Jekyll Island, a short 30-minute drive from St. Simons Island is an Island located off the coast of Georgia, in Glynn County. The island is one of four barrier islands of the Golden Isles consisting of Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island, St. Simons Island, and Sea Island. The four islands each offer many different things to do and places to see. If you have a spare day when you’re staying in St. Simons Island, make sure to check out Jekyll Island, you will not be disappointed. To make things easier on you, we have constructed a list of our favorite things to do on Jekyll Island.
Georgia Sea Turtle Center
The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is the only sea turtle education and rehabilitation facility currently in Georgia. The center offers locals and visitors the chance to learn about the turtles and see their road to recovery in action. They offer year-round indoor and outdoor programs for guests of all ages. They are open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
Biking
Many love biking throughout Jekyll Island for its scenic route of viewing all of the island’s hallmark points of interest. There are many bike trails that wind around sand dunes, beaches, and several historic sites. The bike paths will not only take you from one place to another, but it will also give you the opportunity to bike right to the Jekyll Island Historic District and see the culture and history of your bike. There are several bike rental shops around town for any size bike you may need. A few shops are Jekyll Island Bike Barn, Beachside Bike Rentals, and Jekyll Wheels.
Beaches
Unlike any other, Jekyll Island Beaches take your coastal getaway over the top. The island has over 10 miles of beautiful unbothered shoreline with a variety of amenities. There are plenty of places to relax and unwind, while you take in the salty air.
Driftwood Beach
Driftwood Beach is consistently chosen as one of America’s “Ten Most Romantic Beaches”. Alongside its beauty is historical roots. The beach has a beautiful ancient driftwood monument that lines the waterfront creating a breathtaking view. The beach is open year-round and is pet friendly.
Great Dunes Beach
The Great Dunes Beach is the most popular amongst families. The 20-acre beachfront park is easy to access and has several picnic areas. Enjoy the activities deck, play areas, and volleyball courts, or try out a game of bocce ball on the sand. This beach is open year-round and is pet friendly.
South Dunes Beach Park
South Dunes Beach Park is the perfect beach to visit if you are looking for a better look at the ocean. The park has an elevated boardwalk crossing 20-foot sand dunes, beach access, an observation deck, and a freshwater pond. Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming right off of the Georgia Coast.
Fishing and Boating
Jekyll Island offers many different ways to explore the Atlantic Ocean. Whether it’s on the sea in a boat, on a dock, or onshore, there are plenty of ways to get in touch with your inner angler. Choose from fishing on a kayak, boat, sand, or dock. You can rent equipment at the 4-H Tidelands Nature Center, where they can also teach you how to fish. You can also opt for an adrenaline rush with an airboat ride or deep-sea fishing. Take a full or half-day trip out on the water. Jekyll Island offers many different boat and fishing tours.
Horseback Riding
There is nothing quite like riding horses on a family vacation, but what’s even better is riding horses on a beach on vacation. From guided tours on the beach at driftwood beach to narrated horse-drawn carriage tours of the historic landmark district, this will be a memory that lasts a lifetime. These tours can be found at the Golden Isles Carriage and Trail at Three Oaks Farm, Historic District Carriage Tours, and Driftwood Beach Rides.
Horton House
The Horton House is something you may stumble upon while on a bike trail. Jekyll Island was granted to William Horton by the trustees of the colony of Georgia. After his first home was destroyed in a Spanish attack, he built his second home, the Horton House, that still stands today. The Horton House and Horton Pond still remain today open to visitors and locals to explore some of the history made on the island.
Jekyll Island Golf Club
If you are not a fan of the beaches, or you are worn out from the constant fun in the sun and water, try out some of the best golf courses in the area. With the first golf course being made on the island in 1898, Jekyll Island Golf Club has been a heralded golf destination ever since. They have had several accredited visitors such as Donald Ross, Walter Travis and Joe Lee, as well as many players from all around the world. Each course is carefully constructed with very few man-made obstructions.
Summer Waves Water Park
Splish, splash, and laugh all day long at the Summer Waves Water Park. Among the peaceful islands is this hidden gem and family attractions. It is known for its cool, refreshing water, and amazing views. Enjoy the lazy rivers, wave pools, and waterslides all day long, with the entire family. This is many families’ top things to do when they visit Jekyll Island. Try out the Pirate’s Passage while creating memories you will never forget.
Miniature Golf
Located on the Georgia Coast and Great Dunes Park are Jekyll Islands mini golf courses. These courses are great for adults and children, offering lots of fun and the option for a more advanced course for those who are wanting it. You can play all day or play one time, no matter how long you are there you will enjoy it the whole time. Enjoy one or both of the well-lit 18-hole courses with your entire family.
The Golden Isles Of Georgia has so much to offer from the beautiful oak trees swaying in the wind, to the state parks and Jekyll Island museum. However, if you are on a time limitation these are our must stop and visit list. We hope to see you soon on the island and to find the perfect vacation rental, check out our rentals.
