Things to Do with Kids on Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a beautiful little island off Georgia's coast, just south of St. Simons Island. It's a little slower-paced than its neighbor, but don't let that fool you. There are plenty of things to do with kids on Jekyll Island, from beaches and bike rides to sea turtles, mini golf, and some pretty awesome family adventures.

Whether you're planning a family vacation to Georgia's Golden Isles or you're a local looking for something fun to do with the kids, Jekyll Island has something for just about everyone. Plus, it's one of those places where you can spend an entire day exploring without having to plan every single minute. We love that.

We've rounded up our favorite Jekyll Island family activities, along with helpful tips, places to explore, and a few things to know before you go.

Grab the sunscreen, pack some snacks (because kids), and let's get exploring!

Getting onto Jekyll Island

First things first. Before heading over the causeway, you'll need to know about Jekyll Island's parking fee.

Jekyll Island is a state park, and vehicles entering the island must purchase a parking pass. Passes can be purchased online or at the entrance gate.

Current standard vehicle parking fees are:

• Daily parking pass: $10 per day
• Annual parking pass: $100 per year
• Oversized vehicle daily pass: $15 per day
• Oversized vehicle annual pass: $150 per year

Keep in mind that daily parking rates may increase during certain special events, including holiday celebrations and major festivals.

Visit the official Jekyll Island parking page to purchase a pass and review current rates.

St. SiMoms Tip: If you're a Golden Isles local and visit Jekyll Island frequently, an annual pass might be worth considering. Especially if your kids keep asking to go back to mini golf every weekend.

Spend a Day at the Beach

With approximately 10 miles of beautiful beaches, Jekyll Island is a fantastic place for a family beach day.

And while the island has several lovely stretches of shoreline, its most famous is undoubtedly Driftwood Beach.

Located along the island's northern shoreline, Driftwood Beach features enormous weathered trees and driftwood scattered across the sand. It's absolutely beautiful and makes for some pretty incredible family photos.

Kids love exploring the fascinating driftwood formations, while parents love the scenery. Just keep an eye on those adventurous little climbers!

Other popular family beach spots include:

• Great Dunes Beach Park: A great choice for a traditional beach day with convenient facilities.
• South Dunes Beach Park: Features picnic facilities and an elevated boardwalk overlook.
• St. Andrews Beach Park: A peaceful spot for nature watching and enjoying the scenery.
• Glory Beach: Known for its beautiful dunes and coastal landscape.

St. SiMoms Tip: Check the tide schedule before visiting Driftwood Beach. Low tide generally offers more space for exploring the shoreline. Be cautious around unstable driftwood and tidal areas.

Not sure which beach is best for your family? Check out our Parent's Guide to Golden Isles Beaches, where we share helpful information, tips, pros, and cons for the different beaches.

Cool Off at Summer Waves Water Park (Summer Months Only)

If you're visiting Jekyll Island during the summer, Summer Waves Water Park is a big hit with families.

This seasonal water park offers plenty of ways to cool off when the Georgia heat starts doing its thing. Think water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, a splash zone, and attractions designed for younger children.

There's something for a variety of ages, so it's a great activity whether you're traveling with little ones or older kids looking for a little more excitement.

We recommend allowing plenty of time to enjoy the park rather than trying to squeeze it into an already packed day.

St. SiMoms Tip: If you're planning to spend the entire day at Summer Waves, consider renting a cabana. Having guaranteed shade and a dedicated place to sit can make a huge difference, especially when the kids need a break from the sun.

Check the official Summer Waves website for seasonal operating dates, admission prices, cabana availability, and ride height requirements.

Visit the Jekyll Island Playground

Sometimes all you need is a good playground to make the kids happy. And Jekyll Island has a great one!

The island's popular playground is conveniently located beside the Jekyll Island Mini Golf courses and Red Bug Motor's Pizza.

Even better? The beach and Tortuga Jack's Mexican restaurant are located just across the street.

We love spending a morning or afternoon playing mini golf, letting the kids burn off some energy at the playground, and then grabbing pizza at Red Bug Motor's. Or, if tacos and margaritas sound more appealing, we'll head across the street to Tortuga Jack's.

