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When you drive along I-95 in Georgia, there is only one area from the road where you can glimpse St. Simons and Jekyll, two barrier islands central to some of the best vacation getaways on the East Coast of the United States. That area lies between exits 36 and 29 off the Interstate.
In Part V of this series, we talk about St. Simons Island. In this part, we focus on Jekyll Island simply because it offers so much to the RV traveler within a small island footprint on the Atlantic coast.
Jekyll Island is a destination that, in many respects, is custom-made for RV travelers. It’s easy to see and get to from I-95. It’s easy to drive around the island’s “ring road” and see the oceanfront, bayside, and beaches from your RV. While at it, you’ll discover it’s easy to stop and park your RV almost anywhere on the island except for reserved areas around the historic buildings. You’ll see the bike trails, golf courses, mini-golf, restaurants, hotels, shopping sources, and more right before you as you drive around. These features make Jekyll the most open and accessible barrier island on the Georgia Coast.
We live on the Georgia Coast. There’s much to say about where to go and what to do here. In this sixth part of our series about Coastal Georgia, our focus on Jekyll highlights the islands’ relaxed vibe, easy navigation, and convenient amenities.
See and Do
Whether you’re a beachgoer, boater, golfer, nature enthusiast, or enjoy a variety of eateries and historic sites, you’ll find Jekyll offers it all. It’s an excellent spot for a quick getaway or an extended stay all year long.
Yelp, Trip Advisor, and the Jekyll Island Information Center online can be your best friends for discovering much of what there is to see and do on the island. We can’t address all there is to see and do here, but here are a few examples based on our experience on the island.
If you’re in a hurry and don’t want to read this entire travelogue about Jekyll, check out our sample itineraries for either a short or long stay at the end of this story.
Historic Buildings
Perched within a sprawling 240-acre nature preserve, the Jekyll Island Club Resort presents a rich history as a retreat for America’s elite. Founded in 1886 by influential industrialists like J.P. Morgan, William Rockefeller, and Joseph Pulitzer, the club served as a private escape for members to escape from harsh New York winters, offering members and their families a serene and exclusive getaway.
During its heyday, the resort embodied luxury and grandeur. Its centerpiece was the grand clubhouse, surrounded by exquisite structures like San Souci and Crane Cottages. Over time, 15 “cottages” that would stand as mansions for many of us today were built on the property to accommodate the club’s affluent members. Today, the resort features more than 200 guest rooms spread across meticulously preserved historic buildings, each brimming with timeless character and atmosphere.
Visitors can step back in time by exploring several iconic landmarks from this era. The Jekyll Island Club Hotel, Faith Chapel with its intricate Tiffany windows, and the colonial-era Horton House Ruins provide fascinating glimpses into life on the island during the Gilded Age and the colonial era. These sites offer an intimate connection to the lives of America’s most prominent families during their golden years of leisure.
You could easily spend your entire stay in Jekyll exploring only historic sites.
The Beaches
With 10 miles of serene shoreline, Jekyll Island offers some of the most inviting beaches on the United States East Coast. The island’s beauty and vibrant ecosystem are constantly reshaped by tides and weather, creating a dynamic and visually stunning environment.
The beaches feature marshes, sandbars, and tidal creeks and are home to an array of wildlife, such as dolphins, sea turtles, and numerous bird species. Anglers will be delighted by the fantastic fishing opportunities, with flounder, redfish, and trout standing as some of the common catches here. Among the island’s scenic beaches, three iconic spots shine as must-visit destinations for visitors.
Great Dunes Beach Park
Great Dunes Beach Park is a slice of East Coast paradise that presents inviting beaches and a gentle breeze that begs you to relax. It’s the first beach you’ll see as you enter the island from the causeway and head north on the island loop road just past the convention center. Great Dunes is not only perfect for chilling out but also serves as a hub for seaside adventures like kite sailing.
Great Dunes offers separate swimming and fishing areas, an outdoor pavilion, and smaller covered areas, making it ideal for group get-togethers. Clean restrooms, showers, and changing areas are located on the walkways to the beach. You can rent beach gear, including umbrellas and chairs, making settling in and basking in the coastal ambiance stress-free. Supplies for your excursions on beaches can be found in the stores within walking distance of the beach.
