The Jekyll Island Turtle Gram Blog

Mar 8, Playing on the Clay

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:49:29 GMT

Jekyll Island - Let's face it. The older we get, the harder it is to recover from the games we play. For me, it's tennis. For some reason, I like hitting that fuzzy yellow ball around. I play ALTA and USTA, hit with a group of like-minded friends on Monday nights, and sometimes pick up a game here and there during the week, on top of rallying with Martha. I can still motivate pretty good around the hard courts while competing, but for the next couple of days I move like death warmed over as my worn-out, decrepit joints remind me of just how old I really am. That's hard court tennis for you. Give me a clay court any time. Clay courts are much more forgiving on the joints. The clay surface slows down the game, and gives old fogies like me more of a chance to keep up with the younger guys I seem to be playing more and more lately. Plus, some of my more devious shots (droppers, inside-out spin, weird slice) seem to just "die" on clay. I've found that teens and young guys just hate those type shots - they're used to meeting power with power, and sometimes don't know what to do with the "junk". That's why Martha calls me the "Junk Monkey". On your next Jekyll Island Family Adventure, grab the family and head over to the Jekyll Island Tennis Center, where they have 13 wonderful clay courts - and none of those joint-popping hard courts. Let pro Pete Poole introduce you to the joys of clay court tennis. Nough said - Rick

Mar 3, Jekyll Island Seasons

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 21:57:10 GMT

Jekyll Island - Coming off a brutal winter, it doesn't take much imagination to lean back and dream of warmer climes - like Jekyll Island. Jekyll Island seasons are pretty moderate. During an average winter, Jekyll is a great place to visit, especially if you live up north. It's always warmer on the island (that's why the millionaires liked it for their winter home). Spring can be finicky. I've been on the island in April when it was cold enough outside for a light coat and long pants; and other times, when it was as hot as summer. Speaking of summer - it's hot! But there's plenty of shaded nooks, cool breezes off the ocean, and sparkling swimming pools at the hotels to negate that heat. Ice cream or frozen yogurt helps, too! My favorite Jekyll Island season is fall. We like to travel down in October - the best month for Jekyll Island Family Adventures, as far as I'm concerned. The air is still warm, but with a hint of crispness to come. In reality, it's all good. Jekyll Island is the right vacation destination in any season. Nough said - Rick

Mar 1, The Jekyll Island Causeway, Your Portal to Adventure

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 19:27:08 GMT

The Jekyll Island Causeway is your route to your own private island getaway!

Feb 26, What's On Your Nightstand?

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 22:55:05 GMT

Jekyll Island - If you're like me, you go on vacation not only to experience new adventures, but to unwind. And what better way to unwind than with a good book. Right now I'm reading a thriller by Paul Garrison titled "Sea Hunter", about a genetically engineered "killphin", a cross between a killer whale and a spinner dolphin. So far it's been pretty good. My taste runs to thrillers, suspense, fantasy and horror, and I stock up when we go to Jekyll Island. In fact, I've learned to always carry a book with me wherever I go. One good thing about leasing a vacation cottage on Jekyll - they're all owner-owned, and most owners have plenty of books in their homes, from the classics to the newest best-sellers. You can get an idea of the owners' personalities by how they decorate their rentals, and by the kind of books on their shelves. Some like non-fiction about Jekyll Island or the low country; others have esoteric tomes about philosophy or politics; then there are those who like biographys; and others have plenty of fiction on hand, including books for children. Books are the ultimate entertainment device. Relatively small, portable, easy to use, and inexpensive. Open a book, and it opens you to the discovery of worlds. My library card is one of my most prized possessions. You can take a book to the beach, and not have to worry about getting sand in it. Going on vacation soon? Don't forget to pack a book. Nough said - Rick

Feb 23, Southern Comfort

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 21:16:35 GMT

Jekyll Island - When in the South, there are a few things that you can't do without. One is warmth. When temperatures drop, Southerners start getting antsy. Another is grits. What's a hash brown, anyway? But the one thing a true Southerner must have several times a day is - sweet iced tea. We drink it in place of water. With a slice of lemon or lime. By the pitcher full. In tall glasses or Solo cups. Making really good iced tea is an art. My grandma could do it. I can only make a reasonable facsimile of the stuff, but there are a few restaurants in my home town where I know I can get really good sweat iced tea. Some (like my wife) drink it un-sweetened. Seems like a sin, to me... Jekyll Island restaurants serve up some pretty good iced tea, and we always keep a pitcher in the fridge. Cause after a day outdoors in the summer heat, you got to stay hydrated. And nothing says hydration like a gallon of sweet iced tea. Nough said - Rick

