2 Days in Santa Rosa Beach Florida: A 30A Weekend Travel Guide

Hey Guys!

Florida’s Emerald Coast is one of those places we never seem to tire of visiting. With sugar white sand, emerald green water and some of the most beautiful sunsets we’ve seen, it’s an easy place to return to again and again.

In March, we headed back to Santa Rosa Beach, Florida for a quick getaway along scenic Highway 30A.

We only had two full days, but that turned out to be plenty of time to slow down, spend time on the beach, explore nearby Alys Beach, visit Grayton Beach State Park and, of course, eat some really good food.

We stayed at Rollin Tide Villas, a condo complex we’ve stayed at several times before, just a short five minute walk from the beach.

Having the Gulf that close meant we could easily walk down in the evening to catch one of the area’s spectacular sunsets.

One of the highlights of this trip was Grayton Beach State Park. We enjoyed it so much that we visited both days.

Click here to see more Beach State Parks in Florida

Beyond its beautiful beach, Grayton is home to something you don’t see in most beach destinations —rare coastal dune lakes.

If you’re planning a weekend in Santa Rosa Beach or wondering what you can realistically see along 30A in just two days, this itinerary is great place to start.

Where is Santa Rosa Beach, Florida?

Santa Rosa Beach is located in South Walton County along Florida’s northwest Gulf Coast, between Destin and Panama City Beach. It’s part of the area commonly referred to as 30A, named for scenic County Highway 30A.

One thing that’s helpful to understand before your first visit is that 30A isn’t a single town. It’s a 26 mile coastal highway where you will pass through a collection of beach communities, each with its own personality and look.

Santa Rosa Beach makes a great home base because you can enjoy the beaches and natural areas nearby while also exploring communities such as Grayton Beach and Alys Beach.

Our 2-Day Santa Rosa Beach Florida Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Santa Rosa Beach – check in then head to beach.

Day 2: Alys Beach – then headed back to Grayton Beach – then back to the beach near our condo to watch the sunset.

Day 3: Brunch at Crackings – then back to Grayton Beach – then dinner at Bayou Bill’s

Day 4: Check out of condo – lunch stop at Bates House of Turkey – then a quick stop for coffee at the Pink Lantern Coffee – then continued our drive back home

Technically, this was a three night trip with two full days in Santa Rosa Beach. We arrived on March 19 and headed home on March 22. Here’s exactly how we spent our time.

Getting to Santa Rosa Beach – Our Road Trip

Lunch at Bluebird Coffee Co. in Andalusia, Alabama

We left home on March 19 and made our way south toward Florida. Instead of waiting until we reached the coast for lunch, we stopped in downtown Andalusia, Alabama, at Bluebird Coffee Co. 

This turned out to be a fun way to break up the drive. The cafe has a relaxed, casual atmosphere and serves much more than just coffee, making it a good road trip lunch stop.

I ordered the chicken salad on a croissant and the pasta salad as my side….the food was delicious!

We also ordered coffee and it was really good too.

Read reviews here

Where we Stayed – Rollin Tide Villas

Once we arrived in Santa Rosa Beach, we checked into Rollin Tide Villas, a condo complex we’ve stayed at several times.

Some of the biggest reasons we like staying here is the location, price, every unit has a balcony that faces the pool, it’s quiet & a small complex….there’s only about 15-20 units here and a lot of them can be found on VRBO or AirBnb. 

From our condo, it’s only about a five minute walk to the beach, which means there’s no need to load everything into the car just to catch the sunset or spend a little time along the Gulf.

After checking in and getting settled, that’s exactly what we did. We walked down to the beach and officially started our Santa Rosa Beach getaway.

Exploring Alys Beach and Grayton Beach State Park

Morning in Alys Beach

The next morning, we headed east along 30A to explore Alys Beach, one of the most distinctive communities along Florida’s 30A.

This was my second time visiting Alys Beach. You can click this link to read about our first visit which is much more detailed.

You know when you have reached Alys Beach. Its striking white architecture and palm lined streets look unlike almost anywhere else along the Emerald Coast.

We spent some time walking around and exploring before heading back to our condo for lunch.

Click here for the best restaurants in Alys Beach

Tip: There’s a Publix Grocery store about 10 mins from the condo

Note: Alys Beach is privately owned. The public can visit the Town Center and its shops and restaurants, but the beach and beach accesses are private amenities for homeowners and registered Alys Beach vacation guests. Alys Beach also restricts photography of private residential spaces.

Lunch at the condo

Grayton Beach State Park

After lunch, we headed to what would become our favorite stop of the trip: Grayton Beach State Park.

We actually liked this beach so much that we came back the following day and spent even more time there.

Located directly along 30A in Santa Rosa Beach, the park combines the area’s famous white sand Gulf beaches with dunes, coastal forest and rare coastal dunes lakes. It’s a completely different experience from visiting one of 30A’s developed beach communities.

Grayon Beach State Park is nearly 2,000 acres and includes beach access, hiking, paddling, fishing and trails through its coastal environment.

The park is currently open from 8 am until sunset and charges $5 per vehicle.

During busy periods, it can reach capacity and temporarily close, so arriving earlier is a good idea.

Note: Always check the park’s website for any changes, closures, etc.

The Rare Coastal Dune Lakes at Grayton Beach

The beautiful Gulf beach isn’t the only reason to visit Grayton Beach State Park. One of the things I found most interesting was the unusual water just behind the dunes.