Because really, isn't that what a good family outing is all about? Happy kids and someone else making lunch.

St. SiMoms Tip: Combine the playground, mini golf, and lunch into one outing. They're all located close together, so you won't spend half your day loading and unloading the car.

Find more playground information in our Guide to Playgrounds in the Golden Isles, complete with tips, photos, and helpful details for families.

Play a Round of Mini Golf

Who doesn't love a little family competition?

Jekyll Island Mini Golf features two 18-hole courses, making it a fun activity for kids and adults alike.

The courses are located next to the island's playground, so it's easy to enjoy both activities during the same outing.

And while miniature golf may sound like a perfectly peaceful family activity, we all know things can get competitive when someone insists that their ball definitely went in on the first try.

St. SiMoms Tip: Mini golf is a great activity when you want a break from the beach but aren't ready to head indoors. Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the warmer months.

Visit Jekyll Island Mini Golf for current pricing and hours.

Explore the Georgia Sea Turtle Center

One of the most unique things to do with kids on Jekyll Island is visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center.

Located in the island's Historic District, the center is Georgia's only sea turtle education and rehabilitation facility.

Visitors can learn about sea turtle conservation, explore interactive exhibits, and observe rehabilitation efforts for injured and sick turtles.

It's educational, interesting, and genuinely fun for the whole family. Plus, it's pretty incredible to see the work being done to protect these amazing animals.

Depending on the schedule, the center may also offer special educational programs and behind-the-scenes experiences.

St. SiMoms Tip: This is one of our favorite recommendations for rainy days or when everyone needs a break from the sun. Check the schedule for special programs before your visit.

Learn more about the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, including admission prices, hours, and available experiences.

Discover Jekyll Island by Bike

In our opinion, Jekyll Island is best explored by bike.

With more than 24 miles of scenic paths and trails, you can pedal beneath beautiful oak trees, explore the Historic District, cruise alongside the marsh, and enjoy gorgeous coastal scenery.

The island is relatively flat, which makes it a great place for family bike rides. There are also several rental options if you don't want to haul your own bikes over.

Some popular biking areas include:

• Historic District: Beautiful oak-lined paths and historic buildings.
• North Loop: Scenic trails through maritime forests and marsh areas, including access near Driftwood Beach.
• South Loop: Natural landscapes, coastal views, and quieter stretches of the island.

St. SiMoms Tip: Bring water, sunscreen, and snacks. Choose a route that works for your kids' ages and abilities, and remember that Georgia requires bicycle helmets for riders age 16 and younger.

Visit the official Jekyll Island biking guide for maps, rental options, and route information.

Take a Tour of Jekyll Island

One of the best ways to explore Jekyll Island is to let someone else show you around!

There are several different ways to experience the island, whether you're interested in history, wildlife, or spending time on the water.

Choose your vessel: boat, trolley, horseback, kayak, or your own reliable two feet.

Some popular options include:

• Dolphin Tours: Explore the surrounding waterways and look for bottlenose dolphins and coastal wildlife.
• Historic Trolley Tours: Learn about the island's fascinating history while exploring the National Historic Landmark District.
• Kayaking Tours: Discover the island's salt marshes and coastal ecosystems from the water.
• Nature Programs: Join educational outings that introduce families to the island's unique environment.

We personally love the dolphin tour. There's something pretty special about watching dolphins swimming in their natural habitat, and the kids love it, too.

St. SiMoms Tip: Boat tours are weather-dependent, and some experiences have age or height restrictions. Check before booking, especially if you're traveling with younger children.

Explore Jekyll Island Dolphin Tours and the official Jekyll Island activities directory for other guided experiences.

Rent a Golf Cart and Cruise Around the Island

Want to explore Jekyll Island without hopping in and out of the car all day? Consider renting a golf cart!

Street-legal golf cart rentals are popular on Jekyll Island and can be a fun way to get around while enjoying the coastal scenery.

Just remember that Jekyll Island has specific rules for golf carts. They're permitted on roads when properly equipped and street legal, but they are not allowed on bike paths or beaches.

Rental companies may also have minimum driver ages, insurance requirements, and other restrictions.

