The 25 Best Things to Do in Jekyll Island, GA

Jekyll Island isn't your typical beach destination. This small barrier island off the coast of Georgia packs a big punch when it comes to natural beauty, fascinating history, and outdoor adventures. Once the exclusive playground of America's wealthiest families, Jekyll Island now welcomes all visitors to explore its sun-drenched beaches, winding bike trails, and carefully preserved historic district.

What sets Jekyll Island apart is its commitment to conservation. By law, 65% of the island must remain undeveloped, ensuring that its pristine ecosystems and wildlife habitats are protected for generations to come. This means you can bike through maritime forests, kayak through tidal creeks, and stroll along uncrowded beaches, all while feeling like you've stepped back in time to a more pristine coastal environment.

But don't let the island's laid-back vibe fool you – there's plenty to keep you busy here. From learning about sea turtle conservation to exploring Gilded Age mansions, from teeing off on historic golf courses to splashing in water parks, Jekyll Island offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for visitors of all ages. So pack your sunscreen, grab your sense of wonder, and let's dive into the 25 best things to do on this enchanting Georgia island.

Marvel at the Otherworldly Driftwood Beach

Driftwood Beach is unlike any shoreline you've ever seen. As you step onto the sand, you're greeted by a haunting landscape of weathered, sun-bleached trees scattered across the beach like nature's own sculpture garden. These gnarled driftwood sentinels, some as tall as 20 feet, create a dreamlike scene that's particularly stunning at sunrise or sunset.

Bring your camera – this is one of the most photographed spots on the East Coast. The twisted shapes of the driftwood against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean create endless opportunities for unique shots. Early morning is the best time to visit, not just for the golden light but also to avoid crowds and the midday heat.

While swimming isn't recommended here due to strong currents, Driftwood Beach is perfect for beachcombing, bird watching, or simply soaking in the surreal atmosphere. Keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the waves offshore.

Key Information:

• Location: North end of Jekyll Island
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free (parking fee required to enter Jekyll Island)

Why Visit: Experience a one-of-a-kind beach that looks like it's straight out of a fantasy novel.

Insider Tip: Visit during a full moon for an eerily beautiful nighttime experience.

Bike the Jekyll Island Trail System

Pedaling through Jekyll Island's extensive trail system is like cycling through a living postcard. With over 20 miles of paved paths winding through maritime forests, past historic sites, and along scenic coastlines, biking is hands-down the best way to explore the island.

The flat terrain makes for easy riding, suitable for all ages and skill levels. You'll cruise under canopies of live oaks draped with Spanish moss, catch glimpses of deer in sun-dappled woods, and feel the salt breeze as you ride alongside the beach. Don't miss the Tupelo Trail, a boardwalk that takes you through a mystical swamp ecosystem.

Bikes are available for rent at several locations on the island, including the Jekyll Island Bike Barn. They offer everything from beach cruisers to tandem bikes and even child trailers.

Key Information:

• Location: Trails throughout Jekyll Island
• Hours: Dawn to dusk
• Admission: Free (bike rentals available)

Why Visit: Experience the island's diverse ecosystems up close while getting some exercise.

Insider Tip: Pack a picnic and make a day of it – there are plenty of scenic spots to stop and refuel.

Step Back in Time at the Jekyll Island Historic District

Walking through the Jekyll Island Historic District feels like stepping into a time machine set to the Gilded Age. This 240-acre landmark district was once the winter playground of America's wealthiest families, including the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, and Pulitzers.

Today, you can explore the meticulously preserved "cottages" (read: mansions) that these elite families called home. The district includes 34 historic structures, each with its own story to tell. Don't miss Faith Chapel, with its stunning stained glass window designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany.

Guided tours are available and highly recommended. The guides bring the era to life with tales of high-society parties, secret business deals, and the extravagant lifestyles of the island's former residents.

Key Information:

• Location: 100 Stable Rd, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
• Hours: Daily, 9 AM - 5 PM
• Admission: Adults $18, Children (6-12) $8

Why Visit: Immerse yourself in the opulence and intrigue of America's Gilded Age.

Insider Tip: Book the "Rockefeller Experience" tour for a more intimate look at one of the most famous cottages.

Learn and Play at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center

The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is much more than just a tourist attraction – it's a working hospital for injured sea turtles and a vital education center. Here, you can get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures while learning about the challenges they face and the efforts to protect them.

