Things to Do

IN DARIEN, GEORGIA

There are many engaging things to do in Darien, GA. Our B&B staff wil be happy to arrange any activities listed on this page or suggest additional options.


We're conveniently located near Sapelo Island (one of Georgia's most distinctive barrier islands), historic Fort King George, and Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation. Open Gates is also very close to many wildlife viewing areas including the Altamaha Wildlife Management Area, Okefenokee Swamp, and Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge.

Black-and-white lighthouse with waves and light beams over water

Area Attractions

We've provided a short, illustrative list of activities, but the possibilities are endless. Please feel free to call and chat about other options for exploring our unique coastal environment.

  • Take a self-guided walking tour of historic Darien and explore local antique shops and boutiques.
  • Visit historic Savannah, just one hour from the inn.
  • Enjoy Wild Georgia Shrimp and other local delights at Skippers' Fish Camp on the Darien Waterfront.
  • Go nature watching at Harris Neck Wildlife Refuge. Enjoy a bird-watching ramble with local ornithologists.
  • Visit Fort King George Historic Site, the Ashantilly Center, and Butler Island or Howfyl-Broadfield Plantation.
  • Watch the shrimp boats return with their catch.
  • Take the ferry to Sapelo Island, a beautiful barrier island facing the Atlantic Ocean. While you're there, take a private tour to see the Sapelo lighthouse and learn about the Gullah community.
  • Take a pontoon boat tour on the Altamaha River.
  • Take a guided paddle (kayak or canoe) through pristine marshes and historic rice fields.
  • Explore miles of waterways around Darien and the Golden Isles.
  • Go on turtle walks (spring or summer) or play on the beaches of Jekyll Island or St. Simon's Island, less than 30 minutes from Darien.
  • Go on a sunset horseback ride or enjoy the wonderful waterpark on Jekyll Island (seasonal).


Old print shop with a printing press, wooden shelves, and stacks of paper in a cluttered workspace

Ashantilly Center

The Ashantilly Center, affectionately referred to as "Old Tabby," served as the mainland residence of Thomas Spalding, an early Georgia planter, legislator, and landowner in McIntosh County.


Today, it operates as a non-profit educational and cultural historic site, as well as an event center for hosting a variety of cultural and historic events.

Fort King George

From 1721 until 1727, Fort King George was the southern outpost of the British Empire in North America. After its eventual abandonment, the fort was again occupied by a group of Scottish Highlanders who came to work in the area.


Today, visitors an tour the barracks, grounds, museum, and gift shop to learn more about the fort's long history.

Historic cannon on a grassy hill beside palm trees and pink flowers under a sunny sky
A white and gray heron perched on tangled branches in a forested wetland.

Harris Neck Wildlife Refuge

Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge sits on land that has a long and varied history. It once served as the home of Native American tribes, the location of a large tobacco farm, a settlement for enslaved people following the Civil War, and military training grounds during WWII.


Since its designation as a wildlife refuge in 1962, Harris Neck has served as a nesting and wintering habitat for many species of wildlife. The refuge is now an important resource for the 342 species of migratory birds that come to the area to nest.

Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation

This early 19th century rice plantation was once an important part of Georgia history. Today, it serves as a historic record of the people, things, and processes that were once part of the antebellum south.


Visitors to the plantation can take a tour of the massive home, explore the museum, browse the gift shop, and wander through the lovely grounds.

Georgia Tidewater Outfitters

Georgia Tidewater Outfitters offers Altamaha River Delta cruises guided by Kim and Paul Medders. Cruises are conducted on the Delta Belle, a 30-foot Sightseer Marine custom pontoon boat.

Pontoon boat cruising on calm water at sunset, with reflections and a shoreline in the background

Sapelo Island

Public tours featuring the natural and cultural history of Sapelo Island are available on year-round, with additional tours being held from June 1st through Labor Day. Special programs and activities, such as Crab and Shrimp Day tours are scheduled throughout the year. Reservations are required.

Pontoon boat cruising on calm water at sunset, with reflections and a shoreline in the background

Ruff's Custom Coastal Adventures

At Ruff's Custom Coastal Adventures, we offer unique boating experiences that are tailored to your interests. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day on the water or an exciting fishing trip, we have the perfect adventure for you. Clock 'learn more' to visit our website below or call Chris for more info 912-269-6100.