The answer to your questions......
Below are answers to questions asked by our previous guests.
Q. What time is check-in and check-out?
A. Check-in is 4pm and check-out is for the mid-day ferry (check out times: 11:30 MWF, 12noon Sat, 2pm TTH and 3:30pm Sun).
Q. How do I secure a reservation for one of the cottages?
A. Contact us via email: annitast@me.com or telephone: 912-223-6515. We will share with your our inventory of luxury cottages and see which one is a good fit with your schedule, plans and family.
Q. Is there a deposit to confirm my reservation?
A. We require 50% of the total in order to confirm your reservation. The 2nd 50% will be charged to your credit card fifteen days prior to your check-in.
Q Are there other fees and charges in addition to the daily rental rate?
A. Yes, there is a one time cleaning fee, taxes and a damage waiver fee.
Q. Is there an age limit for renting a cottage?
A. We welcome guests who are 25 years of age and older. A person who is 25 years and older can not rent the cottage for someone who is under the age of 25 to come and stay in the cottage.
Q. What is the damage waiver fee?
A. The damage waiver fee covers the costs of damage to items in the cottage and also to the golf cart. While we recognize that our guests will take every care and consideration while staying in the personal vacation homes of our owners, accidents and mishaps do occur. We do kindly ask that guests report any damage to our management staff, so we can have repairs and/or replacements completed and the cottage ready for our next guests to enjoy their stay with us too.
Q. Should I get travel insurance?
A. We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover the costs of trip cancellations due to unforeseen reasons. This is especially true for weather conditions which may cause you to cancel your trip.
Q. What is the cancellation policy?
A. You may cancel your trip up to one week prior to check in and receive a refund of the 50% paid to confirm, minus a $35 service charge. Cancellations 48 hours or less are not refunded.
Q. Is there a weather cancellation policy?
A. Weather related cancellations are not refundable. We recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover the costs of your travel, so in case of inclimate weather you are covered for not only your stay at one of the Birdhouse Cottages, but other parts of your trip as well (airfare, car rental). This policy follows travel industry standards.
Q. Do I need to make my ferry reservations?
A. Ferry reservation can only be made by the person you are visiting on Sapelo (Sapelo Island Birdhouses). There are no opportunities for you to make your own ferry reservations. We will make your reservations and confirm them prior to your trip.
Q. Why do you need our names for the ferry?
A. The Georgia DNR (Dept. of Natural Resources) requires that everyone boarding the ferry have a reservation made by the person you are visiting. This allows them to plan for passenger loads, as well have an accounting of who is on the island. Additionally, this also helps in emergency situations so they are aware of where guests are staying.
Q. How long is the ferry ride?
A. The ferry ride is 15 minutes or 25 minutes, depending on the boat. One boat is faster. It is a beautiful and peaceful ride. We suggest that you have your camera ready just in case you see dolphins leading the way, or a squardron of Pelicans flying in formation welcoming you to the island. This is your chance to truly relax and enjoy the ride.
Q. What's the ferry schedule?
A. The ferry schedule is available on the website.
Q. Are there holidays the ferry does not run?
A. The ferry does not operate on New Years, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas
Q. Where do I park my car?
A. Park your car in the visitors section of the parking area, closer to the Visitors Center building. Do not park along the road going down to the dock.
Q. Is my car safe?
A. Your car will be safe in the parking area. The gate is lock in the evening and this is also were the Sapelo Island residents park their cars.
Q. Can my dog ride on the ferry?
A. Your dog may take a ride over to Sapelo on the ferry. You may sit inside with small dogs inside a crate or on your lap. Medium and large dogs must ride outside on the deck.
Q. What are the rules and regulations regarding dogs.
A. We welcome your furry family members. There is a one dog limit and a $100 pet fee per dog. There are things to know about bringing your dog to Sapelo. You are required to have a letter from your vet certifying that your dog has been vaccinated for rabies.
