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An Unspoiled Getaway off the Georgia Coast - It’s Jekyll Island
Covering an area of less than 6,000 acres, Jekyll Island is the southernmost and smallest of the Golden Isles of Georgia barrier islands. Don’t let the island’s small size fool you, though. The beautiful beaches, varied wildlife, family-friendly attractions, and ease of access to the city of Brunswick make Jekyll Island a popular getaway all year round. Accommodation options on the island range from budget-friendly B&Bs to historic hotels, so finding the perfect place to call home during your stay should be a breeze.
Fascinating Historic Sites
This island was once home to the exclusive Jekyll Island Club; a winter retreat for wealthy families such as the Vanderbilt’s and Pulitzers. Today, this 240-acre site is a National Historic Landmark and home to attractions such as Dubignon, Mistletoe and Indian Mount Cottages, Skeet House, Faith Chapel, and Villa Marianna. Historical attractions here are not limited to this site; visitors to the island can also explore Horton House, one of Georgia’s oldest Tabby buildings, and the Wanderer Memorial, ode to a former luxury yacht used as a slave ship in 1858. Other historic points of interest include the Crane Bicycle Path, The Avenue of Palms, and Bicentennial Oaks.
Abundant Wildlife Encounters
Development on the island is limited to 33% of its total size; the remainder is a designated state park. Along with the fact that the island is set along the Atlantic migratory flyway, the lack of development means that coming face to face with wildlife is a common occurrence. On the island’s four golf courses, sightings of deer, osprey, and alligators are common but if you’re not a fan of the fairways, the island’s welcome centre and St. Andrews picnic area feature official wildlife viewing platforms. Less formal spots include South Dunes Beach, the Mid-Island Forest Trail, and the Glory Beach Boardwalk. Additional highlights for animal lovers include the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and the ECO shrimping tours available to book at the island’s wharf.
Shopping and Dining on the Island
If you’re on the lookout for souvenirs of your stay, there are ample retail opportunities to enjoy on the island. The most popular spots include the Historic District, the Beach Center, and the landmark Jekyll Island Club Hotel. Wherever you choose to shop, you can expect the offerings to include island themed gifts created by local artisans. For foodies, the island’s landscape is equally enticing. The tempting choices include everything from relaxed ocean-side cafes to upmarket hotel restaurants. In either case, you can expect fresh seafood to be on the menu. Other culinary highlights available to visitors include the farmers market held at the Jekyll Island Beach Village and the Jekyll Island Gourmet Grocery, home to three speciality restaurants, a sweet shop, and a deli.
Beautiful Beaches to Explore
The island’s ten miles of shoreline offer a variety of coastal pleasures. On Driftwood Beach, you can enjoy photo ops like no other thanks to the abundance of ancient driftwood monuments. On St Andrews Beach on the island’s southern-most tip, you have the chance to explore the Wanderer historical market. Families can enjoy the activities deck, sports courts, and amenities at the 20-acre Great Dunes Beach. Dogs are welcome at all three of these beaches but must be kept on a leash. If you prefer quieter surroundings, both Glory Beach and South Dunes Beach are designated sanctuaries for resting and nesting birds. These beaches also offer the chance for visitors to go kayaking among the dolphins that play along the coastline.
More to Enjoy During Your Stay
While the sheer beauty of Jekyll Island will likely keep you enthralled, there are many more attractions for you to include on your itinerary. You might like to hire a bike to explore the island’s many trails, enjoy a Segway tour, fish near Clam Creek, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride from the Island History Center. There’s also a tennis centre on Captain Wylly Road as well as the Tidelands Nature Center on South Riverview Drive, the latter offering five-times weekly guided nature walks. Plus, the whole family can cool down during a trip to the Summer Waves Water Park (open seasonally). The nearby Saint Simons Island and city of Brunswick provide enticing options for day trips from the island.