It’ll be the best time of the year! A time filled with lights, festive fun, and lots of cheer. Every day of the holiday season is filled with joy and merriment, so whether you’re visiting Jekyll Island for the day or the month, we’ll have a holly jolly lineup for you.

Beyond the signature Holly Jolly Jekyll events, you’ll find plenty of holiday activities and attractions on Jekyll Island to enjoy all season long.

Holly Jolly Jekyll Signature Events

Cold-Stunned Plunge

This frigid fundraising event kicks off the holiday season with a plunge and benefits the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on behalf of the Jekyll Island Foundation. Take the plunge, raise some funds and receive a commemorative T-shirt for your good deed in helping to save sea turtles.

Winter Carnival & Holiday Big Truck Round-Up

Join Santa for some extra holiday fun with a visit to the Winter Carnival & Big Truck Roundup! Kids can enjoy free carnival rides, games, and music on the Village Green. Plus, sit behind the wheel of emergency vehicles from Jekyll Island Fire/EMS and Georgia State Patrol at Great Dunes Beach Park

Holiday Drive-In Movie

Take in one of two special drive-in-style screenings “Frosty the Snowman,” at the Jekyll Island Convention Center. If you visit on December 22, you might even witness Santa making an appearance on his big red fire truck!

Holly Jolly Jekyll Fireworks

Who said holiday lights are only for trees? Ooh and ahh at fireworks launching above the island and filling the whole sky with holiday cheer. Park at one of several Beach Park locations and watch the free show from your car to stay warm and cozy while taking in the spectacular sights.

Holly Jolly Jekyll Season Favorites

Guided Holiday Light Tours

Take a ride on Jekyll’s jolliest trolley to see more than a million lights around the island. The whole family can sit back, relax, and view the lights of the Historic District.

Self-Guided Holiday Light Tours

If you’d prefer to take in the lights from the comfort of your own vehicle, use Jekyll Island’s Self-Guided Light Tour map to view the island’s best light displays at your leisure. Just remember to follow traffic patterns and tour signs, and remain in your vehicle while snapping photos of your favorite twinkling lights.

Season-Long Family Fun

Beyond the signature Holly Jolly Jekyll events, you’ll find plenty of holiday activities and attractions on Jekyll Island to enjoy all season long.

Sink a hole-in-one while celebrating the holiday season at Peppermint Land at Jekyll Island Mini Golf, where two 18-hole courses are decked out with life-size gumdrops, peppermint sticks, gingerbread friends, and more.

Complete your holiday shopping at the historic Goodyear Cottage, which transforms into the Merry Artists Holiday Market. Or, grab a warm holiday beverage and pop into North Pole South, the official year-round holiday shop for novelties and collectibles.

Check out the Holly Jolly Jekyll event calendar for a season of activities and don’t forget to visit to the Mailbox on Main to drop those letters to Santa, and so much more!

Discover all the fun and magic this holiday season on Jekyll Island »

Stay

For easy access to the beach and set at the north end of the island near Driftwood Beach, try the Beachview Club Hotel. Set among century-old live oaks, this 38-room boutique hotel overlooks a courtyard and heated pool and is adjacent to the Beach House restaurant.

In 2023 the boutique hotel was honored with the 2023 Best of Georgia Award. This distinguished recognition, a result of customer votes, accentuates the hotel’s exceptional standards and its embodiment of the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit in the American hospitality industry.

Location:
721 N. Beachview Drive | (912) 635-2256
beachviewclubjekyll.com

The post Holly Jolly Jekyll Itineraries appeared first on Jekyll Island, Georgia • Vacation, Conservation, and Education Destination.

Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or a perfect blend of both, Jekyll Island is the ideal destination for an unforgettable summer escape. Don’t miss some of our recommendations for your perfect summer itinerary. From pristine beaches and historic sites to vibrant wildlife and coastal dining, Jekyll Island offers an idyllic escape for those seeking a perfect summer retreat.