Q. How close is the beach to the cottage?
A. Nannygoat beach is approximately 15-19 minute golf cart ride from each of the cottages. Cabretta beach is not accessible by golf cart and transportation arrangements can be made with residents to take you to this beach. You may bike to either beach.
Q. Is there a beach during high tide?
A. Yes, there is a beach during high tide. During Spring Tide (full moon) high tide is higher and further in and it could minimize the beach area on Nannygoat beach. Cabretta beach has a larger beach area.
Q. Is there a life guard on duty?
A. No, there is not a life guard on either beach. You are swimming at your own risk and we highly recommend that you do not go swimming alone.
Q. Are there any restrictions on the beaches?
A. No flash lights on the beach during turtle mating season during the summer. Check with the guest services staff if you are planning to go to the beach during the night.
Q. Is there a restaurant on the island?
A. No, not at this time. You will need to bring groceries for your meals.
Q. Where can I buy groceries to bring over?
A. There is a Piggly Wiggly located in Eulonia after exiting I-95. Directions and information is included in the pre-arrival information.
Q. Are there places I can not drive the golf cart?
A. There are several places you are not allowed to drive the golf cart:
- The State of Georgia's DNR does not allow motorized vehicles to the north end of the island driven by guests.
- Do not take the golf cart on Old Beach road to Nannygoat beach. Although, you may be told you can go, the road is too bumpy for the low clearance of the golf cart. Do not take the golf cart on this road.
-Also the road to Cabretta Beach is too bumpy and can be impassable.
-Transportation to Cabretta Beach can be arranged. Please contact our guest services staff.
Q. Why are there restrictions on where I can take the golf cart....how can I have fun, if I can't take the cart all around the island?
A. We want you to have fun...and lots of it! One thing that makes Sapelo Island special is its natural and undeveloped state. Driving up to the North End, if you are stranded or lost there is no way to notify anyone of your situation and it's not likely someone will happen by. But, most of all the DNR prohibits guests taking motorized vehicles to the North End of the island and there are fines which can be imposed.
There are a couple of roads (Old Beach Road and the road to Cabretta Beach) on Sapelo where tree roots are very large and pose possible damage to the golf cart. Golf carts are designed to be driven on more level areas and the roads on Sapelo not only have large tree roots, but there are many dips and uneven areas. Because the golf cart has low carriage, the bottom can be scrapped and damaged. And, driving the carts over the tree roots can cause stress breaks in the parts which hold the engine.
Because Sapelo is a barrier island reached by ferry, getting repairs can take longer to arrange and complete than on the mainland. A golf cart which is not operated within the guidelines may be damaged and could cause you to become stranded, possibly have a vacation without a replacement and/or the next guests may not have a golf cart.
We set a high standard of upkeep for our golf carts so our guests can enjoy their vacation.... we appreciate your understanding of the golf cart guidelines and hope that you and your family have great fun, within the guidelines.
Q. My kids like to drive the golf cart, is that okay?
A. Golf cart drivers must be 21 and older, with a valid drivers license. Golf carts follow the same regulations as cars on Georgia roads. Kids are not allowed to drive the golf cart or play on them for entertainment. Golf carts are the sole source of transportation for the Birdhouse Cottages, and we take extra care to maintain them and keep them running. We want to make sure each family staying with us has a golf cart in good condition and one that is operating at optimum service. We do ask that our guests keep this in mind and support our efforts to keep golf carts in good repair and ready for the next guests to enjoy who may be checking in right after you.
Q. May I drive the golf cart at night?
A. Yes, each golf cart is equipped with headlights and taillights. Additionally, each cart has a horn.
Q. Are your golf carts battery or fuel operated?
A. Our golf carts are fuel operated. Your golf cart will have fuel and be ready to go when you arrive. On the day you check-out, we ask that you top off the fuel to where it was when you received it. The gas tank is under the front seat. The gas station for refueling is located on the road heading to the Post Office and DNR office. You will need a credit card for refueling.
Q. Is there a store on the island?
A. Yes, there is a store on the island where you can purchase, water, soft drinks, snacks, canned and dried foods. The store is located in the center of the Hog Hammock community.