Feb 23, Kick Off Easter Fun at the Jekyll Island Easter Egg Stroll

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 20:53:33 GMT

Looking for Easter fun for young children? Check out Jekyll Island's Easter Egg Stroll

Feb 22, Skim Boarding

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 21:53:34 GMT

Jekyll Island - I knew I was in for it when the boys came home with a skim board. "Come on, Dad," they said. "Let's hit the beach and try out this thing". For those who aren't in the know, a skim board is a thin, short surfboard wanna-be, used by athletic youngsters to skim the shallow, slick water just off the beach. Another definition is a Dad torture device. Of course, the boys were naturals. They ate sand a few times before finding their rhythm and the correct way to mount the board. The skim board is launched from the beach, into the shallows. You kind of run in a crouch, slide the board somewhat parallel to the beach as the surf is receding, and step on, one foot at a time. You don't jump on, as I found out the hard way, 'cause the sudden weight transfer (especially my weight transfer) causes the board to break surface tension and plow into the sand. The term the boys used for wiping out on the skim board was "eating sand". I developed a taste for sand that day. Don't think I ever got the hang of it, but I kept trying, to Josh and Scott's delight (and derision, I suppose). Still, the old man gave it a go. The best part was laying back on the sand, sipping a cold diet Coke, and watching my boys laugh and play in the surf. I learned a few things, though. Old bones don't recover as fast as they used to. And a ham sandwich tastes better than a beach "sand-wich" any day. 'Nough said - Rick

Feb 19, Them Squirrels

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 18:17:32 GMT

Jekyll Island - Squirrels have become a big part of our Jekyll Island Family Adventures. I know what you're thinking. Squirrels? Those funny rodent-looking things? You bet. We like squirrels. They're cute and entertaining, to say the least. I've written about Hungry Jack, the pirate squirrel, in a previous blog post and on my Cafe Solterra page. http://www.jekyll-island-family-adventures.com/restaurants-for-kids.html But other Jekyll Island squirrels have made a place in our hearts. We make it a point to visit our squirrel friends at South Dunes picnic area. They love peanuts, and Martha usually carries around a bag to snack on. Occasionally she'll "accidentally" drop one for the squirrels. They may be the fattest squirrels on Jekyll Island. You can see squirrels anywhere. They like the veranda at Cafe Solterra, and the deck at SeaJay's, where they can panhandle to their heart's content. Keep an eye out for those furry opportunists the next time you visit Jekyll Island. You'll get a kick out of their antics. Nough said - Rick

Feb 17, An Apology

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 20:06:51 GMT

Just wanted to apologize for a glitch I noticed in our "Contact Us" form - it wasn't putting up our "Thank You" response page. I've corrected this, and the form should work fine from now on. Thanks, Rick

Feb 17, Bottlenose Dolphins Live and Play in Dolphin Habitat off Jekyll Island Coast

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 18:18:26 GMT

Kids love bottlenose dolphins. Jekyll Island has great dolphin habitat for spotting the Atlantic dolphin.

Feb 16, No-see ums

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 16:59:47 GMT

Jekyll Island - Springs a-comin', and it couldn't come any sooner if you ask me. I'm just about ready to move to Key West. I wish. But I'll be heading to Jekyll Island in April, and I can't wait. April on Jekyll Island is finicky. We've been there when it was so hot we thought it was summer, and at other times liked to have froze our butts off. You never know what you'll get. Wait til May, though, and I'll tell you what you'll get - sand flies. No-see ums. Those tiny insect pests that seem to be all wings and teeth. Cause they bite, and their bites are irritating, to say the least. I find them more irksome than mosquitoes. But don't let the lowly sand fly keep you from enjoying Jekyll Island. Bring the aloe and bug balm. Something with DEET in it works good. Find a spot where the breeze blows, and they'll be less of a problem. Hope to see you all on Jekyll Island soon! Nough said - Rick

Feb 16, See Dolphin Pods and Wildlife on Jekyll Island Dolphin Tours

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 16:47:30 GMT

Spotting dolphin pods off the coast are a kid's delight. Check out Jekyll Island dolphin tours.

Feb 15, Public Beach Access to Jekyll Island Beaches

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 17:07:31 GMT

Easy public beach access points for Jekyll Island beaches. Great family beach fun, and dog friendly beaches, too.

Feb 12, Jekyll Island Airport. Perfect for Plane Travel to Paradise

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 16:41:07 GMT

Arrive at Jekyll Island in style. Enjoy the convenience of flying into the Jekyll Island Airport.

