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Jekyll Island, a hidden gem along Georgia’s coast, is perfect for families seeking sun-soaked adventures and unforgettable memories. Dive into the magic of this captivating island with my list of 9+ fun things to do on Jekyll Island with kids, and ensure your family getaway is something you’ll treasure forever.
Also, if you still need to plan your trip, my post about Best Places To Stay On Jekyll Island will help you find the best accommodations for your family trip!
Where is Jekyll Island Located?
If you are unfamiliar with Jekyll Island, it is a pristine barrier island off the southeastern coast of Georgia. Nestled among Georgia’s Golden Isles, it is part of a chain of barrier islands renowned for their natural beauty and coastal charm.
Situated approximately midway between Savannah, Georgia, and Jacksonville, Florida, Jekyll Island is easily reachable for those exploring the southeastern United States. The island’s unique blend of historic sites, picturesque beaches, and ecological wonders makes it a sought-after destination for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat along the stunning Atlantic coastline.
Accessible by car via the Jekyll Island Causeway, this 7-mile-long island is a haven for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and beach lovers alike. Interestingly, the island is actually owned and managed by the state’s Jekyll Island Authority, and the conservation efforts are much appreciated by visitors. Due to building restrictions, the island is significantly less congested than its neighbors. For that reason, it is one of the last places where you can truly relax.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Jekyll Island?
Its location along the Atlantic Ocean lends itself to a mild climate, making Jekyll Island an inviting destination throughout the year. Summertime is the best time to visit if you are looking for beach weather. Everything is open during the summertime, but that is when the area is most crowded. However, it is nowhere near as crowded as other popular beach destinations. There are plenty of things to do on Jekyll Island with kids in the summer.
In summer, the days revolve around the beach and pool. But, in the winter, the Historic District, in particular, becomes a magical holiday haven. There are actually quite a few things to do on Jekyll Island with kids during the winter, making Jekyll Island a great place to visit in the winter!
Visiting Jekyll Island with kids for the holidays has been a tradition for generations. In fact, iconic American families such as the Carnegies, Rockefellers, and Vanderbilts used to winter here! If you visit over the holidays, your family can enjoy the Holly Jolly Jekyll celebration held between November 24 and January 7 this year. There are holiday light tours, fireworks, a light parade, and more!
Things To Do On Jekyll Island With Kids
If you are looking for a place to spend true quality time with your family, Jekyll Island is one of my top family travel recommendations. As I mentioned above, it is very different from most other travel destinations in the southeast. There is a slower pace here, much like what people desire when visiting 30A in the Florida panhandle. On Jekyll Island, the to-do list is short, making it perfect for a long weekend trip.
Here are some of my favorite things to do on Jekyll Island with kids!
1. Experience The Magic of Driftwood Beach
You can not visit Jekyll Island without a visit to the fascinating Driftwood Beach. Known for its hauntingly beautiful landscapes, this unique beach is adorned with weathered trees and driftwood sculptures. This, by far, tops my list of things to do on Jekyll Island with kids!
Let your kids’ imaginations run wild as they explore this magical piece of shoreline, offering the perfect backdrop for family photos and beachcombing treasures. If you want to catch the iconic sunrises, arrive early and check the tides. I have a dedicated blog post with many pictures from our visit to Driftwood Beach and some tips for your adventure!
Read: Visiting Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island.
Also, while we didn’t get a chance to do it, horseback riding on Driftwood Beach looks magical! I 100% will be doing this on our next family trip to Jekyll Island.
2. Georgia Sea Turtle Center
Both the children and the adults are sure to enjoy a visit to the famous Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island. This educational yet heartwarming experience was such a fun outing for our family while visiting Jekyll Island, Georgia.
Your kids will be captivated by the fascinating world of sea turtles through interactive exhibits and rehabilitation efforts. Witness the incredible work of dedicated professionals committed to the conservation and protection of these majestic creatures, making it an inspiring stop for the whole family.
