Plan a Family Vacation to Jekyll Island
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!