Feb 12, Journey to Jekyll Island Ga by Inland Waterway

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 16:18:09 GMT

For a different perspective, take the Intra-coastal Waterway route to Jekyll Island Ga and enjoy the beauty of the Eastern Seaboard.

Feb 11, Best Georgia Attractions Feature Jekyll Island Sports and Recreation Activities

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 17:00:11 GMT

Active recreation opportunities are family favorites. Jekyll Island Georgia attractions include golf, tennis, soccer, and more, for kids and parents.

Feb 11, Kite Flying Stunt Kites Perfect for Jekyll Island Beaches

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 16:44:04 GMT

Flying stunt kites are a thrill for kids and adults alike. Fly a Dragon kite, Chinese kites, and more!

Feb 11, Bigwheels

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 02:16:25 GMT

Jekyll Island - When Josh was about 6, and Scott 2, we'd head to Jekyll Island with a carload of toys. One must-have item: Josh's Bigwheel. You all remember Bigwheels? That plastic trike-like contraption with the giant front wheel. Operated by pedal (read "boy") power, that thing could fly, and turn on a dime. We'd bring our bikes, and load Scott in a toddler carrier with a helmet (which he didn't like at all) and take off. Josh would ride his Bigwheel. And he'd keep up with us. Sometimes forge ahead. I remember looking down at him, and the determination on his face to do his part was something to see. He'd ride that thing all over the island, even the beach, where, being plastic, it undoubtedly fared better than our bikes. Inevitably, though, he'd tire out, usually miles from our rental. Then one of us would have to lug the Bigwheel home - until we learned to take a rope with us, and tow him along. That he loved! Later, Scott inherited the Bigwheel, and by the time he was finished with it, it wasn't worth a snowball in the hot place. I'll forever treasure our Jekyll Island Family Adventures, when the boys were young, every experience was a journey into unknown territory, and interacting with my kids was a joyful experience. And you know what? It's still that way now that their adults. 'Nough said - Rick

Feb 11, How Barrier Island Formation Occurs Through Beach Erosion

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 01:59:07 GMT

How does barrier island formation start? With beach erosion and sand depositon by wind and waves.

Feb 9, Jekyll Books Jekyll Island's Best New and Used Book Stores

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 15:16:39 GMT

Jekyll Books a unique new and used book store for books about Jekyll Island, non-fiction and fiction

Feb 8, Rocky Top

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 19:11:17 GMT

Jekyll Island - When we visit Jekyll Island, one of our favorite pass times is to head to SeaJay's or the Rah Bar on the evenings that Eddie Pickett and the Wharf Ratz are playing. Eddie is a blues musician extraordinaire, and there's not much better than eating SeaJay's low-country broil, sipping a cold Corona, and listening to some kick-butt bluegrass and country music. One of our family rituals is for Martha to make a request for Eddie to play "Rocky Top". Why she wants to hear this every time I don't know - after all, I'm a Georgia Bulldog, not a Tennessee Vol! But as Eddie pointed out, "Rocky Top" has been around longer than those Vols have had it for their song. A matter of a great song being adopted by a college, not the other way around (just kidding, Tennessee. We know you're a good school - just not Dawg quality). Whichever way you look at it, Eddie is always gracious enough to play the song, even when he's not with his full Wharf Ratz band. He played it once with no banjo player (sacrilege!!!), and when his drummer got sick and had to leave. Eddie's a good sport. And a great bluegrass virtuoso. Go see him at SeaJays, where he plays most Thursdays, Fridays and/or Saturdays. Nough said - Rick

Feb 8, Hotels in Jekyll Island Now Include the New Hampton Inn and Suites

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:45:04 GMT

Looking for Hotels in Jekyll Island offering elegance on a budget? Book your premier stay at the new Hampton Inn.

Feb 3, Stars on the Water

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 02:49:40 GMT

Jekyll Island - There's something about the beach at night. The daytime beach is full of life, kids frolicking, adults sun bathing, gulls winging overhead, sunlight dancing on the waves, shrimp boats plying the waters. But at night, the feel is entirely different. There's a mystery about a beach at night. Stand at the surf line and stare out at the endless black ocean. It seems to tug at you. Then, raise your eyes to the heavens. The dark sea blends with the ebony night. Stars are everywhere, and much more noticeable away from the lights of the cities. You can easily make out the constellations, and sometimes even the Milky Way. The mind wonders - what is swimming out there, un-seen, in the night. Hunting... But if you're like me, you can't help being drawn to the beach at night. No matter how many times I visit the beach after dark, I feel that pull, that yearning to discover far-flung places, just over the darkling sea... Nough said - Rick

Feb 2, Leaping Mullet!

