October 2025 Blog Archive Jekyll Realty

Fall on Georgia’s Golden Isles brings a festive mix of family fun, local flavor, and seasonal charm. From Halloween-themed happenings like ghost tours to harvest celebrations filled with live music, art, and coastal cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Whether you choose to explore close to your Jekyll Island vacation rental or venture off, here are the top events to enjoy this October in Georgia’s coastal towns of Jekyll Island, Brunswick, and St. Simons Island:

Golden Isle Fall Festivals & Events

Jekyll Island October Events

Jekyll Island Shrimp and Grits Festival: October 24th & 25th, 2025

One of Jekyll Island’s biggest festivals, the Shrimp and Grits Festival, celebrates Southern flavor and local seafood. Savor every bite from a plethora of shrimp and grit dishes and food trucks, and take in festival experiences like live music, an artists market, and fireworks. Admission is free to attend.

Trolley Ghost Tours of Jekyll Island: Throughout October

It’s all fun and fright on Jekyll Island’s Trolley Ghost Tour! On select evenings (Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays) throughout the month of October, Lighthouse Trolleys will offer 1-hour ghost tours. Hear all the eerie ghost stories and mysteries that surround the island as you weave through the streets of Jekyll Island. Feel free to bring snacks, drinks (including alcohol), and your own spooky stories to share.

Paulk Cup Classic: October 29th-31st, 2025

The Paulk Cup Classic honors Georgia golf legend Johnny Paulk and his impact on the game of golf on Jekyll Island. Tournament participants will play the renovated Pine Lakes golf course and the newly restored Great Dunes golf course before it opens to the public. Registration is now open.

Gilded Age Ghosts & Ghouls: October 2025

The Jekyll Island Club’s past comes alive on this after-dark experience with ghoulish and ghostly stories! Begin your experience at Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum, where you’ll learn about the Gilded Age traditions of All Hallow’s Eve. As you make your way by trolley to one of the island’s historic homes, hear the real paranormal experiences of current staff members working in the Historic District. Conclude the experience with a visit back in time to the Club era, where dearly departed former Club members will introduce you to some of the island’s ghastlier tales.

Brunswick & St. Simons October Events

Both Brunswick and St. Simons are a short drive from Jekyll Island. While vacationing on Jekyll Island in October, consider a day trip to Brunswick to check out these events.

12th Annual Ophelia’s Classic Car Challenge: October 18, 2025

Join car enthusiasts from all over for the 12th Annual Ophelia’s Classic Car Challenge at Hofwyl-Broad Plantation. From 9:00 am – 2:00 pm, stroll through the grounds and admire classic cars. Afterwards, you can vote for your favorite! Pack a lunch and spend the day in this beautiful setting with family and friends. Admission varies

Historic Brunswick’s fall fairs and arts markets offer plenty of local charm, too. Whether you’re tasting your way through the weekend or enjoying live music under the stars, October’s events capture the heart of coastal Georgia.

Dinner Under the Stars – Oktoberfest: October 18, 2025

The 8th Annual Dinner Under the Stars, hosted by Morningstar, will be Oktoberfest style! Expect a one-of-a-kind celebration filled with music, games, and Oktoberfest classics! Munch on mouthwatering bratwurst, pretzels, and sip on ice-cold beer. If you’d like, come in your best lederhosen or dirndl and support the community! Proceeds will go to the Children’s Home.

St. Simons Wine Festival: October 24th & 25th, 2025

The St. Simons Wine Festival is a celebration of great wine and the Golden Isle’s coastal charm. The Grand Tasting will be held on October 25th, where you’ll get a chance to sample wines from over 25 wineries, including those in California, Oregon, France, Italy, Argentina, and more. There will be live music, art demonstrations, light bites, and non-alcoholic beverages available.

Ghosts and Legends of Hofwyl-Broad Plantation: October 2025

Take a step back in time at one of Coastal Georgia’s last surviving rice plantations. On selected weekend nights in October, the state historic site will offer a walking tour of the plantation, where you’ll hear stories of the five generations of plantation owners and the African Americans who worked here, in both slavery and freedom. There will be tales of recent ghostly encounters, plantation folklore, and the rich but tragic history of the Lowcountry rice fields.

Hofwyl-Broad Plantation Halloween Scavenger Hunt: October 2025

All month long, Hofwyl-Broad Plantation will offer a Halloween scavenger hunt and win a goodie bag at the end of the hunt! The clues for this year’s hunt will be based on legendary creatures such as Bigfoot, mermaids, unicorns, and, of course, our own area’s “Altie.” Pick up a scavenger hunt map at the visitor center and begin your hunt!

A Serene Escape with Year-Round Charm

The Golden Isles are stunning in every season, but there’s something special about visiting in October that makes the trip so special. Whether you’re here for relaxation or a little adventure, fall is the perfect time to discover why this stretch of Georgia coastline has captivated travelers for generations.

Looking for accommodation for your coastal vacation? You’ll find the perfect stay in one of our Jekyll Island vacation rentals. Cozy cottages, oceanfront properties, and pet-friendly island homes await – all offering the comfort and charm you need for an unforgettable October getaway.

