Jekyll Island: Dive Into Coastal Life and Culture
- As one of Georgia’s barrier islands, Jekyll Island offers a taste of coastal culture and adventure.
- Highlights include the renowned Driftwood Beach, the state’s only sea turtle rehabilitation center and the Jekyll Island Club.
- Exploring the island can give you an in-depth perspective on the area’s unique ecosystem and rich history.
Did you know that Jekyll Island was once a popular vacation spot among Vanderbilts and Rockefellers? The southernmost of Georgia’s Golden Isles, Jekyll Island has been a retreat since the early 19th century. Today, the island still blends relaxation with exploration, immersing you in coastal culture, history and activity. You can bike through tree-lined paths, watch the sun rise and get ready for new adventures. Here’s a taste of what you might experience on Jekyll Island with Road Scholar!
Bike. Golf. Swim.
Jekyll Island is just seven miles long, but there’s no shortage of activities to do. You’ll find over 24 miles of trails — bike, run or walk under ancient oaks hanging with Spanish moss. Challenge new friends to a tennis match or unwind on golf courses surrounded by forests.
On sunny days, head to one of Jekyll Island’s seven beaches. Dive right into the water to cool off or learn more about the sand dunes that stretch along the coastline. You might even be able to see migratory birds and pods of dolphins at St. Andrews Beach Park.
Perhaps Jekyll Island’s most iconic spot, Driftwood Beach is known for the sun-bleached trees and ancient driftwood monuments scattered along the waterfront. Get up close to them and reflect on Jekyll Island’s natural history as you soak up the sun.
Discover a Unique Ecosystem
It’s not uncommon to see alligators, sea turtles and deer on Jekyll Island, but migratory species like manatees also make appearances. To the west, you'll find salt marshes and Jekyll Creek, while to the east is the Atlantic Ocean, offering habitats for a variety of wildlife. Jekyll Island is also home to over 1,000 acres of forestland.
Take a walk around the island with a ranger to learn about all the different components of this coastal ecosystem. See some of the island's reptiles at the 4-H Tidelands Nature Center or take an expert-led canoeing excursion. Paddle through salt marshes, learning about the island’s tidal creeks and native species.
Home to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, Jekyll Island also features the state’s only sea turtle rehabilitation facility. Learn more about sea turtles from naturalists, exploring how they arrive at the center and the steps taken for them to be released back into the wild.
Take a walk around the island with a ranger to learn about all the different components of this coastal ecosystem. See some of the island's reptiles at the 4-H Tidelands Nature Center or take an expert-led canoeing excursion. Paddle through salt marshes, learning about the island’s tidal creeks and native species.
Home to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, Jekyll Island also features the state’s only sea turtle rehabilitation facility. Learn more about sea turtles from naturalists, exploring how they arrive at the center and the steps taken for them to be released back into the wild.
Loggerhead sea turtles.
A Vibrant Historic District
Want to learn more about Jekyll Island’s human history? Explore the National Historic Landmark District! Featuring over 30 historic sites, the district offers insight into a bygone era.
Learn about the Jekyll Island Club, which opened in 1888 and continues to serve guests, including Road Scholars. Step into Mosaic, a stable building-turned-museum that offers an in-depth view of the island’s history. Take a walk around the district and see one of the area’s many historic cottages. All the while, try to imagine what life was like on Jekyll Island nearly 150 years ago.
Ready To Explore?
There are many opportunities to experience Jekyll Island’s history and natural wonders for yourself! On Road Scholar’s silent film comedy program, you’ll spend a week on Jekyll Island, learning about ground-breaking comedians, attending performances and getting an inside look into the island’s past. Road Scholars can also enjoy a barrier islands Grandparent Adventure, where you and your grandchild can set sail on a shrimp boat and learn about nesting sea turtles.
Discover your next Jekyll Island adventure and bring island history to life!
