A Vacation for All Seasons-FALL
There are so many great things to do at Jekyll Island year round and autumn is certainly no exception. We're excited to feature our friend, colleague and Golden Isles vacationer, Courtney Wenhold in this blog. This is the first in a series and we'll be sure to hit every season. And if this tempts you enough to book your fall vacation with us, reserve your days soon. Happy Travels. -Melissa
Over 100 years ago, American royalty with names like Vanderbilt, Morgan and Pulitzer came together to form a private beach club on one of the beautiful barrier islands off the coast of Georgia. The Jekyll Island Club opened its doors in 1888, and for the next forty years, members built and vacationed in Victorian mansions known as cottages. Although its members had access to an endless list of vacation destinations, something about the untouched beaches and magnolia/live oak canopy of Jekyll Island offered them sanctuary.
And while Jekyll Island no longer boasts the thriving social seasons of Americas wealthiest families, the beautiful and unspoiled heart of the island remains, perfect for your family vacation. If you are looking for a three ring circus or a vacation you will inevitably need a vacation from, this is not the place for you. However, if you are looking for an island with miles of unspoiled beaches, 65% of which is untouched by law due to its state park status, Jekyll Island is for you. If exploring the historical landmarks of the famed Millionaires Club by bike, or visiting The Georgia Sea Turtle Center located on island sounds like your kind of family fun, Jekyll Island is for you. Although much of Jekyll Island’s charm comes from the slower pace and untouched beauty, all of the comforts and luxuries you would expect on a fabulous vacation are also available. (Image compliments of Jekyll Island Club Hotel).
Truly, there is a vacation to be found on Jekyll Island in all four seasons due to the wonderfully moderate temperatures you can expect, even in Winter. (Image compliments of goldenisles.com)
Fall: September-November
Temperatures remain in the high seventies and eighties throughout the Fall with water temperatures in the sixties and seventies. Basically, you have the beachy weather of Summer without the Summer crowds. Considering a vacation in September? You wouldn’t want to miss the Shrimp and Grits festival sponsored by Southern Living. In addition to delicious food and a craft brew fest, The Shrimp and Grits festival is an annual favorite in the South and offers over 100 craft vendors, endless family friendly fun, music, wildlife demonstrations and more. Click here for more details. http://www.jekyllisland.com/signatureevents-category/shrimp-and-grits-festival/
Temperatures drop into the seventies in October, perfect for one of many outdoor adventures on Jekyll Island. If you enjoy site seeing by bike, grab a beach cruiser and take a tour of the island. Some fabulous sites to see include Driftwood Beach located on the north end of the island-it’s so picturesque that it’s a huge draw for both photographers and weddings. (Image Copyright © Kay Gaensler Photography - Creative Commons).
Another must see on Jekyll Island is the historic district, and most agree it is best seen by bike. Go back in time to see how Americas wealthiest families lived and recreated while on vacation. (Map compliments of Jekyll Island Authority).
With temperatures holding in the 60’s, November is another great month to enjoy endless walks on the beach, bike tours of the island, golf, tennis, boating and fishing. If you’ve ever considered a family vacation for Thanksgiving, Jekyll Island offers both beautiful weather and outdoor fun. Additionally, imagine kicking off the holiday season with the annual tree lighting festival in the historic district. Held the day after Thanksgiving, the festival offers pictures with Santa, live music, food, fireworks and more. The festival continues throughout the holiday season into December.
