My family and I just recently returned from a trip to Jekyll Island. I have to admit, when this first popped up on my radar, I wasn’t really sure where Jekyll Island was. I had heard of it, but wouldn’t have been able locate it on a map if you asked me to.
In case you are as unaware as I was, Jekyll Island is located off the coast of Georgia, about an hour and a half south of Savannah.
About Holiday Inn Resort, Jekyll Island and It’s Accommodations:
We stayed at the Holiday Inn Resort, Jekyll Island which is located right on the beach and offers a quarter-mile of private beach access, a beachside pool and playground, and on-site dining. Most, if not all the rooms appear to face the ocean, so it was great knowing no matter what room we were in, we would have an amazing view from our balcony. We stayed in a suite that was plenty big for our party of 5. 2 beds, with a separate living room, fold out sofa and Kitchenette with full size refrigerator.
Activities at Holiday Inn Resort, Jekyll Island:
The Resort offers onsite kids activities, and complimentary kids club which is great for when your kids are tired of hanging out with you. They can participate in some of the scheduled activities they offer, like Hula Hooping, Water Games, Chalking, Play Dough, Bingo and more. Calendars with the daily schedule are located at the front desk.
Onsite Bike rental is available for adult sized bikes, kids bikes can be rented just a ways 
down the beach. This was one of our favorite things we did, it was a great way to get a little exercise and explore the island. With about 25 miles worth of trails, you can enjoy scenery along the beach, through the forests or both.
Of course we have to mention the pool, with beach view and loungers so comfortable I couldn’t tell if my kids would rather lay around or actually swim. There’s also a beach side playground for when you’re wanting to take a little break from swimming.
Dining at Holiday Inn Resort, Jekyll Island:
Because our room had a full size refrigerator and kitchenette, we opted for sandwiches and chips in the room during the day, although, if you’re not wanting to leave the excitement of the great outdoors or want just want to dine beach/poolside, you could order from The Anchor, they serve breakfast lunch, dinner and my personal favorite, poolside cocktails.
For dinner we opted for the Beachhouse Restaurant located next door to the resort, it was so good that we ate there twice during our stay, Bonus: it basically shares a parking lot so you don’t even have to get in your car, also if you’re a guest of the resort, kids eat free!
Booking a Trip to Holiday Inn Resort, Jekyll Island:
Room rates and availability vary based on season and day of the week.
One of the most anticipated times of year to visit is during Georgia’s loggerhead sea turtles season from May through July, where guests can see these majestic creatures nesting on the beaches. In August, the baby turtles hatch and make their way to the Atlantic Ocean.
Jekyll Island Must See: Driftwood Beach
Located on the north end of Jekyll Island, Driftwood beach will amaze you with the beautiful driftwood and trees that resemble a tree graveyard. We couldn’t get enough of this part of the island and went back a 2nd time the day we were leaving. It’s the perfect backdrop for some photo ops. Cool Points: I learned after the trip that an episode of The Walking Dead (season 7 episode 6) was filmed there.
Island Tips:
The beaches on Jekyll Island are not like what we’re used to on the gulf. The sand is different than what most of us from this area of Alabama are used to. The high and low tides make a huge difference in the amount of beach you have and it’s always wet. Make sure to take chairs to sit in, towels aren’t really an option.
You’re on Island Time. Everything closes early and we saw a sign in one store that literally said “10am – 6ish” Shopping and Ice Cream after dinner isn’t really an option unless you hit up the Dairy Queen that stays open until 9pm.
Fido Friendly. The Resort and beaches are dog friendly, which my kids couldn’t believe and they’ve already made plans for us to take our dog next year. Check with resort for additional charges.
Have you visited Jekyll Island or the area? We would love to hear what tips you have to share with our readers!
