By: Lisa Marie Carter
Did you know there are some beautiful islands you can drive to just off the Georgia coast? This getaway will highlight St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island, which are adjacent to each other.
Our adventure begins on historic Jekyll Island. Let’s start with a few interesting facts about this beautiful island. In the late 1800s, this island was known as Club Jekyll, an exclusive private hunt club- with such prestigious families as JP Morgan, the Vanderbilts, and the Rockefellers. The club was known as the most exclusive inaccessible club in the world.
To get the true feel of just how majestic this island was, a stay at Jekyll Inn is a must. Jekyll Island Club is the place to stay to take in some of the history and feel like you’ve stepped back in time. As you pull up to the majestic manor, you can’t help but envision some of the country’s most influential families who once traveled up the same roadway and relished in the beauty of this unique island.
Jekyll Island Club is steeped in history. The Club officially opened its doors in January 1888, quickly becoming a retreat for families representing one-sixth of the world’s wealth. With such a long history, it will probably be no surprise that this resort has some “guests” from back in its heyday, yes, spirits. Though I didn’t see any on my visit, it’s my understanding they are very friendly and well-mannered.
Jekyll Island Club Resort offers everything you could want to relax, have fun, and enjoy your getaway. The hotel even has a 3,700-foot airstrip for private planes. With more than 50 activities for enjoyment, like the beautiful swimming pool, putting green, tournament-level croquet lawn, and renting bicycles, you wouldn’t need to leave the resort grounds. Tennis enthusiasts and golfers will be happy with the nearby facilities. Fishing opportunities are close as well.
Jekyll Island Club Hotel is in a truly breathtaking location on Jekyll Island, with a glorious view of the Jekyll River and the lovely surroundings! The hotel’s riverfront pavilion is the perfect invitation “to relax and enjoy Jekyll Island’s ten-mile expanse of sandy beaches.”
Suppose you want to do more than relax and lay on the beach. In that case, there are so many things to do, such as historical tours (walking and trolley tours available). Something you may see on these tours is a “cottage” owned by the Rockefellers, and 80% of the furniture in the cottage was original actual Rockefeller furnishings. They were able to identify the furniture thanks to Mrs. Rockefeller’s love of photography. You might also see Chase Cottage, which is Chevy Chase’s great-grandparents’ cottage. In addition to the tours, you can visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, Mosiac Museum, book horseback riding on the beach, take a dolphin tour, and so much more.
Next, take a short drive over to St. Simons Island. This island has that quaint beach town feel to it, with the small, locally owned businesses and fabulous eateries located all around the island, making this a great place to plan a fun getaway.
If you want an adult-only getaway? We have just the spot. Hotel Simone is the perfect place for those who want to get away for an adult-only weekend. Though there are no children allowed here, your fur babies are welcome! Not only are they welcome, but they are treated as special as their humans. A special doggie bag is available with a frisbee for fun play.
The all-suite hotel makes it a great place to plan an extended stay, as there is plenty of room to relax and rejuvenate after a fun day of sightseeing or a day at the beach. The rooftop pool and bar area are the perfect way to relax, enjoy quality time, and have an adult beverage or two. And if the onsite amenities aren’t enough, you also get access to the King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort and use of the amenities at the resort.
The complimentary breakfast is the perfect way to start your day, with a wide range of options, you’re sure to find something for the healthy breakfast eater and the big breakfast eater alike. You’ll want to take advantage of the breakfast and fuel up for your day as Hotel Simone is located close enough to everything you could want, so you’ll be getting in those steps for sure. Walk to the beach, a brewpub, shopping, restaurants, bike rentals, and the King and Price Beach and Golf Resort – so much within steps of the hotel you won’t even need to get those car keys until it’s time to check out.
With so much to do and see just a tank of gas away from Anderson, why not plan to fill up and head out today?
For more information or to book your stay at Jekyll Island Club Resort, click here.
For more information or to book your stay at Hotel Simone, click here.