As you start juggling ideas for your next family vacation, romantic getaway, or girls’ trip, the charming Georgia Coast should be at the top of your list. Specifically, the mid-coastal area, that’s considered part of the Lowcountry. You’ve likely heard lots about St. Simons Island, but across the way is an equally wonderful and uniquely majestic island that definitely belongs on your radar: Jekyll Island.

A 7-mile barrier island, Jekyll Island is actually a designated state park. Follow the tidal marshlands all the way to the island gate, where you’ll pay the $10 park entrance fee. As you explore, you’ll soon realize this destination has both beauty and substance. Bike trails are surrounded by shining examples of the island’s pristine wilderness, and historical structures shaded by moss-draped oaks harken to the island’s past as an exclusive 19th century retreat for America’s elites. You’ll never be too far from iconic beaches like Driftwood Beach, but unlike those weathered trees, the island’s activities never run dry.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or something in between, this versatile destination is well-suited for every type of getaway. Here are the 18 best things to do on Jekyll Island.

Explore The Outdoors & Wildlife

Bike Through The Island

Two wheels will get you far on this 7-mile stretch. Maritime forests, beaches, historic sites, and abundant wildlife are all within easy reach thanks to more than 20 miles of paved bike paths on the Jekyll Island Trail System. Rent a beach cruiser and choose from five different loops, each offering its own version of scenic bliss.

Visit The Georgia Sea Turtle Center

Jekyll Island welcomes all, including the adorable sea turtles that migrate to the beaches from May to August each year. That’s why the Georgia Sea Turtle Center—the only sea turtle education and rehabilitation facility in the state—was established in 2007. Sign up for one of their many summer programs, including sunrise and evening turtle walks, or take a behind the scenes tour of the facility. Budding photographers can even join a wildlife photography workshop.

jekyllisland.com; 214 Stable Road, Jekyll Island, Georgia; 912-635-4444

Spot Wildlife At Horton Pond

Tucked away on the eastern side of North Beach View Drive, this wildlife refuge is home to a thriving community of critters, from fish and birds to turtles and alligators. Enjoy expansive views of the entire pond from the wheelchair-accessible viewing platforms, or walk the 0.7 mile Tupelo Trail, which passes through many of the island’s maritime plant habitats.

jekyllisland.com; 970-964 N Loop Trail, Jekyll Island, GA 31527

Get Your Feet Wet At The Water Park

Back-to-back beach days are certainly fun, but if you’re looking for a change of scenery, Summer Waves Water Park caters to thrill seekers, lazy river loungers, and everyone in between. Open seasonally from May to September, the park features exhilarating water slides like the Frantic Atlantic, Pirate’s Passage, and Nature’s Revenge—all ranked by level of thrill. The kid-friendly Splash Zone is equipped with water guns and a giant dunking bucket, while Shark Tooth Cove is perfect for little ones.

Play A Round Of Golf

Georgia’s largest public golf resort is located on—you guessed it—Jekyll Island. At Jekyll Island Golf Club, guests have their pick from three 18-hole golf courses:  Pine Lakes, Indian Mound and Oleander. While you’re at it, take a swing at the historic Great Dunes, the 9-hole golf course constructed in 1926.

jekyllisland.com/activities/golf; 322 Captain Wylly Rd, Jekyll Island, GA 31527; 912-635-2368

Hit The Beach

Driftwood Beach

Decades of coastal storms and erosion have left behind what is now Jekyll Island’s most popular and uniquely beautiful beach. Resting on the northern end of the island, this little wonder of the world is home to sun-bleached, weathered trees—the ancient remains of a once-thriving maritime forest. Here, visitors trade sunbathing for tree climbing as giant gnarled branches and twisted roots form a natural jungle gym in the sand. And just when you think this place couldn’t get any more otherworldly, Three Oaks Farm offers guided horseback rides at the ocean’s edge during sunset.

Great Dunes Beach Park

While Driftwood Beach is sought after for its gnarly terrain, this 20-acre beachfront park attracts visitors with the opposite appeal: well-manicured, wide-open spaces. With public restrooms, picnic pavilions, grassy play areas, and wheelchair-friendly beach access, this park is well-suited for the whole family (and yes, that includes pups!).

jekyllisland.com; Beachview Dr. N & Shell Road, Jekyll Island, GA 31527

St. Andrews Beach Park

Taking the path less traveled promises quieter moments and equally beautiful views on Jekyll Island. Located on the south side of the island, the uncrowded St. Andrews Beach Park prompts you to enjoy a relaxing picnic, scour the sand for seashells, and spot birds and dolphins from the two-story wildlife viewing platform. Make sure to take a stroll along the Wanderer Memory Trail, which tells the story of one of America’s last known slave ships.

jekyllisland.com; 100 St Andrews Dr, Jekyll Island, GA 31527

Glory Beach

When portions of the 1989 Civil War drama Glory were filmed here, this island gem got its name. Glory Beach is accessible via a long elevated boardwalk thanks to the film’s producers, who built the structure to provide an easy path across the sand dunes and freshwater pools. As you stroll along the boardwalk, enjoy unobstructed views of nearby Cumberland Island and the sounds of nearby nesting birds, which thrive in large numbers here (so your dogs will have to miss out on this one).

