Jekyll Island is known for its rich history, breathtaking beaches, and family-friendly activities, but did you know that a wide range of shopping options are available? With everything from gift shops and boutiques to gourmet grocery markets, there is something for everyone. We’ve compiled a list of the must-visit shops on Jekyll Island!

Golden Isles Welcome Center

To start your shopping spree, take a detour to the welcome center on your way into town. Here, several guides are available to help you plan your trip. If you are looking for a local souvenir, a small shop is located inside. It’s a great place to grab something to remember your trip by! 

Jekyll Island’s Historic District

Once you’ve arrived on the island, head to the historic district. It is a charming area that offers both old-world allure and modern conveniences. While strolling through the streets, you may notice a number of landmark buildings that have been restored and now house shops, restaurants, and other attractions. Here are some of our favorites!

The Shoppe

Located in the Jekyll Island Resort Club, The Shoppe is an upscale boutique that perfectly blends the luxurious yet laid-back vibe of the island. It has bath products, jewelry, accessories, books, apparel, beach gear, candles, gifts, pillows, assorted snacks, and adult beverages. Many of the items have been locally sourced, reflecting the area’s craftsmanship. Whether you are looking for a gift for someone else or yourself, The Shoppe has it all. 

Sea Turtle Center Gift Shop

If you are an animal lover looking for a souvenir that will make a difference, this is the place for you. Inspired by local marine life, you will find endless t-shirts, caps, and unique jewelry options. The Sea Turtle Center’s proceeds go to turtle rehabilitation, research, and educational efforts. 

Mosaic Jekyll Island Museum Gift Shop

If you are leaving the Jekyll Island Museum, don’t forget to stop by the gift shop! Housed in a historic stable that has been lovingly restored, this shop offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past. The Mosaic Museum Gift Shop is packed with collectibles that celebrate the rich heritage of Jekyll Island. You’ll find various items, from vintage postcards and replicas of historic artifacts to modern interpretations that pay homage to the island’s legacy.

Jekyll Island Beach Village

At the island’s heart lies Beach Village—this bustling town center on Main Street is full of unique shops and restaurants. You can experience a mix of modern retail and old-fashioned charm within walking distance. 

Life Is Good

This shop has a great motto and a great variety of goods guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. With playful designs catering to adults and children, this is the perfect place to get matching t-shirts!

Jekyll Market

This gourmet grocery store houses the Cabana Gift Shop and Long Neck’s Beer & Wine. This one-stop shop has a variety of staples for your trip or some fun food and beverage items to mix things up! Suppose you stop by the Cabana Gift Shop. In that case, this island-style market includes shops like Made in the South, Just Jekyll, Turtle Central, My Happy Place, From the Heart, Bliss Bath & Body, Beach Party, Sun Seekers, Sandy Toes, Seaside Style, Bottoms Up, and R&R. Whether you are looking for food and beverage or an artisan souvenir, Jekyll Market has it all. 

Brittany’s Closet Boutique

This is a must-visit for those looking to freshen their wardrobes with stylish new pieces! This women’s clothing boutique offers carefully curated pieces catering to classic tastes and trendy styles. 

Cutie Patooties

Cutie Patooties is the perfect stop if you are looking for a cute children’s boutique. They offer items from newborn to size 12 for both boys and girls. All items are hand-picked by their team and guaranteed to be just as practical as they are stylish. From playful outfits to special occasion attire, they have it all! 

Jekyll Island Golf Pro Shop

This golf pro shop in the exclusive clubhouse offers all types of golf equipment, apparel, and accessories. The knowledgeable team is ready and excited to help you on your golfing journey!

The Salt Table

Take home a souvenir for your kitchen table! The Salt Table offers a wide range of table salts, local jellies, coffee products, cookies, and more! This is a great gift to take home to a friend or simply to add to your pantry.

Stay with Jekyll Realty!

After shopping and exploring the historic district, beaches, and local markets, why not complete your day by staying at the heart of it all? Enjoy a comfortable vacation rental with Jekyll Realty, steps away from the best shopping and dining on the island. Book your stay today and immerse yourself in the whole Jekyll Island experience. View rentals here.

