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

Planes, Trains & Autos

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.

Leave a Reply