Spend an unforgettable day at Great Dunes Park, the gorgeous beachside parkland on Jekyll Island’s eastern coast. With its waterfront views, excellent facilities and great location, the park is fully equipped for a wonderful day out. Grab a table at the beachside pavilion and enjoy a picnic with the family or follow some of the meandering bike trails that wind along this beautiful stretch of coast.
Spend some time exploring the park’s fantastic surroundings. Wander along Jekyll Island’s sandy beach and see if you can spot turtle prints in the sand. If the weather is warm, splash and play in the ocean waters. Stretch out on the sand and listen to the dune grasses rustling in the breeze. If you’re lucky, you might see staff from the Georgia Sea Turtle Center releasing a rehabilitated turtle back into the wild.
Pack a picnic and choose from a range of picturesque spots to set up. Grill your meal at the Great Dunes Park picnic pavilions or pick a spot on the covered beach deck. Alternatively, spread out a picnic blanket on the grassy lawn that stretches along the shore behind the beach. If you feel like dining indoors, select from restaurants and bars located on either side of the park. Whichever you choose, the views will be magnificent. While waiting for the meal, the kids can play on the playground located behind the park. Challenge your friends to a round of mini-golf.
If you feel like going on an adventure, rent a bicycle or a Segway from the facilities behind the park. Jekyll Island’s trail network incorporates about 20 miles (30 kilometers) of bike trails. Cruise along broad waterfront promenades and see the island at your own pace.
Great Dunes Park is located on Jekyll Island’s eastern coast, directly behind the main beach. Find easy beach access and plenty of parking alongside the park. The site has public restrooms, picnic areas and grills. Visit the park for free any time of day.