Q. What items are not allowed on the ferry?
A. There are several items not allowed on the ferry.
Bikes, kayaks, oversized coolers. The captain has final say on what can go onboard the ferry. We do not recommend bringing bikes or kayaks from home with expectations that you might get them on board.
Q. Are there bikes at the cottages?
A. There are no bikes at the cottages, however, Chris Bailey rents bikes. You may contact him and reserve a bike prior to your arrival. Chris Bailey rents bikes - 912-258-2301
Q . Are kayaks available for rental?
We suggest you contact Southeast Adventures for information about kayaks www.southeastadventure.com
Q. Can I go seine fishing?
A. Seine fishing is a traditional method of fishing on the island where a large seine net is pulled through the ocean by a team working together. Seine fishing is done during the late Spring and Summer months when the water is warm. There are no schedule seine fishing tours, but you can inquire about them and maybe, just maybe there is one taking place while you are on the island.
Q. Is there fishing gear and rods on the island?
A. Gear is not be available. You will need to bring all of your gear and bait with you. Let us know if you are interested in fishing and we can recommend areas on the island!
Q. Can I buy fish on the island?
A. You will need to purchase fish and seafood before coming on the island.
Q. Are there any books about Sapelo you recommend reading before our trip?
Yes, there are several:
The following two books are authored by two residents on the island.
-Hog Hammock - by Michele Nicole Johnson
-God, Dr. Buzzard and the Bolito Man - by Cornelia Bailey
-Drums and Shadows - Georgia Writers Project
-Sapelo Island - Buddy Sullivan
-Sapelo People.. A long walk into freedom - William McFeely
Q. How will we get from the ferry dock to the cottage?
A. Our guest services will meet you at the dock and take you to the cottage. Look for a silver or white van with Sapelo Island Birdhouses logo on the side.
Q. Is coffee available in the cottages?
A. Yes, a coffee maker is included in the cottages which uses Keurig cups.
Q. Are tours available on the island?
A. Yes, there are several tour companies who offer historic tours of the island. If you are interested in tours and activities on the island please refer to our things to do page.
Q. Can I go fishing during my vacation?
A. Yes, you will need to bring your gear and bait. Also you will need to get a fishing licenses
Q. Is there ice on the island?
A. Ice is not always readily available. Ask our on-site manager. We also recommend bringing ice is you'll need it for your cooler.
Q. Is there a bar-b-cue grill?
A. There is a charcoal grill. You will need to bring charcoal and lighter fluid. There are no matches at the cottage!
Q. I'm packing, what items should I bring and what items are at the cottage?
A. The following list should help with your planning:
First .... make sure any and all medicines you need for headaches, upset stomach, allergy medication both over the counter and prescription (this includes an epi-pen) are packed.
Items available at the cottage:
Paper towels
Toilet paper
Beach towels
Beach chairs
Beach umbrella
Dish washer powder
Dish soap
Laundry detergent
Sheets
Bath towels
Bath soap
Items not at the cottages, please bring:
Paper napkins
Bath shower gel
Bottle water
Food items
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Q. Do you have WiFi in the cottage?
A. Yes, there is free WiFi at each cottage and the code is located in the welcome book.
Q. Are there telephones in the cottage?
A. Yes, there is a telephone in each cottage available for local calls only. The telephone number for your cottage is included in your pre-arrival information. We suggest that you provide this number to your family, friends and if necessary...work colleagues so they can contact you during your stay.
Q. Is there a map of the island?
A. Yes, this link will connect you to the University of GA's web site where there is a great map produced by the University of Georgia:
http://ugami.uga.edu/handbook/sapelo_map_lrg.html
Q. How close is the grocery store to the ferry dock?
A. The grocery store is about 12 minutes from the ferry. There are directions and instructions regarding the grocery store included in the pre-arrival information packet.
