigable waterways.  World class private golf courses and equestrian facilities accompanied by public beaches and such well know resort destinations as "The King and Price Hotel" and "Sea Palms Golf and Tennis Resort".  Home to an innumerable quantity of fine dining restaurants and ocean front resort rentals it enjoys a healthy get away reputation.

Sea Island is a private residential island which is home to the world known "Cloisters of Sea Island".  A five star and five diamond resort it is one of those places that the rich and very rich come to gateway.  Housing in the residential areas of Sea Island are home to many of the old names one see in everyday life such as "The Coke Family" as well as many of today's sports figures and other known personages.  Land costs begin at one million with housing being in the multi-million dollar range.

Jekyll Island is just south of Saint Simons and Sea Island.  Owned by the Sate of Georiga it is referred to as a State Park.  It is operated by an authority and has perhaps the best public beaches in the area.  Containing 4 public and state operated golf courses and tennis complex it is also home to "The Millionaires Village".  A restored turn of the century retreat where such well know families such as the Carnegies, Hurst's and other families from the turn of the 20th century are a focal point of this historic area.  Hotels are available for lodging on the island along with a convention center and aquarama where outdoor events are held throughout the summer.

Jekyll, Saint Simons and Sea Island are all in Glynn County with the primary city and county seat being Brunswick.  Known during the Second World War as home of the "Liberty Ship" industry it has slowly evolved into a thriving destination.  Brunswick is home to South Eastern Georgia Regional Hospital which is a 400 bed state of the art medical facility along with the second largest auto processing facility on the East coast:  Additionally Brunswick/Glynn County is home to the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. The Center is considered the premier law enforcement center in the world receiving an excess of 50,000 trainees processed through the facility annually.  Aside from service industry, fishing/shrimping and forestry are major components in the economic picture of the area.

Finally we have Cumberland Island with its abundant history as a get away for the rich and famous.  Located just off the coast in Camden County it is a destination for many naturalists.  The mainland area is composed primarily of Woodbine (the County Seat) and St. Mary's home of one of the east coasts Trident nuclear submarine bases.  It too is a rapidly growing area with housing ranging from the low 100's to multi-million dollar estates.

Recognized as the fastest growing area along the coast of Georgia "The Golden Isles" is becoming the destination for retirement or change of residence for many escapees from Florida and the recurrent hurricane problems.  While others are coming to our temperate climate to avoid the snow and bitter cold of the Northern environs so give us a try to see if we meet your needs in a growing, vibrant economy. 

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