Grayton Beach State Park contains three coastal dune lakes: Western Lake, Alligator Lake and Little Redfish Lake.

Coastal dune lakes are extremely rare and occur in only a few places around the world.

These lakes receive freshwater from rainfall, groundwater and streams. At times, water breaks through the sand separating a lake from the Gulf, creating a natural channel known as an outfall. 

Gulf water can also travel into the lake, mixing saltwater and freshwater and creating brackish conditions.

The water can appear brown or tea colored….it’s caused by organic material breaking down in the water and isn’t an indication that the water is dirty.

Things to Do at Grayton Beach State Park

We spent most of our time enjoying the beach and exploring the dunes and coastal dune lake, but there’s much more to do if you have additional time.

You can also swim, paddle, hike and bike here.

There’s a one mile nature trail beginning near the beach parking area that passes through dunes and pine flat woods to Western Lake.

There’s also a longer trail system for people who want to explore more. Kayaks and paddle boards are available for rent for exploring the 100-acre Western Lake.

Read reviews here 

Don’t Miss a Santa Rosa Beach Sunset

After spending the afternoon at Grayton Beach State Park, we headed back to our condo.

 

Later that evening, we grabbed our cameras and made the five minute walk back to the beach for one of my favorite parts of any Florida Gulf Coast trip–the sunset.

Tip: Keep an eye out for jellyfish! They were all in the water and along the shoreline.

We’ve seen some spectacular sunsets along Florida’s Emerald Coast, and Santa Rosa Beach certainly didn’t disappoint.

The sky slowly turned from a soft gold to brilliant shades of orange and red as the sun dropped toward the Gulf.

The fiery colors reflected across the water and wet sand, making the shoreline seem to glow.

It was the perfect way to end our day.

If you’re planning your own Santa Rosa Beach itinerary, don’t schedule every minute of your evenings. Leave at least one night open to simply walk down to the beach and watch the sun disappear over the Gulf.

Brunch at Crackings and Another Day at Grayton Beach

Brunch at Crackings

We started our second full day with brunch at Crackings, and this ended up being one of our favorite meals during the trip.

I ordered the chicken and waffles and they were very good!

Read reviews here

Back to Grayton Beach State Park

After brunch, we had plenty of choices for how to spend our final full day along 30A. Instead, we went right back to Grayton Beach State Park.

Sometimes returning to the same place is the best indication of how much you enjoyed it.

This time, rather than treating Grayton as one stop on a busy sightseeing day, we spent the day there enjoying the beach and beautiful surroundings.

Tip: It was fairly cool when we visited and the wind off the ocean makes it feel even cooler so be prepared.

Read reviews for this beach here

Dinner at Bayou Bill’s Crab House

After spending most of the day at Grayton Beach, we finished our final evening with dinner at Bayou Bill’s Crab House in Santa Rosa Beach.

Bayou Bill’s has been serving Gulf seafood for decades and offers everything from crab legs and oysters to fish and steaks.

The Santa Rosa Beach location is on US 98 and currently operates on a first come, first serve basis rather than taking reservations.

I ordered the fried seafood patter and the food was really good!

Read reviews here

Heading Home – Two Road Trip Stops Worth Making

Bates House of Turkey

Our Santa Rosa Beach getaway wasn’t quite over when we checked out the next morning.

On our drive home, we stopped for lunch in Greenville, Alabama at Bates House of Turkey, and this was one road trip stop that was absolutely worth making.

However, if you don’t like turkey, don’t stop here because it’s all they serve! 😉

You order at the counter and then they call your name to pick up at the window.

I ordered the open face turkey sandwich smothered in gravy with a side of cranberry sauce and my daughter and mom ordered a turkey sandwich with chips.

We couldn’t leave without trying a slice of their coconut pie!

The food was very good!

Read reviews here

Pink Lantern Coffee + Bar

Apparently one food stop wasn’t enough for us.

After lunch, we made one final stop at Pink Lantern Coffee + Bar for coffee before continuing home.

This place was so cute!

I ordered their signature drink called Ube cold foam coffee. It’s Viet coffee with a subtly sweet layer of purple ube cold foam on top.

It was so good!

Read reviews here

More Things to Do in Santa Rosa Beach and Along 30A

With two full days, we intentionally kept this trip fairly relaxed. If you’re staying longer, there are plenty of other things you can add to your Santa Rosa Beach itinerary.

Here are a few options: Eden Gardens State Park, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, Seaside, Blue Mountain Beach, Rosemary Beach, biking the Timpoochee Trail and kayaking/paddleboarding a coastal dune lake.

Click here for best restaurants in Santa Rosa Beach

Click here for best hotels

Click here for best coffee

Click here for best beaches

Click here for best places to watch the sunset

Click here for best ice cream

Click here for best activities

Read reviews for Santa Rosa Beach here

Visiting Santa Rosa Beach in March

Crowds: The crowds were definitely much less than what you will find in June – Sept. The off season runs December through February, with November also serving as a quiet transition month.

Weather: Be prepared for cooler weather. One day we were wearing sweatshirts on the beach. Daytime highs are usually around 70 degrees and lows in the low to mid 50’s.

Ocean: We didn’t get in the water…it was way too cold! The water temperature averages around 66 degrees.

Clothes: During the day, it’s definitely warm enough to wear shorts but in the evening you may need a light cardigan.

