Mar 11 2008
Jekyll Island
For a day trip from Tybee go to Jekyll Island, about a 2 hour drive down I-95 south. Sixty-five percent of the Island is owned by the State of Georgia (since 1947) and will remain undeveloped. The result is a vast abundance of encounters with nature and a rare absence of intrusion on its enjoyment.
Jekyll Island is perhaps best known for the mansion-sized “cottages” built by the wealthiest and most influential individuals of the late nineteenth century, and for the Clubhouse that now serves as a hotel. For 56 years, Club members enjoyed the mild winters and lush beauty of Jekyll Island, leaving behind a rich heritage in what is now a National Historic Landmark District. Take the train ride around the grounds and see these beautiful “cottages” that the families abandoned in the early 20th century, view a Tiffany window, and visit the very grand and beautiful Jekyll Island Hotel.
Another particularly interesting place to visit is the new state-of-the-art sea turtle facility which features numerous interactive educational exhibits, and a turtle treatment and surgery center.
Jekyll boasts of beaches and rivers, woodlands and marshlands, Live Oaks and Sea Oats, recreation and relaxation, history and hospitality, and turtles and timeless beauty. Visitor’s Center – 912.635.4155. www.jekyllisland.com
