Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island GA was formerly renowned as a winter retreat by some of the most famous families in North America, who were part of the wealthy Jekyll Island Club. It is one of the smaller of Georgia’s Atlantic Coast islands, encompassing 10,000 acres of marshlands teeming with wildlife and almost 6,000 acres of highlands. Transformed from exclusive enclave to public playground after 1942, the island offers miles of white, sandy coastline and endless outdoor activities.

Today, the area developed by the Jekyll Island Club is a National Historic Landmark. Referred to as Millionaire’s Village, the club was overhauled into an island resort named Jekyll Island Club Hotel and now covers 240 acres. The National Historic District center offers tours around the area from morning until mid-afternoon.

Walking the beaches of Jekyll Island GA, you might not see another soul for hours, especially around the picnic area at South Dunes. Take advantage of the twenty miles of hiking and biking trails. Rentals are readily available and generally come with a map. Begin at Millionaire’s Village and follow the loop to the northernmost end of the island to Jekyll Island Pier. From the pier, it’s a beautiful ride over the quaint footbridge, across the salt marsh, and along the path back to the historic district.

Championship golf is irresistible and there is one 9-hole course and three 18-hole courses. Deep-sea fishing charters are a must for avid anglers and can be arranged at Jekyll Harbor Marina. When the water is just right, dolphins play in the surf near the beach, but there are also many offshore dolphin viewing trips to choose from. Visitors can arrange horseback riding trips along the riding trails or beach at the island pier. In the summer months, outdoor musicals are performed at the Jekyll Island Theater. Other major attractions include Summer Waves Water Park, Tidelands Nature Center for nature tours and hands-on programs, and Georgia Sea Turtle Center, a rehabilitation center.