A Conference, Retreat & Vacation Center

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Welcome to Epworth by the Sea

Our gorgeous riverfront campus on St. Simons Island, Ga., is a celebrated destination for groups, couples, and families in search of a peaceful environment and a chance to rediscover what’s truly important.

The Ideal Accommodations

Epworth is known for its natural scenic surroundings, complete retreat accommodations, state-of-the-art facilities and wide range of food service options. Among America's most popular Christian retreat and conference centers, Epworth is one of the most beautiful and graceful vacation spots in the magnificent Golden Isles.

  • Epworth By The Sea is a special place that I love to visit when needing a place to escape from the stresses of everyday life. When going through the entrance under the arch, a peace and contentment is immediately felt. The beauty of the grounds and prayer chapel, incredible sunsets and rocking on the front porch with friends are my favorite things about this wonderful place.

    < Karen Forrester

  • Epworth By The Sea offers guests a peaceful and spiritual retreat. The atmosphere always leaves you feeling good and is a great place to hold meetings. The worst part about Epworth By The Sea is when you have to leave. But knowing that you will return makes it okay again.

    Keith Pritchard >

  • I first came to Epworth in 1998 to work summer staff on the Leadership Team. Little did I know this "summer job" was leading to a career as a Camp Director. I'm grateful to continue my ministry in one of the most beautiful places in the world where my children – both my real ones and my summer ones – can experience God in a new way every time they come to camp.

    < Suzanne Akins

  • Epworth has been a place of growth throughout my life, from the time I was a sixth grader going through “Confirmation” to a young pastor in ministry seeking training to a family seeking deeper relationships on retreats. What a beautiful setting and welcoming staff, but even more, what a powerful experience I’ve had on these sacred grounds!

    Dan Underwood, South GA UMC Pastor >

  • God led me to Epworth by the Sea 45 years ago, and after discovering this sanctuary of God's earthly beauty, I continue to return every spring. After passing through the historic arch, a feeling of spiritual peace, joy, and excitement is immediately experienced. There are numerous ways in which Epworth touches my soul. The beauty of nature, especially the majestic live oaks, is a perfect illustration of God's handiwork. The prayer chapel by the Frederica River is a wonderful quiet place in which to experience personal spirituality. I thank God for this Christian mission by the water's edge.

    < David Wortham, Elizabethtown, Kentucky

  • I have been coming to Epworth for over 60 years as a camper, counselor, chaperone and adult. The feeling of being on Holy Ground is always present with me no matter where I am.

    < Gloria Morgan

  • I love Epworth for so many reasons, but my top 2 reasons are: It is where I met my wife; and my first summer on Leadership Team is where I first felt the call to vocational ministry.

    Michael Christianson >

  • Epworth by the Sea is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. More importantly, as soon as I step on the grounds, I feel the Lord’s Presence.

    < Charlie Walker - First Love Ministries of Perry, Georgia

  • Perfect for Groups

    Epworth By The Sea is a beautiful sanctuary for groups of all ages, sizes and missions. Gather in the shade of live oaks and coastal palms to experience meaningful connections and ground-breaking fellowship.

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  • Amazing Vacations

    Just minutes from the beach, Epworth’s extensive accommodations and beautiful coastal setting are ideal for family vacations or weekend getaways. Reconnect with the ones who matter most at Epworth By The Sea.

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  • Diverse Accommodations

    While visitors praise our breathtaking surroundings, Epworth is also known for its complete retreat package, which includes accommodations, modern conference facilities and wide range of food service options.

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Activities to Excite

With more than 220 sunny days each year, visitors to our island sanctuary have access to all types of outdoor recreation activities. Many groups choose to build teamwork and other skills at the on-site Adventure Challenge Ropes Course. Youth groups revel in the opportunity to splash in the seasonal outdoor pool, shoot hoops on the covered basketball court, play ball on wide open grass fields and kick back by a nighttime bonfire. Vacationers take advantage of the bike rentals, using two wheels to explore the more than 30 miles of St. Simons Island’s bike paths. Other guests seeking more relaxing pursuits will fish or lounge on our two piers along the Frederica River. Whatever level of activity gets you excited, we have it here at Epworth By The Sea.