Discover Jekyll Island - Georgia's Golden Isle Escape

Day 1: Echoes of the Millionaires’ Club

• Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Begin your historical journey at the Jekyll Island Historic District, a National Historic Landmark. Park near the Jekyll Island Club Resort area. Your first stop is the Jekyll Island Museum (100 Stable Rd). From here, embark on the essential Historic District Tram Tour. This guided tour provides a fascinating overview of the island’s Gilded Age history, taking you past the grand “cottages” of America’s wealthiest families.
  • Cost: Approximately $25 per adult (includes museum admission).
  • Time Needed: 90 minutes for the tram tour, plus 30-60 minutes for museum exploration.
  • Practical Tip: Book your tram tour tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:30 PM) After the tram tour, enjoy lunch at The Pantry at the Jekyll Island Club Resort (casual sandwiches, salads; approx. $20-30 for two) or the Café at the Courtyard at the Jekyll Island Museum. Then, take a self-guided walk through the Historic District, admiring the exteriors of opulent mansions like Crane Cottage, Indian Mound, and Dubignon Cottage. Visit the charming Faith Chapel, known for its stunning Tiffany stained-glass window (free entry, often open for viewing). For some active exploration, rent bicycles from Jekyll Island Bike Barn (near Great Dunes Park, approx. a 5-minute drive from the Historic District) and cycle a portion of the flat, scenic Jekyll Island Trail System through the Historic District (approx. 2-3 miles loop).
  • Cost: Lunch ($40-60), Bike Rental ($25-35 per person for a half-day).
  • Distances: All historic sites are within easy walking distance once parked. Bike trails are easily accessible.
• Evening Enjoy a pre-dinner stroll along the tranquil Jekyll Riverfront, offering picturesque views. For dinner, experience waterfront dining at The Wharf at the Jekyll Island Club Resort (located in the Historic District, walkable from your afternoon activities). They offer fresh seafood and Southern-inspired dishes in a relaxed setting.
  • Dining Cost: Entrees typically range from $25-$40. Reservations are recommended.
  • Practical Tip: Arrive early for sunset views over the marsh.

Day 2: Driftwood Dreams & Turtle Tales

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM) Start your day immersing yourself in Jekyll Island’s natural beauty at Driftwood Beach (N. Beachview Dr., northern end of the island). Spend 1 to 1.5 hours exploring the unique landscape of sun-bleached trees and eroded beachfront. This iconic spot is perfect for photography and quiet contemplation. Afterwards, drive south (approx. 10-15 minutes) to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center (214 Stable Rd, near the Historic District). This rehabilitation and education center offers an inspiring look at sea turtle conservation efforts and allows you to see recovering patients up close.
  • Cost: Driftwood Beach (Free). Georgia Sea Turtle Center ($10 per adult).
  • Time Needed: 1-1.5 hours at Driftwood Beach, 1.5-2 hours at Sea Turtle Center.
  • Practical Tip: Visit Driftwood Beach at low tide for the best access and photo opportunities. Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:30 PM) Grab a casual, oceanfront lunch at Tortuga Jack’s (201 N Beachview Dr), known for its Baja Mexican cuisine and lively atmosphere (approx. 5-7 minute drive from the Sea Turtle Center). After lunch, continue your exploration of Jekyll’s natural side. Rent bikes from the Jekyll Island Bike Barn again or continue from yesterday’s rental. Cycle along the paved trails that crisscross the island. A great option is to head towards St. Andrews Beach Park (southern end of the island, approx. 15-20 min bike ride from Tortuga Jack’s area) for excellent bird watching and views across to Cumberland Island, or simply enjoy the ease of riding around Great Dunes Park. If you’re looking for a fun diversion, Great Dunes Park also has a mini-golf course.
  • Cost: Lunch ($30-50). Bike Rental ($25-35 per person for half-day). Mini Golf (optional, approx. $10-12 per person).
  • Distances: Jekyll Island boasts over 25 miles of paved bike trails connecting all major attractions.
• Evening For dinner, enjoy the sunset views over the marsh at Zachry’s Riverhouse (155 S. Riverview Dr.). This casual, beloved spot offers fresh, local seafood and Southern comfort food. Alternatively, for a more casual evening near the beaches, consider Wee Pub Beach (101 N Beachview Dr) for Irish pub fare.
  • Dining Cost: Entrees typically range from $20-$35.
  • Practical Tip: Zachry’s Riverhouse is a prime spot for sunset viewing.

