Not too far off Interstate 95 in southeast Georgia near Brunswick, you will find a small barrier island by the name of Jekyll. Although small in size, the lush green island, with sparkling beach waters, is filled with activities for any traveler. If you enjoy the outdoors, you will enjoy the many sea-centered attractions and sites spread all over the island.
Get Out on the Beach
On the 10 miles of beaches on Jekyll Island, you not only can enjoy searching for seashells and splashing in the waters, you also can partake in several activities. With Three Oaks Carriage and Trail, you can take a ride on horseback through the Maritime Forest, through the marsh land and then along Driftwood Beach, on the north end of the island, which features dozens of large, and often picturesque, driftwood pieces that have washed upon the shore.
Take a Tour
Jekyll Island is perfect for miniature excursions throughout the day. Check out the 4-H Tidelands Nature Center on Riverview Drive, boasting live sea animals such as turtles and alligators, kayaking and canoeing, nature walks and special programs. The island also is home to an ecofriendly Fun Tour, where you can ride a Segway through trails and "hidden" areas in town. You can also geocache along the island, and several companies offer dolphin tours and fishing charters.
Get Active
Other than boating and fishing, you can stay in shape while at Jekyll Island by partaking in sports like golf, tennis and soccer. The island boasts three golf courses near forested, ocean, marsh and lake areas for members and the public. At the tennis center on Captain Wylly Road, take a clinic, compete in a tournament or enroll in a camp on the cool, clay courts. The soccer complex near Glory Beach and its boardwalk features exhibition and tournament matches during most of the year.
Have Some Fun
You'll find several attractions on the island. At the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, you can tour the facilities that house sick and rehabilitating sea life to learn about conservation. Adults and children can learn about sea turtles and the coastal ecosystem with education programs, and various groups can participate in special sea turtle events throughout the year. Historic homes, museums and churches also are found on the island. Families especially will enjoy a visit to Summer Waves Water Park, home to nine water attractions.
Get Lodging with Amenities
A couple of lodging options offer adventurous amenities for guests. When you stay at Jekyll Harbor Marina on Harbor Road you can also enjoy pool swimming, 20 miles of biking and jogging trails, golfing and tennis courts. Tent and RV camping is available at the island's 18-acre campground on Riverview Drive near Driftwood Beach, with a picnic area, nearby fishing, bicycle rentals and modern amenities like Internet and cable television.
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