Jekyll Island is an ideal destination for nature lovers and wildlife fans — especially during sea turtle season! From May through October, you have the chance to see these magnificent creatures up close as they nest and hatch on the beaches of Jekyll Island. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Jekyll Island during sea turtle season!

Sea Turtle Season on Jekyll Island

Sea turtle season on Jekyll Island typically spans from May to October. Through mid-summer, the island’s shores become a vital nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles as they emerge from the water to lay their eggs in the sand, and baby sea turtles make their journey across the beach to the water from August to October. During sea turtle season, visitors to Jekyll Island are asked not to disturb the nests or sea turtles, keep pets on leashes and observe turtle-safe lighting on the beach at night. Watch for turtle tracks leading up the sand and you have a great chance to spot these amazing animals in their natural habitat.

Georgia Sea Turtle Center

The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is Jekyll Island’s home base for conservation and education programs. This wonderful facility is open to the public year-round, with exhibits and programming dedicated to educating visitors, as well as rehabilitation efforts for the local sea turtle population. You can also learn more about the care that goes into helping sea turtles with a Behind the Scenes Tour through the center’s turtle hospital area. Sea turtle season is a busy time of year at the center, so visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance to ensure admission.

Sea Turtle Season Experiences

Turtle Walks. These guided tours offer visitors a unique opportunity to observe nesting sea turtles while learning about their biology, behavior, and the conservation efforts aimed at protecting them. The Sunrise Turtle Walk will offer you an overview of sea turtle nesting and hatching, as well as the opportunity to uncover a hatched sea turtle nest. Evening Turtle Walks provide a similar learning experience, along with the chance to see a female loggerhead building a nest.

Ride with Turtle Patrol. If you are looking to get directly involved in conservation efforts, then an excursion with the Turtle Patrol is for you. Ride with Dawn Patrol for the chance to assist researchers in monitoring and cataloging nests across Jekyll Island. After dark, you can Ride with Night Patrol to get a glimpse into the field biologist experience, with the chance to observe nesting sea turtles up close.

Adopt a Nest. Once you’ve experienced the magic of sea turtle season on Jekyll Island, you may feel inspired to support future conservation efforts. By adopting a sea turtle nest, you can leave your mark on Jekyll Island and ensure these incredible animals have the protection and resources they need to thrive.

Explore the Outdoors. You can also encounter sea turtles while exploring the natural beauty of Jekyll Island. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach at sunrise or sunset, and you may spot females crawling to their nest or hatchlings making their journey to the ocean. Head out on a guided kayak tour through tidal creeks with the 4-H Tidelands Center, where you could spot sea turtles, as well as shorebirds and dolphins.

Whether you’re a casual wildlife watcher or a serious biology enthusiast, sea turtle season on Jekyll Island is an awe-inspiring experience. Book your Jekyll Island vacation rental today and embark on an incredible journey to immerse yourself in the magic of sea turtle season on Jekyll Island!

Jekyll Island offers an abundance of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and family-friendly activities, and the activities you choose while on vacation don’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of free things to do on Jekyll Island, perfect for planning an itinerary that’s easy on the budget. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Jekyll Island has something for everyone. Let’s explore some of the free things to do on Jekyll Island!

Enjoy Jekyll Island’s beaches

For a day of fun in the sun, head to Great Dunes Beach Park, where free parking, pavilions and beach facilities make it easy to set up your umbrella and relax on the sand. Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the pavilions at Oceanview Beach Park. The scenery at Driftwood Beach is unbeatable, and the epic sunsets at St. Andrews Beach shouldn’t be missed. If you visit between May and October, you may witness sea turtle season, when adult sea turtles nest and babies make their way toward the ocean after hatching! These are all free activities that will make your Jekyll Island vacation extra memorable!

Wander through the Historic District

Transport yourself back in time as you wander through the Historic District of Jekyll Island. Marvel at the elegant architecture of the Jekyll Island Club and explore the grounds where America’s wealthiest families once vacationed. Use an official visitor’s map as you stroll through the streets to identify the cottages and historic buildings where 19th century industrialists spent time enjoying Jekyll Island.

