For golf travelers chasing the perfect blend of fairways and ocean breezes, Jekyll Island, Georgia, is a destination that delivers on every swing. This storied barrier island has reclaimed the spotlight with the much-anticipated reopening of the historic Great Dunes Course, a coastal classic reborn for a new generation of players. Off the greens, three standout hotels—the Holiday Inn Resort, Courtyard by Marriott, and Residence Inn Suites—offer inviting stays that pair modern comfort with island charm, ensuring your golf getaway is as relaxing as it is unforgettable.
The Rebirth of Great Dunes
Jekyll Island has long been a golf destination, but the recent restoration and reopening of the Great Dunes Course has elevated its appeal even further. Initially designed in 1927 by legendary architect Walter Travis, Great Dunes was once a nine-hole gem that showcased the island’s windswept dunes and oceanfront beauty. After years of planning and careful work, the course has been reborn as a complete 18-hole layout, blending Travis’s original vision with new holes inspired by his design philosophy.
Golfers can now enjoy a course that is both historic and modern, with wide fairways, strategic bunkering, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or a casual player, Great Dunes offers a memorable round that captures the essence of coastal golf.
Where to Stay on Jekyll Island
After a rewarding day on the fairways, the right accommodations can make all the difference in your golf getaway. Fortunately, Jekyll Island offers a range of excellent lodging options that combine comfort, convenience, and coastal charm. Here are three standout Jekyll Island hotels—each with its own unique personality and amenities—that provide the perfect home base for golf travelers looking to balance time on the course with relaxation by the sea.
Holiday Inn Resort Jekyll Island
For travelers who want a family-friendly, oceanfront stay, the Holiday Inn Resort Jekyll Island is a standout choice. Located directly on the beach, this property combines comfort with convenience, making it easy to balance time on the course with time by the water.
Guests can expect:
- Spacious rooms and suites, many with ocean views.
- A heated outdoor pool and children’s splash area.
- On-site dining at 24 Coastal Grill, offering fresh seafood and Southern-inspired dishes.
- A fitness center, playground, and bike rentals, perfect for active families.
- Pet-friendly accommodations, so even four-legged companions can join the trip.
- The resort is also just minutes from the Jekyll Island Golf Club, making it an ideal base for golfers who want to maximize their time on the fairways while still enjoying resort-style amenities.
Courtyard by Marriott Jekyll Island
If you’re looking for a modern, stylish hotel with a touch of coastal charm, the Courtyard by Marriott Jekyll Island delivers. This beachfront property is one of the island’s newest additions and offers a sleek, contemporary atmosphere that appeals to both leisure and business travelers.
Highlights include:
- Spacious guest rooms and junior suites with free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, and flat-screen TVs.
- The Bistro and Shore Restaurant serves everything from morning coffee to ocean-inspired dinners.
- A large outdoor pool and whirlpool, perfect for unwinding after a round of golf.
- A state-of-the-art fitness center for those who want to keep up their workout routine.
- Pet-friendly rooms, so you don’t have to leave your furry friend behind.
- The Courtyard also boasts oceanfront event space, making it an excellent choice for golf groups planning tournaments, weddings, or corporate retreats. Its location near bike trails and the Georgia Sea Turtle Center adds extra appeal for travelers who want to explore beyond the course.
Residence Inn by Marriott Jekyll Island (Suites)
For golf travelers planning a more extended stay or group trip, the Residence Inn by Marriott Jekyll Island is the ultimate home-away-from-home. This all-suite property offers the space and flexibility that many golfers crave, especially when traveling with friends or family.
Key features include:
- Spacious suites with full kitchens, separate living areas, and ergonomic workstations.
- Complimentary hot breakfast each morning, fueling you up before your tee time.
- An outdoor pool, whirlpool, and splash pad, ideal for relaxation after a day on the links.
- On-site dining at Shore Restaurant, serving coastal cuisine in a casual setting.
- Pet-friendly accommodations and easy beach access.
- The Residence Inn is particularly appealing for groups who want to cook their own meals, spread out in larger living spaces, and enjoy the comforts of home while still being just minutes from Jekyll Island’s golf courses.
Choosing the Right Stay for Your Golf Getaway
Each of these Jekyll Island Hotels offers something a little different, making it easy to tailor your Jekyll Island golf trip to your personal style. If you’re traveling with kids or want a lively, family-friendly atmosphere, the Holiday Inn Resort is a natural fit with its pool, playground, and beachfront access. For golfers who prefer a sleek, modern vibe with stylish amenities, the Courtyard by Marriott delivers with its contemporary design and oceanfront dining. And if your trip is longer or you’re traveling with a group, the Residence Inn Suites provides the comfort of home with spacious layouts and full kitchens, perfect for an extended stay. No matter which you choose, you’ll be just minutes from the fairways and surrounded by the island’s coastal beauty.
Why Jekyll Island is a Golfer’s Paradise
Beyond the hotels and Great Dunes, Jekyll Island offers a complete golf traveler’s experience. With 54 holes of golf across multiple courses, year-round mild weather, and stunning natural scenery, it’s a destination that combines sport with serenity. Off the course, visitors can explore Driftwood Beach, the historic district, and the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, ensuring that non-golfers in your group will have plenty to enjoy as well.
Jekyll Island Hotels and Golf: The Perfect Pairing for Your Coastal Escape
Jekyll Island is more than just a golf stop—it’s a destination where history, hospitality, and natural beauty converge. With the revitalized Great Dunes Course offering a world-class playing experience and three excellent hotels—Holiday Inn Resort, Courtyard by Marriott, and Residence Inn Suites—providing comfort and convenience, golf travelers will find everything they need for a memorable trip.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a week-long golf retreat, Jekyll Island is ready to welcome you with open fairways and ocean breezes.
