10 Best Things to See & Do on Jekyll Island, GA
Just across the Florida-Georgia border and a short drive from both Jacksonville and Savannah is Jekyll Island. One of the Golden Isles of Georgia, Jekyll Island is one big state park which you’ll have to pay $8 to access. Once you’re on the island, there’s a whole town to explore along with gorgeous beaches, a turn-of-the-century hotel and plenty of other things to keep you busy.
Plantations with homes made of tabby were established on the island during the British colonial period. A few structures from that era continue to hang on despite the ravages of time.
By the turn of the last century, the nation’s elite had discovered Jekyll Island. Some of the wealthiest people in the world came here to hunt and play while spending the night in a large clubhouse.
Tycoons of America’s Gilded Age fell in love with the natural beauty of this place and constructed winter retreats in the form of mansion-size cottages, most of which still stand.
The Great Depression led to money troubles for the club and the island was eventually evacuated over security concerns during the war years of the 1940s.
In order to preserve the historic community, the government of Georgia purchased the island and turned it into a state park.
On this episode, I highlight the 10 best things to see and do on Jekyll Island.