LOCATION
College of Coastal Georgia
College Drive
Brunswick, GA 31520
CONTACT INFORMATION
Dr. Jason UmfressVice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management
College of Coastal Georgia
912-279-5970jumfress@ccga.eduCoastal Georgia Parent & Family Weekend
Description
Set sail for an unforgettable weekend at the College of Coastal Georgia! Parents & Family Weekend is your chance to step into your student’s world, experience the Mariner spirit firsthand, and create lasting memories together.
Over the course of the weekend, you’ll enjoy activities designed to connect you with campus life, showcase the beauty of the Golden Isles, and celebrate the incredible journey your student is on. From lively social gatherings and campus tours to special programs highlighting academics, athletics, and student life, there’s something for everyone.
At Coastal Georgia, we believe that it truly “takes a village to help a Mariner be successful.” This weekend is all about strengthening that village by bringing together families, students, and our campus community to share in the pride, fun, and excitement of college life. Whether you’re cheering at a game, attending a family brunch, or exploring Brunswick and the surrounding islands, you’ll leave feeling even more connected to your student’s Coastal Georgia story.
So mark your calendars and get ready to drop anchor for a weekend full of discovery, connection, and celebration. We can’t wait to welcome you aboard!
Questions & Answers
Friday, October 24th
Weekend Check In/Welcome to Town Reception
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Student Solution Center
Start your weekend at the Welcome to Town reception in the Student Solution Center. Enjoy refreshments, meet campus leaders, and get your Weekend Welcome packet with dinner tips and schedule help.
Salty’s Spooktacular Glow Fun Run 5K
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
CCGA Tennis Courts
Put on your costume and sneakers. It’s time to glow! Whether you run, walk, or dance, Salty’s Spooktacular 5K Glow Run is your chance to shine and support the Coastal Georgia Alumni Association.
Dinner On Your Own
Explore the flavors of the Golden Isles! From cozy bites in Brunswick to seaside feasts on St. Simons, there's something to enjoy for everyone. Ask us about our dining favorites or browse a list of dining options here.
Saturday, October 25th
Morning Yoga with Athena
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
SAC Back Patio
Start your day with a calming yoga flow by Lake Teal, led by Athena. Bring your mat and soak in the coastal serenity before the festivities begin!
Destination: Coastal Parent & Family Weekend Check In Table
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Campus Center Lobby
Missed the Welcome to Town reception? Stop by the Parent & Family Weekend Check-In Table for your Weekend Welcome packet. Say hello to visiting families and connect with campus support services.
Homecoming Tailgate
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
SAC Lawn
Show your Mariner pride at the homecoming tailgate! Enjoy games, live entertainment, and club showcases. Featured events include tennis and golf demos, a softball vs. baseball game, and a bookstore open house. Use your lunch tickets at Mariners Galley or grab a bite at the Food Truck Round Up.
2025 Season Kick Off Men’s Basketball Game
3:00 - 6:00 PM
Coffin Gym
Cheer on the Mariners as they kick off the season under new Head Coach Tim MacAllister on the newly refinished Coach Gerald Cox court. Enjoy fierce competition, unforgettable moments, and the crowning of Homecoming Royalty. Don’t miss this milestone for Mariner Athletics!
Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival (optional)
10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Jekyll Island
Parent & Family Weekend overlaps with the Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival. This event features food, music, art, and family fun. If you miss Friday’s fireworks, swing by Saturday to experience the island at its best!
Sunday, October 26th
Parent & Family Weekend Bye Bye Brunch
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Mariners Galley Dining Hall
Before heading home, enjoy a casual brunch with your student in Mariners Galley. It’s a great way to reflect on the weekend. Discounted rates are available for parents and families.
Brunswick is easily accessible via I-95, located between Savannah, GA and Jacksonville, FL. The College of Coastal Georgia is located at One College Drive Brunswick, GA 31520. You can find directions to campus here.
If you plan to fly in:
- Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK) – 15 minutes from campus
- Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) – ~1 hour south
- Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) – ~1.5 hours north
Rental cars are available at all airports. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, though availability may vary. Parking is free on campus.
While there’s no official hotel for Parent & Family Weekend, families have plenty of great options to choose from across the Golden Isles. Many visitors stay along the I-95 corridor in Brunswick for convenience and value, while others enjoy the charm of boutique hotels or short-term rentals in historic downtown Brunswick. For a more resort-style experience, consider one of the beautiful hotels or beachfront properties on St. Simons Island or Jekyll Island.
The College also partners with select local hotels through our Mariner Mates program, offering special rates and perks for CCGA families. To explore these options, visit the Hotels & Lodging section of the Mariner Mates website.
Yes! Registration helps us prepare welcome packets, food tickets, and ensure a smooth experience.
Most events are free for registered families. Your welcome packet includes two lunch tickets for Saturday and access to all scheduled activities. Additional costs apply for Salty’s Spooktacular Glow Run, additional dining, or other off-campus activities.
Check-in begins Friday evening at the Student Solution Center during the Welcome to Town Reception (5:30–7:30 PM). If you arrive Saturday, visit the Parent & Family Weekend information table in the Campus Center Lobby between 10 AM and 1 PM.
Dress comfortably and casually. Coastal Georgia weather in late October is typically mild, but layers are recommended. Don’t forget your Mariner blue for the Homecoming Tailgate and Basketball Game!
Absolutely! Parent & Family Weekend is open to all who want to celebrate with their student. Activities are family-friendly and welcoming to all ages.
Parking is free and available in most lots across campus, excluding Mariner Village or Lakeside Village.
Yes! Mariners Galley Dining Hall will be open throughout the weekend, including for lunch on Saturday and the Bye Bye Brunch on Sunday. Food trucks will also be available during Saturday’s tailgate for an additional cost.
No worries! You can check in Saturday morning at the Parent & Family Weekend Table in the Campus Center Lobby from 10 AM to 1 PM.
Yes! The Salty’s Spooktacular Glow Fun Run 5K is open to all participants. Costumes encouraged! Proceeds benefit the Coastal Georgia Alumni Association.
Explore the Golden Isles! Enjoy local dining, stroll though Downtown Brunswick, visit the Shrimp & Grits Festival on Jekyll Island, or check out the lighthouse and pier on St. Simons Island. It will be a great weekend to explore both on and off campus.
