Where Georgia Began!                 Darien is the second oldest planned town in the state of Georgia. In 1736 Darien was established on the banks of the Darien River as a military outpost by Scottish Highlanders under the command of General James Edward Oglethorpe. Today this historically rich community offers visitors a chance to enjoy its many charms at a relaxed pace. Picturesque shrimp boats line the river near the new public waterfront park. The area is known as "The Fisherman's Paradise." Picnicking, walking, photography, biking and simply relaxing and taking in the scenery are popular past-times. During the shrimp season, fresh sweet Georgia shrimp can be purchased at local markets. We have many fine restaurants throughout the county. The shopping is great in historic Downtown Darien or at the nearby Preferred Outlets at Darien Mall on I-95. Darien's walking and bike paths, lined with live oak trees draped with Spanish moss, connect the downtown waterfront park with Ft. King George and other historic sites. Kayaks and canoes are available to rent from nearby outfitters for those interested in paddling the many rivers and tidal creeks. Guided walking tours are available for those interested in a more in-depth history of our community. Maps, brochures and tour information are available at the McIntosh Chamber of Commerce/Welcome Center located on Ft. King George Drive on the waterfront park site. Phone: (912) 437-4192. Our Welcome Center is open Monday - Saturday from 9:00-5:00. Easily accessible from I-95, McIntosh County invites you to explore - especially as you drive the scenic Coastal Highway 17 and Route 99. Travel along the marshes and pine forests. Visit the quaint fishing villages of Valona on the Sapelo River and Shellman Bluff on the Broro River. The wildlife is abundant. While fishing and hunting have always been the most popular sports in McIntosh County, our area has long been reknowned for birding. Photographers, both professional and amateur, consider our area a photographer's dream. Environmentalists enjoy the unspoiled splendor of McIntosh County and appreciate our awareness of preserving our waters and lands for generations to come. McIntosh County has something for everyone. Like so many others, you will find McIntosh County on the beautiful Georgia coast unforgettable and will want to return again and again. all photos © sandy jones 2004 For more information on Darien and Sapelo Island, contact: McIntosh County Chamber & Visitors Center 105 Fort King Georgia Drive - P. O. Box 1497 Darien, Georgia 31305 912-437-6684 - 1-888-849-5448 www.McintoshCounty.com Email: info@mcintoshcounty.com. Savannah-Tybee Island || Richmond Hill || Midway-Liberty County || Darien-Sapelo Island || Brunswick & The Golden Isles St. Marys || Cumberland Island || Kingsland || Waycross || Okefenokee Swamp || Home || ^Top Travel Association Membership Info || Membership List www.VisitCoastalGeorgia.com