You can park your RV in the parking lot right in front of the bathhouses at Great Dunes. The beach is a short walk away (about 100 yards) from the parking lot.
Driftwood Beach
Driftwood Beach is a place of true wonder, renowned for its hauntingly beautiful coastal seascape where weathered trees lie scattered along the shoreline like works of art. Driftwood on the beach is the remains of a once-thriving maritime forest, now shaped by time and tides to create an ethereal dramatic scene. Each piece of driftwood tells a story, weathered by wind and water to form natural sculptures unique to the area.
This unique destination on the island’s northern side offers an experience beyond a typical beach visit. It’s a haven for photographers, artists, videographers, and nature lovers, serving as a locale for creativity. Even casual visitors will find themselves captivated by its surreal beauty.
Whether you want to capture stunning images, immerse yourself in art-inspiring surroundings, or stroll along its unforgettable shoreline, Driftwood Beach is a must-see part of Jekyll Island.
St. Andrews Beach Park
St. Andrews Beach Park offers tranquility and historical depth on the island’s southwestern bayside. The park was once home to private fishing camps and hunting lodges, but today, it welcomes everyone to enjoy its serene beaches with old oak and moss-draped charm.
Visitors here can enjoy the panoramic bayside views of the Sidney Lanier Bridge, Brunswick, and St. Simons, beachside activities, or solitude. The park is also a key site for education and preservation, with programs and tours that provide insight into the unique ecosystem of the barrier island.
One of the park’s distinctive features is the Wanderer Memory Trail, a poignant historical landmark commemorating the tragic arrival of a ship named Wanderer in 1858. As one of the last ships to smuggle enslaved Africans into the United States, the trail cites this significant—and somber—chapter of history. The trail includes informational markers and sculptures that guide visitors through the story of the Wanderer and those brought to the island on its final voyage.
Visit The Georgia Sea Turtle Center
The Georgia Sea Turtle Center offers a glimpse into the lives and conservation efforts surrounding rare sea turtles. The construction of a causeway to the island in the 1920s led to increased tourism that posed challenges for the sea turtles nesting on the island’s shores. Pollution and human activity put these majestic creatures at risk, prompting local volunteers to launch a conservation program that would eventually grow into the celebrated Sea Turtle Center we know today.
Now recognized globally, the Georgia Sea Turtle Center stands at the forefront of research, education, and rehabilitation to protect and conserve sea turtles and their habitats. The center is home to various species, including loggerheads, green sea turtles, and the endangered Kemp’s Ridleys, making it a critical refuge for these marine animals.
Visit at Christmas to See the Holiday Light Show
When the Christmas holiday season rolls in, Jekyll Island transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland with its spectacular Christmas Holiday Light Show. This cherished event, Holly Jolly Jekyll, offers visitors an unforgettable experience full of festive cheer, twinkling lights, and a holiday atmosphere. The entire island is illuminated with over one million lights during the holidays, creating a glowing spectacle that feels enchanting and cozy. The sprawling oak trees, draped in shimmering strands of light, set the stage for a breathtaking holiday celebration. Christmas melodies drift through the air, and the scent of hot cocoa adds a warm touch to the cool coastal breeze.
One of the main highlights of Holly Jolly Jekyll is the 12 Days of Christmas drive-through light show, where cars slowly travel along a carefully curated route, weaving past themed light displays that celebrate the season’s magic. Families enjoy spotting whimsical characters, seasonal scenes, and sparkling decor that light up the night. You can drive your LTV on this tour.
For those who prefer a closer look, the Holiday Lights Trolley Ride provides a guided tour through the magical glow. You’ll learn about the island and its holiday traditions while enjoying a scenic ride through the illuminated landscape.
The Jolly Jekyll Express is a charming train on wheels that allows you to relax and soak in the sights with loved ones. The train winds its way around the island’s most iconic displays, offering a closer view of the holiday magic.
Summer Waves Waterpark
After exploring the wonders of the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, why not cool off with splashes and thrills at Summer Waves Waterpark? This attraction is perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to enjoy a fun-filled day. It’s a great spot to take grandkids.
The park features a variety of water attractions for visitors of all thrill levels. Daredevils can head for the high-speed action of Pirate’s Passage, a two-story water slide that twists and turns its way down to an exhilarating finish. Other heart-pounding slides include Force 3 and Man o’ War, where adventure-seekers can race down on waves of adrenaline.
