Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a coastal jewel in Georgia that once served as an exclusive private retreat for America's wealthiest families, including the Rockefellers and Vanderbilts. Today, the island is a state-protected park with strict development limits to ensure its natural splendor remains intact. The Jekyll Island Historic District is the island's heart, where grand Gilded Age 'cottages' have been preserved and opened to the public. One of the most photographed spots in the country is Driftwood Beach on the island's northern end, where weathered, ancient trees create a surreal and hauntingly beautiful landscape along the shore. The island features over 20 miles of paved bike paths winding through moss-draped oak forests and coastal dunes. The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is another key highlight, focusing on the rescue and rehabilitation of injured sea turtles. The best time to visit is during the spring or fall when temperatures are mild and humidity is low. Access is via a causeway with a small entry fee. Because 65% of the island must remain undeveloped by law, it provides a serene, nature-first experience that stands in stark contrast to more commercialized beach destinations.

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