Q. Is it possible to go back to the mainland during my stay on Sapelo?
A. A day trip to the mainland is a good idea, especially for guests staying more than four days. A day trip can include a trip to Savannah, Darien, St. Simons for sight seeing and lunch. If you plan to take a day trip, inform the ferry crew when boarding that you are staying at one of the Sapelo Birdhouses and you are going over for the day. Let them know which ferry you plan to take on your return trip. Be prepared to tell them the date of your arrival so they can reference it if needed.
Q. How are the bugs (mosquitoes & gnats or no-see ums)? Do we need to bring bug spray?
A. Yes, there are bugs. We recommend that you bring your preferred bug spray for yourself and your child. However, bugs are not so extreme that you will be uncomfortable. But keep in mind, you are coming to an island that is mostly undeveloped.
Q. Is there a cost to park at the ferry?
A. There is no cost for parking your car at the Meridian dock. The Sapelo Island Visitors Center has several parking spaces and your car will be safe and secure during your stay on Sapelo.
Q. Is there something we need to show to the ferry boat crew so we can board the boat?
A. You will need to check in with the crew when to board. They will have the names of your party on a clip board. After you give them your name, they will check it off and you will need to have everyone sign in. Wait for the crew to tell you when boarding is allowed. You may then pay your ferry fare ($5 round trip), load your luggage and gear. Once everything is loaded, relax either inside where it is air-conditioned or stay out on the deck, watch the dock disappear in the distance and if you're lucky, you will be escorted by dolphins, sea gulls or pelicans along the way to Sapelo,
Q. Do cell phones work on the island (Verizon/AT&T)
A. Cell phones usage is limited on the island. Most cell services have coverage at the docks, on the beach and a few spots around the island.
Q. The website says Netflix available, is it on the TV and we would just sign in with our account number?
A. Netflix and the Amazon Firestick is available and requires that you use your personal Netflix number.
Q. What is the cost of meals prepared for dinner, is there a list of dishes available to help us in our menu planning for the week?
A. We provide the telephone number to contact the person directly for meal orders. They can provide a menu. Please share any special requests, in particular around allergies and preferences.
Q. Should I tip the staff?
A. You may tip the staff at your discretion for services they offer.
Q. What time is check-in and check-out?
A. Check-in is 4pm and check-out is for the mid-day ferry (check out times: 11:30 MWF, 12noon Sat, 2pm TTH and 3:30pm Sun).
Q. How do I secure a reservation for one of the cottages?
A. Contact us via email: annitast@me.com or telephone: 912-223-6515. We will share with your our inventory of luxury cottages and see which one is a good fit with your schedule, plans and family.
Q. Is there a deposit to confirm my reservation?
A. We require 50% of the total in order to confirm your reservation. The 2nd 50% will be charged to your credit card fifteen days prior to your check-in.
Q Are there other fees and charges in addition to the daily rental rate?
A. Yes, there is a one time cleaning fee, taxes and a damage waiver fee.
Q. Is there an age limit for renting a cottage?
A. We welcome guests who are 25 years of age and older. A person who is 25 years and older can not rent the cottage for someone who is under the age of 25 to come and stay in the cottage.
Q. What is the damage waiver fee?
A. The damage waiver fee covers the costs of damage to items in the cottage and also to the golf cart. While we recognize that our guests will take every care and consideration while staying in the personal vacation homes of our owners, accidents and mishaps do occur. We do kindly ask that guests report any damage to our management staff, so we can have repairs and/or replacements completed and the cottage ready for our next guests to enjoy their stay with us too.
Q. Should I get travel insurance?
A. We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover the costs of trip cancellations due to unforeseen reasons. This is especially true for weather conditions which may cause you to cancel your trip.
Q. What is the cancellation policy?
A. You may cancel your trip up to one week prior to check in and receive a refund of the 50% paid to confirm, minus a $35 service charge. Cancellations 48 hours or less are not refunded.
Q. Is there a weather cancellation policy?
A. Weather related cancellations are not refundable. We recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover the costs of your travel, so in case of inclimate weather you are covered for not only your stay at one of the Birdhouse Cottages, but other parts of your trip as well (airfare, car rental). This policy follows travel industry standards.