Jekyll Island Trail System

Explore the island using over 20 miles of paved paths meandering through maritime forests, marshlands, and scenic beaches. Whether you prefer biking, jogging, or leisurely walks, this extensive trail network provides a peaceful journey through the island’s diverse landscapes. Use a visitor’s guide map to guide you to the points of interest around the island.

Explore Horton House

Take a step back into the island’s colonial history with a visit to Horton House, the remnants of an English tabby house built in the 18th century. Wander through the ruins and imagine life on the island centuries ago. Venture across the road to visit Dubignon cemetery which houses tombstones of one of the earliest settling families on the island.

Walk the Steps of the Past

Visit the Wanderer Memory Trail, an open air educational exhibit featuring the story of one of the last known slave ships, the Wanderer, which landed illegally on Jekyll Island. This powerful memorial trail includes interpretive signage which provides historical context and highlights the stories of individuals who were connected to the Wanderer, including enslaved Africans, crew members, and local residents.

Go Fishing

Jekyll Island is known for its excellent onshore fishing and many of the spots are accessible for free. Anglers can cast their lines from the island’s beaches, fishing piers, and docks. Some popular spots for shore fishing include Driftwood Beach, St. Andrews Beach, and the Jekyll Island Fishing Pier. Common catches in this area can include flounder, redfish, trout, and tarpon. Learn more about the best fishing spots to reel in your big catch on Jekyll Island!

Observe Local Wildlife

The marshlands, maritime forest, freshwater ponds and shoreline of Jekyll Island provide plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife. Spend some time at Horton Pond to see alligators, turtles and wading birds in their natural habitat. Take a walk underneath the canopies of live oaks to spot racoons and bald eagles’ nests. To catch a glimpse of dolphins, migratory birds and marshland wildlife, head to the observation tower at St. Andrew’s Beach for a birds-eye view.

Bird Watching

Grab your binoculars and head out on Jekyll Island’s trails to spot ospreys, bald eagles, shorebirds and more. The island is an important stop for migrating birds along the Atlantic Migratory Flyway, so fall and spring bring additional opportunities to see certain species. Some of the best birding spots can be found in the northern end of the island, while the interior and southern end of the island offer the chance to see a diverse array of perching birds and shorebirds. Try the Merlin Bird ID app for help in identifying the birds you see or hear.

Attend a Local Event

 Jekyll Island offers cultural and seasonal events throughout the year, many of which are free to attend. Summer brings free outdoor movie nights and Independence Day festivities. In October, the Jekyll Island Shrimp and Grits Festival takes over the Historic District for a free, family-friendly weekend of food, music and handcrafted goods. The holiday season is magical on Jekyll Island, with tons of free events through the month of December, and January brings the annual Island Treasures scavenger hunt.

Enjoy Local Art

Head over to the Jekyll Island Arts Association in the Historic District to explore free exhibits showcasing local artists. If you are visiting in March, don’t miss the annual Jekyll Island Arts Festival, a free two-day event with an art show, artist demonstrations, and live entertainment.

Jekyll Island offers a variety of free activities for travelers of all ages to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring the island’s natural beauty, learning its fascinating history, or simply relaxing on the pristine beaches, the island promises an unforgettable experience. Book your Jekyll Island vacation rental and start planning your visit!

Jekyll Island is an excellent choice for an unforgettable family vacation experience. From exploring the island’s lush landscapes to learning more about its rich history, August presents the perfect opportunity for families to create cherished memories in this charming coastal town. Here are some of the top things to do during a family vacation to Jekyll Island this summer.

Cool off at the Water Park

Beat the heat at Summer Waves Water Park, open seasonally between Memorial Day and Labor Day. An afternoon of fun is guaranteed at this water park, with slides, a lazy river, wave pool, and splash zones for younger children. Kids 3 and under are free with daily adult admission, and there are season passes available which include discounts on other Jekyll Island attractions.

Jekyll Island Historic Landmark District

Take a step back in time and explore the Historic Landmark District, featuring beautiful historic buildings and museums. Discover the historic cottages used as vacation homes by wealthy industrialists in the early 20th century, and visit the Mosaic Jekyll Island Museum for interactive history exhibits. This historic area is centrally located on Jekyll Island and can be explored by foot or on a trolley tour. The landmark district is a fun outing for all ages!

