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Things To Do
Events
Restaurants
Places To Stay
Plan Your Visit
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Things To Do
Events
Restaurants
Places To Stay
Plan Your Visit
Time, Tide & Tradition
The southernmost island of the Golden Isles, Jekyll Island is one of the most popular islands for those who visitcoastal Georgia. This 5,500-acre island is home to 10 miles of shoreline and a variety ofevents,family-friendly activities, and attractions. From theiconic Driftwood Beach to the island's historical homes, the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, and more,Jekyll Island has something for everyone.
Planning a trip? Read on below for more information about Jekyll Island's rich history and the variety of things to do and see. Plus, you can find out more aboutJekyll Island weatherbefore you plan your next escape—the island is particularly pleasant in spring and fall!
Things To Do
Beaches
Restaurants
Places To Stay
Shopping
History
How to Access Jekyll Island(Fee)
Jekyll Islandis reachable via the Jekyll Island Causeway which intersects with U.S. 17 at the southern end of the Sidney Lanier Bridge. Vehicle entry toJekyll Islandrequires a parking pass that must be purchasedonlinein advance or at the entry gate upon arrival on the island. Single, multi-day, and annual passes are available.Bicycles and pedestrians can enter at no charge. Current auto access fees are $10.00* for one dayand $100.00 for a 12-month parking pass. The fee for oversized vehicles (over 8 feet tall) is $15.00/day and $150.00/year. If you have any questions regarding your annual pass or any additional questions please call912-635-3636.
*Please be aware of potentially increased parking fees due to special events.
Jekyll Island History
Jekyll Island's history begins some 3,500 years ago. Prior to British colonization, the island's first inhabitants were Native Americans. General James Oglethorpe founded the colony of Georgia in 1733, and along with it, Jekyll Island. The island was named for Sir Joseph Jekyll, a financial supporter of the colony.
Major William Horton was appointed by General Oglethorpe to build an outpost on Jekyll Island to protect Fort Frederica on St. Simons Island. The island was home to prosperous plantations until the end of the Civil War.
Jekyll Island was purchased in 1886 by a group of wealthy families as a private retreat. By 1900, The Jekyll Island Club membership included the Rockefellers, Morgans, Cranes, and Goulds and represented over one-sixth of the world’s wealth. The Club closed in 1942 and Jekyll Island was purchased by the State of Georgia in 1947.
Learn more aboutthe rich history of Jekyll Island, Georgia.Or, revisit the past with a tram tour of theNational Historic Landmark District, including many of the opulent mansions their millionaire owners called “cottages."
Things to Do on Jekyll Island
Jekyll Island offers an abundance of recreational activities that are sure to please visitors of all ages. Enjoy ten miles of white sand beaches,63 holes of golf, anoutdoor tenniscomplex,a fishing pier,horseback ridingtours, nature centers,22miles of bike trailsand theGeorgia Sea Turtle Center.
The island's beaches are also ideal for shelling. Visit Driftwood Beach and St. Andrews Beach for the best shot at scoring some shells.
In addition, since the island is owned by the State of Georgia and managed by the Jekyll Island Authority, the island’s development is limited to just 1,609 acres to preserve the critical barrier island ecosystem. Great lengths have been taken to honor this ratio while the highly anticipated revitalization of Jekyll Island moves forward. Since most of the island is protected, there is alsoplenty of nature and wildlife to explore! All the family-friendly activities on Jekyll Islandare enough to keep any visitor busy!
Too much to choose from? Try one of the island'sguided tours,build your trip from asuggested itineraryto help you decide where to start on this unique island, or check outour five favorite things to do on Jekyll Island.
Jekyll Island Events
There is so much to do and see throughout the year in Jekyll Island. Enjoysignatureevents onJekyll Island every year like the Turtle Crawl, which benefits the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, the Paulk Cup Classic, a combination of golf, food and fun, and the , a favorite among foodies! Run into the chilly Atlantic in support of the sea turtles at the Cold-Stunned Plunge, or enjoy the holiday festivities of Holly Jolly Jekyll. Whether you're looking to get a taste of the local culture, enjoy the beautiful Jekyll Island beaches and landscape or celebrate the holidays with loved ones, there are plenty of Jekyll Island events to enjoy.
Jekyll Island Restaurants
Find fresh seafood, area favorites, and more throughout Jekyll Island. From sit-down fare to quick southern favorites, you won't be at a loss for dining options on Jekyll Island. Enjoy water views, local flavors, or grab-and-go treats to start your day.
Check out more ofthe best restaurants on Jekyll Island.
Accommodations & Shopping on Jekyll Island
Accommodations are invitingly varied and include a grand historic hotel, oceanfront hotels, and evenbeachside camping.Findlodging on Jekyll Islandand be sure to check thecurrent specials and packages on Jekyll Island!
Jekyll Island offers diverse shopping, from upscale boutiques to souvenir shops, and more. Find some ofthe best shopping on Jekyll Island.
View the visitor guide and maps of Jekyll Island to help orient yourself before your trip!
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Jekyll Island FAQ
Where is Jekyll Island?
Jekyll Island is one of thebarrier islands of the Golden Isles, located off the coast of Georgia.
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How do you get to Jekyll Island?
Jekyll Island is reachable via the Jekyll Island Causeway which intersects with U.S. 17 at the southern end of the Sidney Lanier Bridge.
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Do you have to pay to enter Jekyll Island?
Current auto access fees are $10.00for one dayand $100.00 for a 12-month parking pass. The fee for oversized vehicles (over 8 feet tall) is $15.00/day and $150.00/year.
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Where do the locals eat on Jekyll Island?
With plenty of dining on Jekyll Island, you'll never go hungry. A few local favorite spots are The Wharf, Beach House and Tortuga Jack's.
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Are pets allowed on Jekyll Island?
Yes, however they must be under control of their owners and on a leash no longer than 16' at all times. No pets are allowed on South Beach between South Dunes Beach Park and 2000 feet northeast of St. Andrews Park. Pets should be kept off of the dunes.
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What should I do on Jekyll Island?
From beach hopping to kayaking to bike riding, there's plenty to do on Jekyll Island. Check out all of the Jekyll Island activities.
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Where should I stay on Jekyll Island?
Jekyll Island is home to many hotels, resorts and vacation rentals. Find your perfect place to stay.
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How far is Jekyll Island from Atlanta?
Jekyll Island is around 320 miles from Atlanta, around a 4.5 hour drive.
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How far is Jekyll Island from St. Simons Island?
Jekyll Island is around 14 miles from St. Simons Island, just about a 20-30 minute drive.
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Where should I camp on Jekyll Island?
Try theJekyll Island Campground, located on the northern tip of the island. The campground’s 18 wooded acres include 206 campsites, including tent sites and full hookup RV sites with electricity, cable TV, water, and sewerage.
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What's the weather like on Jekyll Island?
Coastal Georgia is a desirable vacation destination all year round. Theweather on Jekyll Islandis particularly beautiful in the spring and fall. April and May see average high temperatures in the mid-70s and low 80s. October and November can be a bit cooler with temperatures in the 60s.
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How far of a drive is Jekyll Island from Savannah, St. Mary's, Jacksonville and Hilton Head?
Savannah, GA: 1 hour 30 minutes
St. Mary's, GA: 50 minutes
Jacksonville, FL: 1 hour 15 minutes
Hilton Head, SC: 2 hours
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