Q. Do I need to make my ferry reservations?
A. Ferry reservation can only be made by the person you are visiting on Sapelo (Sapelo Island Birdhouses). There are no opportunities for you to make your own ferry reservations. We will make your reservations and confirm them prior to your trip.
Q. Why do you need our names for the ferry?
A. The Georgia DNR (Dept. of Natural Resources) requires that everyone boarding the ferry have a reservation made by the person you are visiting. This allows them to plan for passenger loads, as well have an accounting of who is on the island. Additionally, this also helps in emergency situations so they are aware of where guests are staying.
Q. How long is the ferry ride?
A. The ferry ride is 15 minutes or 25 minutes, depending on the boat. One boat is faster. It is a beautiful and peaceful ride. We suggest that you have your camera ready just in case you see dolphins leading the way, or a squardron of Pelicans flying in formation welcoming you to the island. This is your chance to truly relax and enjoy the ride.
Q. What's the ferry schedule?
A. The ferry schedule is available on the website.
Q. Are there holidays the ferry does not run?
A. The ferry does not operate on New Years, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas
Q. Where do I park my car?
A. Park your car in the visitors section of the parking area, closer to the Visitors Center building. Do not park along the road going down to the dock.
Q. Is my car safe?
A. Your car will be safe in the parking area. The gate is lock in the evening and this is also were the Sapelo Island residents park their cars.
Q. Can my dog ride on the ferry?
A. Your dog may take a ride over to Sapelo on the ferry. You may sit inside with small dogs inside a crate or on your lap. Medium and large dogs must ride outside on the deck.
Q. What are the rules and regulations regarding dogs.
A. We welcome your furry family members. There is a one dog limit and a $100 pet fee per dog. There are things to know about bringing your dog to Sapelo. You are required to have a letter from your vet certifying that your dog has been vaccinated for rabies.
Q. How close is the beach to the cottage?
A. Nannygoat beach is approximately 15-19 minute golf cart ride from each of the cottages. Cabretta beach is not accessible by golf cart and transportation arrangements can be made with residents to take you to this beach. You may bike to either beach.
Q. Is there a beach during high tide?
A. Yes, there is a beach during high tide. During Spring Tide (full moon) high tide is higher and further in and it could minimize the beach area on Nannygoat beach. Cabretta beach has a larger beach area.
Q. Is there a life guard on duty?
A. No, there is not a life guard on either beach. You are swimming at your own risk and we highly recommend that you do not go swimming alone.
Q. Are there any restrictions on the beaches?
A. No flash lights on the beach during turtle mating season during the summer. Check with the guest services staff if you are planning to go to the beach during the night.
Q. Is there a restaurant on the island?
A. No, not at this time. You will need to bring groceries for your meals.
Q. Where can I buy groceries to bring over?
A. There is a Piggly Wiggly located in Eulonia after exiting I-95. Directions and information is included in the pre-arrival information.
Q. Are there places I can not drive the golf cart?
A. There are several places you are not allowed to drive the golf cart:
- The State of Georgia's DNR does not allow motorized vehicles to the north end of the island driven by guests.
- Do not take the golf cart on Old Beach road to Nannygoat beach. Although, you may be told you can go, the road is too bumpy for the low clearance of the golf cart. Do not take the golf cart on this road.
-Also the road to Cabretta Beach is too bumpy and can be impassable.
-Transportation to Cabretta Beach can be arranged. Please contact our guest services staff.
Q. Why are there restrictions on where I can take the golf cart....how can I have fun, if I can't take the cart all around the island?
A. We want you to have fun...and lots of it! One thing that makes Sapelo Island special is its natural and undeveloped state. Driving up to the North End, if you are stranded or lost there is no way to notify anyone of your situation and it's not likely someone will happen by. But, most of all the DNR prohibits guests taking motorized vehicles to the North End of the island and there are fines which can be imposed.