Explore the Island on Horseback

For an exciting way to see Jekyll Island, check out the horseback rides offered by Three Oaks Farm. There are horseback rides along the beach and at sunset, as well as narrated history carriage rides through the historic district. Taking a horse or carriage ride on Jekyll Island is a sure way to bring a smile to your face.

Discover Historic Sites

Jekyll Island is full of history, and much of it can be discovered along the paths winding throughout the island. Stop by the ruins of Horton House for a glimpse of the colonial past. Head to St. Andrews Beach on the south side of the island to walk the Wanderer Memory Trail, an educational experience about the survivors of a slave ship that landed on Jekyll Island.

Take a Tour of Jekyll Island

There is so much to see on Jekyll Island and booking a tour is a great way to go. From trolleys to bicycles, there are tons of options for families who want to explore the island in their own way.

Go Fishing

Cast a line at any number of spots along the beach or the Jekyll Island Fishing Pier for excellent in-shore fishing for redfish, flounder and more. Or book a fishing charter boat for a memorable family adventure that will be talked about for years to come.

Beach day

Jekyll Island has gorgeous beaches for every type of beach day your family could want. Visit Great Dunes Beach and Oceanview Beach Park for a family-friendly atmosphere, with calm water, picnic shelters and play areas for kids. Both beaches are ADA-accessible and have plenty of parking. The iconic Driftwood Beach should be a stop to see the twisted driftwood structures along the beach – the kids will love to climb this natural playground. If you’re looking to take some family sunset photos, head to St. Andrews Beach on the southern end of the island.

Go Golfing

Enjoy a friendly family competition at the Jekyll Island Miniature Golf course. This 18-hole mini golf course offers a well-designed and fun experience for all ages. Families who prefer traditional golf will be delighted to hit the links at Jekyll Island Golf Club, the largest public golf resort in Georgia.

Go for a Bike Ride

Biking around Jekyll Island has been a popular activity for over 100 years! Head to Jekyll Island Bike Barn to find rental options for the whole family, including bikes of all sizes, tandem bikes, surreys and bike trailers. No matter what your preferred equipment, exploring the 22 miles of trails on Jekyll Island is sure to be a hit with visitors big or small. 

4-H Tidelands Nature Center

Your family can learn about the wonders of coastal ecology at the 4-H Tidelands Nature Center. With guided kayak tours and nature walks, as well as educational programs for kids of all ages, this center provides an immersive experience to learn about local wildlife and coastal ecosystems.

Georgia Sea Turtle Center

Families will not want to miss the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, which offers educational and interactive experiences centered around the rehabilitation of sea turtles. Learn about these fascinating creatures and even see the release of rehabilitated turtles back into the ocean. Summer is turtle nesting season, and the center offers free sunrise and evening Turtle Walks, where participants can learn about the nesting process and possibly witness it in person.

Take a Dolphin Tour

Take the opportunity to see bottlenose dolphins swimming and playing in their natural habitat with a dolphin tour. This 90-minute narrated tour is a popular way to explore the waterways of Jekyll Island and learn about the local ecosystem. Kids will have a blast spotting all of the other local wildlife on this tour, like manatees, sea turtles and more.

Tips for Families Visiting Jekyll Island in August

 

• August can be hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 85°F during the day. Bring lightweight and breathable clothing, hats, sunscreen, and stay hydrated throughout your stay. Bug repellent is also a good idea, especially when exploring the interior part of the island.
• While outdoor activities are a big draw, consider mixing in some indoor activities as well to escape the heat during the peak hours of the day. 
• Summer is a popular time for families to visit Jekyll Island, so expect certain areas to be busier than usual, especially on the weekends. Booking tours ahead of time is recommended to ensure availability.

With warm temperatures and sunny days, summer provides the ideal backdrop for adventures on Jekyll Island. From exploring pristine natural landscapes to learning about the history of the island, there will be something for the whole family to enjoy. Book your Jekyll Island vacation rental and get ready for endless family fun on this beautiful island!