Travel Tips: Jekyll Island's Best Beaches with Photo Tour

 Jekyll Island is located just off the Georgia coast. One of the Golden Isles, Jekyll is a favorite destination for families and couples. Since it's owned by the state, much of the island has been left in its natural state. It's covered with flowers, shrubs, wildlife, and grarled oak trees draped with lacy Spanish moss.

Jekyll has several beaches, and each has its own personality:

St. Andrews Beach: Located at the southern tip of the island, this beach is very secluded. It's a favorite with fishermen and couples who prefer privacy. I've never seen this beach crowded. The oaks here are massive, and some have limbs that sweep all the way to the ground, making it perfect for photography. St. Andrews is good for sunning and wading, but not for swimming. The current gets pretty nasty at any depth.

Main Beach: Jekyll's Main Beach is located at the center of the Atlantic side. This is the most crowded beach on the island, and it's the most popular with young people. The beach is probably the widest on the isle, too, and beach volleyball and frisbee are popular here. Snack bars and convenience stores are nearby, and free parking at the beach is provided.

Driftwood Beach and Clam Creek Park: Located near the north end of the island, Clam Creek Park has shady picnic areas dotted along the tidal creek. There are also restrooms and a concrete fishing pier. Horseback riding along the beach and through the maritime forest is available. Cross the foot bridge near the pier to get to Driftwood Beach. This is a pristine beach named for its abundance of driftwood. It's seldom crowded, so it's a great spot for couples or for anyone who just wants some peace and quiet.

If this is your first trip to Jekyll, don't expect to find crystal clear water - you won't. Because of so many fresh water creeks draining in to the waters around the island, the waters are somewhat muddy. Amazingly, however, the water quality is rated high because of the low levels of contaminants. And there's one good thing about the water: the muddier it is, the more sand dollars you'll find in the surf.