Play

Summer Waves Water Park

Explore the thrills and chills of Summer Waves Water Park from high-adrenaline attractions to lazy river relaxation. Don’t miss the Man O’ War, the largest and fastest attraction at the park, this tentacle-like water ride includes two chute slides and two body slides to create an intense competition for guests to enjoy.

10 Miles of Beaches

It’s hard to choose the best Jekyll Island beaches, with 10 miles of unspoiled shoreline you’ll find the perfect place to relax and reconnect. Jekyll Island Beaches are unlike those of any other coastal destination. 

Find your favorite beach park, set up for the day and enjoy! Jekyll Island has several public beach access points that are accessible to people with physical disabilities and can provide beach-going wheelchairs at no cost. Learn more about ADA accessibility »

24 Miles of Bike Trails

Historical sites, ocean views, and the island’s abundant wildlife make each bike ride an adventure. Whether you’re seeking an active outing or a leisurely afternoon ride, biking on Jekyll Island is a perfect way to immerse yourself. If you have ever wondered where to begin as you think about conquering all 24 miles of bike trails on the island, we have the perfect guide for you to wander on two wheels!

Gatorology

Jekyll Island is home to more than a thousand acres of maritime forest, 10 miles of shoreline, and marshes filled with many wonders. Learn more about the island’s natural resources from Jekyll’s own park rangers during these unique eco-experiences. 

During this hands-on experience, you will learn about the American Alligator’s history, biology and conservation, while we help to demystify common misconceptions about these amazing and powerful reptiles. You will also learn about the alligator monitoring happening on Jekyll as well as initiatives in place that will allow you to safely help us conserve these incredible animals.

Eat

The views of the marsh from The Wharf are unbeatable! Offering a full menu of fresh, local fare, live music Wednesday-Sunday (seasonally), and serving up some of the best sunsets, The Wharf is one of the best spots for a great culinary experience on Jekyll Island!

Fresh local seafood, house-made pizza, craft beers on draft with indoor & outdoor dining, live entertainment, and a happy hour, the Beach House Restaurant & Taproom has it all!

Larry’s Giant Subs is a fast-casual sub shop using all-natural deli meats and cheeses. Larry’s Giant Subs at Beach Village features a variety of hot and cold sandwiches, salads, and soups perfect for picnics by the beach or catering for group gatherings.

Stay

Beachview Club Hotel

For easy access to the beach and set at the north end of the island near Driftwood Beach, try the Beachview Club Hotel. Set among century-old live oaks, this 38-room boutique hotel overlooks a courtyard and heated pool and is adjacent to the Beach House restaurant.

In 2023 the boutique hotel was honored with the 2023 Best of Georgia Award. This distinguished recognition, a result of customer votes, accentuates the hotel’s exceptional standards and its embodiment of the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit in the American hospitality industry.

Location:
721 N. Beachview Drive | (912) 635-2256
beachviewclubjekyll.com

The post Unveiling the Ultimate Summer Itinerary appeared first on Jekyll Island, Georgia • Vacation, Conservation, and Education Destination.

From 250 pound sea turtles to half-pound terrapins, the staff of Jekyll Island Authority works all year long to protect our native wildlife!

Conservation Connection sat down with Davide Zailo and Will Hicks, research staff at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island, about the important work they’re doing to protect some of North America’s most incredible turtles and their conservation success stories!

LISTEN NOW

About Sea Turtle Season on Jekyll Island

The best time to see adult sea turtles is during nesting season, which begins in May with nests often laid through mid-summer. Jekyll Island is one of the few places where you can experience up-close encounters with sea turtles. These gentle giants can weigh hundreds of pounds, and adult females leave their saltwater and estuarine habitats to bring themselves onto the sandy beaches to lay eggs. 

Sea turtle hatching season typically happens in August through October and is the best time to potentially witness turtle hatchlings emerge from their nest and scamper their way across the beach and into the ocean! 

At the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, take a behind-the-scenes tour into the turtle hospital to learn about sea turtle care and treatment. To spot some sea turtle nests for yourself, head out on the center’s Night and Dawn Patrol programs with a field biologist. You can also take a guided Turtle Walk to learn more.