Parking: We didn’t have any issues with parking at any of the places we visited. However, during peak season, parking can be a huge challenge so always arrive early.

Restaurants: The restaurants were definitely not as busy as I had seen them in the past when visiting during June. Reservations at the more popular restaurants may still be required.

I enjoyed our visit in March due to less crowds but it was much cooler at the beach than I would have liked.

Click here for things to do and a map of the area

How Many Days Do You Need in Santa Rosa Beach?

Two full days gave us enough time to enjoy Santa Rosa Beach without feeling like we spent the entire trip rushing from one attraction to another.

If this is your first trip to 30A and you want to explore several of its beach communities, however, I’d recommend adding another day or two.

With three or four full days, you could spend time at the beach while also visiting places like Seaside, Rosemary Beach and some of the area’s other parks.

For a relaxing long weekend, though, two days in Santa Rosa Beach absolutely works.

Tips for Planning Your Santa Rosa Beach Trip

  • Stay close enough to walk the beach if possible
  • Allow time for at least one sunset
  • Visit Grayton Beach State Park early during busy seasons because the park can reach capacity
  • Don’t walk on the dunes; they’re fragile and protected
  • Don’t assume every beach along 30A is public – Alys Beach’s beach access, for example, is private
  • Leave some unscheduled time. Part of the appeal of 30A is slowing down and enjoying the beach.
  • If you’re driving, make the journey part of the vacation by planning a good lunch or coffee stop along the way.
  • Bring plenty of sunscreen

Is Santa Rosa Beach Worth Visiting?

For us, Santa Rosa Beach is an easy yes — and the fact that we’ve returned to this area more than once probably says more than anything I could write.

You don’t need an elaborate itinerary to enjoy this part of Florida. Some of our favorite moments from this trip were also the simplest: walking on the beach, photographing the sunset, discovering the unusual coastal dune lakes at Grayton Beach and spending an entire day with nowhere else needed to be.

If you only have a weekend, two days is enough to get a taste of Santa Rosa Beach and 30A. But don’t be surprised if you leave already thinking about your next trip back.

Here are links to some of my other Florida posts:

4 Days in Santa Rosa Beach, FL – Days 1 & 2 – Aug 2025

4 Days in Santa Rosa Beach, FL – Days 3 & 4 – Aug 2025

3 Days in Seaside, FL – Sept. 2023

Sun & Fun in Florida

Fun times in Florida

Silver Springs State Park: Things to Do & Visitor Guide

Click here to see links to all of my blog posts

 

3 Days in Savannah, Georgia: A Relaxed Weekend Itinerary

Hey Guys!

Savannah, Georgia is one of those cities we never get tired of visiting. We’d previously spent several days exploring Savannah as part of a longer Savannah and Charleston trip, so this time we weren’t trying to see everything.

A Week in Charleston, SC & Savannah, GA – Days 1 & 2 – Dec 2024

Instead, we slowed things down, toured a couple of historic homes, wandered through the Historic District and enjoyed some really good meals.

Click here to see some of the best restaurants in Savannah

If you’ve already visited Savannah — or you’re looking for a relaxed weekend itinerary, then this trip is easy to recreate.

However, if you’re planning your first trip to Savannah, you may want to start with my Savannah & Charleston 7 Day Itinerary, where we packed in many more of Savannah’s major sights. That trip is broken down in a day by day format instead of one blog post.

Day 1: Arriving in Savannah + Dinner at the Pirates House

We arrived in Savannah on New Year’s Eve and checked into the historic Kehoe House, where we would be spending our first night.

Since we’d visited Savannah before, we wanted this trip to be a little different, and staying in one of the city’s historic homes was the perfect way to start our weekend.

Staying at the Historic Kehoe House

Located in Savannah’s Historic District, the Kehoe House is a beautiful historic mansion that has been converted into a bed and breakfast.

This was our first time staying here, and the house itself was just as much a part of the experience as exploring Savannah.

Inside, the historic details and furnishing give the house so much character.

We stayed in room 303 and our room even had its own balcony!

One of the best parts of our stay happened later that evening. Since it was New Year’s Eve, we were able to step right outside onto our balcony and watch the fireworks over Savannah!

It was such a fun and incredibly convenient way to ring in the New Year without having to fight the crowds!

Read reviews here

New Year’s Eve Dinner at The Pirates House

For Dinner, we had made advanced reservations at the Pirates House, one of Savannah’s most well known historic restaurants.

Read about the history of the restaurant here

We’d eaten here on our previous trip and decided it would be a great place to return to for New Year’s Eve because the food was so good!

My husband ordered a seafood platter and I ordered a steak dinner.

The food was delicious and the service was very good.

Read reviews here & see their menu here

Tip: I strongly recommend you make reservations at most of the restaurants we ate at

After dinner, we made one more stop at Leopold’s Ice Cream for dessert.

No trip to Savannah feels quite complete without a stop at Leopolds, and it was the perfect way to end our New Year’s Even out in the city.

Read reviews here

After our ice cream, we headed back to the Kehoe House, settled in for the night and eventually watched the New Year’s Eve fireworks from our balcony….a pretty perfect ending to our first night back in Savannah.

Day 2 – Exploring Historic Savannah

We started our first morning of the new year with breakfast at the Kehoe House.

Guests can enjoy breakfast downstairs, but we chose to have ours delivered to our room instead.

