Jekyll Island, Georgia Travel Guide: A Relaxed Family Beach Getaway

Looking for a quiet beach destination in the Southeast that feels worlds away from crowded Florida beaches?

Jekyll Island, Georgia might be exactly what you’re searching for.

This charming coastal destination offers wide-open beaches, laid-back dining, family-friendly activities, and a slower pace, making it perfect for travelers who want to relax without sacrificing experience.

To kick off summer, we planned a family trip to Jekyll Island, and it quickly became one of our favorite easy getaways.

Where is Jekyll Island, Georgia?

Jekyll Island is part of Georgia’s Golden Isles, located along the southeastern coast.

• About 1.5 hours from Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport

• Easily accessible by car for travelers across the Southeast

• Connected by causeway (no ferry required)

Its convenience makes it an ideal short-stay or long weekend beach destination.

The History of Jekyll Island

Once known as the “Millionaires’ Club,” Jekyll Island was a private retreat for some of America’s wealthiest families in the late 19th century, including the Rockefellers and Vanderbilts.

Today, the island is owned by the state of Georgia and carefully preserved, with over 65% of the island remaining undeveloped. This commitment to conservation is a big part of what keeps Jekyll feeling peaceful and uncrowded.

Why Choose Jekyll Island Over Florida Beaches?

If you’ve visited popular destinations like 30A or Panama City Beach recently, you’ve likely noticed:

• Overcrowded beaches

• Long restaurant waits

• Limited space to truly relax

Jekyll Island offers a completely different experience.

Here, you’ll find:

• Quiet mornings on the beach

• Easy, casual dining without reservations

• Plenty of space to spread out

It’s a return to what a beach vacation is supposed to feel like.

What Makes Jekyll Island Beaches Unique

Jekyll Island’s beaches may not have the powdery white sand of the Gulf Coast, but what they offer is something many families actually prefer.

Wide Beaches & Dramatic Tides

The difference between high and low tide can stretch hundreds of feet, giving you endless room to:

• Play

• Walk

• Relax without crowding

Perfect for Families

• Natural tide pools form at low tide

• Gentle water areas for younger kids

• Ideal for families not ready for rough surf

Pet-Friendly Atmosphere

Many beaches welcome dogs (on leash), making it easy to bring the whole family along.

Where to Eat on Jekyll Island

You won’t need reservations at most places—and you can leave the dress clothes at home.

Our Favorite Restaurants

• The Shore

  A great mix of coastal cuisine and relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for a nicer (but still easy) dinner.  They also have a great Buffalo Chicken Pizza.  Grab one to go while you are relaxing at the beach…Just remember to clean up your trash before you leave.

• Tortuga Jack’s

  Beachfront, casual, and fun. Ideal after a day in the sun.  And who doesn’t love a Taco Tuesday and Margaritas while enjoying that ocean breeze.

• 34 Coastal

  A slightly more refined dining option with fresh seafood and a polished feel.  Located in the Holiday Inn, this is your place for some great smashburgers.

Pro Tip:
Go early for dinner and you’ll likely avoid any wait altogether.

Where to Stay on Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island offers a range of accommodations—from family-friendly suites to historic resorts.

Best Hotels on Jekyll Island

Residence Inn by Marriott Jekyll Island

Ideal for families. We loved having:

• • Extra space

  • A full kitchen (great for saving money on meals)

The Westin Jekyll Island Beach Resort

Perfect if you want:

• • Easy beach access

  • Walkability to shops and restaurants

Jekyll Island Club Resort

A historic, more elevated option for those wanting a unique stay.

Things to Do on Jekyll Island

Visit Driftwood Beach

Driftwood Beach is one of the most photographed spots in Georgia—and for good reason.

• Known for its hauntingly beautiful driftwood trees

• Best visited at sunrise

• Popular for photography and even weddings

Go Shark Tooth Hunting

This was one of our favorite experiences.

• Best during low tide

• About a 2-mile roundtrip walk

• Bring sturdy shoes (oyster shells are everywhere)

Finding four shark teeth? Definitely a highlight.

Bike Around the Island

Jekyll Island is incredibly bike-friendly, with over 20 miles of trails.

• Many hotels offer complimentary bike rentals

• Flat, scenic paths perfect for all ages

Visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center

• Learn about sea turtle rescue and conservation

• See rehabilitation efforts firsthand

• Seasonal programs may allow you to observe nesting activity

Important:
Sea turtles are protected, never attempt to assist them on your own.

Take a Day Trip

Jekyll Island is perfectly located for exploring nearby destinations:

• St. Simons Island – charming coastal vibes

• Savannah – historic, walkable, and full of Southern charm

Important Things to Know Before You Go

• There is a daily entry/parking fee to access the island

• Sea turtle season (May–October):

  • No standard flashlights allowed on beaches

  • Lights across the island are dimmed at night

• Grocery options are limited—plan ahead

• Most shops and restaurants close early

This is a destination designed for relaxation—not nightlife.

Is Jekyll Island Worth Visiting?

Absolutely.

Jekyll Island is perfect for travelers who want:

• A quiet beach vacation in the Southeast

• A family-friendly coastal destination

• A place to slow down and reconnect

It’s not flashy—and that’s exactly the point.

Final Thoughts

We fell in love with Jekyll Island.

It gave us something that’s becoming harder to find in beach destinations:
space, simplicity, and time together.

We’re already planning to return.

And if you’re looking for a beach trip that feels easy again—this might be your spot.

Planning Your Own Jekyll Island Trip

Planning a trip like this is easy—but planning it well is where the difference really shows.

If you’re thinking about a Jekyll Island getaway (or wondering if there’s an even better fit for your family), I’d love to help you sort through the options and create something that feels just right for you.

👉 Start planning your trip here