There are a couple of roads (Old Beach Road and the road to Cabretta Beach) on Sapelo where tree roots are very large and pose possible damage to the golf cart. Golf carts are designed to be driven on more level areas and the roads on Sapelo not only have large tree roots, but there are many dips and uneven areas. Because the golf cart has low carriage, the bottom can be scrapped and damaged. And, driving the carts over the tree roots can cause stress breaks in the parts which hold the engine.
Because Sapelo is a barrier island reached by ferry, getting repairs can take longer to arrange and complete than on the mainland. A golf cart which is not operated within the guidelines may be damaged and could cause you to become stranded, possibly have a vacation without a replacement and/or the next guests may not have a golf cart.
We set a high standard of upkeep for our golf carts so our guests can enjoy their vacation.... we appreciate your understanding of the golf cart guidelines and hope that you and your family have great fun, within the guidelines.
Q. My kids like to drive the golf cart, is that okay?
A. Golf cart drivers must be 21 and older, with a valid drivers license. Golf carts follow the same regulations as cars on Georgia roads. Kids are not allowed to drive the golf cart or play on them for entertainment. Golf carts are the sole source of transportation for the Birdhouse Cottages, and we take extra care to maintain them and keep them running. We want to make sure each family staying with us has a golf cart in good condition and one that is operating at optimum service. We do ask that our guests keep this in mind and support our efforts to keep golf carts in good repair and ready for the next guests to enjoy who may be checking in right after you.
Q. May I drive the golf cart at night?
A. Yes, each golf cart is equipped with headlights and taillights. Additionally, each cart has a horn.
Q. Are your golf carts battery or fuel operated?
A. Our golf carts are fuel operated. Your golf cart will have fuel and be ready to go when you arrive. On the day you check-out, we ask that you top off the fuel to where it was when you received it. The gas tank is under the front seat. The gas station for refueling is located on the road heading to the Post Office and DNR office. You will need a credit card for refueling.
Q. Is there a store on the island?
A. Yes, there is a store on the island where you can purchase, water, soft drinks, snacks, canned and dried foods. The store is located in the center of the Hog Hammock community.
Q. What items are not allowed on the ferry?
A. There are several items not allowed on the ferry.
Bikes, kayaks, oversized coolers. The captain has final say on what can go onboard the ferry. We do not recommend bringing bikes or kayaks from home with expectations that you might get them on board.
Q. Are there bikes at the cottages?
A. There are no bikes at the cottages, however, Chris Bailey rents bikes. You may contact him and reserve a bike prior to your arrival. Chris Bailey rents bikes - 912-258-2301
Q . Are kayaks available for rental?
We suggest you contact Southeast Adventures for information about kayaks www.southeastadventure.com
Q. Can I go seine fishing?
A. Seine fishing is a traditional method of fishing on the island where a large seine net is pulled through the ocean by a team working together. Seine fishing is done during the late Spring and Summer months when the water is warm. There are no schedule seine fishing tours, but you can inquire about them and maybe, just maybe there is one taking place while you are on the island.
Q. Is there fishing gear and rods on the island?
A. Gear is not be available. You will need to bring all of your gear and bait with you. Let us know if you are interested in fishing and we can recommend areas on the island!
Q. Can I buy fish on the island?
A. You will need to purchase fish and seafood before coming on the island.
Q. Are there any books about Sapelo you recommend reading before our trip?
Yes, there are several:
The following two books are authored by two residents on the island.
-Hog Hammock - by Michele Nicole Johnson
-God, Dr. Buzzard and the Bolito Man - by Cornelia Bailey
-Drums and Shadows - Georgia Writers Project
-Sapelo Island - Buddy Sullivan
-Sapelo People.. A long walk into freedom - William McFeely
Q. How will we get from the ferry dock to the cottage?
A. Our guest services will meet you at the dock and take you to the cottage. Look for a silver or white van with Sapelo Island Birdhouses logo on the side.
Q. Is coffee available in the cottages?
A. Yes, a coffee maker is included in the cottages which uses Keurig cups.
Q. Are tours available on the island?
A. Yes, there are several tour companies who offer historic tours of the island. If you are interested in tours and activities on the island please refer to our things to do page.