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 02:56:41 GMT

Jekyll Island - Do you dare brave the horrors of Rixen Pond? Well, it's maybe not that bad. But there are hazards when kayaking across Rixen. You get to play "Mullet Roulette". The rules are simple. Make it across the pond without getting a face-full of leaping mullet. Mullet (of the family Mugilidae) in Rixen Pond like to jump. The thrill is that you never know when and where one of the finny fish will decide to leap. I've seen them jumping all over the pond, some within feet of my boat. Other folks have stated that the frisky fish will even jump into your boat - or your face. One girl was reportedly almost knocked out by a marauding mullet. So take a chance - grab a kayak, and brave the waters of Rixen Pond. You might just come back with supper - without even having to throw out a line. Nough said - Rick

Jan 30, Three (Sort Of) Secluded Places on Jekyll Island

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 01:26:47 GMT

Jekyll Island - Want to get away from the crowds? Visit these 3 semi-secluded sites on Jekyll Island.

The Amphitheater Pond - if you like birds, and want to watch them to your heart's content without a bunch of people around, hike the trail that goes behind the amphitheater to the pond where you'll find roosting cranes, herons, and egrets.
Jekyll Point - this beach will have you thinking you're on a deserted isle! Located on the extreme southern tip of Jekyll Island, and a good place to spot shore birds.
Shark's Tooth Beach - the trail to STB is located just south of Summer Waves Water Park, and is about a mile long. Usually nobody around on this sand and shell covered eyebrow of beach on the river side of Jekyll Island. Best time to hunt for shark's teeth? Extreme low tide.

Next time you're looking for seclusion, try these spots on for size. Nough said - Rick

Jan 26, Winged Fishers

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 15:11:02 GMT

Jekyll Island - One of the most relaxing things to do on Jekyll Island is to stroll hand in hand along the beach with your special someone, and just observe. Best times are mornings and late afternoons, when the heat dissipates a bit. I like to watch the birds catching their meals on the wing. Seagulls are good at spotting small fish. They'll be winging along, then kind of hover before pointing their beaks downward and diving into the sea and popping to the surface with their catch. Gulls are opportunistic, also. They love to trail shrimp boats and harvest what the boats stir up. They'll eat just about anything. Pelicans are also diving birds. A flock of pelicans gliding a foot above the water is a beautiful sight. My favorite fisher-birds are Ospreys. Martha and I were at the back side of Rixen Pond, standing on one of the fishing piers. Ospreys had their nests in the area, and I was joking about how cool it would be if one would swoop down and catch a fish when we heard a splash about 30 yards away. We looked over just in time to see an osprey hauling a helpless mullet into the sky. Awesome. We watched for I don't know how long as the osprey flew around with the fish in it's talons, winging here and their over the pond and surrounding trees until finally settling down with the fish in it's nest. Were not sure, but we speculated the bird was carrying the fish around until it weakened or died from lack of oxygenated water, so it would be easier to handle in the nest with the chicks. Anyone know the reason? Nough said - Rick

Jan 25, Perfect Jekyll Island Hotel for Families is the Days Inn and Suites

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 22:01:47 GMT

A Jekyll Island hotel for budget concious families, the Days Inn and Suites won't break the bank.

Jan 25, Key Lime Pie

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 15:09:58 GMT

Jekyll Island - When my family heads to Jekyll Island, the further south we go the more our thoughts turn to...food! Seafood. Shrimp and Grits. And Key Lime Pie. Yum! Of course we can get that stuff at home, but there's something about eating seafood and Key Lime pie on the coast. It just tastes better. Especially Key Lime pie. On Jekyll Island, you can get it at most any restaurant. I like to get a big slice at SeaJays and sit out on their deck and savor it while watching the boats sailing along the Intra-coastal Waterway. Blackbeards, Latitude 31...they've got the sweet stuff. I never tried it at the Grand Dining Room, but I bet it's great there (they have a real pastry chef). Actually, I probably eat too much Key Lime pie while on Jekyll Island. One reason we lease a home on our stay is that my son Josh (who's a mean cook) can make his famous Key Lime pie, and we'll have it all to ourselves. I've heard that some of the old-time residents of Jekyll Island and the surrounding area know the secret to creating heavenly Key Lime pie. Stay tuned to Jekyll Island Family Adventures - we're going to try to get them to share their secrets! Nough said - Rick