For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, there’s the Turtle Creek lazy river, where you can float gently along the calming currents under the warm Georgia sun. Families with younger children will love Shark Tooth Cove and the fun-filled splash zone, which features fountains, waterfalls, and plenty of interactive water play. The Frantic Atlantic Wave Pool offers medium-level thrills, complete with rolling waves that mimic the ocean’s rhythm, while Nature’s Revenge provides another option for a balanced blend of activity and relaxation.
RV-Friendly Stays on Jekyll Island
The Jekyll Island Campground
The Jekyll Island Campground is the only campground on the island for RV travelers. It is located at the island’s north end and offers shaded lots beneath a canopy of live oaks draped in Spanish moss. The campground stands as a tranquil getaway-from-it-all spot close to the public pier, biking trails, and the famous Driftwood Beach.
The Jekyll Island Campground has 206 full hookup sites and tent campsites, a store, and a central restroom/shower building, all on an 18-acre plot. Campground expansion is underway, but this small campground can make booking reservations difficult—book in advance. Back-in sites cost $51/day, and pull-through sites cost $54/day. There is a 14-day stay maximum.
Before you arrive, don’t forget to pack for a coastal adventure. Bring along bikes to explore the island’s trails, plenty of beach gear, and insect repellent for evening strolls. Navigating Jekyll Island in your RV is a breeze thanks to well-maintained roads and signage directing you to major sites.
At the campground and elsewhere on the island, you’ll find information on bike and golf cart rentals, shopping outlets and restaurants, tours, golfing, and more. You can fish off the public pier at the island’s north end, about a quarter mile from the campground. From this vantage point, you can see St. Simons Island.
The Coastal Georgia RV Resort
If you can’t find a spot for your RV on Jekyll and want a full-service campground, consider the Coastal Georgia RV Resort at Exit 29 and I-95, about a 15–20-minute drive from Jekyll. This site offers level concrete landings for your RV. While designed to accommodate 5th Wheel and Class A RV’s, it can offer an alternative to the busy, small, and crowded Jekyll Island Campground. Other RV campgrounds include State and Federal Parks on St. Simons Island.
Itineraries for RV Owners
If you’re not sure how to plan your time on Jekyll Island, here are two sample itinerary suggestions to help you make the most of your visit:
A Weekend Getaway:
- Day 1: Settle into the campground, bike the trail system, and enjoy dinner at an island restaurant (check Yelp for ratings).
- Day 2: Explore historic sites in the morning, relax at Driftwood Beach in the afternoon, and finish with a sunset at St. Andrews Beach Park.
A Week-Long Adventure:
- Day 1-2: Visit beaches like Great Dunes and Driftwood, then tour historical sites like Jekyll Island Club Resort and Faith Chapel.
- Day 3-4: Spend time at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and Summer Waves Waterpark. Include a kayaking tour to experience the marshlands.
- Day 5-6: Enjoy leisurely bike rides, shop for local goods, and tee off at one of the golf courses.
- Day 7: Wrap up your visit with a peaceful walk through St. Andrews Beach Park before heading out.
Where to Eat
As travel writers, we eat in major cities and little towns worldwide and have developed restaurant price-performance criteria that work for us. The price-performance ratio is the point of measure. Is the price charged worthy of the quality of food on offer?
You’ll find excellent spots to eat along the Georgia Coast for a reasonable price. This notion is especially applicable to areas that are not tourist-centric.
Many eateries on the Georgia Coast, including those that operate under famous names, deliver New York prices but not New York quality offerings. High ratings of some local eateries may stem from locals with a bias toward an establishment. Before trying an eatery, we suggest you look at the reviews by out-of-town travelers and sample the negative reviews before you decide. Yelp and Trip Advisor are your best friends in this regard.
We recommend you try the area restaurants we cite in Part V of this series. Also, check out the restaurants in the new hotels and the Beachwood Village area near the entrance of the island. We haven’t tried them, and they may offer value for your money.
When to Visit
Fairweather awaits you in the Jekyll area all year long. You can walk along the beaches throughout the winter months with only a windbreaker, long pants or a rain jacket, and, for some, a scarf. There’s no snow or ice during winter except on rare occasions.