The center's main exhibit gallery features interactive displays that teach visitors about sea turtle biology, conservation, and the local coastal ecosystem. But the real stars of the show are the sea turtle patients in the rehabilitation pavilion. You can watch the center's staff care for injured turtles and even witness releases back into the wild if you time your visit right.

Kids will love the hands-on activities, including a mock sea turtle rescue. And don't miss the chance to "adopt" a sea turtle – it's a great way to support the center's important work.

Key Information:

• Location: 214 Stable Rd, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
• Hours: Daily, 9 AM - 5 PM
• Admission: Adults $9, Children (4-12) $7

Why Visit: Support sea turtle conservation while having a fun, educational experience.

Insider Tip: Check the center's schedule for special events like nighttime turtle walks during nesting season.

Tee Off at the Jekyll Island Golf Club

Golf enthusiasts, rejoice! Jekyll Island Golf Club offers not one, but four golf courses, each with its own unique character and challenges. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a casual player, you'll find a course that suits your style.

The crown jewel is the Great Dunes course, designed in 1926 by legendary golf architect Walter Travis. This historic 9-hole course offers stunning ocean views and a chance to play where golf greats like Bobby Jones once teed off.

For a full 18-hole experience, try the Pine Lakes course, known for its tight fairways and well-protected greens. The Oleander course offers a more forgiving game, while Indian Mound is perfect for those looking for a quick 9-hole round.

Key Information:

• Location: 322 Captain Wylly Rd, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
• Hours: Daily, 7 AM - 6 PM (hours may vary seasonally)
• Admission: Rates vary by course and season

Why Visit: Play on historic courses with beautiful coastal scenery.

Insider Tip: Book a tee time for late afternoon to catch a spectacular sunset over the marsh.

Splash and Slide at Summer Waves Water Park

When the Georgia heat cranks up, there's no better place to cool down than Summer Waves Water Park. This 11-acre aquatic playground offers thrills and spills for all ages, from heart-pounding water slides to a relaxing lazy river.

Adrenaline junkies will want to head straight for the Pirate's Passage, a high-speed body slide that drops you into a splash pool. For a more family-friendly thrill, hop on a tube and brave the twists and turns of the Frantic Atlantic.

Little ones have their own dedicated area, Turtle Creek, with pint-sized slides and splash features. And when you need a break from the action, grab a tube and float down the Slow Motion River, a peaceful 2,000-foot loop around the park.

Key Information:

• Location: 210 S Riverview Dr, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
• Hours: Seasonal (typically May-September), 10 AM - 6 PM
• Admission: Adults $25, Children (3-11) $20

Why Visit: Beat the heat with family-friendly water attractions.

Insider Tip: Bring your own picnic to save on food costs – there's a designated picnic area outside the park.

Kayak Through Jekyll Island's Tidal Creeks

There's no better way to explore Jekyll Island's wild side than by kayak. Paddling through the island's network of tidal creeks and salt marshes gives you a unique perspective on this coastal ecosystem and the chance to spot wildlife up close.

As you glide through the calm waters, keep your eyes peeled for egrets wading in the shallows, ospreys diving for fish, and even dolphins surfacing nearby. The golden marsh grass stretches as far as the eye can see, creating a serene backdrop for your adventure.

Several outfitters on the island offer guided tours and kayak rentals. For a truly magical experience, try a sunset tour when the marsh is bathed in golden light and the wildlife is at its most active.

Key Information:

• Location: Various launch points around the island
• Hours: Vary by outfitter, typically offering morning and afternoon tours
• Admission: Prices vary, typically $40-$60 for guided tours

Why Visit: Get an up-close look at Jekyll Island's diverse ecosystems and wildlife.

Insider Tip: Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing, and don't forget the bug spray!

Explore the Horton House Historic Site

Long before Jekyll Island became a millionaire's retreat, it was home to some of Georgia's earliest European settlers. The Horton House, built in 1743, stands as a testament to this colonial history.

This tabby ruin – made from a mixture of oyster shells, lime, sand, and water – is one of the oldest surviving structures in Georgia. As you walk around the site, try to imagine what life was like for Major William Horton and his family on this wild, isolated island nearly 300 years ago.

The site also includes an interpretive trail that leads to the du Bignon Cemetery, where members of the family who owned Jekyll Island in the 19th century are buried. The trail offers beautiful views of the marsh and is a great spot for bird watching.

Key Information:

• Location: 200 Hopkins Ave, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Connect with Jekyll Island's colonial past and enjoy scenic marsh views.