Jan 24, In Deep Sand

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 23:14:51 GMT

Jekyll Island - You can have lots of fun with your kids on Jekyll Island's wide, flat, uncrowded, firm-packed beaches. But the sand has a different quality above the water line. I call this sand "torture sand". Why? Cause it's torture to move through it. Torture sands are loose and deep, not packed like the "good" sand. It's like walking through desert dunes. Your feet sink into the stuff, and you feel as if weights were shackled around your ankles. You shuffle along, panting like a dog. And your kids, 100 lbs. lighter than you (well, maybe 200 lbs. lighter in my case) dance around you, light footed, frolicking freely in the torture sand. Durn kids... Torture sand is good for an aerobic workout - for about thirty seconds. Try running in the stuff and you'll know what I mean. World class athletes swear by exercising in torture sand. Another name for world class athlete is masochist. Torture sand is interesting stuff. Things live there. Like ghost crabs. They love to make their burrows there. Who hasn't tried to sneak up on a ghost crab, only to have it scurry sideways and duck into its hole in a fluid move reminiscent of a world class athlete. Maybe cause they live in the stuff. I guess you could spread a blanket in torture sand and get a good tan - if you can keep from thinking about all those ghost crabs, sneaking around, maybe creeping up. Getting closer, and closer... Torture sand not only tortures by wearing a person (grown-up) down, but on a hot day it will scorch your tootsies. But, hey - it's the beach. And a bad day in the torture sands of Jekyll Island is better than a good day at work. Nough said - Rick

Jan 21, Splash

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 15:05:09 GMT

Jekyll Island - It's not hard to make children happy. Want to know a free activity that's sure to put a smile on your kids' faces? Take them on a walk in the summer rain. Jekyll Island is a perfect place for strolling in the rain. A gentle, warm rain is best. To kids, this is a forbidden delight, and they can hardly fathom their luck. Mom and Dad are letting them play in the rain! Jekyll, being a coastal island, is basically flat. There are plenty of places where the rain will collect for a while into puddles. My boy Josh used to call these puddles "splashes". As in "There's a splash, Dad. Can I jump in it? Can I?" And of course if you're walking in the rain anyway, the answer must always be an enthusiastic "Yes!". And then you join them in frolicking carefree in the "splash". Nough said - Rick

Jan 18, Jekyll Island Campground Great Venue for Jekyll Island Camping

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 18:04:26 GMT

The Jekyll Island campground is perfect for Georgia RV camping. Enjoy Jekyll Island camping at its best.

Jan 18, The Cats Meow

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 15:39:47 GMT

Jekyll Island - I knew it. When Martha found out I wrote a post on dogs on Jekyll Island, she insisted I give equal opportunity to cats. She's a cat person. Me - I tolerate them. We have one (or he has us) named Henry, who's of course the King of the Known Universe. I would never, ever consider taking Henry to Jekyll Island unless we move there - who wants to spend their vacation catering to the whims of a spoiled cat? When we go to Jekyll Island, we ride bikes all over the island (by far the best way to get around there), and even walk places. Martha keeps an eye out for cats. She'll bring along some dry cat food for a treat, and uses it to bribe - I mean make friends with - island cats she comes across. We've encountered feline fur balls in various neighborhoods, at the Jekyll Island Club and wandering the Historic District. One of the most well known Jekyll Island cats is Catfish, the real owner of SeaJay's Waterfront Cafe. He's a yellow domestic short hair, maybe the laziest cat on the island. You'd be lazy too if all you had to do was lay around and eat seafood. Hey, that sounds like the perfect Jekyll Island vacation! Nough said - Rick

Jan 12, Spin Your Beach Wedding Ideas into the Perfect Jekyll Island Wedding

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 23:09:36 GMT

Best beach wedding ideas come to life on Jekyll Island. Beach weddings make memorable outdoor weddings.

Jan 12, Affordable Family Vacations on Jekyll Island Perfect for Family Events

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 22:02:08 GMT

Affordable family vacations on Jekyll Island. Plan perfect beach wedding celebrations and family reunions.

Jan 11, Dog Gone It!

