If you’re craving a getaway that blends coastal beauty, rich history, and a pace that encourages a relaxing vibe, please know that a laid-back Jekyll Island, Georgia getaway can deliver in the best way possible. One of Georgia’s Golden Isles, Jekyll is ideal for multi-generational travel, pet-friendly adventures, and travelers who want equal parts fun and serenity.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll know you’re somewhere special. A canopy of ancient live oaks welcomes you into an enchanting maritime forest, opening up to epic ocean views, quiet beaches, and a coastal haven perfect for golfing, biking, beaching, and reconnecting.
The History Behind Jekyll Island’s Grand Estates
Jekyll Island’s history is preserved in the grand homes once owned by some of America’s most influential families. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, members of the Jekyll Island Club—including the Rockefeller, Morgan, Vanderbilt, Pulitzer, and Goodyear families—built impressive “cottages” that reflected the wealth and social power of the Gilded Age.
Today, these residences form the core of the Jekyll Island Historic District, where visitors can explore well-preserved interiors on guided trolley tours, horse-drawn carriages, private motorcar tours, or by staying at the historic Jekyll Island Club Hotel.
Tours highlight architectural details, original furnishings, and the daily lives of both the families and staff, offering a clear and engaging look at the island’s role in American history.
Where to Eat on Jekyll Island
Breakfast Options
- Sunrise Grille (Beach Village): Casual, popular, and worth the wait—great for classic breakfast favorites.
- Victorian Grand Dining Room at Jekyll Island Club Resort: Go big with their weekend breakfast and brunch buffets, featuring an impressive spread in a stunning historic setting.
Lunch & Casual Bites
- Founder’s Social: A relaxed, counter-service spot with a beer-garden vibe. Order tasty apps like chips & dip, shrimp, and pair them with craft cocktails or local brews.
- Larry’s Giant Subs (Beach Village): Ideal when you’re on the go—hearty, satisfying subs that are easy to grab between activities.
Dinner Favorites
- Willet’s Lowcountry (at The Westin Jekyll Island): One of the island’s standout dinner options. While I’m often skeptical of hotel restaurants, this one absolutely delivers. After a day of slowing down (a novelty for us!), we loved being just steps away from a fantastic meal—clam chowder, Georgia Wicked Shrimp, a sublime tomato tart, and fish & chips, all served in a beautiful waterfront setting.
- The Wharf at the Historic Jekyll Pier: Live music, coastal vibes, and food worth waiting for. Don’t miss the shrimp roll and fries—a crowd favorite.
Getting Around: Bikes, Bikes, and More Bikes
Jekyll Island is incredibly bike-friendly, even if you haven’t ridden in years. Rent a classic bike, a Surrey, or something in between from Bike Jekyll—just be sure to grab yours early, as they sell out quickly. With miles of scenic paths, biking is one of the best ways to experience the island.
The Natural Beauty of Jekyll Island’s Beaches
Jekyll Island’s beaches are central to its appeal and define the island’s relaxed coastal character. Driftwood Beach is the most well-known, recognized for its striking, weathered trees scattered along the shoreline and its popularity with photographers. Early morning and late evening light highlight the driftwood’s natural textures, making these the best times to visit, but photos are stunning at any time of day.
Beyond Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island offers miles of largely undeveloped coastline ideal for walking, biking, shelling, and quiet beach days. Each beach has a distinct feel, but all share the unspoiled beauty and calm atmosphere that draw visitors back year after year.
For more Golden Isles treasures, check out this blog post.
Shopping & Little Treasures
Be sure to pop into:
- 31-81, a signature shop inspired by Jekyll Island’s coastal coordinates
- Jekyll Market, filled with gourmet goodies, trinkets, fudge, ice cream, and grab-and-go food
- Georgia Grown Signature Shoppe, showcasing local products and gifts
Don’t Miss This: Georgia Sea Turtle Center
If you do only one thing on Jekyll Island, make it the Georgia Sea Turtle Center—easily our favorite spot on the island. Learn about sea turtle rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation, and see turtles actively recovering in outdoor tanks. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the turtle doctor at work. It’s educational, inspiring, and perfect for all ages.
Seasonal Fun You Won’t Want to Miss
Jekyll Island shines year-round, but two events deserve a spot on your calendar. Jekyll Island Shrimp & Grits Festival is a must for food lovers. This lively event celebrates Southern flavors with creative takes on a coastal classic.
Holiday magic takes over the island with festive events for all ages during Holly Jolly Jekyll, including:
- Merry Fishmas, where some lucky kids head home with a brand-new Zebco fishing pole
- A Holly Jolly Lights Trolley Tour, rolling past more than 2 million twinkling lights
- Holiday High Tea at the Jekyll Island Club Resort is an elegant and memorable seasonal experience
Where to Stay on Jekyll Island
I loved our accommodations at the Westin Jekyll Island. This stylish resort features picture-perfect lobby seating areas, a beautiful fire pit overlooking the coast, and a lovely outdoor swimming pool. Two restaurants and a Starbucks coffee shop make it easy never to leave the property, and the rooms are well equipped with sensational beds and linens, plenty of charging options, lovely decor, and everything you need to make your stay memorable.
The Westin Jekyll Island charges a $35 daily resort fee, and it adds real value to your stay. The fee includes two bike rentals per day, self-parking, and high-speed internet, making it easy to explore the island without extra planning.
Guests also receive exclusive beach chair and umbrella service for up to two people daily, plus shuttle service to multiple island locations from 8 AM to 10 PM for up to four guests per room—a huge convenience if you’d rather not drive.
Bonvoy Gold Elite members and above also enjoy a daily breakfast voucher, which is a nice perk to start your mornings on Jekyll Island.
Know Before You Go
Jekyll Island is a Georgia state park that offers a perfect mix of recreation and preservation. Visitors enjoy beaches, the historic district, Clam Creek Fishing Pier, and miles of bike trails. All vehicles entering the island pay a daily parking fee (about $10; higher for oversized vehicles), which helps maintain the island, support conservation efforts, and ensure public safety.
Why Jekyll Island Belongs on Your Getaway List
With 10 miles of unspoiled shoreline, a relaxed atmosphere, and proximity to nearby St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island is the kind of place that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy being together—whether you’re traveling with kids, grandparents, pets, or all of the above.
If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that balances history, nature, great food, and coastal calm, Jekyll Island is ready to welcome you.
I was hosted by Visit Jekyll Island for overnight accommodations and a few meals on one of my many trips to this slice of paradise. As always, reviews and opinions are 100% mine and unbiased.
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