5 Reasons to Visit Jekyll Island This Summer

Jekyll Island is home to 10 miles of unspoiled shoreline. But a trip to the area’s beaches isn’t just about basking in the sun (don’t forget your SPF!) or frolicking in the surf! 

Charge your electric vehicle while you capture jaw-dropping photos of the Atlantic Ocean from Oceanview Beach Park, or keep your eyes peeled for dolphins at St. Andrews Beach Park. Looking to impress your partner? Take them to Driftwood Beach, one of America’s “Top Beaches,” for a sunrise walk among the ancient driftwood skeletons. Explore the expansive beach where “Glory” was filmed or the 20-foot dunes of South Dunes Beach Park. For classic coastal moments — don’t forget sandcastle building supplies — Great Dunes Beach Park and Corsair Beach Park are ideal.

Accessibility Note: Several beach access points are accessible to people with physical disabilities, including ADA restrooms and crossover resting areas. Beach-going wheelchairs can also be provided at no cost.

There's no better way to see the island than on two wheels. Rent a bike from Jekyll Island Mini Golf and Bike Rental, Beachside Bike Rentals or Jekyll Wheels and explore the 22 miles of pathways.

As far back as 1898, members of the Jekyll Island Club created the island’s first golf course, and since then, prominent designers like Donald Ross, Walter Travis and Joe Lee have helped create a golf-loving community. Pristine lakes, marshes, and forests, along with ample wildlife, make for a truly unique golfing experience. Book a tee time for Pine Lakes, Oleander, Indian Mound or Great Dunes and swing for the green. 

Like putting but want to make it even more fun? A trip to Jekyll Island Mini Golf, located right across from the Atlantic Ocean, is in store. The two 18-hole mini-golf courses are fun for the whole family. Some of the playful course characters date back to the 1960s!

If being Arnold Palmer isn’t on your bucket list, emulate Serena Williams at the Jekyll Island Tennis Center (named the 2018 USTA Outstanding Facility). Century-old live oaks provide ample shade to players serving on 13 Har-tru clay courts. If you need some extra practice, the center offers private lessons for adults and juniors. 

From beach-side snack shops to elegant steak houses, there is an eatery for everyone. Pop into Island Sweets Shoppe for Slush Puppies, homemade fudge and hand-dipped strawberry ice cream. Take in breathtaking views of the Atlantic as you sip a Starbucks® iced latte from the Westin Café, or pick up a picnic lunch from The Pantry (complete with pastries galore!) before heading out to the beach. Reserve a table at The Wharf Restaurant for waterfront dining, seasonal live music and “Wild Georgia Shrimp.” End your evening with a margarita the size of your head under the palm-covered tiki bar at Tortuga Jack's.

While the island is only 7-miles long, it’s rich with history, nature and more. Hop aboard a bright-red Landmark Trolley to see the highlights of the 240-acre historic district. You’ll pass by Gilded-Age retreats and have access to Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum. Get an up-close look at sea turtle nesting ecology through a Ride with Night Patrol expedition, or see the famous stained-glass Tiffany window on a tour of the 1904 Faith Chapel. Families will also delight in Gatorology, a park-ranger led American Alligator educational experience.

Discover even more reasons to visit Jekyll Island.