To learn more about Jekyll Island and the Georgia Sea Turtle Center visit: www.seaturtleseason.com  

Each of Georgia’s sea turtle nesting projects uploads their data online and you can explore past nesting seasons or follow along this sea turtle season in real-time.

Start exploring »

Learn More about our Conservation Success Stories

Jekyll Island is a dream getaway for nature lovers and wildlife watchers — especially during sea turtle season. Read More: A Complete Guide to Sea Turtle Season on Jekyll Island »

Visiting Jekyll Island during sea turtle season provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the conservation of these endangered species. Here are seven ways to help sea turtles during your visit: Seven Ways to Help Sea Turtles When You Visit During Sea Turtle Season »

About Conservation Connection

Every day, scientists and conservationists around the globe are working to answer critical questions about our rapidly changing environment and the organisms that live there; the minute details of their work reveal both the beauty and the precarious balance of the natural world. Join the Conservation Connection team as we interview today’s leading wildlife scientists and conservationists about their most recent discoveries. Listen in to hear the ongoing story of the environmental work being done to protect our planet’s future!

The post Sea Turtle Season: A Conservation Success Story appeared first on Jekyll Island, Georgia • Vacation, Conservation, and Education Destination.

Nestled along the coast of Georgia, Jekyll Island invites history enthusiasts and curious wanderers to embark on a journey through its storied past. Jekyll Island is a treasure trove of historical sites that weave together the tapestry of its history. On your next visit don’t miss these remarkable historical sites on Jekyll Island that promise to transport you back in time.

Horton House 

In 1735, William Horton was granted Jekyll Island by the trustees of the colony of Georgia. Following a Spanish attack that destroyed his first house on the island, Horton rebuilt the home that still stands today with the help of indentured servants in 1743.

Horton distinguished himself through his leadership in the fledgling colony. As one of Gen. Oglethorpe’s top military aides, Horton was in charge of troops garrisoned at Fort Frederica on nearby St. Simons Island.

Horton “found the land exceeding rich” on his Jekyll Island property, and grew a variety of crops to supply the nearby Frederica Settlement. Horton also brewed Georgia’s first beer at his plantation on Jekyll Island. The site also includes the cemetery of the DuBignon Family, which owned Jekyll from 1790 to 1886 and occupied the house as their home from 1790 until sometime in the mid-1800s. The Horton House is one of the oldest tabby buildings in Georgia, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Hollybourne Cottage 

Hollybourne Cottage was built in 1890 by Club member Charles Stewart Maurice. The fabulous vacation retreat that Maurice built on Jekyll Island in 1890 was designed to be an architectural wonder of its own. The style was called Jacobethan or pseudo-Jacobean and was an early example of an eclectic Tudor style popular from 1890 until 1940.

Today, the cottage remains a diamond in the rough, with ongoing efforts to preserve the structure, and offers a perfect backdrop for receptions and other gatherings.

The Avenue of Palms

Jekyll Island’s Avenue of Palms consists of nearly 300 cabbage palms, planted in intervals along Plantation Road, from the north end of Stable Road to Faith Chapel. Many of these palms were originally planted around 1890, but others were lost to storms, pests, and disease. These were recently replaced in order to restore this palm avenue.

If you look closely, you can find “ghosts in the trees,” the remains of nail holes, in some of the original palms. During the Jekyll Island Club Era, nails were used to train the Cherokee rose, the state flower of Georgia, to run up the tree trunks, and Cherokee rose garlands and swags ran from tree to tree.

Wanderer Memory Trail 

The Wanderer Memory Trail is a new educational experience on Jekyll Island that tells the story of one of America’s last known slave ships, the Wanderer. The trail is located along the banks of the Jekyll River where the ship illegally came ashore 160 years ago with more than 400 enslaved Africans. Made up of individual exhibits, the trail walks visitors through the story of Umwalla, a young African boy brought to America on the ship. Visitors of all ages will follow Umwalla’s journey from capture through freedom told through interactive exhibits along the trail.

The Wanderer Memory Trail has received a UNESCO Slave Route Project “Site of Memory” designation of the Middle Passage arrival on Jekyll Island. For more information, visit middlepassageproject.org.

