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Jekyll Island Club Resort: A Coastal Retreat of Elegance, History, and Southern Soul

by | Aug 29, 2025 | News

Tucked along Georgia’s Golden Isles, where moss-draped oaks sway over sun-drenched paths and the Atlantic whispers just beyond the dunes, there lies a destination that feels like stepping into a storybook. The Jekyll Island Club Resort isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a journey through history, luxury, and nature. Once the winter playground of America’s wealthiest families, it now welcomes travelers seeking a mix of historic charm and modern comfort.

Whether you’re attracted by its Gilded Age history, its award-winning golf (a Georgia Golf Trail course), or the peaceful coastal vibe, Whether you’re drawn to its Gilded Age history, its award-winning golf (a Georgia Golf Trail course), or the tranquil seaside atmosphere, Jekyll Island Club Resort provides an escape that lingers long after you leave. Jekyll Island Club Resort offers an escape that stays with you long after you’ve packed your bags.

A Legacy Carved in Southern Grandeur

Founded in 1886, the Jekyll Island Club was once the most exclusive club in America. By 1888, it had become the winter retreat for titans like the Rockefellers, Morgans, and Vanderbilts. The Queen Anne-style clubhouse and sprawling “cottages”—more akin to mansions—hosted lavish parties, high-stakes negotiations, and even a secret 1910 meeting that laid the groundwork for the Federal Reserve.

Today, the resort is a member of Historic Hotels of America, and its restored buildings serve as a living museum. Guests can explore the grounds on guided tours, stroll past preserved architecture, and dine in rooms once filled with the whispers of American history.

Where Golf Meets Coastal Beauty

For golfers, Jekyll Island is more than a scenic backdrop—it’s a playground of fairways framed by forest and marsh. The resort offers access to two standout courses: Indian Mound and Pine Lakes, each designed by the legendary Joe Lee.

Indian Mound Course: Precision in the Pines

Named after a Native American shell midden found on-site, Indian Mound is a par-72 course that winds through maritime forest and natural sand ridges. Elevated greens and strategic bunkering replace water hazards, demanding thoughtful shot-making and finesse. The fairways are generous, but the real challenge lies in the approach—each green is uniquely contoured, inviting creativity and control.

As you play, white-tailed deer may quietly graze nearby, adding a peaceful rhythm to your round. It’s golf, yes—but it’s also a walk through one of Georgia’s most tranquil ecosystems.

Pine Lakes Course: Family-Friendly with Wild Charm

Pine Lakes is the island’s most accessible course, ideal for families and players of all skill levels. Redesigned to support the Junior Golf program, it offers wide fairways and a forgiving layout. Yet it’s no pushover—towering pines, subtle elevation changes, and roaming wildlife make every round memorable.

Deer often cross the fairways or rest in the shade, reminding you that this isn’t just a game—it’s a nature-infused experience. With a driving range, putting greens, and private lessons available, the Jekyll Island Golf Club caters to both improvement and enjoyment.

Historic Lodging with a Modern Touch

Accommodations at Jekyll Island Club Resort are as diverse as they are luxurious. Whether you’re craving riverside elegance or beachfront bliss, there’s a room—or a suite—waiting to welcome you.

The Clubhouse and Island Cottages

Stay in the original clubhouse, where period-inspired décor meets modern comfort. Think croquet on the lawn, quiet mornings on the veranda, and a pool that’s open year-round. For a more intimate experience, the Island Cottages—like Crane Cottage and Sans Souci—offer mansion-style lodging with privacy and charm. These homes, once owned by Club members, have been lovingly restored to blend elegance with history.

Jekyll Ocean Club: Beachfront Bliss

Steps from the beach, the Jekyll Ocean Club offers a contemporary twist on coastal luxury. This all-suite hotel features oversized rooms with ocean views, private balconies, and access to a sun-drenched pool deck. It’s the only all-suite resort on the island, and a favorite for those seeking a modern, beachfront escape.

Southern Flavors, Coastal Views

Dining at the resort is a celebration of Southern hospitality and coastal cuisine. Whether you’re dressed for dinner or barefoot from the beach, there’s a table—and a view—waiting for you.

The Grand Dining Room

Located in the historic clubhouse, the Grand Dining Room offers an elegant setting for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Signature dishes like shrimp and grits or pecan-crusted grouper showcase the region’s culinary heritage, served with a side of timeless ambiance.

The Wharf: Sunset and Seafood

Perched over the water, The Wharf is the resort’s casual gem. Fresh seafood, craft cocktails, and live music create a laid-back vibe perfect for sunset dining. Try the fried green tomatoes or a classic Lowcountry boil as the sky turns gold.

Eighty Ocean Kitchen & Bar

At the Jekyll Ocean Club, Eighty Ocean Kitchen & Bar delivers beachfront dining with seasonal, locally sourced fare. From hearty breakfasts to poolside cocktails and starlit dinners, it’s a place where every meal feels like a celebration.

Additional options include The Pantry for grab-and-go bites and The Bar & Alexander Lounge for handcrafted cocktails in vintage surroundings.

Why Jekyll Island Club Resort Should Be Your Next Escape

Jekyll Island Club Resort isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. It’s the hush of history beneath your feet, the swing of a club under ancient oaks, the taste of Southern flavors kissed by sea breeze. It’s where elegance meets ease, and every moment invites you to slow down and savor.

Whether you’re a history buff, a golf enthusiast, or simply someone in search of coastal serenity, this resort delivers a rare kind of magic. One that doesn’t just stay with you—it calls you back.

jekyllclub.com

About the Author

<a href="https://golfonemedia.com/author/alan_darty/" target="_self">Alan Darty</a>

Alan Darty

Alan Darty is a highly regarded golf media publisher with over twenty years of experience in the industry. He founded eSouthernGOLF.com in 2001. After deciding to transition from a regional platform to a national one, he sold eSouthernGOLF.com and launched Golf One Media in 2023 to reach a broader audience. These platforms have been essential in connecting golf enthusiasts with the latest news, insights, and innovations in the sport. Alan's commitment to storytelling and love for the sport has earned him respect in the golf community. A second-generation Florida native, Alan's passion for golf and the outdoors shines through in his work. In addition to his professional achievements, he enjoys spending quality time with his wife and family, supporting his daughters, who coach volleyball at Oviedo High School in Florida and Mississippi State University, and pursuing hobbies like hunting and fishing.