Insider Tip: Visit at sunset for a hauntingly beautiful photo opportunity.

Stroll Through the Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum

To truly understand Jekyll Island's rich tapestry of history, a visit to the Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum is a must. This state-of-the-art facility uses interactive exhibits and artifacts to weave together the island's many stories, from its Native American inhabitants to its time as a millionaire's paradise.

The museum's centerpiece is a large-scale map of the island that comes to life with projections, highlighting different areas and eras as you learn about them. You can step inside a recreated Gilded Age cottage, explore a model of the Jim Crow-era "Colored Beach," and learn about the island's role in the creation of the Federal Reserve.

Don't miss the exhibit on the Wanderer, the last known slave ship to land in Georgia, which illegally brought enslaved Africans to Jekyll Island in 1858. It's a sobering but important part of the island's history.

Key Information:

• Location: 100 Stable Rd, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
• Hours: Daily, 9 AM - 5 PM
• Admission: Adults $12, Children (6-12) $7

Why Visit: Gain a comprehensive understanding of Jekyll Island's diverse history.

Insider Tip: Start your visit here to get context for the other historic sites on the island.

Relax on South Beach

While Driftwood Beach gets all the Instagram glory, South Beach is Jekyll Island's go-to spot for classic beach activities. This wide, sandy beach offers plenty of room for sunbathing, sandcastle building, and long walks along the shore.

The calm waters here make it a great spot for swimming and boogie boarding. Keep an eye out for dolphins playing in the waves – they're frequent visitors to this area. At low tide, the beach becomes a treasure trove for shell collectors and sand dollar hunters.

After a day in the sun, head to the nearby Beach Village for ice cream or a cold drink. The village also offers rentals for beach chairs and umbrellas if you didn't bring your own.

Key Information:

• Location: South end of Jekyll Island
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free (parking fee required to enter Jekyll Island)

Why Visit: Enjoy classic beach activities in a less crowded setting.

Insider Tip: Visit at low tide for the best shelling opportunities.

Go Fishing at the Jekyll Island Fishing Pier

Whether you're an experienced angler or a first-time fisher, the Jekyll Island Fishing Pier offers a great opportunity to cast a line into the Atlantic. The pier stretches 360 feet into the ocean, giving you access to deeper waters where larger fish lurk.

Common catches include whiting, spotted sea trout, and sheepshead. If you're lucky, you might even hook a shark! Don't worry if you didn't bring gear – there's a bait and tackle shop right on the pier where you can rent rods and buy bait.

Even if you're not into fishing, the pier is worth a visit for its stunning views of the coastline and the chance to spot dolphins and shore birds. It's also a prime spot for watching the sun rise over the Atlantic.

Key Information:

• Location: 370 Riverview Dr, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: $10 for fishing (includes parking), free for sightseeing

Why Visit: Try your luck at ocean fishing or simply enjoy the coastal views.

Insider Tip: Night fishing can be particularly productive – and it's a great way to beat the heat in summer.

Discover Native Wildlife at Horton Pond

Horton Pond might be small, but it's a powerhouse when it comes to wildlife viewing. This freshwater pond, one of the few on Jekyll Island, is a magnet for local fauna, making it an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

From the wheelchair-accessible observation deck, you can spot a variety of turtles sunning themselves on logs, wading birds stalking the shallows for fish, and even alligators gliding silently through the water. The pond is particularly lively in the early morning and late afternoon when animals are most active.

Interpretive signs around the pond provide information about the different species you might encounter. It's a great place to learn about the island's diverse ecosystems and the creatures that call them home.

Key Information:

• Location: Near the intersection of Horton Rd and Hopkins Ave
• Hours: Dawn to dusk
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Observe Jekyll Island's native wildlife in their natural habitat.

Insider Tip: Bring binoculars for a closer look at the birds and smaller creatures.

Play a Round of Mini Golf at Pirate Island Adventure Golf

Who says golf is just for grown-ups? Pirate Island Adventure Golf offers a swashbuckling good time for all ages. This 18-hole miniature golf course is themed around the golden age of piracy, complete with shipwrecks, caves, and even a giant pirate ship.

As you putt your way through the course, you'll encounter challenging obstacles and fun interactive elements. Keep an eye out for the "erupting" volcano and the pirate cannons that actually fire (don't worry, it's just water!). The course is beautifully landscaped, making it a pleasant stroll even if your putting skills aren't up to par.

After your round, check out the on-site gift shop for pirate-themed souvenirs. It's a great way to cap off a fun-filled family outing or a lighthearted date night.

Key Information:

• Location: 550 S Beachview Dr, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
• Hours: Daily, 10 AM - 9 PM (hours may vary seasonally)
• Admission: Adults $12, Children (3-12) $10

Why Visit: Enjoy a fun, pirate-themed twist on mini golf suitable for all ages.

Insider Tip: Visit in the evening when the course is lit up – it's especially magical then.

Visit the Stunning Faith Chapel

Faith Chapel may be small, but it packs a big punch when it comes to architectural beauty. Built in 1904 for the Jekyll Island Club, this non-denominational chapel is a gorgeous example of Gothic Revival architecture.

The real showstopper here is the stained glass. The chapel boasts an original Tiffany window called "David's Window," depicting King David writing his psalms. Another highlight is the "Christ Window" at the front of the chapel, designed by D. Maitland Armstrong and his daughter, Helen.

Take a moment to sit in one of the pews and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. The intricate woodwork, including gargoyles carved into the rafters, adds to the chapel's charm. It's a serene spot that offers a moment of quiet reflection amidst your island adventures.

Key Information:

• Location: 1 Hopkins Ave, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
• Hours: Seasonal; typically open Monday-Saturday, 2 PM - 4 PM
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Marvel at stunning stained glass in a beautifully preserved historic chapel.

Insider Tip: Check the chapel's schedule – it occasionally hosts concerts and other events.

Take a Dolphin Tour

There's something magical about seeing dolphins in their natural habitat, and Jekyll Island offers plenty of opportunities to do just that. Several tour operators offer dolphin-watching excursions that take you out into the waters surrounding the island.

As you cruise through the salt marshes and out into the Atlantic, keep your eyes peeled for the telltale dorsal fins breaking the surface. Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are frequent visitors to these waters, often swimming alongside boats or leaping playfully in the wake.

But dolphins aren't the only wildlife you might spot. These tours also offer great opportunities to see a variety of shore birds, and you might even catch sight of a manatee or sea turtle if you're lucky.

Key Information:

• Location: Various departure points on the island
• Hours: Vary by operator; typically offering morning and afternoon tours
• Admission: Prices vary, typically $30-$50 per person

Why Visit: Get up close with playful dolphins and other marine life.

Insider Tip: Bring a jacket – it can be cooler out on the water, even on warm days.

Explore the 4-H Tidelands Nature Center

The 4-H Tidelands Nature Center is a hidden gem that offers hands-on experiences with Jekyll Island's diverse ecosystems. Run by the University of Georgia, this educational center is a great place to learn about the local wildlife and coastal habitats.

Inside, you'll find aquariums filled with native fish and reptiles, including alligators and diamondback terrapins. The touch tank is always a hit, allowing visitors to get up close with creatures like horseshoe crabs and sea urchins.

But the real adventure begins outside. The center offers guided kayak tours of the surrounding marshes, giving you a chance to spot birds, fish, and maybe even a dolphin or two. They also lead beach walks and marsh ecology programs that are both fun and educational.

Key Information:

• Location: 100 S Riverview Dr, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
• Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 AM - 4 PM; Sunday, 12 PM - 4 PM
• Admission: Adults $5, Children (6-12) $3

Why Visit: Get hands-on experience with local marine life and ecosystems.

Insider Tip: Book a kayak tour in advance – they often fill up quickly.

Shop and Dine at Beach Village

Beach Village is the heart of Jekyll Island's shopping and dining scene. This charming cluster of shops and restaurants offers a perfect break from the beach or a pleasant way to spend an evening.

Browse through boutiques selling everything from beachwear and souvenirs to local artwork and gourmet foods. When hunger strikes, you have plenty of options. Grab a quick bite at the Fuse Frozen Yogurt Shop, enjoy fresh seafood at The Wharf, or savor upscale dining at Eighty Ocean Kitchen and Bar.

Don't miss the Village Green, a central lawn area that often hosts events and live music. It's a great spot to relax with an ice cream cone and people-watch.

Key Information:

• Location: 15 Main Street, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
• Hours: Vary by business; typically 10 AM - 9 PM
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience Jekyll Island's main hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Insider Tip: Check the events calendar for the Village Green – there's often live music on weekend evenings.

Take a Guided Tour with Jekyll Island Tours

While exploring on your own is fun, sometimes it's worth letting an expert show you around. Jekyll Island Tours offers a variety of guided experiences that can deepen your appreciation of the island's history and natural beauty.