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 22:46:55 GMT

Jekyll Island - Jekyll Island is known for it's canine-friendly policies, and is most hospitable to fur-faces. I list the hotels, restaurants and venues I'm familiar with below. But call ahead first to verify hotel and restaurant policies - they can change at any time. Several hotels on the island allow man's best friend. The Clarion Resort, Quality Inn and Suites, Oceanside Inn and Suites, and Villas-by-the-Sea all allow dogs. For a $25.00 pet fee per night, the Clarion invites Fido to enjoy their hospitality (only dogs up to 25 pounds). Quality Inn is a little more lenient, allowing 2 dogs of any size per room for $10.00/night per pet. For $10.00, furry faced family members can stat at Oceanside Inn and Suites, with no weight restrictions or pets-per-room limit. Villas-by-the-Sea allows canine guests for a one-time fee based on the size of the villa. Want to stay in a rental home? Contact Parker-Kaufman or Jekyll Island Realty for a pet-friendly cottage. Look for one with a fenced-in yard where the dog can hang out without supervision (and you won't have to baby set him for your entire vacation!). Dogs of all sizes can stay at the Jekyll Island Campground for no additional fee. Owners must clean up after their pooches. The Campground has a dog walk area to make it easier. The beaches of Jekyll Island are also dog-friendly. Dogs should be leashed around other people, of course, but Jekyll's beaches are wide, flat and uncrowded, and most times you can find a deserted section where you can unleash Fido for a surf-side frolic, or to chase a Frisbee. There are stations posted at the dune walks were dog owners can get "doggy bags" for policing their pets, and trash bins for disposal. Some of the island's eateries are pet-friendly. The Rah Bar allows well-behaved pets on leashes, as does SeaJay's (at their outdoor tables). Pets can ride Victoria's Carriages rides for free (with their humans, of course) and if they are leashed (the dogs, not the humans). Dogs should be well behaved around horses. The tram tours also allow dogs up to the size of a Golden Retriever. Use common sense and be responsible and you, too, can enjoy the company of your furry friend on your Jekyll Island Family Adventure! Nough said - Rick

Jan 7, Brrrrrrrrrrr!!!

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 02:26:01 GMT

Jekyll Island - I heard the horrifying news the other morning as I sipped a Diet Coke and tried to wake up. It was 26 degrees in Brunswick. Now that just ain't right. This is supposed to be the South. You know, warm, balmy breezes, humidity, Southern Belles batting their eyelashes at you. Warm stuff. Brunswick is pretty much south. Right next door to Jekyll Island, in fact. Heck, I was dreaming the night before about Jekyll Island, and how nice it would be to walk on those warm sandy beaches... Where is Global Warming when you need it? Now they're calling for ice and snow tomorrow, and our warm southern clime - including Jekyll Island - is starting to resemble an ice box. There's an old Southern saying that goes something like this - "If you don't like the weather in the South, hang around for a day or so - it'll change". Well, there is one bright spot. We don't live in the North. Maybe move further South... 'Nough said - Rick

Jan 5, Playing Croquet on Jekyll Island a Fine Family Activity

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 20:17:44 GMT

Never tried playing croquet? At the Jekyll Island Club, six wicket croquet rules!

Jan 5, I Don't Have a Clue

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 02:32:22 GMT

Jekyll Island - If you ever played the sleuth game "Clue" as a kid (or an adult), more than likely you'll remember the thrill of unmasking the dastardly murderer. You can relive that experience by helping to solve a "real" real-life murder at the Jekyll Island Club Hotel's "Murder Mystery Dinner Party" on January 17th. Tantalizingly entitled "Murder of a Millionaire", the Murder Mystery Dinner Party gives guests a chance to play Sherlock Holmes. You'll play your part to the hilt, arriving decked out as your character in period dress. Once at the hotel, your supplied with bribe cash, clues and other instructions. As you mingle with the other guests and dig into the mystery, sample as well the heavy hors d'oeuvres dinner served by the hotel's culinary maestro. Make sure to question mysterious characters Reiley Ravish, Bob Bucks, and Katherine Rochester-Nichol, along with a host of suspicious others who may - or may not - know something of import. One thing is certain. Before the evening is out, someone will be "whacked". You'll wrack your brain, examining evidence and uncovering clues in a desperate bid to uncover the murderer before your fellow sleuths do, and win the coveted Smoking Gun Award. The Murder Mystery Dinner Party runs from 6:30 to 8:00 and costs $65.00. It includes the hors d'oeuvres and the chance for fame solving the murder. A cash bar opens at 6:30, also. You'll need reservations. Get them by calling 912-635-2600 or email Sandersson@jekyllclub.com. Hmmmm - I say it was Colonel Mustard in the library with the lead pipe. 'Nough said - Rick

Jan 3, Jekyll Island, Your Family Vacation Destination in Georgia's Golden Isles

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 03:32:47 GMT

For spectacular natural beauty and budget family fun, Jekyll Island can't be beat. It's no wonder our family calls Jekyll our second-home retreat. We go back every chance we get.