It was such a relaxing way to start the morning before heading out for a full day of exploring Savannah.

Touring the Sorrel-Weed House

After breakfast, we met up with my sister and bother in law and headed to the historic Sorrel-Weed House for a tour.

The beautiful Greek Revival mansion dates back to the 1800s and is one of Savannah’s many historic homes open for tours.

Since we’d already seen several of Savannah’s attractions on our previous trip, touring some of the historic homes we hadn’t visited before was one of the things we wanted to do this time.

The house was gorgeous and I highly recommend a tour of this house if you are ever visiting Savannah!

Read reviews here

Walking Through Savannah’s Historic District

After our tour, we continued exploring Savannah on foot.

One of our first stops was the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, where we stopped to take a few photos of the beautiful exterior.

During our previous trip, we went inside so we decided to skip it this time.

From there, we spent some time walking through Savannah’s South Historic District, admiring and taking way too many pictures of the gorgeous historic homes and buildings along the way.

This is honestly one of my favorite things to do in Savannah.

You don’t necessarily need a destination.

Just walking the streets and seeing the architecture, beautiful squares, and historic homes is an experience in itself.

Since we were visiting just after New year’s, some of the homes and buildings were still decorated for Christmas, which made everything even prettier.

Lunch at Clary’s Cafe

Eventually, we made our way to Clary’s Cafe for lunch.

We were able to get a table outside, which we really enjoyed.

After spending the morning walking around Savannah, it was nice to sit outside, relax and enjoy lunch before continuing our day.

Clary’s Cafe is one those classic paces that has a lot more history than you might realize just from eating there.

Its roots go back to 1903, when the location began as a neighborhood drugstore and soda fountain before evolving into the old fashioned breakfast and lunch cafe it is today.

What really made Clary’s famous outside Savannah is its connection to Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Author John Berendt spent time there while getting to know Savannah and its colorful residents, and Clary’s appears in the book as the neighborhood gathering place.

The cafe was also later used as a filming location for Clint Eastwood’s 1997 movie adaption.

In the movie, John Cusack’s character, John Kelso, uses the diner as his morning hub to drink coffee, eat breakfast, and observe the eccentricities of the local Savannah residents.

The cafe is known for breakfast, which is served all day.

The food was delicious!

Read reviews here

Forsyth Park

After lunch, we continued walking through the Historic District and passed lots more historic homes and buildings.

We eventually made our way to Forsyth Park.

Of course, we had to stop as the famous Forsyth Fountain.

The fountain is one of Savannah’s most recognizable landmarks and has been a centerpiece of the park since the 1800s.

The trees in Forsyth Park are amazing!

We continued wandering through Savannah afterward, stopping whenever another beautiful historic building caught our attention ….which happens a lot in Savannah!

Along the way, we passed the Green-Meldrim House, another of the city’s impressive historic mansions.

Read about the history of the house here

Checking into the Olde Harbour Inn

Later that afternoon, we checked into the Olde Harbour Inn. Unlike the Kehoe House, this wasn’t our first stay here.

We stayed at the Olde Harbor Inn during our first trip to Savannah and absolutely loved it, so we were excited to come back.

The best thing about the rooms was it had two bedrooms which worked perfectly since my sister and brother in law were staying with us.

One of our favorite things about staying here is the location right along the river.

From our balcony, we could sit and watch the enormous cargo ships make their way along the Savannah River.

Seeing how huge these ships are when they pass right in front of you is pretty incredible!

Read reviews here

Dinner at Poe’s Tavern and an Evening Along the River

That evening, we had dinner at Poe’s Tavern.

We had first eaten at Poe’s Tavern during our trip to Charleston and we really enjoyed it so we thought we would try the one in Savannah.

However, we weren’t overly impressed with the food.

Read reviews here

After dinner, we walked along Savannah’s riverfront near our hotel.

Since we were visiting just after New Year’s, many of the Christmas decorations were still up, including a beautiful Christmas tree along the riverfront.

We spent some time walking around, taking pictures and enjoying the lights before making one more unexpected stop.

An Unexpected Stop at the JW Marriott

While exploring the riverfront, we wandered into the JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District — and I’m so glad we did!

The inside of this hotel is almost like a museum.

We found incredible displays filled with fossils, dinosaur bones, beautiful rocks, minerals and gemstones!

It was such an unexpected find and definitely worth walking inside to see, even if you aren’t staying at the hotel.

We spent at least 30-45 mins here going through the exhibits.

We walked up to the 3rd floor to take pictures of the exhibits below.

Read reviews here

After exploring the displays, we headed back to the Olde Harbor Inn and relaxed for a while on our balcony before calling it a night.

Day 3 – River Street, The Olde Pink House, & Another Historic Home Tour

We started our third day in Savannah right outside our hotel along the riverfront.

One of the great things about staying at the Olde Harbour Inn is having so much historic Savannah within walking distance.

Exploring Savannah’s Historic Riverfront

Our first stop was the Waving Girl Statue, located along the riverfront near our hotel.

The statue honors Florence Martus, who became known as Savannah’s Waving Girl after reportedly greeting ships entering and leaving the Savannah harbor for decades.

From there, we made our way up from the river and continued walking through the historic area above River Street.

We stopped to see the Old City Exchange Bell and the historic Cotton Exchange before snapping a few photos of the historic Savannah City Hall and its beautiful gold dome.

