Jekyll Island Bike Trail Map
Introduction
Jekyll Island, located off the coast of Georgia, is a wonderful destination for travelers looking for a peaceful getaway. With its beautiful beaches, rich history, and scenic bike trails, it’s no wonder that Jekyll Island is a popular vacation spot. In this travel guide, we’ll explore everything Jekyll Island has to offer, from top attractions to hidden gems.
Top Attractions
Driftwood Beach
Driftwood Beach is a must-see attraction on Jekyll Island. This unique beach is covered in twisted trees and driftwood, creating a beautiful and eerie landscape. It’s the perfect spot for a sunset picnic or a morning walk.
Georgia Sea Turtle Center
The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is a great place to learn about marine conservation and see sea turtles up close. The center offers guided tours, interactive exhibits, and educational programs for all ages.
Horton House
The Horton House is a historic site that dates back to the 1700s. It’s one of the oldest buildings in Georgia and offers a glimpse into the island’s past. Visitors can take a tour of the house and learn about the history of Jekyll Island.
Hidden Gems
The Wharf
The Wharf is a hidden gem on Jekyll Island that offers stunning views of the marshes and waterways. It’s a great spot for fishing, crabbing, and birdwatching. Visitors can also rent kayaks and explore the waterways.
The Wanderer Memorial
The Wanderer Memorial is a powerful tribute to the enslaved Africans who were brought to Jekyll Island in 1858. The memorial is located in the cemetery of the Faith Chapel and serves as a reminder of the island’s complex history.
Food Scene
The Wharf Restaurant
The Wharf Restaurant offers fresh seafood and stunning views of the water. It’s a great spot for a romantic dinner or a family meal.
Zachry’s Riverhouse
Zachry’s Riverhouse is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It offers a variety of seafood dishes, as well as burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The outdoor seating area is perfect for a sunny day.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Bike Rentals
Jekyll Island has over 20 miles of bike trails, making it the perfect destination for cyclists. Visitors can rent bikes at a reasonable price and explore the island’s natural beauty.
Explore the Beaches
Jekyll Island’s beaches are free and open to the public. Visitors can spend a day relaxing on the sand or exploring the tide pools.
Outdoor Adventures
Fishing
Jekyll Island offers some of the best fishing in Georgia. Visitors can fish from the pier or charter a boat for a deep-sea fishing adventure.
Kayaking
Kayaking is a great way to explore the waterways around Jekyll Island. Visitors can rent kayaks or take a guided tour to see the island’s wildlife up close.
Historical Landmarks
The Clubhouse
The Clubhouse is a historic landmark that dates back to the late 1800s. It was once the center of social life on Jekyll Island and hosted many famous guests, including J.P. Morgan and William Rockefeller.
The Jekyll Island Museum
The Jekyll Island Museum is located in the historic district and offers a glimpse into the island’s past. Visitors can see artifacts from the island’s history and learn about the people who shaped its development.
Family-Friendly Activities
Tidelands Nature Center
The Tidelands Nature Center offers a variety of educational programs for families, including guided walks, animal encounters, and hands-on exhibits. It’s a great place to learn about the island’s wildlife and ecosystem.
Miniature Golf
Jekyll Island has a miniature golf course that’s perfect for families. It’s located near the beach and offers a fun and challenging course for all ages.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Georgia Grown Trail
The Georgia Grown Trail is a scenic route that takes visitors through the state’s agricultural areas. Jekyll Island is one of the stops along the trail, offering visitors a chance to see the island’s farms and local produce.
The Jekyll Island Club Ruins
The Jekyll Island Club Ruins are a hidden gem that many visitors overlook. The ruins are located in the historic district and offer a glimpse into the island’s past.
Natural Wonders
The Great Dunes Park
The Great Dunes Park is a beautiful natural area on Jekyll Island. It offers stunning views of the ocean and the island’s sand dunes. Visitors can hike the trails, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the scenery.
The Driftwood Beach Maritime Forest
The Driftwood Beach Maritime Forest is a unique ecosystem that’s home to a variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the forest on their own.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Rooftop at Ocean Lodge
The Rooftop at Ocean Lodge is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It offers stunning views of the ocean and a great selection of cocktails and small plates.
The Whiskey Wine Bar
The Whiskey Wine Bar offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic date. It has a great selection of wine, whiskey, and craft beers.
Local Markets
The Jekyll Island Farmers Market
The Jekyll Island Farmers Market is held every Sunday and offers a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. It’s a great place to support local farmers and small businesses.
The Island Shoppe
The Island Shoppe is a great place to find souvenirs and gifts. It offers a variety of handmade items, including jewelry, pottery, and artwork.
Beaches and Mountains
Driftwood Beach
Driftwood Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on Jekyll Island. It’s covered in twisted trees and driftwood, creating a unique and stunning landscape.
The Jekyll Island Trail System
The Jekyll Island Trail System offers over 20 miles of bike trails, taking visitors through the island’s forests, marshes, and beaches. It’s a great way to explore the island’s natural beauty.
Cultural Immersion
The Faith Chapel
The Faith Chapel is a beautiful and historic church on Jekyll Island. It’s open to the public and offers a peaceful and reflective space for visitors.
The Jekyll Island Arts Association
The Jekyll Island Arts Association offers a variety of classes and workshops for artists of all levels. Visitors can see the work of local artists and even take home a piece of Jekyll Island art.
Art and Music Scene
The Island Art Association Gallery
The Island Art Association Gallery is a great place to see the work of local artists. It offers a variety of artwork, including paintings, photography, and sculpture.
The Jekyll Island Music Festival
The Jekyll Island Music Festival is held every year and features a variety of local and regional musicians. It’s a great way to experience the island’s vibrant music scene.
Walking Tours
The Jekyll Island Historic District
The Jekyll Island Historic District offers a variety of walking tours that explore the island’s rich history. Visitors can see the historic homes and buildings that played a significant role in the island’s development.
The Jekyll Island Club Resort Tour
The Jekyll Island Club Resort Tour takes visitors through the historic hotel, offering a glimpse into the island’s past. Visitors can see the luxurious rooms and learn about the famous guests who stayed there.
Architectural Marvels
The Jekyll Island Club Resort
The Jekyll Island Club Resort is a stunning example of Victorian architecture. It was once the playground of the rich and famous and is now a popular destination for visitors to the island.
The Horton House
The Horton House is a historic site that dates back to the 1700s. It’s one of the oldest buildings in Georgia and offers a glimpse into the island’s past.
Historical Sites
The Wanderer Landing Site
The Wanderer Landing Site is a powerful reminder of the island’s history. It’s the site where enslaved Africans were brought to Jekyll Island in 1858, and it serves as a