Jekyll Island, GA

Jekyll Island is one of our favorite places to visit. The island is home to the Jekyll Island Club, a group of wealthy men including J.P. Morgan, Joseph Pulitzer, William K. Vanderbilt, Marshall Field, and William Rockefeller. Plenty has been written on the history of the island, so for more information I suggest checking out the website https://www.jekyllisland.com/history/island-history/.

While visiting the island, there are several interesting things to do apart from the obvious attractions like the waterpark and the golf course. We always enjoy walking through the historic district. Here you can find all the old houses from the Jekyll Island Club founders. Some of these houses can be toured and at least one sells crafts from local artists. Also, in the historic district you will find the turtle rescue center which offers tours. Here injured turtles are nursed back to wellness to be released into the wild again.

One interesting spot that we discovered is the old amphitheater which is hidden in the forest behind the fire station. Our walk there was rather chaotic since the dogs saw some deer and completely freaked out – so, sorry, no pictures of that at the moment! It is in terrible condition but an interesting place to visit.

From the historic district, a short drive past the airport you will find the Horton House on the right side. Only the main walls are still standing, and it is pretty cool to step inside and imagine how it might have been to live there a long time ago. Very unfortunate is that several people have carved their initials into the walls, which are made out of tabby – a mixture using seashells. From there, a trail leads through some pretty amazing scenery to the Horton Pond.

Back on the road, you will come to the fishing pier on the left and the campground on the right. It is a nice walk from the campground to the pier. Here you can also arrange to take part in a horseback ride at the beach. Near the pier is a nature trail that takes you through marshland to Driftwood Beach. The trail is full of wildlife waiting to be discovered! Driftwood Beach is a must! There are fallen trees scattered over the beach that have been bleached by the sun and salt water. Be sure to go during low tide for best access. If you continue on the beach, you can loop back to the fishing pier from here.

Continuing south on the beach, you will eventually reach the approximate middle of the island. Here is Holiday Inn, which is pet friendly in case you aren’t camping! This was our favorite place to stay before we got our trailer. A little down the road from the Holiday Inn you will find the golf course on the right. This road also leads back to the historic district. However, heading south you will come to the convention center and the shopping area of the island. There has been a lot of construction over the past few years and there are several hotels and restaurants now. Although nice, we prefer the quiet parts of the island.

From here, continue to the south end of the island to a wildlife viewing area. There is a trail that leads to a raised platform where you can watch the dolphins. There is also a trail dedicated to the slaves that were brought to the island a long time ago.

Circling back on the inland side of the island you will come to the marina and the waterpark. At the marina there are a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy outdoor dining under the huge trees.

I know there is more to write about here, but you should also discover stuff for yourself!