This is another thing I love about Savannah – there is history and beautiful architecture almost everywhere you look, so even walking from one place to another becomes part of the sightseeing.

Lunch at The Olde Pink House

For lunch, we headed to The Olde Pink House, one of Savannah’s most famous historic restaurants.

This was our second time eating here, but my sister and brother in law’s first visit.

The restaurant is located inside a beautiful 18th century mansion, and since the Christmas decorations were still up, we spent some time walking around and taking pictures of the interior before our meal.

Not only is The Olde Pink House beautiful, but dining here feels like you’re getting to experience another piece of Savannah’s history at the same time.

The food is delicious and the service is top notch!

Read reviews here

Touring the Green-Meldrin House

After lunch, we toured the Green Meldrin House.

We had actually passed the mansion during our walk the previous day, so this time we got to step inside and see it for ourselves.

This was the second historic home we toured during this trip and another opportunity to see some of Savannah’s incredible architecture and history up close.

The house is absolutely beautiful!

You definitely need to tour some of these homes when visiting Savannah….it takes back in time!

Read reviews here

Leopold’s Ice Cream & a Little More Savannah History

After our tour, we continued walking through the Historic District and eventually made our way back to Leopold’s Ice Cream.

This place is so good!

Read reviews here…there are over 12,000 of them!

As we continued exploring, we came across a historic marker commemorating the site where James Oglethorpe, the founder of the Georgia colony, reportedly pitched his tent and rested on the day Georgia was settled.

It was one of those little pieces of Savannah history that we weren’t necessarily looking for but happened to discover just by walking around the city.

Shopping & Dinner Along River Street

Later, we headed back towards the riverfront and spent some time browsing the shops along River Street.

For dinner, we stopped at the Broken Keel, where both the food and service were very good.

Read reviews here

After dinner, we continued checking out some of the popular shops along the riverfront, including one of Savannah’s candy shops, where of course we couldn’t leave without buying some candy. 😉

We also stopped at Vic’s Coffee Bar for coffee. This one wasn’t quite as much of a hit for us –but you can’t win them all!

Read reviews here

Afterward, we headed back to the Olde Harbour Inn and ended our last evening in Savannah watching the massive cargo ships pass right by our balcony.

It was a relaxing way to finish another day exploring one of our favorite Southern cities!

Day 4 – Breakfast at Forsyth Park & Heading Home

On our last morning in Savannah, we headed to Collins Quarter at Forsyth Park for breakfast before starting the long drive home.

Breakfast at Collins Quarter

Located right in Forsyth Park, Collins Quarter was the perfect spot for one last meal in Savannah.

The food and service were both excellent, and after being a little disappointed with our coffee the night before, I’m happy to say the coffee here was delicious!

Read reviews here

After breakfast, it was time to say goodbye to Savannah and start the drive home.

It had been a short trip, but we packed in plenty of good food, beautiful historic architecture and a couple of historic home tours — and once again, Savannah didn’t disappoint.

We passed this beautiful house as we were leaving.

Is 3 Days Enough in Savannah?

Three days can be plenty of time to enjoy Savannah, especially if you’ve visited before or you’re looking for a more relaxed weekend getaway.

Since this was our second trip to Savannah, we weren’t trying to fit all of the city’s major attractions into this visit.

Instead, we slowed down, toured a couple of historic homes we hadn’t seen before, enjoyed some great restaurants, and spent plenty of time simply walking through the Historic District and along the riverfront.

If you’re visiting Savannah for the first time, however, there’s much more to see and do than included on this trip. On our first visit, we spent considerably more time exploring Savannah as part of a seven day Savannah and Charleston trip.

If you have the extra time, I’d definitely recommend checking out that itinerary for even more historic sites, attractions and things to do in Savannah.

Final Thoughts on Our Savannah Weekend

Savannah is one of those places we don’t mind visiting again and again.

Even a after spending much more time here on our first trip, we still found new historic homes to tour, new restaurants to try and plenty of beautiful streets and buildings to photograph.

Staying at the historic Kehoe House on New Year’s Eve and watching the fireworks from our balcony made this trip especially memorable, and returning to the Olde Harbour Inn reminded us why we loved staying there so much the first time.

This trip was much more relaxed than our previous visit, and that was exactly the way we wanted.

Savannah is a city where you don’t necessarily need a packed itinerary –sometimes simply walking the historic streets, enjoying a good meal and taking in all that beautiful Southern architecture is enough.

And I’m pretty sure this won’t be our last trip to Savannah!

Click here to see links to all of my blog posts over the years

 

Best Things to Do on Jekyll Island, Georgia – The Ultimate Travel Guide

Hey Guys!

Jekyll Island is one of Georgia’s most beautiful barrier islands, known for its driftwood covered beaches, historic cottages, sea turtles, and miles of scenic bike trails.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, this guide covers the best things to do, where to eat, what not to miss, and insider tips to help you plan the perfect visit.

Quick Facts About Jekyll Island

  • Jekyll Island is located along the state’s southeastern coast between Savannah, GA and Jacksonville, FL. Connected to the mainland by a causeway, the island is easily accessible by car and offers miles of beaches, nature trails and historic attractions.
  • A parking pass is required to enter Jekyll Island by vehicle. The daily fee is $10 per vehicle, and annual passes are also available for frequent visitors.
  • Spring (May – March) and fall (Sept – Nov) are the best times to visit. During these seasons, you will enjoy pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • One full day is enough to see many of Jekyll Island’s highlights but staying 2-3 days allows you to explore the beaches, bike trails, historic district, Georgia Sea Turtle Center, and nearby restaurants at a more relaxed pace.
  • Leashed dogs are welcome on many of Jekyll Island’s beaches, trails and outdoor spaces. Several hotels and vacation rentals are also pet friendly.
  • Parking is plentiful and free throughout most of Jekyll Island once you’ve purchased your entrance pass.