St. SiMoms Tip: Reserve ahead during busy summer weekends and holidays, when rentals can book up quickly. Also, confirm that your rental has enough seats and seat belts for everyone in your family.

Check out our Guide to Golf Cart Rentals in the Golden Isles for local rental options.

Go Camping on Jekyll Island

If your family enjoys the great outdoors, consider spending a night or two at the Jekyll Island Campground.

Located on the island's north end, the campground sits beneath beautiful live oak trees and is within walking distance of Clam Creek and Driftwood Beach.

The campground features approximately 18 wooded acres and offers a variety of accommodations, including traditional campsites, RV sites with hookups, and yurts.

Additional amenities include:

• Bathhouses with restrooms and hot showers
• RV sites with water, electricity, and sewer connections
• Primitive tent camping options
• Yurt accommodations
• Laundry facilities
• A general store for camping essentials
• Bike rental opportunities
• Easy access to nearby outdoor attractions

It's a wonderful way to experience a quieter side of Jekyll Island and spend a little more time exploring.

St. SiMoms Tip: Reservations are highly recommended, especially during holidays and popular vacation weekends. Remember that the island parking fee is separate from campground reservations.

Visit the Jekyll Island Campground website for accommodations, availability, and current rates.

Check Out the 4-H Tidelands Nature Center

Have a future marine biologist or animal lover in the family? The 4-H Tidelands Nature Center is a wonderful place to explore.

The center offers educational experiences focused on coastal ecology and the fascinating wildlife that calls Georgia's coast home.

Visitors may explore exhibits featuring live coastal species such as fish, horseshoe crabs, snakes, alligators, and sea turtles.

Depending on the schedule, the center also offers:

• Guided kayak tours
• Coastal ecology programs
• Nature walks
• Educational experiences for families and school groups
• Summer programs

It's a great way to combine a little learning with hands-on exploration. And let's be honest, learning about alligators is significantly more exciting than another worksheet.

St. SiMoms Tip: Current published hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., but schedules can change. Confirm before visiting, particularly if you're hoping to participate in a guided program.

Visit the 4-H Tidelands Nature Center website for additional information.

Go Fishing at the Jekyll Island Pier

Looking for a laid-back activity with the kids? Grab your fishing gear and head to the Jekyll Island Fishing Pier.

The pier is located on the northern end of the island in the Clam Creek Picnic Area, near the Jekyll Island Fishing Center.

It's a popular spot for fishing, sightseeing, and enjoying beautiful coastal views. Even if you don't catch anything, it's still a fun place to spend a little time outdoors.

Nearby amenities include:

• Picnic tables
• Grills
• Restrooms
• Access to the surrounding Clam Creek area
• The nearby Jekyll Island Fishing Center for fishing supplies

St. SiMoms Tip: Bring a picnic lunch and make an afternoon of it. Check Georgia's current fishing license requirements and any posted regulations before fishing.

Learn more about the Jekyll Island Fishing Center.

View the Island on Horseback

What's better than exploring Jekyll Island's beautiful Driftwood Beach?

Exploring it on horseback, of course!

Horseback riding is a unique way to experience the island's beautiful coastal scenery, and it's an adventure that older kids and adults may especially enjoy.

Three Oaks Farm offers horseback riding experiences along Jekyll Island's beaches, depending on tour availability and conditions.

It's a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the scenery from a completely different perspective.

St. SiMoms Tip: Check age, height, and weight requirements before booking. Advance reservations are recommended, and tours may depend on the weather and tides.

Visit Three Oaks Farm for current tour options, requirements, and pricing.

Island Treasures Annual Hide-and-Seek Adventure

Who doesn't love a good treasure hunt?

Each January and February, Jekyll Island hosts one of the most unique family-friendly events in the Golden Isles: Island Treasures.

Inspired by historic glass fishing floats, the event brings artists from across the country together to create beautiful, one-of-a-kind handblown glass floats.

Throughout the event, volunteers known as Beach Buddies hide clear plastic globes in designated public areas around Jekyll Island.

Visitors lucky enough to find one can exchange it for a beautiful handcrafted glass float.

People travel from all over to participate in this island-wide scavenger hunt. And yes, adults get just as competitive as the kids!