Their most popular offering is the 90-minute tram tour of the historic district. As you ride in a climate-controlled tram, knowledgeable guides share stories about the island's Gilded Age history and point out architectural details you might otherwise miss.

For a more active experience, try one of their bike tours. These guided rides take you through the island's diverse landscapes, from maritime forests to marshlands, with stops at key historic and natural sites along the way.

Key Information:

• Location: Tours depart from various locations on the island
• Hours: Vary by tour; typically offering morning and afternoon options
• Admission: Prices vary by tour, typically $20-$40 per person

Why Visit: Gain deeper insights into Jekyll Island's history and ecology from knowledgeable guides.

Insider Tip: Book the first tour of the day for a quieter, more intimate experience.

Attend an Event at the Jekyll Island Convention Center

The Jekyll Island Convention Center isn't just for business meetings. This state-of-the-art facility hosts a variety of public events throughout the year, from art shows and craft fairs to concerts and food festivals.

One of the biggest annual events is the Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival, typically held in September. This three-day celebration of Southern cuisine features cooking competitions, live music, and of course, plenty of shrimp and grits to sample.

Even if there isn't a specific event happening, the convention center is worth a visit for its impressive architecture. The building is designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings and features a "green" roof planted with native vegetation.

Key Information:

• Location: 75 Beachview Drive N, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
• Hours: Vary by event
• Admission: Varies by event; many are free to attend

Why Visit: Experience local culture and events in a stunning, eco-friendly venue.

Insider Tip: Check the convention center's event calendar well in advance of your visit to see what's happening.

Go Birdwatching at St. Andrews Beach Park

St. Andrews Beach Park, located on the southern tip of Jekyll Island, is a haven for birdwatchers. This quiet beach and its surrounding marsh areas attract a wide variety of shorebirds, waders, and migratory species.

From the elevated viewing platform, you might spot sandpipers scurrying along the shore, pelicans diving for fish, or majestic wood storks wading in the shallows. During migration seasons, the park becomes a stopover for many species of warblers and other songbirds.

Even if you're not an avid birder, the park offers beautiful views of the ocean and the Sidney Lanier Bridge in the distance. It's also a great spot for a peaceful beach walk or a sunset picnic.

Key Information:

• Location: South end of Jekyll Island
• Hours: Dawn to dusk
• Admission: Free (parking fee required to enter Jekyll Island)

Why Visit: Observe a diverse array of bird species in a peaceful, natural setting.

Insider Tip: Bring binoculars and a bird identification guide to make the most of your visit.

Enjoy a Picnic at Great Dunes Park

Great Dunes Park offers a perfect blend of beach access and park amenities, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or a romantic picnic. This 20-acre oceanfront park features large grassy areas shaded by live oaks, picnic pavilions, and a children's playground.

The park provides easy access to one of Jekyll Island's widest stretches of beach. After your picnic, take a stroll on the sand, fly a kite, or simply relax and soak up the sun. If you're feeling more active, the park also has volleyball courts and a bocce ball court.

Don't forget to check out the restored 1950s-era Mosaic Gallery, which showcases the island's mid-century history through photographs and artifacts.

Key Information:

• Location: 515 N Beachview Dr, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
• Hours: Dawn to dusk
• Admission: Free (parking fee required to enter Jekyll Island)

Why Visit: Enjoy a perfect beach day with the convenience of park facilities.

Insider Tip: Reserve a picnic pavilion in advance for larger groups or special occasions.

Take a Sunset Stroll on Glory Beach

Glory Beach, named after the 1989 Civil War film "Glory" that was partially filmed here, offers a more secluded beach experience. Located on the island's south end, this beach is known for its wide, flat shoreline and stunning sunsets.

As the day winds down, take a leisurely walk along the shore. The golden light of sunset paints the sky and sea in breathtaking colors, creating a perfect backdrop for photos or a romantic evening stroll. Keep an eye out for ghost crabs scuttling across the sand and dolphins playing in the waves.

The beach is also home to a boardwalk that winds through the dunes, offering beautiful views of the marsh on one side and the ocean on the other.

Key Information:

• Location: South Beachview Drive, near the Soccer Complex
• Hours: Dawn to dusk
• Admission: Free (parking fee required to enter Jekyll Island)

Why Visit: Experience a serene beach sunset away from the crowds.

Insider Tip: Bring a flashlight for your walk back – the beach gets dark quickly after sunset.