Click here for a visitor guide and maps of the island

Best Things to Do On Jekyll Island

Driftwood Beach

No trip to Jekyll Island would be complete without visiting Driftwood Beach!

Located on the northern shore, this one of a kind beach is famous for its massive driftwood trees that have been sculpted by years of coastal erosion.

The weathered trunks and twisted branches create an almost otherworldly landscape, making it one of the most photographed beaches in Georgia and a favorite destination for photographers, nature lovers, and families alike.

Unlike many beaches where visitors come to primarily swim, Driftwood Beach is all about exploring and taking in the scenery.

You will find enormous oak trees scattered across the sand, their exposed roots and sun bleached branches creating natural works of art.

Every visit is a little different as tides and storms continue to reshape the shoreline giving the beach a constantly changing appearance.

While you can certainly spend an hour wandering the shoreline, many visitors find themselves staying much longer. It’s easy to lose track of time climbing over driftwood, searching for shells, or simply relaxing while listening to the waves.

Read reviews here

Historic District

Stepping into Jekyll Island’s Historic District feels like traveling back in time.

Once known as the exclusive winter retreat of America’s wealthiest families, this 240 acre National Historic Landmark is home to beautifully preserved cottages, charming tree lined streets, and fascinating museums that tell the story of the island’s luxurious past.

In the late 1800’s, some of the country’s most influential families, including the Rockefeller, Morgans, Vanderbilts, and Pulitzers, made Jekyll Island their private getaway.

As members of the exclusive Jekyll Island Club, they built elegant cottages that were actually sprawling mansions and spent their winters enjoying hunting, golf, boating, and lavish social events.

Today, visitors can stroll through the Historic District and admire many of these beautifully restored buildings.

One of the highlights is the Jekyll Island Club Resort, where you can walk through the grand lobby, or enjoy a meal while soaking in the island’s rich history.

Several of the historic cottages are also open for guided tours.

Georgia Sea Turtle Center

The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is one of Jekyll Island’s most popular attractions and is well worth a visit.

As Georgia’s only sea turtle rehabilitation center, it provides care for injured and sick sea turtles while educating visitors about marine conservation.

Inside you can view recovering turtles, explore interactive exhibits, and learn about the important work being done to protect these incredible animals.

You can easily spend an hour here going through the exhibits.

Read reviews here

Hiking

Jekyll Island offers several scenic hiking and nature trails that wind through maritime forests, salt marshes, and along the shoreline.

Whether you’re looking for a short nature walk or a peaceful hike, the island’s trails provide excellent opportunities to spot wildlife, enjoy the coastal scenery, and experience Jekyll island’s natural beauty beyond its beaches.

Click here for the 10 best hiking trails on the island

Rent Bikes

One of the best ways to explore Jekyll Island is by bike. With more than 20 miles of paved trails winding though beaches, maritime forest, and the Historic District, cycling lets you experience the island at a relaxed pace.

Several bike rental shops offer everything from standard bicycles to tandem bikes and child trailers, making it a fun activity for visitors of all ages.

Beaches on Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is home to more than 10 miles of beautiful shoreline, with each beach offering its own unique charm.

Whether you’re looking for the iconic driftwood covered coastline, a quite place to relax, or a family friendly beach with convenient amenities, you will find the perfect spot to enjoy the Georgia coast.

From sunrise walks and shell collecting to swimming and wildlife watching, spending time at the beach is one of the highlights of any visit to Jekyll Island.

The island is home to seven main public beach areas, each offering a different experience:

  • Driftwood Beach – The island’s most famous beach, known for its massive driftwood trees.
  • Great Dunes Beach Park – a family friendly beach with easy access, picnic areas, restrooms, and plenty of parking.
  • Glory Beach – a wide, scenic beach backed by beautiful sand dunes. It’s also known as a filming location for the movie Glory.
  • South Dunes Beach Park – a quieter beach featuring an observation deck, picnic pavilions, and nature trails.
  • St. Andrews Beach Park – this beach is one of the best places for birdwatching, fishing and watching the sunset.
  • Oceanview Beach Park – Centrally located with ADA accessible beach access, picnic pavilions, showers, and nearby parking.
  • Corsair Beach Park – near Beach Village, this beach offers restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and is within walking distance of restaurants and shops.

Fishing Pier

Whether you’re an experienced angler or simply looking for a peaceful place to enjoy the water, the Jekyll Island Fishing Pier is worth a stop.

Located near the Historic District, the pier offers beautiful views of the marshes and surrounding waterways and is a popular spot for fishing, birdwatching, and watching boats pass by.

Even if you don’t plan to fish, it’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the island’s scenic coastal beauty.

If you don’t have your own fishing pole, you can rent one from the Jekyll Fishing Center located next to the Jekyll Island Fishing Pier at Clam Creek.

They offer fishing rod rentals, along with bait, tackle, beach gear rentals, and everything you need for a day of fishing.

They also book fishing charters and dolphin tours.