Q. Can I go fishing during my vacation?
A. Yes, you will need to bring your gear and bait. Also you will need to get a fishing licenses
Q. Is there ice on the island?
A. Ice is not always readily available. Ask our on-site manager. We also recommend bringing ice is you'll need it for your cooler.
Q. Is there a bar-b-cue grill?
A. There is a charcoal grill. You will need to bring charcoal and lighter fluid. There are no matches at the cottage!
Q. I'm packing, what items should I bring and what items are at the cottage?
A. The following list should help with your planning:
First .... make sure any and all medicines you need for headaches, upset stomach, allergy medication both over the counter and prescription (this includes an epi-pen) are packed.
Items available at the cottage:
Paper towels
Toilet paper
Beach towels
Beach chairs
Beach umbrella
Dish washer powder
Dish soap
Laundry detergent
Sheets
Bath towels
Bath soap
Items not at the cottages, please bring:
Paper napkins
Bath shower gel
Bottle water
Food items
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Q. Do you have WiFi in the cottage?
A. Yes, there is free WiFi at each cottage and the code is located in the welcome book.
Q. Are there telephones in the cottage?
A. Yes, there is a telephone in each cottage available for local calls only. The telephone number for your cottage is included in your pre-arrival information. We suggest that you provide this number to your family, friends and if necessary...work colleagues so they can contact you during your stay.
Q. Is there a map of the island?
A. Yes, this link will connect you to the University of GA's web site where there is a great map produced by the University of Georgia:
http://ugami.uga.edu/handbook/sapelo_map_lrg.html
Q. How close is the grocery store to the ferry dock?
A. The grocery store is about 12 minutes from the ferry. There are directions and instructions regarding the grocery store included in the pre-arrival information packet.
Q. Is it possible to go back to the mainland during my stay on Sapelo?
A. A day trip to the mainland is a good idea, especially for guests staying more than four days. A day trip can include a trip to Savannah, Darien, St. Simons for sight seeing and lunch. If you plan to take a day trip, inform the ferry crew when boarding that you are staying at one of the Sapelo Birdhouses and you are going over for the day. Let them know which ferry you plan to take on your return trip. Be prepared to tell them the date of your arrival so they can reference it if needed.
Q. How are the bugs (mosquitoes & gnats or no-see ums)? Do we need to bring bug spray?
A. Yes, there are bugs. We recommend that you bring your preferred bug spray for yourself and your child. However, bugs are not so extreme that you will be uncomfortable. But keep in mind, you are coming to an island that is mostly undeveloped.
Q. Is there a cost to park at the ferry?
A. There is no cost for parking your car at the Meridian dock. The Sapelo Island Visitors Center has several parking spaces and your car will be safe and secure during your stay on Sapelo.
Q. Is there something we need to show to the ferry boat crew so we can board the boat?
A. You will need to check in with the crew when to board. They will have the names of your party on a clip board. After you give them your name, they will check it off and you will need to have everyone sign in. Wait for the crew to tell you when boarding is allowed. You may then pay your ferry fare ($5 round trip), load your luggage and gear. Once everything is loaded, relax either inside where it is air-conditioned or stay out on the deck, watch the dock disappear in the distance and if you're lucky, you will be escorted by dolphins, sea gulls or pelicans along the way to Sapelo,
Q. Do cell phones work on the island (Verizon/AT&T)
A. Cell phones usage is limited on the island. Most cell services have coverage at the docks, on the beach and a few spots around the island.
Q. The website says Netflix available, is it on the TV and we would just sign in with our account number?
A. Netflix and the Amazon Firestick is available and requires that you use your personal Netflix number.
Q. What is the cost of meals prepared for dinner, is there a list of dishes available to help us in our menu planning for the week?
A. We provide the telephone number to contact the person directly for meal orders. They can provide a menu. Please share any special requests, in particular around allergies and preferences.
Q. Should I tip the staff?
A. You may tip the staff at your discretion for services they offer.