Day 3: Southern Serenity & Farewell Flavors

• Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Begin your final day exploring the island’s northern and southern ends. Drive to the Horton House and DuBose Park (N. Riverview Dr., northern part of the island). Explore the tabby ruins of the Horton House, one of Georgia’s oldest standing structures, and take a short walk through the maritime forest of DuBose Park. Afterwards, drive south to St. Andrews Beach Park (approx. 15-20 minute drive from Horton House, at the very southern tip of the island). This tranquil spot is ideal for birdwatching, walking the lengthy boardwalk, and enjoying the peaceful views where the Jekyll Sound meets the Atlantic Ocean. You might even spot dolphins playing.
  • Cost: Both attractions are free.
  • Time Needed: 45 minutes - 1 hour at Horton House/DuBose Park, 1 hour at St. Andrews Beach Park.
  • Practical Tip: The DuBose Gallery in DuBose Park features rotating art exhibits.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM) Enjoy a casual lunch. Consider Love Shack BBQ (11 Main St) for delicious barbecue, or F.J. & G’s General Merchandise (21 Main St) for deli sandwiches and ice cream. Both are centrally located on the island. After lunch, indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping at the diverse shops within the Beach Village (near Great Dunes Park). Take one final, leisurely walk along the unique elevated boardwalk through the dunes at South Dunes Beach Park (S. Beachview Dr.) to soak in the coastal atmosphere before your departure from Jekyll Island.
  • Cost: Lunch ($30-50). Souvenirs (variable, allow $50-100).
  • Time Needed: 1 hour for lunch, 1-2 hours for shopping/last walk.
  • Practical Tip: The Beach Village also has restrooms and picnic areas.
• Evening Departure from Jekyll Island.

Day 1: Coastal Serenity & Maritime Forest Trails

• Morning (7:30 AM - 12:00 PM) Begin your nature retreat with a breathtaking sunrise at St. Andrews Beach Park (7:30 AM - 9:00 AM). This southwestern tip of the island is renowned for its birdwatching opportunities, so bring binoculars to spot various shorebirds, raptors, and marsh birds. After soaking in the dawn, head north (a picturesque 3-mile drive, ~7 minutes) to Driftwood Beach (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM). Spend your morning exploring this iconic, ethereal landscape of ancient sun-bleached trees, perfect for photography and quiet contemplation. The varying tides reveal new perspectives.
  • Practical Tip: Check sunrise times in advance. Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for sand. Bring bug spray, especially if near marshy areas. Parking is free at both locations. Island entry fee is $10 per vehicle.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a casual picnic lunch (packed yourself or grabbed from a local deli like Wee Pub Beach) before embarking on a bike adventure (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM). Rent bikes from Jekyll Island Bike Barn or Beachside Bike Rentals (~$20-25 per person for a half-day). Explore a section of the island’s 20+ miles of paved trails, focusing on paths winding through the lush maritime forest. A leisurely 5-7 mile loop from the Beach Village area towards the Historic District offers stunning views and shade. Afterward, delve into marine conservation at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center (3:15 PM - 4:45 PM). Learn about sea turtle rehabilitation and the coastal ecosystem through interactive exhibits and live patients.
  • Cost: Bike Rental: ~$40-50 for 2. Georgia Sea Turtle Center Admission: ~$20-24 for 2. Lunch: ~$30-50.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards) Relax and refresh before heading out for dinner. For a delightful evening, enjoy a sunset view over the tranquil marsh from the Jekyll Island Pier or a quiet spot near the Tidelands Nature Center. Dine at The Wharf at the Jekyll Island Club Resort. This lively, casual spot offers delicious seafood and stunning views of the Jekyll River, perfect for watching boats pass by and enjoying the marsh sunset.
  • Dining Cost: ~$80-120 for 2 (excluding alcohol).

Day 2: Marshland Adventures & Historic Charm

• Morning (8:00 AM - 12:30 PM) Embrace the island’s unique marsh ecosystem with a guided kayak or paddleboard tour (8:30 AM - 10:30 AM) from the Tidelands Nature Center. Reservations are highly recommended. This 1.5-2 hour excursion offers an intimate perspective of the salt marsh, where you might spot fiddler crabs, various wading birds, and even dolphins. Following your paddle, explore the small, engaging exhibits at the Tidelands Nature Center (10:45 AM - 11:45 AM), showcasing local marine life and offering educational insights into the coastal environment.
  • Practical Tip: Wear clothes that can get wet, bring a hat, sunscreen, and water.
  • Cost: Kayak/Paddleboard Tour: ~$80-100 for 2. Tidelands Nature Center: Free (donations welcome).
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 5:00 PM) Grab a casual lunch, perhaps at The Pantry at the Jekyll Island Club Resort or a quick bite at Jekyll Island Seafood Company. Spend your afternoon exploring the island’s rich history intertwined with nature. Walk through the beautifully preserved Jekyll Island Historic District (1:30 PM - 3:30 PM), admiring the Millionaires’ Village mansions and visiting the captivating Faith Chapel (check hours, free entry). Drive north to the Horton House Ruins (3:45 PM - 4:15 PM), the oldest standing tabby house in Georgia, surrounded by live oaks. Conclude with a peaceful stroll through DuBose Park adjacent to the ruins, a serene spot perfect for quiet reflection amidst the ancient trees and marsh views.
  • Cost: Lunch: ~$30-50. Historic District exploration (self-guided): Free.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards) Savor your final evening on Jekyll Island. Consider a farewell dinner at Driftwood Bistro, located at the Villas by the Sea, known for its delicious local seafood and comfortable, intimate atmosphere. Alternatively, for a more upscale yet still nature-inspired meal, Ember Steakhouse offers a refined dining experience (reservations recommended). After dinner, if the skies are clear, seek out a quiet spot like Driftwood Beach for some stargazing, listening to the gentle sounds of the ocean as a perfect end to your nature lover’s retreat.
  • Dining Cost: ~$90-150 for 2 (excluding alcohol).