Jekyll Island Georgia is a retreat that will make you feel like a million bucks, though you no longer need to be a millionaire to enjoy Jekyll Island. Jekyll Island has a history that is unlike any place in the United States. After the plantation era and Civil War, Jekyll Island, a barrier island in Glynn County Georgia, became a playground for the very wealthy. Names like Morgan, Pulitzer, Hyde, and Vanderbilt made Jekyll Island Clubhouse their southern beach getaway, and in the early 20th Century, an alleged secret meeting of northern bankers on Jekyll Island brought about the formation of the Federal Reserve. A visit to Jekyll Island is an interesting look at the past retreat of the wealthy captains of American industry and finance. In the historic district, guided or self-guided walking tours are chock full of trivia and intrigue, but when you are finished looking back, there is much to do in the present on Jekyll Island. Below are some suggestions.

First of all, Jekyll Island is a barrier island which has ever changing gorgeous beaches perfect for beachcombing, walking, or just relaxing. Some of the best beaches on Jekyll Island Georgia are Andrew Picnic Area, South Dunes Beach, Driftwood Beach, or Central Dunes. White sands meet blue water and sky on these beaches of Jekyll Island Georgia. If you want to enjoy the best the Jekyll Island has to offer, choose a Jekyll Island hotel or Jekyll Island campground near one of these beaches and just walk to the sand from your room.

Andrew Picnic Area

This popular area is the best place on Jekyll Island to try your hand at shrimp fishing and other types of shore fishing. Another popular thing to do here is watch the dolphins as they play in the Atlantic.

South Dunes Beach

This popular beach is probably the best place to share a meal with your family between lying in the sand and playing in the waves. The picnic shelters are screened and rest underneath beautiful oak trees, perfect for an enjoyable feast on Jekyll Island.

Driftwood Beach

Just relax at this Jekyll Island GA beach location. Take a stroll down to the fishing pier and drop a line in, or rest and picnic at the Clam Creek Picnic Area nearby.

Central Dunes

If picnicking isn’t your thing and you’d like to spend more time in the water, try Central Dunes. Complete with showers that will help you wash off that saltwater, this is the beach on Jekyll to be active.

Summer Waves Water Park

Summer Waves Water Park is one of the best family activities on Jekyll Island, complete with excellent wild water slides and more leisurely tube rides. A children’s pool is available for younger guests, making this a great way to beat the southern heat on a summer day.

Camping

A Jekyll Island campground is the perfect opportunity to experience nature in a variety of ways, whether a simple tent site or a completely furnished RV is your idea of roughing it. Located on the north end of the island, the Jekyll Island Campground is 18 wooded acres of camping, located near beautiful Driftwood beach.

Lodging

For more history, the Jekyll Island hotel known as the Jekyll Island Club Hotel is a great stay, for this is where the ultra-wealthy of a century ago used to play. A highly thought of, though very affordable, Jekyll Island hotel is the Days Inn Oceanfront. While hardly a slice of 19th century wealth, this clean, friendly place is great for families on a budget. In addition to hotels and camping, Jekyll Island rentals are a great option for those staying a bit longer, and with a bigger budget. Jekyll Island rentals range greatly in price, so make sure you know exactly what you’re getting before you book Jekyll Island rentals (ask for pictures). There are some great beach houses and condos available if you do your homework, however.

Jekyll Island Georgia is a great place to enjoy beaches, the outdoors, and the heritage of generations past.