Note: A polar vortex blast hit coastal Georgia in January 2025, leaving four to six inches of snow and sleet across the area for several days at freezing temperatures. This event was an anomaly. It’s otherwise quite common to experience 70-degree weather on the island at different points throughout the winter months yearly.
Generally, you can use your RV on the Georgia coast year-round without winterizing. The temperatures may drop into the 20s about two weeks a year in January, but these drops below freezing are atypical and do not occur for more than a day or a few days. However, you may need to winterize your LTV for your trip to the area during the winter months, depending on the areas of the country through which you travel.
How to Get There
You can reach Jekyll at exit 29 off Interstate I-95. Drive east on US Route 17 for about 10 miles to reach the causeway to the island.
Causeway Access
Jekyll’s beauty unfolds before as you drive onto the Jekyll Island Causeway. This iconic stretch showcases the island’s natural beauty and offers a panorama of marshes, waterways, and wildlife set against the horizon as you drive towards the Atlantic Ocean. You’ll pay an entrance fee at the causeway. You can pay this fee online before your arrival. Automated toll booths use license plate readers to allow passage. You can also pay for daily passes at the booths using a credit card.
If you plan an extended stay and intend to explore the area from Jekyll, you may find it to your advantage to buy an annual pass. You can do so at the Jekyll Island Visitors Center on your left as you drive toward the island just before the toll booths. The pass will pay for itself if you come and go from the island over the span of about a dozen trips on and off the island.
Note: Register your LTV as a “Sprinter” or “Transit” van. This may result in a lower fee than if you register your LTV as “RV,” which generally applies to large RVs and Class A motorhomes.
Check out the visitors center online before your arrival. You’ll discover information about the latest events and updates.
The causeway can get busy when tourists flock to the island in summer. Early mornings or late afternoons offer optimal travel times, offering less traffic and welcoming vistas on the horizon.
The Holly Jolly Jekyll Christmas holiday season starts November 29. You may encounter 2-mile-long lines of traffic as visitors access the island to view the holiday light show, depending on the day and time of your visit. Check out the news and plan accordingly.
The Jekyll Island Visitors Center
Although you might be tempted to hit the beach as soon as you arrive, make sure to stop by the Jekyll Island Visitors Center first. It’s your gateway to the state park and all the outdoor activities this barrier island offers. You can also visit the center online before arrival and download maps of the island here.
The visitors center shop offers a range of memorabilia, books, beachware, and decorative items that are sure to brighten your home or that of a friend. You can also buy your vehicle pass for your LTV at the counter.
Are You House Hunting?
You might even like Jekyll enough to think about buying a home here. This makes a lot of sense for some people.
Jekyll is a 60-minute drive north of Jacksonville, Florida, and a 60-minute drive south of Savannah. It’s only a 15–20-minute drive from the island to I-95, your north-south corridor for travel along the east coast of the United States. The weather is fair all year except for the occasional winter anomaly or seasonal hurricanes.
So, what else is there to know? Well, Jekyll is a Georgia State Park. You can buy a house here, but you must rent the land on a 99-year lease, much akin to property buying in Hawaii.
Unless you love living on top of your neighbors, a typical condition on the island’s oceanfront side, bayside living offers an attractive alternative if you can find a home. In 2024, we saw home renovations on the bayside that included an RV barn attachment to a home. Many of the older 1950s-1960s-era homes may require renovation. These are a few facts to take into consideration as a prospective buyer.
Yet, Jekyll offers much to consider. You’ll avoid the winter weather of the north and the hurricane weather in Florida. Golf courses on the island and around the coast abound for golfers. Boaters, fishers, and other outdoor saltlife water enthusiasts will be at home with the many activities available all year. And for the tax-conscious, if you’re over age 65, Georgia will not tax the first $65,000 of your pension income per pensioner as a matter of policy.
If you’re a house hunter, you’ll see Realtors and For Sale signs across the island all year. You can find out more about buying a home on the island here.
Up Next
In Part VII, the last part in our Georgia Coast series, we’ll travel south along the coast to focus on the village of St. Mary’s, the surrounding area and Cumberland Island, the largest barrier island on the Georgia Coast.
If you missed parts one, two, three, four, or five of this series, please check them out as we continue our journey down the Georgia Coast.
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