Jan 3, Don't Swim After the Beach Ball

Sun, 03 Jan 2010 03:22:17 GMT

Sometimes it's not a good idea to play the hero. The kids were kicking around a beach ball on Jekyll Island's beach, one of those blow-up jobs that are light as a feather. It wasn't long before it wound up in the drink. Over cries of "It's floating away!" and "Dad, get it!", I waded after the ball. But the wind kept carrying it further out, into deeper water. Soon I was forced to start swimming - after a $3.00 beach ball. Seems the closer I got, the more the wind would push that ball just out of reach. I finally did catch up to it, but couldn't get a grip on the slippery thing - it kept shooting away from me. I finally caught it, and turned around to swim back, and...how the heck did I get way out here? Are those ants on the beach? With some trepidation I started swimming back, only to encounter a slight problem - the wind was still blowing off-shore, and there was a pronounced current flowing, too. It was a heck of a lot more work swimming against wind and current than swimming with it. I wasn't getting anywhere. To my credit, I didn't panic - much. It wasn't a real rip current I was working against, just a strong offshore current. So I turned it up, swimming hard with that blasted beach ball clasped awkwardly under one arm, sometimes pushing it ahead of me, and finally reached water shallow enough that I could stand, on legs made rubbery by fatigue, and stumble ashore. I was bushed. First thing I did was let the air out of that sucker and tuck it away in our carry all. Boys, you can have it when we get back to the hotel. Where I can rest. Moral - think about what you're getting into when swimming in the sea. A $3.00 beach ball ain't worth drowning over. 'Nough said - Rick

Jan 2, Resurrection Ferns

Sat, 02 Jan 2010 03:59:31 GMT

Jekyll Island - As a landscape architect, I'm usually pretty observant where plants are concerned, but here's one that slipped by me for a while. Years ago, during earlier visits to Jekyll Island, I'd noticed a dead plant - dried up fronds nestled in the forks of Live Oak limbs. At the time, I never gave them much thought. Too busy enjoying the form and structure of the Live Oaks, I ignored what I thought was dead, dessicated vegetation. Figured some plant living in the tree had "bit the dust". That changed, however, after one particular trip. Martha & I happened to visit the Historic District right after a couple of days of steady rain, and when I saw the previously "dead" fronds in the Oaks, I was amazed. They were brilliant green, flushed out and vibrant with life! Turns out they were Resurrection Ferns (Pleopeltis polypodioides), a plant that can curl up and appear dead until it rains, when it unfurls and "resurrects". They're common in the Southeast from Florida to New York and West to Texas. They like the open shade of Cypress or Live Oaks. Resurrection Ferns are epiphytes, air plants that get their nutrients from the air and from the bark of trees they attach too. Some experts think that Resurrection Ferns can go as long as 100 years without water, only to resurrect after a single rain. Needless to say, a tough, resourceful and beautiful plant. Nough said - Rick

Jan 1, Creative Beach Play Ideas for Your Jekyll Island Beach Vacation

Fri, 01 Jan 2010 22:24:52 GMT

Jekyll Island beach play means creating great beach games for kids of all ages.

Dec 30, Discover Green Sea Turtle Facts at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 16:00:10 GMT

Kids! Make friends with a green sea turtle or a loggerhead turtle. Learn about sea turtles, turtle habitat and turtle rehabilitation at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center.

Dec 28, Winter Wonderland

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 22:47:09 GMT

Jekyll Island - Winter on Jekyll Island is the perfect season for peaceful contemplation. You can have Jekyll's wide, flat beaches almost all to yourself. And there's nothing better for introspective thinking than a walk on a deserted beach. Sometimes - but not always - a coat will be called for, especially on the windy beach. And the water is cold enough to chill your toes. But walking alone, or hand-in-hand with that special someone, can be a wonderful adventure in discovery. You can learn more about the island at an unhurried, un-harried pace. Want to be able to identify those shells or sea birds? Bring a nature book with you, and look up your discoveries. Dolphins are abundant off Jekyll Island's coast, and will put on a show for you at no charge. Keep an eye out for sea-glass and shark's teeth, too. And when it's time to head indoors to melt the frost from your nose, head for Vincent's Pub, at the Jekyll Island Club Hotel, or to SeaJay's Restaurant, at the Jekyll Harbor Marina, both favorite spots for our family to hang out when we're on the island. Hot food, warm drinks and friendly folks will stoke your furnace and get you ready for another jaunt outdoors (get enough of those "hot toddies" in you, and you'll find you can talk to the dolphins!). Whatever the season, Jekyll Island is the perfect place for family adventures. Wish I was there now! 'Nough said - Rick