Weddings are magical, yet planning them can be overwhelming. Choosing the perfect location and ensuring loved ones can attend are often the biggest hurdles. However, imagine a wedding where all your friends and family gather in a charming coastal town to celebrate your special day. Whether you envision a beach ceremony or the elegant backdrop of a historic building, Jekyll Island offers countless stunning options for a gorgeous wedding. Explore what makes Jekyll Island the ideal, dreamlike setting for your big day, covering everything from vendors to guest accommodations.

Why Jekyll Island is the Perfect Wedding Destination

There are many reasons why Jekyll Island is the perfect destination for your wedding, but one of the biggest is the natural beauty and coastal charm. Miles of pristine beaches, paired with Spanish moss and live oaks, make this location the most picture-perfect destination. And the best part is that you don’t need a permit for wedding beaches on Jekyll Island.

If the natural beauty isn’t enough, the historic charm of the island is a reason alone to choose Jekyll Island. There are plenty of options from ballrooms to historic cottages for ceremonies and receptions.

Choosing Jekyll Island for your wedding offers the unique advantage of transforming your special day into a memorable getaway. Guests will find plenty to enjoy, from nature trails and museums to relaxing beach days. Plus, there are endless accommodation options to suit every preference.

Jekyll Island Wedding Venues

While finding your location can be hard, finding a venue that suits your wants and needs can be even trickier. Luckily, there is no shortage of beautiful venues on Jekyll Island. From historic chapels to gorgeous beaches, there is something for everyone.

Faith Chapel – This non-denominational chapel, located in the historic district, is filled with a beautiful hardwood interior and stained glass windows. It’s ideal for more traditional and intimate weddings as it has an occupancy of 110 people.
Jekyll Island Club Resort – The Jekyll Island Club Resort has a variety of spaces available for rent for weddings and receptions. From oceanfront and beach venues to historic buildings, there is something for every bride.
Crane Cottage – This Italian Renaissance-style cottage features breathtaking views of the Jekyll River, reflecting pool, and interior courtyard. This location’s ceremony and reception venue can hold up to 130 guests, while the Crane Cottage with Tent Reception can hold up to 300 guests, and the Crane Garden Ceremony can hold up to 300 guests.
Riverfront Lawn – This open-air venue offers golden sunset views of the river with a canopy of ancient oaks making a great backdrop for dancing and celebrating under the stars. This venue holds up to 250 guests.
Morgan Center Ballroom – The Morgan Ballroom is the largest of the venues with options for up to 250 guests. With the outdoor terrace, lawn, a mezzanine, and large main floor for receptions and seated dinners. This is the best fit for those who want to have a larger ceremony and reception, while also being indoors.
Jekyll Ocean Club Venues – Perfect for elopements or beachside weddings, the Ocean Venues put you steps away from the shoreline. You have your choice of beach, beautiful rooftop deck, or Eighty Ocean Kitchen and Bar. This venue is perfect for couples seeking a classic Jekyll Island wedding, offering flexible guest options to accommodate various needs.

Jekyll Island Wedding Vendors

Wedding Planner

Island Beach Wedding LLC

If you are looking for a local wedding planner, then Island Beach Weddings LLC is who we recommend. Known for being stress-free and knowledgeable of the local area as locals themselves, they offer affordable all-inclusive services. Their team will take care of everything from photographers and florists to officiants, décor, catering, and entertainment. All you have to do is show up and enjoy your special day.

Florist

Since finding a local wedding florist on Jekyll Island can be challenging, we recommend contacting Ivory & Beau in Savannah, GA. This wedding boutique offers everything from bridal bouquets to floral arches and arrangements. They are passionate about turning your wedding dreams into a reality.

Catering

For reliable and delicious catering on Jekyll Island, we suggest the Jekyll Island Club Resort. They provide extensive services, including full menu planning and bar and beverage options.

Photographer

Finding a photographer for your special day can arguably be one of the most stressful parts of wedding planning. Simply Grace Photography is our go-to photographer for wedding days. She captures the real and authentic moments of weddings, making it truly a memorable experience. She also offers iPhone content creation add-ons so that you have all the different formats to remember your day.

The Perfect Jekyll Island Vacation Rentals for the Wedding Weekend

The only thing that can make a wedding weekend better is spending time in a home with your friends and family. Make Jekyll Realty your home base during your wedding getaway and have all the comforts of home on your special day.

Kaleidoscope

Stay steps away from the ocean with Kaleidescope. This home sleeps 12, offers a private pool and hot tub, and is the perfect spot for your wedding weekend. The large kitchen is perfect for family gatherings, wedding prep, and memories with friends and family.

Jekyll House

This oceanfront, resort-sized home is designed for relaxation and connection. Accommodating up to 12 guests, it offers ample space for wedding preparations and festivities, as well as plenty of room to unwind by the pool or enjoy the nearby beach.

Briney Breeze

With 4 beds and 4.5 baths, Briney Breeze has all the amenities and space to accommodate your family or wedding guests. Enjoy days by the pool or family BBQs on the outdoor grill. After long days planning and prepping, retire to one of the 4 beds and get some much-needed rest.

Jekyll Island has everything you need for a beautiful and unforgettable wedding, no matter what kind of experience you’re going for. To make sure your special day is totally stress-free, stay with Jekyll Realty. Our amazing team will help you with all your accommodation needs, so you can just focus on celebrating your love.

Spending October in Georgia’s Coastal Towns