Camp Under the Stars at Jekyll Island Campground

For those who really want to immerse themselves in Jekyll Island's natural beauty, the Jekyll Island Campground offers a chance to sleep under the stars surrounded by live oaks and palmetto palms. This 18-acre campground provides a range of camping experiences, from primitive tent sites to full RV hookups.

The campground is conveniently located near Clam Creek and the Clam Creek Picnic Area, offering easy access to fishing, bird watching, and bike trails. It's also just a short bike ride or drive to the beach and other island attractions.

Amenities include clean bathhouses, laundry facilities, and a general store for basic supplies. The campground also offers bike rentals, making it easy to explore the island from your home base.

Key Information:

• Location: 1197 Riverview Dr, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Rates vary by site type and season

Why Visit: Experience Jekyll Island's natural beauty up close with an overnight stay in nature.

Insider Tip: Book well in advance for summer stays – the campground fills up quickly in peak season.

Explore the Wanderer Memory Trail

The Wanderer Memory Trail offers a powerful and thought-provoking journey through a dark chapter of Jekyll Island's history. This half-mile trail tells the story of the Wanderer, the last known slave ship to land in Georgia, which illegally brought enslaved Africans to Jekyll Island in 1858.

As you walk the trail, interactive exhibits and audio stations bring to life the experiences of the enslaved individuals who were brought here. The trail culminates at a clearing that overlooks the point where the Wanderer landed, providing a sobering moment of reflection.

While it's a heavy subject, the trail is masterfully designed to educate and commemorate rather than sensationalize. It's an important piece of history that adds depth to understanding Jekyll Island's past.

Key Information:

• Location: Near St. Andrews Beach Park
• Hours: Dawn to dusk
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Gain a deeper understanding of an important but often overlooked aspect of local history.

Insider Tip: Download the audio tour app before you go for a more immersive experience.

Structuring Your Jekyll Island Trip for a 3-Day Itinerary

Jekyll Island packs a lot into its small size, but with some strategic planning, you can experience many of its highlights in just three days. Here's a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your visit:

Day 1: History and Culture

Start your Jekyll Island adventure by diving into its rich history and cultural offerings.

• Morning: Begin with a visit to the Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum to get an overview of the island's history.
• Late Morning: Take a guided tram tour of the Historic District to see the beautifully preserved Gilded Age "cottages."
• Afternoon: Explore Faith Chapel and its stunning stained glass windows.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of the historic Jekyll Island Club Resort's restaurants.

Day 2: Beach and Nature

Dedicate your second day to experiencing Jekyll Island's natural beauty.

• Early Morning: Start with a sunrise visit to Driftwood Beach for incredible photo opportunities.
• Late Morning: Rent bikes and explore the island's extensive trail system.
• Afternoon: Visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center to learn about these fascinating creatures.
• Evening: Take a sunset kayak tour through the marshes.

Day 3: Fun and Relaxation

End your trip with a mix of relaxation and fun activities.

• Morning: Spend some time relaxing on South Beach or St. Andrews Beach.
• Afternoon: Cool off at Summer Waves Water Park or play a round of mini-golf at Pirate Island Adventure Golf.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the restaurants in Beach Village, followed by a sunset stroll on Glory Beach.

Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion. Feel free to mix and match activities based on your interests, the weather, and any events happening during your visit. Jekyll Island's compact size makes it easy to adjust plans on the fly.

Jekyll Island may be small, but it's packed with diverse experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. From its pristine beaches and rich ecosystems to its fascinating history and family-friendly attractions, this Georgia gem offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Whether you're biking through maritime forests, learning about sea turtle conservation, or stepping back in time in the historic district, Jekyll Island offers experiences that will stay with you long after you've shaken the sand from your shoes. Its commitment to preserving natural habitats alongside its rich history creates a unique destination that feels both timeless and vibrant.

As you plan your visit, remember that the island's charm lies not just in its attractions, but in its slower pace and natural beauty. Take time to watch a sunset, listen to the waves, and breathe in the salt air. Jekyll Island isn't just a place to visit; it's a place to savor.

So pack your sense of adventure (and plenty of sunscreen), and get ready to discover why this small island has captured the hearts of visitors for generations. From the haunting beauty of Driftwood Beach to the grandeur of the historic district, from the thrill of spotting your first sea turtle to the simple pleasure of a bike ride under moss-draped oaks, Jekyll Island is waiting to show you its treasures. Your Jekyll Island adventure starts now – enjoy every moment!