Ossabaw Island is not open to casual public access. There is no bridge. There is no ferry service available to the general public without prior arrangement. The island is a Heritage Preserve managed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources in partnership with the Ossabaw Island Foundation.

// how to apply //

Contact the Ossabaw Island Foundation directly to inquire about educational programs, research access, and artist residency opportunities. The Foundation manages all public access in accordance with the Heritage Preserve guidelines established in 1978.

// what to expect //

The island has no bridge or causeway connection to the mainland. Access is by boat only. There are no public facilities in the conventional sense. The island is maintained as close to its natural condition as possible. Visitors are expected to engage seriously with the place — as researchers, artists, or students, not as tourists.

This is not a limitation. This is the point.

"The island is open to groups engaged in study, research and education. Those groups include young people, adult interest groups, colleges and universities, teachers, artists and researchers."

— Ossabaw Island Foundation mission statement