Jekkyl Island, the Perfect Vacation Hideaway

I travelled to Jekkyl Island as a child during Easter vacations. Unlike Florida, the weather was not hot enough for swimming yet in the ocean. An ideal time to go to Jekkyl Island would be in May for turtle watching, or closer to summer months when it is warmer.

Jekkyl Island is graces by the Victorian mansions, otherwise known as summer homes to former real estate owners in the 1800′s. The Rockefellers and Vanderbilts visited their summer estates and the grandeur is still seen in places such as the Jekkyl Club Hotel. The rates are good considering this hotel is ranked in the top 500 resorts world-wide.

The island might have well been named Sea Turtle Island, because starting in May, the female sea turtles can be observed making their way from the sea and up to areas on shore to dig nests for laying their eggs. The Georgia Sea Turtle Center stationed on Jekkyl Island is established for this protected species, and provide opportunities for tourists and residents to join in a walk on the beach with a guide, to observe the amazing ritual these turtles carry out each year. Children should be monitored closely as the turtles cannot be disturbed during their season of laying eggs.

For those who must have speed besides internet speed, there is the Golden Isle speedway about 25 minutes away in Waynesville. Check out their website for dates of races 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.

To top off the day, enjoy the Low Country Boil Buffet on the harbor, with enormous meals catered by SeaJay’s Waterfront Cafe. Adults are 15.00 and children are 7.50 for ages 10 and under.

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