Dec 23, Merry Christmas from the Freeland Family

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 11:42:24 GMT

Just wanted to say a heartfelt "Merry Christmas!" from Rick, Martha, Scott, Josh and Vickie, to all the folks who take time out of their busy days to read Jekyll Island Family Adventures, and all those who love and enjoy Jekyll Island as much as we do. And if you haven't visited the Island yet, give your family the Christmas gift of a wonderful, kid-friendly vacation on a beautiful unspoiled paradise - Jekyll Island! Merry Christmas, and a very Happy and Prosperous New Year! 'Nough said - Rick

Dec 22, Christmas Music by Bagpipe

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 22:21:58 GMT

Jekyll Island - If you've ever wondered (and, really, who hasn't) how Christmas carols would sound performed by a Scottish bagpiper, come out to the Jekyll Island Club Hotel for a performance you won't forget. There's still time to catch Tim Akins as he plays traditional tunes on his bagpipe, while dressed in a kilt! Tim starts from the Crane Cottage at 4:00 on the 23rd and 24th of December, advancing in a walk to the Riverfront Lawn, where he stops and plays a finale before the Jekyll River. Christms, Scottish style - a great free family event you'll treasure for years to come. Nough said - Rick

Dec 18, Soccer, Anyone?

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 15:09:52 GMT

Jekyll Island - If you're into soccer (or "football", as most of the misguided world knows it), then you'll want to be on Jekyll Island on January 30 for the 5th Annual Soccer Six Winter Nationals. Hosted by the Golden Isles Soccer Club, the tournament features teams from the men's A & B, 30+ and 40+, women's A & B, coed A & B, and girls and boys under 18 divisions, battling it out over 2 days for "supremacy on the pitch". What is Soccer Six? It differs a bit from regulation soccer. The matches are played on a 60 x 40 yard field, or "pitch". There are a maximum of 10 players on a team. A few other rule adjustments: the off-sides rule doesn't apply; if the match goes into sudden-death overtime, one player is removed from each team after each 5 min. overtime period; and goals scored by women on coed teams count as two scores. The tournament will be held on Jekyll Island's Soccer Complex, one of the best soccer venues in Georgia, and just a few steps from the beach. The Oceanside Inn and Suites is the host hotel for the event, and special room rates may apply. Contact them at (912)635-2211. If you've ever played soccer, or have kids who play, you know how exciting smaller-field games can be. If you don't know squat about the game, then ask a soccer-knowledgable friend to catch you up on it, and come watch. It's a great sport. And it you don't know much about it, don't worry. Tell everyone you're going for the soccer, and stay for some Jekyll Island southern hospitality! 'Nough said - Rick

Dec 9, Jekyll Island's Civil War History

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 12:46:46 GMT

Jekyll Island once had a battery of cannon trained on Brunswick harbor. The batteries were constructed facing the Jekyll River and run adjacent to the current Jekyll Island airport. Earthwork berms faced with iron protected the heavy cannon. The batteries were manned until 1862, when General Robert E. Lee ordered the guns moved to Savannah. Because of the airport, the ruins of the batteries can't be approached, but visitors to the island can see their remains from a small picnic area off Riverview Drive, close to the airport. 'Nough said - Rick

Dec 9, Jekyll Island Authority, Linger Longer Part Ways

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 12:38:26 GMT

Jekyll Island - The Jekyll Island Authority and Linger Longer, the developer slated to begin construction on the anticipated revitalization of Jekyll Island, have parted ways. The contract was never finalized, and both parties have been negotiating timing and financial aspects of the deal. Timing was a critical component for the JIA, and Linger Longer felt they could not commit to completion of the 2 hotels and retail construction by the stated 2012 deadline, mostly due to the uncertainty of the economy. The JIA plans to continue the revitalization plans, and will be looking for private developers to build individual elements of the proposed Village Center. The JIA should be commended for pushing the critical timing requirement. Having retail space on-line within 2 years is vital for those business owners currently operating in the Beachview Shopping Center, which would be torn down during construction. Business owners wishing to remain on Jekyll Island would be quartered in temporary trailer-type buildings until the retail space was completed. 'Nough said - Rick

Dec 8, Find Art Glass Fishing Floats on Jekyll Island Beaches

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 19:18:52 GMT

Look for art glass fishing floats treasure hunting Island Treasures on Jekyll Island. Find your own antique treasure Japanese fishing floats.