Dolphin Tours

One of the best ways to experience Jekyll Island is from the water.

Dolphin tours offer the chance to see playful dolphins in their natural habitat while learning about the island’s coastal ecosystem.

Visitors can also choose from a variety of other guided experiences, including eco tours, historic tram tours, kayaking excursions, and boat cruises, making it easy to explore Jekyll Island from a different perspective.

Golf and Mini Golf

Jekyll Island is a great destination for golfers of all skill levels.

The island features several scenic 18 hole golf courses surrounded by beautiful marshes, lakes and ancient oak trees, offering a memorable coastal golfing experience.

Families can also enjoy a round of mini golf, making it a fun activity for kids and adults alike after a day at the beach.

Horton House

The Horton House is one of the oldest surviving tabby structures in Georgia and offers a fascinating glimpse into Jekyll Island’s colonial past.

Built in the 1740’s by Major William Horton, this historic site is a popular stop for history lovers and anyone interested in learning about the island’s early settlement.

Visitors can walk around the preserved ruins and read informational signs that explain the home’s history and significance.

Faith Chapel

Faith Chapel is one of Jekyll Island’s most beautiful historic landmarks.

Built in 1904, the charming chapel is known for its stunning stained glass windows, peaceful atmosphere, and Gothic Revival architecture.

Located in the Historic District, it’s a worthwhile stop for visitors interested in history, architecture, or simply enjoying a quiet moment during their visit.

Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum

The Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum offers an engaging look at the island’s fascinating history through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia displays.

Visitors can learn about Jekyll Island’s transformation from a private retreat for America’s wealthiest families to the public destination it is today.

Located in the Historic District, the museum is a great place to begin your visit and gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s rich heritage.

Click here & here for more tours on the island

Plantation Oak

The Plantation Oak is one of Jekyll Island’s most iconic landmarks.

Estimated to be more than 350 years old, this majestic Southern live oak features sprawling branches that stretch nearly 150 feet across.

It’s a favorite spot for photos and a peaceful spot to stop while exploring the island.

The tree is located in the Historic District.

It is one of the island’s most photographed attractions.

Of course, this was a must see for us!

We took tons of pictures of the tree!

Tip: In Brunswick, just 20 mins from Jekyll Island, is the famous Lover’s Oak. It’s estimated to be more than 900 yrs old.

The Boat House Site

During the Jekyll Island Club era (1886-1942), there was no causeway connecting the island to the mainland.

Wealthy club members, including families like the Rockefeller and Vanderbilts, arrived by train to Brunswick and then boarded ferries or private launches to reach Jekyll Island.

The Boat House was where these boats were stored, maintained, and repaired, making an essential transportation hub for the island.

Today, all that remains are the concrete piers, portions of the tabby walls, and a historic capstan winch that was once used to pull boats from the water.

The site is located in Riverview Park just south of the Historic District and includes interpretive signs explaining the history.

Summer Waves Water Park

If you’re visiting Jekyll Island during the summer, Summer Waves Water Park is a fun way to cool off.

The family friendly water park features exciting water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and play areas for younger children, making it a great activity for visitors of all ages.

It’s the perfect place to spend a few hours relaxing and escaping the Georgia heat.

Click here to purchase tickets and Click here to read reviews

Kayaking & Paddle boarding

Kayaking and paddle boarding are great ways to experience Jekyll Island’s scenic salt marshes and tidal creeks.

Several local outfitters offer rentals and guided tours, giving visitors the opportunity to paddle through peaceful waterways while spotting dolphins, birds and other coastal wildlife.

It’s a relaxing outdoor adventure that’s perfect for nature lovers of all skill levels.

Tidelands Nature Center

The Tidelands Nature Center is a great place to learn about Jekyll Island’s unique coastal ecosystem.

Through interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and educational programs, visitors can discover the island’s diverse wildlife, salt marshes, and marine life.

The Nature Center also offers guided kayak tours and nature walks, making it a fun stop for families and anyone interested in exploring the natural side of Jekyll Island.

Horseback Riding on the Beach

Horseback riding is a unique way to experience Jekyll Island’s natural beauty.

Guided trail rides take visitors through scenic maritime forests and along picturesque coastal landscapes, offering a relaxing adventure for riders of all experience levels.

It’s a memorable activity for families, couples, and anyone looking to explore the island from a different perspective.

Click here for carriage rides and more

Birdwatching

Jekyll Island is a paradise for birdwatchers, with hundreds of species spotted throughout the year.

From wading birds and shorebirds to ospreys and bald eagles, the island’s beaches, salt marshes, and maritime forests provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

St. Andrews Beach Park is one of the best places to observe birds, especially during migration season.

Clam Creek Picnic Area

Clam Creek Picnic Area is a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors on Jekyll Island.

With shaded picnic tables, grills, fishing access, and beautiful views of the tidal creek, it’s a great place for a family picnic or a quiet break from sightseeing.

The area is also popular for birdwatching, fishing, and watching boats pass through the waterway.

Restaurants

Jekyll Island offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes and seafood shacks to waterfront restaurants and upscale dining.

Whether you’re craving fresh local seafood, Southern favorites, pizza, or a quick bite to eat after a day at the beach, you will find plenty of great places to eat throughout the island.

Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful coastal views while you dine.

