Visiting Jekyll Island during the winter months has many benefits. Average winter temperatures hover in the mid-60s and the mild weather is perfect for getting outdoors to enjoy the natural beauty of Jekyll Island. Fewer tourists will make the island feel like your own personal playground and the slower pace of island life after the holidays will be a welcome change.
If you want to get a jump on your goals for the new year, Jekyll Island offers plenty of activities to help promote health and wellness. From outdoor hiking and biking trails to beach activities and spa treatments, Jekyll Island offers something for everyone looking to kick-start their journey towards a healthier lifestyle in the new year.
Read our Top Reasons to Visit Jekyll Island This Winter
Outdoor Adventures
Take a walk along any of the scenic trails crossing the island or stroll along one of Jekyll Island’s lovely beaches. The quiet stretch of sand at Driftwood Beach is a serene setting for a meditation session or a picnic on the sand. For a stunning view of the sunset, stop by St. Andrews Beach at the end of the day.
The water temperature is a bit brisk this time of year, but with the right gear, getting out on the water on a stand-up paddleboard or kayak can be an exhilarating experience. For those who don’t want to dip their toes in, there are also boat tours available to cruise the waves or spot dolphins.
For inland adventures, the salt marshes of Jekyll Island offer incredible bird-watching opportunities, and winter is a prime time for different species to swing through on their annual migration pattern. Visit the 4-H Tidelands Center to learn more about this marshland environment and join a guided nature walk. Fishing enthusiasts won’t want to miss the marshlands or piers, and charters are available for in-shore or off-shore excursions.
Health and Wellness Activities
Take some time out of your vacation to focus on yourself with a variety of health and wellness activities.
Book an afternoon massage at the Jekyll Island Club Hotel’s Spa Cabana or Beachlife Massage Spa to help ease any tension you may have built up. Both offer a selection of massage and body treatments, with aromatherapy and scrubs. Additional spa options are found on nearby St. Simons Island.
Get stretched out and breathe deep at a yoga class at one of the yoga studios located a short drive away on St. Simons Island. Some of these studios also offer classes outdoors or on the beach on Jekyll Island.
For runners, the Jekyll Island Marathon offers a full and half marathon, as well as a 10K race in mid-January each year. This unique race course weaves through the natural beauty and historical sites of Jekyll Island. For shorter-distance runners, the annual Southeast Georgia Health System Bridge Run held in February every year offers a challenging 5K race across the Sidney Lanier bridge, followed by a family-friendly fun walk event.
Soak in the Island Atmosphere
Take advantage of the light crowds and explore the area’s historic and natural attractions.
Wander around the Historic Landmark District for a glimpse into the island’s past, and don’t miss the Horton House or Mosaic Museum. Visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and take a behind-the-scenes tour to learn about the rehabilitation work going on there, or join a nighttime turtle walk to see conservation work in action. Express your inner artist with a monthly pottery or painting workshop at the Jekyll Island Arts Association.
Enjoy a round of golf at Jekyll Island Golf Club or Seaside Golf Course, or head to Jekyll Island Mini Golf for some relaxing fun with the whole family. To see the beauty of the island and connect to animals, take a horseback tour with Three Oaks Farm. Or rent a bicycle and ride on the 22 miles of trails that wind through Jekyll Island.
In January, the annual Jekyll Island Treasures event kicks off its two-month run. Inspired by the glass floats used by area fishermen in their nets, this event has become a well-loved tradition. Every day in January and February, this treasure hunt involves hidden globe floats which can be found and exchanged for handmade glass orbs made by artists across the country.
There are lots of things to do on Jekyll Island, especially during the winter season. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures, health and wellness activities or just simply want to relax and take in the beautiful views, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Book your Jekyll Island vacation rental today and let this New Year be a time of exploration and relaxation in this beautiful corner of Georgia.