For more information, including pictures and tips, please read my blog post about Visiting The Sea Turtles on Jekyll Island. This is truly one of the most iconic things to do on Jekyll Island with kids!
3. Jekyll Island Boat Tours & Jekyll Island Dolphin Tours
Did you know that the waters around Jekyll Island are home to one of the world’s largest populations of beautiful bottlenose dolphins?
Book one of the Captain Phillip dolphin tours and watch majestic dolphins feeding, playing, or simply cruising about in their natural habitat. The 90-minute sightseeing tours along the Intracoastal waterway are fully narrated by expert local guides.
These tours offer a thrilling opportunity for kids to spot playful dolphins in their natural habitat. As they witness these marine wonders up close, the excitement and awe on your children’s faces will be a highlight of your island getaway. This is one of the most popular things to do on Jekyll Island with kids for a reason.
Whether you opt for a sunset cruise or a nature-focused expedition, your family will be treated to breathtaking views and the chance to encounter local wildlife. It’s a fantastic way to bond with your kids while immersing yourselves in the island’s natural beauty.
Tours depart from the Historic Jekyll Wharf at the Jekyll Island Club and run daily from March through October. November through February tours are limited, so check the calendar for availability. I recommend booking tickets in advance through Jekyll Island Boat Tours.
4. Explore The Jekyll Island Historic District & The Jekyll Island Club
I loved this area on Jekyll Island, and as I mentioned in my Jekyll Island Hotels blog post, I want to stay at the Jekyll Island Club on my next visit. The rich history of the Jekyll Island Club Hotel is simply iconic!
Transport your family to another era by exploring the Jekyll Island Historic District (240 acres) and the Jekyll Island Club on your trip to the island. Wander through historic cottages, museums, and vibrant gardens that tell the story of Jekyll Island’s rich past. You can engage your kids with tales of the island’s glamorous history, making history come alive for the whole family.
The 60-minute Jekyll Island guided trolley tour is an excellent option if you have little ones and want to minimize walking. The tram tour starts at the Mosaic Jekyll Island Museum. It includes entry into a historic cottage and admission into the Mosaic Gallery and Faith Chapel.
Additionally, a Jekyll Island horse and carriage tour departs from the Jekyll Island Club area as well! This is a pretty magical experience and one of the most unique things to do on Jekyll Island with kids.
And make sure to eat lunch or dinner at one of the restaurants at the Jekyll Island Club. I loved eating out at The Wharf along the water so much that we did it twice. Abby and Jake want me to tell you that there is a candy store, too!
5. Beaches: Sun, Sand, and Surf
One of the best ways to truly enjoy quality time with your family is just to relax and be together. A day at the beach is a perfect way to accomplish this. Plus, it’s one of the best free things to do on Jekyll Island with kids!
Jekyll Island boasts 10 miles of unspoiled coastline. Its pristine beaches invite families to unwind and play beneath the Georgia sun. Build sandcastles, look for seashells, or splash in the gentle waves. The island’s family-friendly beaches provide a perfect setting for relaxation and endless seaside fun. Enjoying a day at the beach is one of our favorite outdoor activities!
For a complete list of Jekyll Island beaches, click here.
Also, located near St. Andrews Beach, you will find the Wanderer Memorial. I recommend you take the time to walk the Wanderer Memory Trail on the way to the beach. While a somber look at Georgia’s history, it was educational and eye-opening for our entire family. It tells the story of one of America’s last known slave ships, the Wanderer, that came ashore illegally in 1858 with more than 400 enslaved Africans.
6. Make A Splash At Summer Waves Water Park
Cool off from the Georgia heat at the Summer Waves Water Park. Packed with thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones, this water park guarantees a day of family-friendly excitement. Watch your kids enjoy the aquatic adventures and create cherished memories under the sun.
This park is seasonal and is only open during the summer months. So, plan accordingly.
