Looking for an affordable vacation close to nature but with all the comforts of home? Consider idyllic Jekyll Island located off the coast of Georgia. This island is technically a state park but has many residences and vacation rentals scattered throughout. From sandy beaches to dolphin tours, there is plenty to experience. An island of rich history, Jekyll Island is home to several tours visitors can take to learn more about the island’s fascinating past.
Jekyll Island Tours
Consider Faith Chapel, an early 20th-century chapel, notable for its fine architecture, animal carvings, stained-glass windows, and terra cotta gargoyles in the style of Notre Dame. From 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. daily, visitors are free to enter the chapel for contemplation. Otherwise, entrance tickets may be purchased daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the chapel may be visited as part of a guided tour. Private tours may be reserved for parties of 20 or more.
Pay a visit to Rockefeller Cottage, a three-story high, 25-room villa built in 1892 by Gordon McKay and later purchased by William Rockefeller. This historic building has nine bedrooms, nine bathrooms, and seven servant rooms.
Locals claimed the home was built on an Indian burial ground because of large mound in the front yard. Though this story doesn’t appear to be grounded in any fact, the island’s first inhabitants, the Guale Indians, did leave evidence of their presence behind! Come see for yourself on a Rockefeller Tour, which take place daily on the hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission costs $12 for adults and $6 for children and includes a visit to Faith Chapel.
Entrance to Faith Chapel can also be purchased alongside a guided tram tour of Jekyll Island’s entire 240-acre historic district. Tours are daily at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m., each lasting approximately 90 minutes. Ticket costs are $20 for adults and $10 for children over three. This Landmark Tour includes admission to Mosaic Gallery and entry into two historic cottages.
Mosaic, the Jekyll Island Museum
This newly renovated museum tells the story of Jekyll Island, guiding visitors through its cultural and natural history with interactive exhibits. This new and improved version of the museum has more space, more artifacts, and a multi-purpose room. The museum’s gift shop is also a great place to find a souvenir for friends and family back home.
The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission costs $9 for adults and $7 for children. For an in-depth understanding of the history of Jekyll Island, visiting the Mosaic is a must!
Jekyll Island Historic District
The Landmark Tour provides an extensive look at the entire Jekyll Island historic district, but there’s plenty more to explore. A wide variety of shops are sure to keep you occupied for a while; spend an afternoon window shopping for tourist trinkets, local handcrafted gifts, and delicious Georgian-style food.
Just by Hand is a great place to find locally made glass, pottery, textiles, and jewelry. The Georgia Sea Turtle Center Gift Shop offers an assortment of Jekyll Island trinkets, and proceeds go towards turtle conservation and rehabilitation. We recommend the Island Sweets Shoppe for old-fashioned candy, hand-dipped ice cream, fudge, and pecan turtles and pralines.
Whether you’re hungry or simply searching for a souvenir, you’ll find plenty on this charming part of the island.
Jekyll Island Vacation Homes
With its many tours and historical activities, in addition to all the natural beauty it has to offer, Jekyll Island is the perfect place to vacation with your loved ones. We invite you to explore Jekyll Island vacation homes with Parker-Kaufman Realtors. We provide a wide variety of cottages, homes, and villas by the sea, and our friendly staff are available to assist you in finding your perfect rental, one which will meet your needs and budget. Don’t miss this opportunity to vacation in paradise!