jekyllisland.com; 700 S. Beachview Dr, Jekyll Island, GA 31527

Learn Island History

Tour The Historic District By Trolley

When people say Jekyll Island has a rich history, they mean it quite literally. Long before this island became a relaxed getaway for families, it served as the home to Jekyll Island Club, an ultra-exclusive winter retreat for the nation’s wealthiest people. (Do the last names Pulitzer, Vanderbilt, and Rockefeller ring a bell?) Today, 34 beautifully-preserved historic structures still stand on the former Club grounds, including the Moss Cottage, Faith Chapel, and the old infirmary. A 60-minute Landmark Trolley Tour is one of the best ways to see all 240 acres of the historic district. Tickets also include entry to the Faith Chapel and Mosaic Gallery, an interactive museum highlighting both art and history.

Learn Important Stories At Wanderer Memory Trail

Hugging the banks of the Jekyll River, the Wanderer Memory Trail marks the site where one of the last known slave ships in America, the Wanderer, illegally came to shore. The self-guided, interactive trail unfolds the story of Umwalla, a young boy who was brought on the ship 160 years ago. Visitors can follow Umwalla’s journey–-from capture to freedom—and hear stories told by descendants of survivors through soundboxes. At the end of the trail, you’ll find a basket where you can write your own legacy and weave it into the display.

jekyllisland.com; St. Andrews Beach Park, Jekyll Island, GA 31527

Take Your Picture At The Horton House

This eerily beautiful two-story structure is one of the oldest tabby buildings in Georgia, and it definitely looks the part. All that’s left of this 1743 home, once owned by Major William Horton, are the walls and openings that once held doors and windows. Standing in all its weathered glory, the building is now a popular backdrop in the photos of happy tourists.

jekyllisland.com; N. Riverview Dr, Jekyll Island, GA 31527

Go Shopping

Shop For Souvenirs At Beach Village

Just steps away from the beach, this Main Street shopping center houses a collection of colorful boutiques, specialty shops, and restaurants. Pick up some Jekyll Island swag at one of the many souvenir stores, or visit Jekyll Market, a gourmet grocery store offering a butcher counter, fresh produce, and four on-site restaurants. Don’t forget to visit The Salt Table for Georgia-based salts, seasonings, coffee, wine, and more.

Feast On Local Cuisine

Start Your Day At Sunrise Grille

If you have a hankering for casual American seaside fare, grab a table at  Sunrise Grille. Guests speak highly of their steaks—served with eggs at breakfast and paired with fried shrimp at lunch and dinner. Dive into a hearty breakfast menu from 7 to 10 a.m., or head there at 11 a.m. for classic Southern favorites and a wide variety of seafood.

sunrisegrillejekyll.com; 21 Main St, Jekyll Island, GA 31527; 912-319-2376

Feast On Regional Seafood At Zachary’s Riverhouse

Waterfront restaurants reign supreme on the island. On the riverside, Zachary’s RiverHouse is a go-to spot for Lowcountry seafood. Owned by DJ Zachary, the son of the original owners who opened the restaurant’s doors in 1987, this family-run eatery prides itself on attentive service and authentic dishes. Enjoy Georgia shrimp cooked every which way, and make sure to order a side of their popular cheesy grits.

zachrys-riverhouse-no-reservations.res-menu.com; 1 Harbor Rd Jekyll Island, GA 31527; 912-319-2174

Enjoy Baja Mexican Dining At Tortuga Jacks

The only oceanfront Tiki-style restaurant on the Georgia coast, Tortuga Jacks serves generous portions of Baja Mexican food alongside incredible views. Choose between street tacos, sizzling fajitas, classic surf  and turf, and much more. As the sun sets, sip on margaritas at the authentic Tiki Hut Bar, and sway to live hometown music every Tuesday and Thursday through Sunday during the summer months.

tortugajacks.com; 201 Beachview Dr N, Jekyll Island, GA 31527; 912-342-2600

Have Dinner At The Wharf

Sitting on the historic Jekyll Pier, this airy restaurant is surrounded by marshy waters, muddy oyster beds, and scenic views of the river. Enjoy a full menu of Lowcountry seafood, sandwiches, burgers, and crafted cocktails, and head to the deck for live music every Thursday through Saturday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 3 p.m.

jekyllclub.com; 371 Riverview Dr, Jekyll Island, GA 31527; 912-635-3612

Rest Your Head

Stay At The Iconic Jekyll Island Club Resort

This island might be a designated state park, but it never lost touch with its luxurious side. Standing majestically on the grounds of the former Club, the Jekyll Island Club Resort is a family-friendly retreat made up of five historic buildings, including the original clubhouse. Enjoy seven dining outlets (like the Victorian-style Grand Dining Room), lounge poolside at the Jekyll Island Club or Ocean Club, and even play a round of croquet on the front lawn. Bike rentals, shuttle service, and direct access to the historic district are just a few of the perks that await guests.

jekyllclub.com; 371 Riverview Dr, Jekyll Island, GA 31527; 912-319-4349

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