Jekyll Island is the most charming, hidden gem tucked along the Florida-Georgia line [I’ve heard great music comes out of the area 😉 ]! We — Claire here! — traveled to Jekyll Island for the first time earlier this Spring and booked another trip back this Summer because we fell in love! Here’s what we love about it…
It’s not overly crowded or touristy [not a single high-rise condo in sight!] which we love! It’s a quiet, slow paced community and if you love getting from Point A to Point B by bike or golf cart, you’ll fit right in! Fun Fact: the island is actually a Georgia State Park, so it’s very minimally developed. And by law, 65% of the island is and will remain in a mostly natural state (including parks and picnic areas). Did I convince you yet?! Pack your bags, friends – here’s everything you need to know about visiting Jekyll Island, Georgia!
Getting There
Nearby Airports:
- Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport
- Jacksonville International Airport – We fly into Jacksonville and rent a car. It’s only about an hour from the island & a super easy drive!
- Jekyll Island Airport (Private)
Places to Stay
Places to Stay:
- The Westin Jekyll Island – Our favorite!
- Courtyard by Marriott – Loved this one, would be great for kids! Also home of the best Rum Runner on the island IMO. 😉
- Jekyll Island Club Resort
- Jekyll Ocean Club
- Airbnb – Lot’s of cute Airbnb options on the island!
Where to Eat
Breakfast:
- Sunrise Grille
- The Pantry
- The Courtyard & Westin Hotels both have amazing on-site breakfast [I promise it’s not cereal and frozen breakfast burritos! 😉 ]
Lunch & Dinner:
- Driftwood Bistro – Our favorite, we ended up going back two nights in a row! Highly recommend the shrimp & grits!
- Zachary’s Riverhouse – Very casual, hidden gem with amazing seafood!
- The Wharf – Fun atmosphere, live music, and great waterfront view!
- Tortuga Jacks – We weren’t crazy about the food, but it’s a great place to grab a margarita on the beach!
- Eighty Ocean Kitchen & Bar
Things to Do
Go to the Beach
- Go to the beach – Most hotels have beach chairs & umbrellas available for rent! There are also several public access points if you’re not staying somewhere on the waterfront. Keep an eye out for sea turtle nests!
Bike Rentals
- Go for a bike ride – Most hotels have bikes available for rent or check out Beachside Bike Rentals or the Jekyll Island Bike Barn.
Go Fishing
- Go Fishing – We loved our experience with Captain Griffin at Jekyll Fishing! He will work with you to find the best trip for all ages and experience levels! While we were out, we spotted dolphins, sharks, stingrays, and even a jellyfish!
Visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center
- Visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center – Very quick & informative sea turtle rehabilitation center – this would be a great activity for kids!
Watch the Sunset
- Watch the Sunset – Catch some live music and watch the sunset at The Wharf
Other Activities:
- Visit Driftwood Beach
- Kayak & Canoe Rentals – I would suggest going in the morning before it gets too hot, but it’s a great opportunity to spot dolphins or manatees!
- Golfing – Jekyll Island Golf Club
- Mini Golf
- Horseback Riding
- Private Biplane Tour
- Take a Historic Tour of the Island – From pirates to WWII, the island is home to a LOT of history!
- Visit the Mosaic Museum – Great for all ages!
- Go Shopping – I loved Tonya’s Treasures (carrying brands like YETI, Brumate, Southern Marsh, Bogg Bags, Scout, Lily Pulitzer, and more!) – the most charming southern shop!