The event traditionally takes place throughout January and February.

St. SiMoms Tip: Be sure to review the official rules and approved search areas before heading out. Globes aren't hidden in the dunes, marshes, or restricted areas, and participants should stay on established paths.

Didn't find one? No worries! Glass floats may also be available for purchase through the island's official gift shop.

Visit the official Island Treasures page for event dates, FAQs, and search guidelines.

Good luck and happy treasure hunting!

Holly Jolly Jekyll Holiday Celebration

Jekyll Island knows how to celebrate the holidays, and Holly Jolly Jekyll is one of our favorite family traditions.

Every winter, the island transforms into a beautiful coastal holiday wonderland with sparkling lights, festive decorations, and plenty of family-friendly activities.

We're talking more than a million twinkling lights, holiday trolley tours, and the kind of magical atmosphere that makes even the adults feel like kids again.

Seasonal experiences may include:

• Holiday light displays: Beautiful decorations and illuminated areas around the island.
• Holly Jolly Light Tours: Festive trolley rides through the decorated island.
• Peppermint Land: Holiday-themed mini golf with colorful decorations.
• Visits with Santa: Opportunities to celebrate the season with the big guy himself.
• Special holiday events: Family activities, seasonal celebrations, and other festive experiences.

Our kids absolutely love December on Jekyll Island, and we look forward to visiting every holiday season.

It's one of those outings that feels special without requiring an elaborate itinerary. Just bundle everyone up, grab a little holiday cheer, and enjoy the lights.

2026 Holiday Season: Holly Jolly Jekyll runs November 27, 2026, through January 3, 2027.

St. SiMoms Tip: If you want to take a holiday trolley tour or attend a ticketed event, book ahead. Popular experiences can fill up quickly during busy December weekends.

Visit the official Holly Jolly Jekyll page for updated schedules, ticket information, and holiday activities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jekyll Island with Kids

Is Jekyll Island good for families with kids?

Absolutely! Jekyll Island offers beaches, playgrounds, mini golf, bike trails, the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, seasonal water park attractions, and outdoor adventures that are great for families with children of different ages.

What are the best free things to do with kids on Jekyll Island?

Once you've paid the vehicle parking fee, families can enjoy many free activities, including visiting the beach, exploring Driftwood Beach, playing at the Jekyll Island Playground, walking through the Historic District, and visiting scenic areas such as Clam Creek. Individual attractions may charge admission.

How much does it cost to enter Jekyll Island?

As of November 2026, the standard daily parking fee is $10 per passenger vehicle, while an annual pass costs $100. Additional fees may apply during certain special events or for oversized vehicles.

What can you do on Jekyll Island when it rains?

The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is a great option for rainy days. You can also explore indoor attractions and educational exhibits in the Historic District, including Mosaic, Jekyll Island Museum. Check current hours and admission information before visiting.

Can you visit Jekyll Island in one day?

Definitely! A day trip gives you plenty of time to enjoy the beach, mini golf, the playground, a bike ride, or the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. If you want to explore more of the island without rushing, consider staying overnight.

What is the best time of year to visit Jekyll Island with kids?

Spring and fall are wonderful for biking and outdoor adventures. Summer is ideal for beach days and Summer Waves Water Park, while winter brings family-friendly seasonal events like Holly Jolly Jekyll and the Island Treasures glass float hunt.

Ready for a Jekyll Island Family Adventure?

From building sandcastles and exploring Driftwood Beach to learning about sea turtles and cruising around on bikes, there are so many fun things to do with kids on Jekyll Island.

Whether you're visiting Georgia's Golden Isles for the first time or you're a local looking for a new family adventure, we hope this guide helps you make the most of your time on the island.

And remember, you don't have to do everything in one day. Sometimes the best family memories happen when you slow down, enjoy the scenery, and let the kids lead the way.

Well, within reason. We still need to get home before bedtime.

Looking for even more ideas? Check out our Top Reasons to Visit Jekyll Island and our Jekyll Island Restaurant Guide for the best places to eat after a day of exploring.

For more family-friendly adventures, events, and local recommendations, explore St. SiMoms — Your Family Guide to Georgia's Golden Isles.