Faith Chapel

Constructed in 1904 for the members of the Jekyll Island Club, Faith Chapel has welcomed visitors for more than a hundred years. Enjoy the charming chapel which Club Member Frederic Baker wanted to be “worthy of the island.” Delight in the architectural whimsy of its animal carvings, terra cotta gargoyles, and Tiffany and Armstrong stained glass windows.

Plantation Oak

The largest live oak in the historic district is nicknamed Plantation Oak and is estimated to be approximately 375 years in age. Recognized by the Live Oak Society of America, it is perhaps the best overall live oak specimen on Jekyll Island. It best exemplifies how live oaks can become much broader than they are tall as they mature over time. As the largest branches extend further out from the main trunk of the tree, the weight of each branch actually causes them to rest on the ground, providing the tree with greater stability.

The post Embark on a Journey Through 6 Remarkable Historical Sites appeared first on Jekyll Island, Georgia • Vacation, Conservation, and Education Destination.

Happy rattlesnakes mean a happy island! Conservation Connection sat down with Joseph Colbert, a wildlife biologist with the Jekyll Island Authority. He studies eastern diamondback rattlesnakes, and uses this knowledge to inform management decisions that keep the entirety of Jekyll Island in harmony with nature!

LISTEN NOW

Joseph Colbert, Wildlife Biologist

Joseph Colbert grew up in Columbia, SC. Following the events of September 11th, at 19 years old, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. After two deployments, he concluded his service to attend the University of South Carolina. In pursuit of a profession that would fulfill his ongoing commitment to public service, Colbert graduated with honors from USC in 2011 with a B.S. in Biology. Joseph advanced scientific knowledge and engaged the public about coastal wildlife conservation during two national service contracts as an AmeriCorps member with the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island. As a graduate student at the University of Georgia’s Odum School of Ecology, he was selected as a Tillman Scholar – one of 60 nationally – and the first from UGA. This prestigious honor is based on Colbert’s leadership and service record. His master’s thesis involved plant and wildlife community response to prescribed fire in rare maritime grasslands. Joseph rejoined the JIA in 2016 and now serves as the island’s first wildlife biologist. He is responsible for minimizing negative interactions and increasing positive interactions between people and wildlife while pursuing opportunities to enhance the value of the island’s habitats. In 2018 Colbert joined the Rattlesnake Conservancy as a volunteer Research Associate and is a graduate of the 2021 Emerging Wildlife Conservation Leaders cohort.

About Conservation Connection

Every day, scientists and conservationists around the globe are working to answer critical questions about our rapidly changing environment and the organisms that live there; the minute details of their work reveal both the beauty and the precarious balance of the natural world. Join the Conservation Connection team as we interview today’s leading wildlife scientists and conservationists about their most recent discoveries. Listen in to hear the ongoing story of the environmental work being done to protect our planet’s future!

The post Exploring the Vital Connections Between Species, Habitats, and Communities appeared first on Jekyll Island, Georgia • Vacation, Conservation, and Education Destination.

While a longer stay is undoubtedly desirable, sometimes life grants us only 24 hours to revel in the beauty of Jekyll Island. Fear not! We’ll guide you through a whirlwind tour of Jekyll Island, ensuring that every minute is filled with unforgettable experiences. Get your walking shoes. Ready? Set. Go!

Jekyll Island Historic Landmark Trolley Tour 

The Jekyll Island Club members created an exclusive Gilded Age island retreat for family and friends on this barrier island. Those empire builders shaped our nation’s future, now step into their past. This guided trolley tour of our 240-acre historic district includes entry into a historic cottage and admission into the Mosaic Gallery and Faith Chapel at your leisure. The tour lasts 60 minutes and begins at Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum.

Book Your Experience »

Georgia Sea Turtle Center

Georgia’s only sea turtle education and rehabilitation facility. The Center offers the public a chance to learn about sea turtles and see rehabilitation in action with a host of interactive exhibits and experiences. Year-round indoor and outdoor programs are also available for guests of all ages.

Purchase General Admission »

Browse Beach Village 

Discover a diverse array of items at Beach Village, from elegant linen sundresses and stylish sunglasses to gourmet groceries, ensuring you find everything on your list.

Whether your interests lie in fine art or coastal-inspired apparel and accessories, Jekyll Island has it all.

Start Shopping »

Visit one of Jekyll Island’s Beaches

It’s hard to choose the best Jekyll Island beaches, with 10 miles of unspoiled shoreline you’ll find the perfect place to relax and reconnect. Jekyll Island Beaches are unlike those of any other coastal destination. 

A Guide to 10 Miles of the Best Jekyll Island Beaches »

Enjoy a Seasonal Tour 

Embrace the abundance of conservation, history, and wildlife on Jekyll Island. Choose one of our seasonal diverse tour options to delve deeper into the unique wonders and stories that make Jekyll truly exceptional.

Browse Tours »

The post How to Spend 24 Hours on Jekyll Island appeared first on Jekyll Island, Georgia • Vacation, Conservation, and Education Destination.

We’ve rounded up five places to find Pantone’s 2024 color of the year. “Peach Fuzz” is a velvety gentle peach tone that guests can find all over the island. Whether you are looking in nature, taking in the history or having a delicious lunch, “peach fuzz” is all over the island!

“In seeking a hue that echoes our innate yearning for closeness and connection, we chose a color radiant with warmth and modern elegance. A shade that resonates with compassion, offers a tactile embrace, and effortlessly bridges the youthful with the timeless.” – Pantone

Villa Marianna

Villa Marianna was one of the first renovations in Jekyll Island’s National Historic Landmark district and once housed the offices of the Jekyll Island Authority.

Location: Historic District – Old Plantation Way

Mid-Century Modern Homes

Jekyll’s clusters of midcentury modern homes, with their clerestory windows framing views of loblolly pines, have a story to tell. Many featuring the popular “peach fuzz” color.

Read more about Retro Retreats in 31•81, The Magazine of Jekyll Island Magazine

Fried Shrimp Basket

Georgia’s shrimp trawlers bring in about two million pounds of the official state crustacean every year. Within the Jekyll Market, the Love Shack, features a basket of wild Georgia shrimp, battered and fried golden-brown.

Location: Beach Village 31 Main Street Jekyll Island, GA 31527

Beach Village Mural

Wylie Caudill, an interactive public mural artist based in Lexington, and great-grandson of Tallu Fish was tapped to create this mural. Tallu Fish established the Jekyll Island Museum in Indian Mound Cottage, the former home of William Rockefeller, and helmed the museum through the 1950s and ’60s.  She was one of the first curators of the island’s robust history.

Caudill’s mural invokes a sense of familiarity with the island and brings people together to be a part of the art. “My plan is to capture Jekyll Island in its essence as I’ve always seen it,” he says, “which is this beautiful, relaxing, really unique place.” 

Location: Just beyond the traffic circle near the Jekyll Island Convention Center, the mural features roseate spoonbills flying onto a neighboring wall, where you can find wings painted to make a whimsical photo background.

Horton House

In 1735, William Horton was granted Jekyll Island by the trustees of the colony of Georgia. Following a Spanish attack that destroyed his first house on the island, Horton rebuilt the home that still stands today with the help of indentured servants in 1743.

Horton distinguished himself through his leadership in the fledgling colony. As one of Gen. Oglethorpe’s top military aides, Horton was in charge of troops garrisoned at Fort Frederica on nearby St. Simons Island.

Horton “found the land exceeding rich” on his Jekyll Island property, and grew a variety of crops to supply the nearby Frederica Settlement. Horton also brewed Georgia’s first beer at his plantation on Jekyll Island. The site also includes the cemetery of the DuBignon Family, which owned Jekyll from 1790 to 1886 and occupied the house as their home from 1790 until sometime in the mid-1800s. The Horton House is one of the oldest tabby buildings in Georgia, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Location: Riverview Drive Jekyll Island, GA 31527

The post Five Places to find Pantone’s 2024 Color of the Year “Peach Fuzz” on Jekyll Island appeared first on Jekyll Island, Georgia • Vacation, Conservation, and Education Destination.

Historical sites, ocean views, and the island’s abundant wildlife make each bike ride an adventure. Whether you’re seeking an active outing or a leisurely afternoon ride, biking on Jekyll Island is a perfect way to immerse yourself. If you have ever wondered where to begin as you think about conquering all 24 miles of bike trails on the island, we have the perfect guide for you to wander on two wheels!

Historic District Loop

Biking through Jekyll Island’s historic district is like taking a journey through time itself. Pedal along shaded paths, passing by cottages and the Jekyll Island Club Resort where America’s wealthiest families once retreated. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a leisure ride, wander on two wheels through Jekyll Island’s historic district. It promises to be an unforgettable experience that immerses you in the island’s storied past. 

Pro tip: Restrooms and water fountains are located at The Wharf. Take a pit stop for refreshments and shopping on Pier Road or spend the afternoon at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum.

North Loop

Biking on Jekyll Island’s North Loop is a serene and captivating experience that brings you close to nature and Jekyll Island’s wildlife. This bike trail offers a diverse coastal landscape. As you venture along this route, you’ll be surrounded by a lush maritime forest, marsh, and oceanfront views. Stop at Driftwood Beach to take in the weathered driftwood formations scattered along the shoreline. Make sure to carry both a chain and a U-lock to secure your bike effectively during your ride.

Pro Tip: Points of interest include: Driftwood Beach, Horton Pond, Horton House, DuBignon Cemetery, and the fishing pier. Restrooms are located at the fishing pier, and it’s a great place to stop for a picnic lunch! 

South Loop

Wander on two wheels along Jekyll Island’s South Loop, which includes St. Andrew’s Beach. Biking through the southern part of the island, you’ll encounter maritime forests and salt marshes, creating a captivating backdrop for your ride. Take a break from your biking adventure and explore the shoreline, the Wanderer Memory Trail or rejuvenate under a canopy of live oaks. 

Pro Tip: Bring plenty of water with you on this trail, it’s more secluded than others. Restrooms are located at St. Andrews Beach Park and South Dunes Beach Park. 

Bike Path Maps

Navigate Jekyll Island by bike with our detailed maps, including points of interest. Follow the bike paths when possible. For safety, avoid roads and other paths not explicitly designated for bikes. See more rules and safety tips »

Jekyll Island

Beach Village

Historic District

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Jekyll Island offers the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re here for a week or a night, it’s the perfect time to discover why this coastal haven is an escape unlike any other. Here are some fantastic ways to have an active getaway on Jekyll Island.

Pedal Through Paradise: Bike Trails

Historical sites, ocean views, and the island’s abundant wildlife make each bike ride an adventure. Whether you’re seeking an active outing or a leisurely afternoon ride, biking on Jekyll Island is a perfect way to immerse yourself and have an active getaway. 

What others are saying….

Three Days of Biking with a Beautiful View!

The trail system on Jekyll Island is AMAZING!! I biked the entire island and the trail system is safe and leads through the most beautiful scenery. Once on the trail, we went from historical to beautiful water views within minutes. Even the sandy trails were smooth enough to ride on and were safe as well. This is a great way to get the family together for fun.

Katherine P, Trip Advisor

Swing into Action: Golf and Tennis

For those who enjoy the thrill of sports, Jekyll Island’s 63 holes of golf and 13 Har-tru clay tennis courts are a must-visit. Tee off on one of the four breathtaking courses – known for true Southern hospitality and legendary landscapes. Tennis enthusiasts can perfect their game nestled under live oaks draped with moss. Book a court time or join us for one of the many tennis tournaments.

Not Your Typical Board Meeting: Kayaking and Paddleboarding

There’s no better way to explore the waters around Jekyll Island than from a kayak or paddleboard. Glide through serene marshes, winding creeks, and estuaries teeming with wildlife. The calm waters are perfect for beginners, and guided tours offer an educational insight into the island’s ecology.

Sandy Steps: Running and Walking Trails

Embrace the tranquility of the coastline with invigorating runs or leisurely walks along the beach and designated trails. The island boasts 24 miles of pathways providing opportunities to connect with nature. Catch a breathtaking sunrise or sunset over the ocean as you renew your mind and body.

Every day’s a new adventure. Explore more Jekyll Island activities »

The post Enjoy an Active Getaway on Jekyll Island appeared first on Jekyll Island, Georgia • Vacation, Conservation, and Education Destination.

As you discover more, take a moment to step off the beaten path and dive into the intriguing stories and places that have shaped Jekyll Island into the enchanting destination it is today. History is hidden everywhere. Learn more about Jekyll Island’s hidden history below.

DuBignon Cemetery

After Major Horton’s death in 1749, the island went through a series of owners before finally being purchased by Christophe Poulain DuBignon in 1792. The DuBignons enjoyed a successful business raising Sea Island Cotton on their plantation for nearly a century. Following the Civil War, Christophe’s great-grandson, John Eugene DuBignon, marketed Jekyll Island as the perfect site for a hunting club.

Gravestones of DuBignon family members Ann Amelia DuBignon, Joseph DuBignon, and Marie Felicite Riffault were found on the island and relocated to the DuBignon Cemetery located across from Horton House. The tombstones were placed within the walls of the cemetery along with two other headstones belonging to Jekyll Island Club hotel employees Hector DeLiyannis andGeorge Harvey, who drowned in the nearby river on March 12, 1912. Experts believe the bodies of the family members and staff are somewhere nearby, but their exact locations are unknown. 

Wanderer Memory Trail

The Wanderer Memory Trail is a new educational experience on Jekyll Island that tells the story of one of America’s last known slave ships, the Wanderer. The trail is located along the banks of the Jekyll River where the ship illegally came ashore 160 years ago with more than 400 enslaved Africans. Made up of individual exhibits, the trail walks visitors through the story of Umwalla, a young African boy brought to America on the ship. Visitors of all ages will follow Umwalla’s journey from capture through freedom told through interactive exhibits along the trail.

The Wanderer Memory Trail has received a UNESCO Slave Route Project “Site of Memory” designation of the Middle Passage arrival on Jekyll Island. For more information, visit middlepassageproject.org.

Historic St. Andrews Beach Pavilion

In 1955, a Beach House located on the South End of Jekyll Island became available to African Americans on a segregated basis. The Beach Pavilion opened on September 25, 1955, to great fanfare, as St. Andrews Beach became the first public beach in Georgia to welcome African Americans. This hidden history site is now home to a state-of-the-art youth and learning center, Camp Jekyll.

Gould Auditorium

Gould Auditorium was built in 1913 by Edwin Gould as a casino for members and guests of the Jekyll Island Club. In 1957, the structure was remodeled and converted into the Gould Auditorium. It served as the island’s first convention center. It also played host to high school dances and even a performance from the Allman Brothers Band in 1970.

Read more about the Allman Brothers Band performance in Volume 5 Number 1 of 31•81, the Magazine of Jekyll Island »

Jekyll Club-Era Dairy Silo

The 20-foot-tall dairy silo is constructed of tabby (a cement-like material made of oyster shells) and was built around the turn of the 20th century. Located a mile or so north of the National Historic Landmark District along Riverview Drive. There’s no information posted, which adds to the feeling of hidden history. 

Drawings Inside Hollybourne Cottage

The drawings, in graphite pencil, are two silhouettes signed by 14-year-old Emily Maurice and her presumed friend Alice Stickney, dated February 15, 1902. The outline of a shoe and a delicate hand also adorn the plaster wall, along with the lyrics of an 18th-century French folk song, Au Clair de la Lune, handwritten in French.

You can take a tour of Hollybourne Cottage and experience all the curious details of this one-of-a-kind residence. Book a Tour of Hollybourne Cottage »

Gun Mounts

Trek through the maritime forest to find two cast-iron Civil War–era gun mounts installed during the Spanish-American War at the end of the nineteenth century. The gun mounts are tucked in the woods about a half mile from St. Andrews Beach near Macy Lane.

Explore more history »

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