Island Entities

egret in water

Community of Hog Hammock

Hog Hammock is approximately 500 acres and contains the only privately owned property on Sapelo Island. Many members of the community are descendants of African-American plantation workers and can trace their heritage back many generations on the Island. The community has approximately 40 full-time residents.

A visit to Hog Hammock and a tour of Sapelo Island are often a rewarding part of a stay at UGAMI. Please be aware, however, that this is a private community and that visitors need to be respectful. For example, please get permission before taking photographs of people (especially children); call ahead of time if you are interested in visiting one of the Island’s churches. If you are unsure, please ask us.

Sapelo Island Cultural and Revitalization Society (SICARS)

SICARS was founded by Hog Hammock residents and non-resident descendants who wanted to enhance the future of their community by educating visitors to the island about its history and culture.

Department of Natural Resources

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages Sapelo Island, which includes running the ferry and barge service, maintaining roads, managing land use and wildlife, and sponsoring controlled hunts. DNR is also responsible for law enforcement in conjunction with the McIntosh County Sheriff’s office. The Sapelo Island DNR office is located in the Long Tabby building, near Post Office Creek.

P.O. Box 15
Sapelo Island, GA  31327
Phone: (912) 485-2251
Fax: (912) 485-2141

Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve (SINERR)

The Sapelo Island National Estuarine Research Reserve (SINERR) is part of a network of estuarine reserves administered by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration. UGAMI is embedded within the 8700 acre reserve and works closely with SINERR personnel, who focus on the natural, cultural, and historical resources of Sapelo Island and the Duplin River estuary. SINERR offices are located in the Long Tabby building near Post Office Creek.

SINERR Public tours. SINERR offers public tours featuring the natural and cultural history of Sapelo Island.

SINERR Group visits. Group tours are available to special interest groups such as nature clubs, school clubs, boy scouts or girl scouts, birding clubs, elderhostels, church groups and other organized groups wishing visitation to Sapelo Island.

Sapelo Island Visitors Center

The Sapelo Island Visitors Center, jointly run by SINERR and the McIntosh County Chamber of Commerce, is located next to the ferry terminal in Meridian. Staff at the Visitors Center can answer most questions about the Island. They also have displays and a gift shop.

1766 Landing Road S.E., Darien, GA 31305
Phone: (912) 437-3224

Hours of operation:

  • Sunday-Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday-Friday: 7:30 am – 5:30 pm
  • Saturday: 8:00 am- 5:30 pm