Georgia

The 18 Best Things To Do In Jekyll Island, Georgia

Published

1 year ago

January 19, 2025

The 18 Best Things To Do In Jekyll Island, Georgia

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

Courtesy of Zachry's Riverhouse — Courtesy of Zachry’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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Georgia

Georgia Lt. Gov. candidate releases controversial ‘Sharia law’ video

Published

3 hours ago

March 4, 2026

Press Room

Georgia Lt. Gov. candidate releases controversial ‘Sharia law’ video

In the days since the initial U.S. strikes in Iran, countless lawmakers stateside have weighed in on the Trump Administration’s decision to once again get involved in a conflict in the Middle East.

Prominent Georgia political figures like former representative Marjorie Taylor Greene and Senators Ossoff and Warnock have denounced the attacks, while candidates to replace MTG and others running in midterm elections have backed the president.

Now, Georgia State Senator Greg Dolezal, who is running for Lieutenant Governor in November, has posted a controversial video to social media depicting a hypothetical scenario where an extreme version of what he calls “Sharia law” has taken over the United States.

“London has fallen. Europe is under siege. In America, the invaders who would rather pillage our generosity than assimilate are roaming Minnesota, New York and LA,” Dolezal said in the post. “As Lt. Governor, I will fight the enemy before they’re within the gates and keep Georgia safe and Sharia free.”

The video was marked with a content warning on X.

What does the video show?

The video, appearing to have been AI-generated, begins with two people walking toward a building and wearing head coverings, possibly hijabs, shaylas, Al-miras or khimars.

It then cuts to a man writing with frosting on a cake, possibly “Happy Easter,” but the letters are unclear. A figure dressed in all black runs into frame and slices the cake with a weapon like a Zulfiqar sword.

It goes on to show military vehicles driving down the street, a woman being stopped from driving, a group of men in head coverings shooting weapons into the air and a suicide bomber vest, all while playing a song with the lyrics “No Sharia.”

(Warning: the video may be disturbing for some viewers.)

Video called ‘disgusting’ and ‘racist’

The video was met with significant criticism, including from Democratic gubernatorial candidate Geoff Duncan.

“This is disgusting. People wonder why I became a Democrat, it’s because of the inexcusable hatred spewed by so many Republicans like Greg Dolezal. Hate, including Islamophobia, has no place in Georgia,” Duncan wrote on X.

Rev. James “Major” Woodall, Sr., of Atlanta, called the video “deeply racist.”

“As a Christian man who deeply loves Georgia, I pray you never become Lt. Governor,” Woodall wrote.

Emanuel Jones, of the state senate, called out his fellow representative and said “if you don’t know it yet, Georgia is better than this!!”

“We don’t need race baiting, fear mongering to get votes. Perhaps that (is) what the Republican Party has devolved into,” Jones said on X.

Dolezal got support, however, from MAGA personality Laura Loomer who commented “No Sharia!”

The video has also been reposted more than 1,000 times as of 2 p.m. on March 4.

Who is Greg Dolezal?

The state senator represents District 27, and is based in Alpharetta. He was sworn in to the Georgia Senate in 2019.

He is a small business owner and attended North Park University.

Irene Wright is the Atlanta Connect reporter with USA Today’s Deep South Connect team. Find her on X @IreneEWright or email her at ismith@usatodayco.com.

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Georgia

Why Southern Living is spotlighting serene coastal escape in Georgia

Published

15 hours ago

March 4, 2026

Press Room

Why Southern Living is spotlighting serene coastal escape in Georgia

A quiet stretch of the Georgia coast is back in the national spotlight.

In a recent feature, Southern Living highlighted the Golden Isles as one of the South’s most serene escapes, praising the region’s undeveloped marshes, barrier islands and slower pace compared to other East Coast beach destinations.

Located roughly halfway between Savannah and Jacksonville, the Golden Isles include Brunswick, Sea Island, St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island and Little St. Simons Island.

Here’s what to know.

What makes Georgia’s Golden Isles different?

Unlike more densely developed beach towns in neighboring states, Georgia’s coastline is defined by tidal creeks, salt marshes and wide stretches of protected land.

“The coast of Georgia is quite different than the shores of North Carolina or South Carolina,” Southern Living wrote. “It’s wilder and quieter, and it’s much less populated with beach towns.”

While the islands offer modern resorts and vacation homes, much of the natural character remains intact.

One of the most photographed spots is Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island, known for its haunting remains of a maritime forest scattered along the shoreline.

Where are visitors staying?

The publication pointed to several well-known properties across the islands:

The Cloister at Sea Island
Jekyll Island Club Resort
St. Simons Island: The Grey Owl Inn and the St. Simons Lighthouse.

Little St. Simons Island, accessible only by boat, was highlighted for its all-inclusive lodge and thousands of acres of protected marshland and upland habitat.

What can you do in the Golden Isles?

Southern Living emphasized simple, immersive experiences:

Biking under live oaks
Kayaking through marsh creeks
Horseback riding along the beach
Watching sunsets over the water.

Public beaches like East Beach on St. Simons Island remain open to visitors, while golf courses on Jekyll Island and St. Simons offer year-round play.

The region’s history also plays a major role. Visitors can climb the St. Simons Lighthouse, explore historic districts in Brunswick or learn about Gullah Geechee heritage through local organizations.

For more information, visit southernliving.com/georgias-golden-isles-11906085.

Vanessa Countryman is the Trending Topics Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team Georgia. Email her at Vcountryman@gannett.com.

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Georgia

Gov. Kemp signs amended FY 2026 budget, delivering $2B in Georgia tax relief

Published

1 day ago

March 3, 2026

Press Room

Gov. Kemp signs amended FY 2026 budget, delivering B in Georgia tax relief

ATLANTA, Ga. — Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp on Tuesday signed HB 973, the amended Fiscal Year 2026 budget.

The amended budget includes $2 billion in income and property tax relief, alongside investments in education, public safety, mental health, transportation and rural development.

Lt. Gov. Burt Jones praised Gov. Kemp, saying the budget…

“Makes critical investments in middle-class families, mental health services, healthcare workforce development, transportation and Georgia’s veterans community.”

Key allocations in the amended budget include:

Education and Workforce Development: $325 million to endow the DREAMS Scholarship, a new needs-based scholarship program; $6 million for a Career Navigator tool; and funding for new and expanded programs at University System of Georgia and Technical College System of Georgia institutions.
Public Safety: $150 million for Department of Corrections bed space, $9.7 million for additional corrections officers, $15 million for a new K-9 training facility, and $50 million to help communities address homelessness, including among veterans.
Mental Health: $409 million to design and construct a new Georgia Regional Hospital to expand mental health bed capacity.
Transportation: More than $1.6 billion to extend and expand I-75 express lanes in Henry County; $185 million for SR 316 interchange conversions; $100 million for rural bridge rehabilitation and replacement; and $250 million for local maintenance and improvement grants.
Rural Georgia: $15 million for rural site development grants; $35 million for a new natural gas infrastructure program; and $8.9 million for the Georgia Forestry Innovation Initiative.

Governor Kemp says the state’s conservative budgeting approach has allowed Georgia to provide tax relief while making “generational investments.”

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