Jekyll Island vacation rentals

Experience Jekyll Island at vacation home rentals

Over the centuries, the scenic shores of Jekyll Island have passed through many hands—from the indigenous people who once hunted in its marshes, to Spanish, French, and finally British settlers. All of these cultures have left their indelible imprint on the area, as visitors to the Jekyll Island National Historic District soon discover. A rich heritage, combined with golden beaches, endless activities, and fascinating wildlife have made this island a must-visit destination, while the availability of Jekyll Island vacation rentals to suit all tastes makes it easier than ever to start your adventure on the right foot.

Historic sites near Jekyll Island vacation homes

Jekyll Island has an array of fascinating heritage sites to delight the history buff. Vacation rentals are available near places like the Jekyll Island Museum, a local historic museum with former stables and tours of the island, and Horton House, a historic site with the remains of a tabby house and ruins of an old brewery. You could also visit the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum, a historic coastal lighthouse with educational exhibits in a former keeper’s dwelling.

Tourist attractions near Jekyll Island vacation rentals

Open May through September, with hours of operation varying from month to month, Summer Waves Water Park is the perfect recipe for a fun-filled family day out. The park has an assortment of rides to please all ages, from lazy floats along a gentle river to high-octane slides designed to get the pulse pounding, and it also presents incredible views of the Jekyll River. The park also has a store where equipment and unique souvenirs can be purchased, as well as a snack bar that offers healthy treats—so you can while away the day with everything at your fingertips.

Things to do near Jekyll Island vacation homes

Thanks to its favorable climate and convenient location along the Atlantic Migratory Flyway, Jekyll Island boasts an enviable diversity of birdlife. Bird-enthusiasts can spot rare specimens, such as piping plovers and painted buntings, along the coast and in the wetlands, while ranger-led tours offer a fantastic introduction to bird-watching. These expeditions also provide an informative insight into local ecology and let you discover some of the region’s most celebrated natives, including bald eagles. A full schedule of tours is found online; exact routes may depend on the season.

Local weather for your trip to Jekyll Island vacation homes

Beach-lovers and water babies come to Jekyll Island in their droves during the summer, so Jekyll Island vacation rentals can be hard to come by in these months; book early to enjoy sizzling days on the sands, as average temperatures inch into the low 80s. Winters are short and temperate, with the days providing ideal conditions for outdoor exploration. Fall is the best time to visit Jekyll Island—temperatures are warm, days sunny, and cheap Jekyll Island vacation rentals easier to find. Trips to the beach are still on the cards, and you'll also benefit from off-season rates.

Preserving Jekyll Island’s wildlife

Jekyll Island is home to the state’s only turtle rehabilitation center, the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, where an array of interactive exhibits educate visitors about these captivating creatures. The center is open daily, holidays excluded, and is a fabulous way to learn about the importance of coastal conservation. To learn more, why not head over to the 4-H Tidelands Nature Center, where you can see snakes, alligators, horseshoe crabs, and more? Here, children and their parents will discover the intricate balance of the region’s ecology through tours, nature walks, and talks.

Beach areas near Jekyll Island vacation homes

The beaches of Jekyll Island are one of its biggest draws. Vacation homes put you within reach of beach locales like Driftwood Beach, a picturesque beach on the island with numerous driftwood trees, and St. Andrews Picnic Area & Beach, a serene beach with nature trails and picnic areas with stunning water views. You could also visit Goulds Inlet, an inlet with a modest beach for fishing and bird-watching.

Transportation to and around Jekyll Island

The nearest airport is in Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), located 42.3 mi (68.1 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you could also fly into Brunswick, GA (BQK-Golden Isles), which is 13.7 mi (22 km) away.