Bite Size Hikes: Cumberland Island, GA

Every year my daughter and I go on a mother/daughter vacation. Some years we've flown and others its a driving trip or both and throw in a boat/train ride for good measure. Each year I try to make it different and it's always something we both will never forget. I know time is fleeting and that she may not always want to go on vacation with me, but these will be the ones I'll cherish forever. It's time I get to watch her explore, meet different people, cultures and discuss life without the distractions.

A few years back I wanted the option to fly, but didn't want to spend $800 for us to get to our destination. So, I chose Jacksonville, FL when it was $49 or so one-way to fly Southwest (Sadly, I haven't found it that low in a long time). We didn't actually stay in Jacksonville, but instead drove up the coast to Fernandina Beach. Fernandina Beach is a quaint, Atlantic Coast beach area, that's perfect for dining, playing in the sand and not a huge tourist destination.

But, I wanted to go for a different reason. Around the corner is Cumberland Island, Ga. Cumberland Island the only way you can get there is by boat. It has 28 miles of undeveloped beaches and wild horses roam the area. We took a day trip here and it's stunning. The old architecture remains from the Dungeness Ruins. Dungeness was built by Thomas Carnegie and his wife Lucy in 1884. If you love history, old architecture, wildlife, getting away from it all or just to do something different this island will not disappoint. Plus, being close enough to Georgia has it's perks. You can get here by driving within a few short hours. There are camping options as well! Pair this with visiting Jekyll Island or some other Georgia towns along the way. Can't go wrong with this fun getaway. Be sure to check Ferry schedules and get reservations before you go. Cumberland Island

I will note that bugs are bad on the island especially in the Spring and Summer. Definitely go prepared! And lucky for us it was rainy which seems to happen a lot on coastal islands. We love playing in rain and were the only people on the beach for miles, but keep this in mind when preparing for your trip.