7. Jekyll Island Miniature Golf
Located at the island’s center, across from Great Dunes Park, Jekyll Island Mini Golf is home to two 18-hole putt-putt golf courses, one for beginners and one for more advanced. While it lacks some of the bells and whistles of new and modern courses in the big, popular beach towns, the nostalgia here is 10/10.
8. Biking Around Jekyll Island On The Jekyll Island Trail System
If your kids are old enough to bike, exploring Jekyll Island on two wheels unveils a world of natural beauty and historical richness unrivaled.
Jekyll Island Trail System, the island’s network of biking trails, offers an immersive and eco-friendly way to experience its diverse landscapes. As you pedal along the paved paths, surrounded by maritime forests, salt marshes, and scenic ocean vistas, you’ll discover the true essence of Jekyll Island’s coastal charm. In fact, Trip Advisor rates the trail system as the #1 thing to do on Jekyll Island with a 5-star average review!
The well-maintained trails are suitable for riders of all ages and skill levels, providing a family-friendly adventure that allows you to set your own pace and savor the island’s unique atmosphere. Moreover, cyclists can easily navigate between the island’s most iconic attractions, including Driftwood Beach, the Historic District, and the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, all while enjoying the gentle ocean breezes.
9. Shop, Dine, and Relax on Jekyll Island
As you can see, there isn’t an overabundance of expensive touristy attractions on Jekyll Island. The pace is slower, and the island offers an opportunity to savor precious time with your loved ones.
The only other thing I want to point out is the great dining options (many with live music) and some opportunities to shop. On our recent trip, we ate at Torguga Jacks, The Whart at the Jekyll Island Club, Zachry’s near the Jekyll Harbor Marina, Wee Pub Beach, Harry’s Lounge at The Westin, and others. Everything was unique, and the small-town hospitality was appreciated!
The Jekyll Island Beach Village area is a great place to spend a few hours. I recommend going here toward the start of your trip if you aren’t staying at one of the hotels within walking distance, such as the Westin Jekyll Island. There is a great little grocer, the Jekyll Market, and several shops offering wine/beer. It’s a great chance to pick up essentials for your trip. Furthermore, the Village Green space at the center of this shopping district is a fun place for kids to run around, and there is beach access right there as well!
Other Things To Do On Jekyll Island
Since this post is curated for families, I left out a few activities geared more toward adults. Some are activities that we have yet to try ourselves, so I don’t feel 100% comfortable including them in my Jekyll Island must-dos, such as Gatorology at Horton’s Pond. So, if you have done any of these, leave me a comment and let me know if you enjoyed them!
Here are some more things to do on Jekyll Island;
- Jekyll Island Golf Club
- Mosaic Jekyll Island History Museum
- Horton’s Pond
- Faith’s Chapel
- Deep Sea Fishing
- 4H Tidelands Nature Center
- Horton’s House
Plan Your Visit to Jekyll Island With Kids
Jekyll Island is a place that everyone should visit at least once!
First, determine where you want to stay. There are plenty of Jekyll Island Airbnb and VRBO options, a dozen or so Jekyll Island Hotels, and the Jekyll Island campground. I highly recommend the Jekyll Island Club Resort. For a complete look at the different types of accommodations on Jekyll Island, read this post.
After booking your accommodations and airfare, if you plan to fly, you simply need to book bike rentals or a dolphin tour. And only if you want to! Actually, you can come and enjoy the island without a bunch of pre-planning and strict itineraries.
Lastly, upon arriving on Jekyll Island, consider making the Jekyll Island Visitor Center your first stop. This is something I do wherever we travel. These welcome centers are for people just like us. We often leave with maps, brochures, and even coupons!
Happy travels! And you can click here to read all of our family travel adventures!
Pin This Best Jekyll Island Things To Do With Kids Blog Post
Jekyll Island offers a diverse range of family activities, ensuring a perfect blend of adventure, education, and relaxation. From the enchanting Driftwood Beach to the educational wonders of the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, your family getaway to Jekyll Island will be one to remember!
Not quite ready to book your trip? Pin this post to your travel board on Pinterest so that you can reread it later.
