Discover Jekyll Island: A vacation destination with treasure Hunt

UPDATED: January 2024. I have been mainly focused on Florida, but whenever I have a chance to visit any beach, this girl is there. I just returned from Jekyll Island in Georgia for this year’s globe hunt.

You should visit this beautiful island too for many reasons-treasure hunt is a fun bonus. Before we get into the treasure hunt, though, let’s talk about the island itself.

This beautiful barrier island is off the Atlantic Coast of Georgia and exudes the essence of Southern charm. Calm. Peaceful. Inviting. Friendly. Just a few words I use to describe Jekyll Island.

When you visit, expect stunning beaches, wildlife, rich culture and history are waiting for you to explore. From horseback riding on the beach to exploring the island’s Museum.

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From swimming and snorkeling to hiking on the island, there is plenty to keep you busy. Then add in the Historic District, Horton House, Sea Turtle Hospital, the self-guided Holly Jolly Jekyll Christmas Light Tour (out of this world) and the globe hunt, and it’s a blast.

You may not consider a beach vacation during the months of December through February, but if you do, this Jekyll Island would be a great pick for sure.

How to get to Jekyll Island

It is easy to get to this barrier island. It is in South Georgia and can be reached via car, plane, or boat.

There are also several airports, including Jacksonville International and Savannah International. Rental cars are available at both airports.

You can also get to the island by ferry from Brunswick, St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Wharf.

My way? I drive over from Jacksonville for a fun day exploring the area.

Exploring

Beaches

Now you know your girl is going to start with the beaches. One area we were in reminded me of Boneyard Beach in Jacksonville.

Jekyll Island has some of the prettiest yet unique beaches in this area. In one area you will find secluded and quiet stretches of sand and in others, more people and activity.

On the westernmost tip resides the island’s State Park, with four unique beaches for you to explore. They are Great Dunes Beach, St. Andrews Beach, Glory Beach, and Driftwood Beach.

We literally were in St. Andrews Beach Park at the time someone found a globe. I was like dang! How did we miss it?

All of these beaches offer fun activities and water sports like swimming, kayaking, and fishing.

Prefer a quieter beach? Jekyll Point and Clam Creek are great options.

Wildlife viewing

On this beautiful island, you will be able to see an abundance of wildlife, including sea turtles, dolphins, and various species of birds. Jekyll Island is an important nesting ground for over 10 species of seabirds.

In addition to the seabirds, there are more than 30 designated birding sites spread throughout Jekyll Island for you to see up close.

Jekyll is an important nesting ground for over 10 species of seabirds. If you prefer to get close, Jekyll Island offers guided nature tours as well as kayak or boat tours.

Things To Do On The Island

There are many activities to choose from on the island. You can:

1. Hike and bike through the forests and wetlands.
2. Ride horses on the beach.
3. Explore the Jekyll Island Museum.
4. Visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, which works hard to protect Jekyll Island’s endangered sea turtles.
5. Visit Horton House, Horton Pond (look for alligators), the cemetery across the road from Horton House.
6. Explore the historic homes and other buildings in the historic district.
7. Fishing is available in many locations around the island including the pier.

Treasure Hunt

Now, let’s talk about the Treasure Hunt. I myself will be heading over in the new few weeks for my second hunt.

In January and February, Beach Buddies hide globes throughout the island each day. These plastic globes are found in common areas.

If you find one of these plastic globes, you turn it in to the Jekyll Island Guest Information Center. They in turn will give you a glass globe or treasure that matches the tag on your plastic globe.

These globes are one of a kind, hand blown glass globes created by artists from around the United States.

Look for your treasure in public areas such as the beach village, beach parks and other common areas. They will NOT be located on the dunes, private property, the golf course or marsh. Please do not hunt in these areas.

The cost? Nothing except the parking fee to get on the island.

Where To Stay

There are several hotels to choose from located right on the island including the Westin Jekyll Island, Days Inn & Suites, Hampton Inn or Holiday Inn. Check out options here: Jekyll Island Hotels

If you, like me, prefer to stay in a condo or home, VRBO is the way to go. Check the options here: Jekyll Island Vacation Rentals

Restaurants

There are several restaurants on the island for you to enjoy. On my last visit, we ate lunch on the patio with live music at Tortuga Jacks, and it was fantastic.

We returned to Tortuga Jacks this trip and the bartender was our server, and he was fantastic. Later in the day, we headed over to the Beach House for dinner. Again, everyone from the greeting hostess to our server and food was amazing.

Note the first time we were at Tortuga Jack, we were outside and the flies were biting, so if that is an issue for you, choose inside. This time around, it was too chilly to sit outside.

Other options and reviews can be found here: Jekyll Island Restaurants

Is Jekyll Island worth a visit?

Absolutely! Jekyll Island has something for everyone from families to couples to girls trips and more.

The links below will help you plan your Jekyll Island Getaway: