Jekkyl Island, the Perfect Vacation Hideaway
I would travel to Jekkyl Island with my family during the Easter break sometimes, when it was not hot enough for swimming in the ocean yet. This is one location to travel to during the summer, or at least in May or for turtle watching.
Jekkyl Island was originally an island for wealthy patrons. The residue of their lifestyle is still seen on the island, with Victorian mansions and homes (they call them summer homes and cottages). The Jekkyl Club Hotel is an example of an 1886 bygone era – the Rockefellers and Vanderbilts and Morgans era. The rates are comparable to others, and as far as I’m concerned, better than a lot when you realize this hotel is one of the top 500 resorts in the world.
Jekkyl Island might have been named Sea Turtle Island, due to the female sea turtles arriving from the sea each May to crawl up on shore and lay eggs in nests they dig. This protected species is monitored by the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and guided walks to observe this yearly ritual are available. This is a good time to keep younger or hyper children away from the turtles, as they cannot be disturbed during their period of egg laying.
For speed lovers who need another diversion, check out the Golden Isle speedway, 25 minutes away from Jekkyl Island, in the town of Waynesville. They have a website for race dates and prices.
Driftwood Beach has an incredible reputation for shelling, better than the shelling spots in Florida. The dolphins can be seen cajoling in the waters. The Villa By the Sea is located here, with comparable rates. You can’t swim at high tide but there is a playground at the resort, plus a pool. At Driftwood Beach there is also horseback riding provided by Victoria’s Carriages.
Summer Waves Waterpark can be an excellent diversion for families when wanting to leave the beach for a while. The rates are very good and the Pirates Passage ride is an experience very popular for children and adults. Enjoy the wave pool here, and other activities that can be seen on their website.
For bike enthusiasts, try the Mini Bike and Golf Rentals, as there are 20 miles of trail to ride along winding passages. Rates are approximately 11.00 per day.
If you like big meals, try the Low Country Boil Buffet, spread out by SeaJay’s Waterfront Cafe serving up an enormous meal. Adults will pay about 15.00 and children age 10 and under will pay about 7.50.