Among all of the islands off the coast of Georgia, Jekyll Island is probably the most well-known and popular. While some of these coastal islands are rustic with very few services for tourists, Jekyll Island has lots to see and do while still retaining its natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a family vacation destination, romantic getaway, or a weekend of exploration nearby, these are the top things to do when you visit Jekyll Island, Georgia.
Visit Georgia Sea Turtle Center
What Is It? There are few places that take the preservation of sea turtles as seriously as the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island.
Why Do It? When you visit, you can watch experienced veterinarians care for and treat injured sea turtles that are brought in for rehabilitation. You can visit the center between 9 am and 5 pm daily and partake in year-round programs for all ages.
Good to Know: Another nice place for nature lovers to visit nearby is the Tidelands Nature Center, which has a small collection of animals and offers tours and activities for kids.
Take Photos at Driftwood Beach
What Is It? Even if you’ve never been to the Georgia islands before, chances are that you’ve probably seen photographs of the mysterious and iconic Driftwood Beach.
Why Do It? These downed oak trees have been photographed countless times because of their twisting shapes and unusual textures that line the beach-going right up to the water. It’s on the northern end of the Island and has an eerie vibe and a haunting beauty. Bring your best camera at sunrise or sunset to go for a long walk along the beach and get an amazing shot of your own!
Good to Know: Pack a picnic lunch and set up a blanket or beach towel in the sand to watch the waves roll in among the branches.
Learn About Island History at Jekyll Island Museum
What Is It? Not only is the Jekyll Island Museum a great place to start your visit to the island to learn more about it, but it’s also absolutely free.
Why Do It? Inside you’ll find artifacts and photographs that tell the story of Jekyll Island’s past, including its role as a winter retreat destination for some of the most elite families in America.
Good to Know: To learn more about the island’s history and see the various parts of the island, you can book a tour on the island’s historic tram.
Check Out the Architecture of Faith Chapel
What Is It? The chapel was built in 1904 and was originally used as a non-denominational church.
Why Do It? Whether you’re religious or not, the architecture of Faith Chapel on Jekyll Island is definitely worth seeing.
Good to Know: It has a stunning architectural design with Armstrong stained glass windows, animal carvings, and gargoyles.
Play a Game of Golf
What Is It? There are four lovely golf courses on Jekyll Island, which makes this an ideal place to play a game on your vacation.
Why Do It? Surrounded by nature, these golf courses offer plenty of challenges for beginners and expert golfers alike. Each course varies in difficulty and scenery.
Good to Know: You can play at the historic nine-hole Great Dunes Course or the 18-hole courses, which are the Indian Mound Course, Oleander Course, and Pine Lakes Course.
Kayak through the Marshes
What Is It? This small Georgia island is bordered by marshlands that are home to a wide variety of animal species.
Why Do It? One of the best ways to experience the nature of this area is to rent a kayak and paddle your way through the marshes on a nice day. You can take a kayak or SUP tour or rent out gear to head out on your own. If you’re into fishing, you can bring your boat out to try your luck with the saltwater and freshwater stocked areas with trout, striped mullet, and sheepshead fish.
Good to Know: Another great way to get active on Jekyll Island is to rent a bicycle and pedal along the easy, flat terrain along the waterways and to the beach.
See the Horton House Ruins
What Is It? The Horton House is a historical site on Jekyll Island that used to be the center of plantation life.
Why Do It? It was built by Major William Horton, who was second in command after the famous British general, James Oglethorpe. The ruins of the house still remain, and they are open to the public for free daily.
Good to Know: You can read the historical plaques and markers to learn more about the site, as well as the DuBignon Cemetery on the other side of the road.
Splash Around at Summer Waves Water Park
What Is It? Water parks are always a favorite summer activity for families, and there’s a fun one right here on Jekyll Island.
Why Do It? Highlights of the park are the Force 3 triple-slide, the 40-foot-tall Nature’s Revenge slide, a five-story enclosed tower slide, the wave pool, Shark Tooth Cove for young kids, the splash zone, and a lazy river.
Good to Know: Season passes and locker rentals are available as well. When you get hungry, stop by the Larry’s Giant Subs for a healthy lunch or snack.
Eat Seafood at the Island Restaurant
What Is It? With its coastal location in the Atlantic Ocean, it should come as no surprise that Jekyll Island is an excellent place to enjoy a seafood dinner.
Why Do It? Top seafood restaurants to check out here include Zachry’s Riverhouse, Driftwood Bistro, and Love Shack BBQ Shrimp & Yardbird.
Good to Know: If you’re looking for a great ocean view to go along with your meal, pick Tortuga Jacks for Mexican cuisine. Delicious ice cream treats can be found at the Jekyll Market.
