GREAT ESCAPE

The Art Of Doing Absolutely Nothing On Jekyll Island

By JACINTA HOWARD

Photography by BRIAN AUSTIN LEE

Jekyll Island is the perfect place to bask in the infinite joy of doing absolutely nothing. With its miles of gorgeous shoreline, lush maritime forests, and picturesque salt marshes, the island is ripe with beautiful scenery and natural wonders that inspire relaxed vibes. Whether the plan is to nap, take a leisurely stroll, chill in the shade with a cool drink, or abandon all plans entirely and let the salt air lift you through your day, the opportunities for hardcore R&R are bountiful.

TAKE A DRIVE ON THE CAU SEWAY, WINDOWS DOWN

Let your worries float away with the breeze as you roll over the causeway, windows down, on the way to your escape on Jekyll Island. Rich salt marshes decorate the landscape, creating a poetic backdrop for a carefree cruise. And while the serene marshes have inspired writers and dreamers, the causeway is also a favorite location for birdwatchers. You’ll have a good chance of spotting a soaring bald eagle, white pelican, or sea sparrow as you cruise. Remember, though: It’s a chill 55 mph when you first roll past the Spanish-style entrance towers of the Causeway toward the island, but speed limits change as you get closer.

R Elax At Drift Wo Od Beach

Allow the soft lull of ocean waves to coax you into complete tranquility at Driftwood Beach, known for its iconic fallen trees, carved and shaped by decades of erosion. Take a chair along to kick back and soak in the picturesque landscape, once a maritime forest but now lined with ancient tree trunks and weathered branches displayed like art on a sandy canvas. It’s a stunning spot, a favorite for weddings and world-renowned photo shoots. Curl up with a book, or simply enjoy the rich splash of colors colliding in the sky at dusk. Tuck your toes into the sand, or make space to lay out a blanket on a balmy night, where clear skies, bright stars, and the smell of saltwater provide an intoxicating air of calm.