Summer on The Coast

Take an affordable trip to this fabled Georgia island where millionaires flocked.

Once the winter retreat for America's wealthy industrialists, Jekyll Island now preserves its charms for everyone. The Historic District abounds with stories of its 125-year-old past, while the rest of the 10-mile island remains wilder than ever. Come spend sunny days here enjoying its many beauties.

Start your visit with an overview of the Millionaire Village on a guided tour by Victoria's Carriages ($10 adults, $5 ages 10 and under). Then walk around to see the old structures. Don't miss the gothic Faith Chapel (open to the public from 2 to 4 p.m. daily), with its Louis Comfort Tiffany stained-glass window, or the lobby of the Jekyll Island Club hotel. just down the sidewalk, check out Crane Cottage, which features guestrooms and a fabulous restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine in the courtyard.

Elsewhere in the district, browse the charming shops, such as Jekyll Books at the Old Infirmary-ideal for grabbing a beach read-and The Commissary, which features Southern-style jams, preserves, and specialty food items.

Schedule time to explore the beach, woods, and riverside. The same folks who run the carriage tours also host horseback riding trips ($35 for 1 hour; call [912] 6359500 for reservations). The Tidelands Nature Center, a University of Georgia 4-H program, teaches visitors about the ecology of the island. In addition to interpretive displays, the facility offers guided walks and kayak tours ([912] 635-5032).

You'll find motels and hotels that cost more and less on Jekyll, but The Beachview Club is by far the most comfortable, well-appointed, and in the best location. Summer rates for a king efficiency start at $149 and range to $279 for an oceanfront grand suite (1-800-299-2228 or www.beachviewclub.com).

Begin and end your days here with the passing of the sun and the tides. It will fill your memories with treasures.

For more information: Jekyll Island Authority, toll free 1-877-453-5955 or www.jekyllisland.com. Three-day island pass: $12.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Jun 2004
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