Favorites for breakfast:

  • Sunrise Grille – a local favorite serving hearty Southern breakfast, omelets, pancakes, biscuits and gravy, and fresh coffee. Read reviews here
  • Grand Dining Room – if you’re looking for a more elegant breakfast or Sunday brunch, this historic restaurant inside the Jekyll Island Club Resort offers a beautiful setting and excellent food. Read reviews here

Lunch:

  • Zachry’s Riverhouse – a waterfront favorite known for fresh seafood, burgers, and beautiful river views. It’s one of the island’s most recommended lunch spots. Read reviews here
  • Corridor Z Kitchen + Cocktails – Great for seafood, tacos, sandwiches, and cocktails in the Beach Village area. Read reviews here

Dinner:

  • Zachry’s Riverhouse – Fresh local seafood, steaks, burgers, and sunset views make this one of the island’s top dinner destinations.
  • The Wharf – Located on the historic pier, this waterfront restaurant is perfect for seafood, cocktails, and watching the sunset. Read reviews here
  • Coastal Cucina – a newer favorite serving fresh pasta, wood fired pizza, and Italian inspired coastal cuisine. Read reviews here

Ice Cream:

  • Jekyll Island Sweets – an old fashioned candy and ice cream shop in the Historic District that’s perfect for ending the day with a scoop of ice cream of homemade fudge. Read reviews here
  • Fuse Frozen Yogurt – a fun self serve frozen yogurt shop with dozens of toppings that’s especially popular with families. Read reviews here

Shopping on Jekyll Island – Beach Village

Whether you’re looking for the perfect souvenir or a unique local gift, Jekyll Island offers several charming places to shop.

From boutique clothing stores, and beach outfitters to specialty gift shops, art galleries, and sweet shops, you will find plenty of opportunities to browse while exploring the island.

Beach Village and the Historic District are two of the best areas to shop, with a variety of locally owned stores just a short walk from restaurants and attractions.

Where to Stay on Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island offers accommodations for every type of traveler, including 11 hotels and resorts, vacation rentals, villas, cottages, private homes, and a campground with RV and tent sites.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a weekend camping trip, you will find plenty of options to fit your budget.

Luxury:

Mid-Range:

Budget:

Camping:

  • Jekyll Island Campground – the island’s only campground features RV and tent sites with full hookups, bathhouses, Wi-Fi, and easy access to bike trails, beaches and the Historic District.

Sample One Day Itinerary

Morning:

  • Driftwood Beach at sunrise
  • Breakfast
  • Hotel District

Afternoon:

  • Lunch
  • Bike ride
  • Sea Turtle Center

Evening:

  • Dinner at one of the many restaurants
  • Ice cream
  • Sunset at St. Andrews Beach

Best Things to Do on the Island

Helpful Tips When Visiting Jekyll Island

  • Bring bug spray
  • Bring sunscreen
  • Bring bikes or rent one
  • Watch for turtles
  • Don’t climb on protected dunes
  • Expect an entrance fee
  • Reserve dolphin cruises early

A Few FAQs

  • Is Jekyll Island famous? Yes
  • Why is Jekyll Island famous? Jekyll Island is best known for its beautiful beaches, iconic Driftwood Beach, rich history, and the former Jekyll Island Club, where some of America’s wealthiest families – including the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, and Morgans, vacationed during the Gilded Age.
  • Can you swim on Jekyll Island? Yes! Several of Jekyll Island’s beaches are perfect for swimming, including the Great Dunes Beach Park, Glory Beach, Oceanview Beach Park, and Corsair Beach Park. Always pay attention to water conditions and posted safety signs.
  • What is the prettiest beach on the island? Driftwood Beach is widely considered the island’s most beautiful and unique beach. Its weathered driftwood trees create a breathtaking landscape that attracts photographers and visitors from around the world.
  • Is one day enough? You can see many of Jekyll Island’s highlights in one day, but spending two to three days allows you to enjoy the beaches, Historic District, bike trails, and other attractions at a more relaxed pace.
  • Are there alligators on the island? Yes. Alligators live in some of the island’s freshwater ponds and marshes. They typically avoid people, but visitors should always observe them from a safe distance and never feed or approach wildlife.
  • Can you drink alcohol on the beach? Yes, alcohol is permitted on Jekyll Island’s beaches for visitors who are 21 or older. However, glass containers are prohibited, and visitors should always follow local rules and dispose of trash properly.
  • Do you need to rent a car? A car is the easiest way to reach Jekyll Island, but once you are there, it’s easy to get around by bicycle, on foot, or suing the island’s scenic trail system. Many attractions are located just a short ride or drive from one another.
  • What is the nearest airport to Jekyll Island? Brunswick (BQK) is about a 30 min drive from the island; Jacksonville (JAX) is about 1 hr 15 mins; Savannah/Hilton Head (SAV) is about 1.5 hrs;
  • What’s the nightlife like on the island? While Jekyll Island isn’t known for its lively nightlife scene, there are still plenty of ways to unwind after the sun goes down. Enjoy a waterfront dinner, have cocktails at one of the restaurants or hotel bars, listen to occasional live music, or take an evening stroll along the beach.
  • Are there sharks in the water at Jekyll Island? Yes, there are sharks in the water around the island, just as there are along most of the Atlantic coast. However, shark bites are very rare, and millions of people safely enjoy Georgia’s beaches every year. Sharks are more active at dawn, dusk, and at night, which is why it’s generally recommended to avoid swimming during those times. Also, avoid swimming near people who are fishing.