Jekyll Island winter - Driftwood Beach

5 Reasons to Visit Jekyll Island this Winter

Head down south and experience Jekyll Island this winter! Take full advantage of fewer crowds, mild temperatures, and lower rates on our Jekyll Island vacation rentals and live like a local. Here are our 5 reasons you should visit Jekyll Island this winter:

Fewer Crowds, Mild Temperatures

Escape to Jekyll Island during the winter for a peaceful and quiet escape. During winter, guests will deal with fewer crowds, meaning more wide-open beaches and shorter wait times at your favorite Jekyll Island restaurants. In December, Jekyll Island experiences mild temperatures, with low temperatures in the 40s and 50s and the highs reaching the 60s. Jekyll Island is the perfect place to call your home away from home if you’re a snowbird looking for a warm escape. 

Outdoor Adventures 

Outdoor adventures are plentiful during the winter, thanks to the mild temperatures! While water temps may be too cold for swimming, you can still enjoy many activities during this time. For those wanting to enjoy a slow morning or afternoon, grab your bike and cruise the 24 miles of biking paths and trails around Jekyll Island. Take in the sights and sounds of the island and stop by Jekyll Island favorites like Sunrise Grille or Tortuga Jacks for a lunch break. Or, visit one of America’s “Top Romantic Beaches,” Driftwood Beach, and go for a stroll along the beautiful coastline. Make sure to bring your camera! The driftwood trees along the beach make for an incredible backdrop for your vacation photos.  

Jekyll Island Holiday Events

Christmas Jekyll Island

If you’re visiting during the holiday season, Jekyll Island hosts a number of festive events that will get you into the holiday spirit:

Holly Jolly Jekyll – November 29, 2024 – January 5, 2025

Holly Jolly Jekyll is one of Jekyll Island’s most popular Christmas events! From the end of November until early January, take a ride on Jekyll’s jolliest trolley and take in the dazzling lights of the Historic District. It’s a holiday experience you don’t want to miss. Tickets are available to purchase online. Children three and under are free.    

Winter Carnival & Big Truck Roundup – December 7, 2024

Celebrate the holiday season on Jekyll Island with the Winter Carnival and Big Truck Roundup. There will be free carnival rides, games, and music for the kids to enjoy on the Village Green. The Jekyll Island Fire/EMS and Georgia State Patrol will also be there for the kids to explore. 

Merry Fishmas – December 14, 2024 

Meet Santa Claus this December at Merry Fishmas! The event, hosted by Kids Can Fish Foundation and Zebco, have set up a one-of-a-kind meet and greet with Santa. The first 350 kids will be gifted a fishing rod and other fishing-related items. There will also be basic fishing lessons available as well as games, casting competitions, holiday music, and snacks. Merry Fishmas will take place from 10 AM – 12 PM.  

Jekyll Island is Dog-Friendly in the Winter

Your furry family member could probably use a break from the cold too! Many of our Jekyll Island vacation rentals are pet-friendly so pack their favorite toys and treats and head to the island. While dogs are allowed on most beaches year-round on Jekyll Island, winter is unique in that popular trails and beaches will have less people, which means there’s a chance you and the pup will have it all to yourself! After you’ve worked up an appetite, head to The Wharf or Tortuga Jacks for a meal on the outdoor patio with waterfront views.   

Jekyll Island Vacation Rental Specials

Jekyll House - Jekyll Island vacation rental

The best part of vacationing on Jekyll Island during the winter months is the savings! Jekyll Realty is currently offering 10% OFF new bookings for select Jekyll Island vacation rentals for the remainder of the year. If you haven’t experience the charm of Jekyll Island, now is the time! From homes that are just steps away from the beach to cozy cottages, Jekyll Realty is everything you’re looking for. Book directly on our website and save!