Quick Comparison
| Category | Amelia Island, FL | Jekyll Island, GA | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beach Length | 13 miles of pristine beaches | 10 miles of beaches | Amelia |
| Development | Mix of resorts, B&Bs, rentals | 65% must remain undeveloped (by law) | Jekyll |
| Golf | 5 championship courses | 63 holes, Georgia's largest public resort golf | Jekyll |
| Dining | 100+ restaurants | ~20 restaurants | Amelia |
| Unique Feature | Beach horseback riding, FL's oldest bar | Driftwood Beach, Sea Turtle Center | Tie |
| Crowds | Moderate tourism | Very quiet, fewer tourists | Jekyll |
| Luxury Options | Ritz-Carlton, Omni Resort | Jekyll Island Club Resort | Amelia |
| Wildlife | Sea turtles, shorebirds, dolphins | Sea Turtle Center, wild horses nearby | Tie |
🏖️ The Beach Experience
Amelia Island Beaches
- 13 miles of wide, uncrowded beaches
- Rare Appalachian quartz sand that sparkles
- Horseback riding on the beach (only FL state park offering this!)
- Beach driving NOT allowed (pristine atmosphere)
- Sea turtle nesting season (May-October)
- Main Beach has amenities, others are natural
Jekyll Island Beaches
- 10 miles of beaches along the coast
- Famous Driftwood Beach (Instagram-worthy!)
- Glory Beach featured in the movie "Glory"
- State-protected, minimal development
- Georgia Sea Turtle Center for rehabilitation
- Bike paths connect all beach access points
Bottom line: Amelia Island wins for pure beach length and the unique horseback riding experience. Jekyll Island wins for iconic Driftwood Beach photography and a completely undeveloped feel.
🏛️ History & Attractions
Amelia Island History
- "Isle of Eight Flags" — only U.S. location with this distinction
- Fort Clinch State Park with Civil War-era fort
- 50-block Victorian historic district in Fernandina Beach
- Palace Saloon — Florida's oldest bar (1903)
- Fernandina Beach was once a Victorian resort destination
- Maritime Museum and historic shrimping heritage
Jekyll Island History
- Gilded Age retreat for America's wealthiest families
- Jekyll Island Club (1886) — Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, Morgans
- Where the Federal Reserve was secretly planned (1910)
- 240-acre historic district with restored "cottages" (mansions)
- Georgia Sea Turtle Center
- Mosaic Museum at Jekyll Island
Bottom line: Both islands have fascinating histories! Amelia Island offers a walkable Victorian downtown; Jekyll Island offers Gilded Age mansion tours and American elite history.
⛳ Golf
Amelia Island Golf
- 5 championship courses
- Omni Amelia Island — 36 holes (Oak Marsh & Ocean Links)
- Ritz-Carlton Golf Club
- Amelia Island Club courses (private, resort access)
- Golf Digest rated, resort-quality experiences
- Higher green fees ($100-250+)
Jekyll Island Golf
- 63 holes across 4 courses
- Georgia's largest public golf resort
- Historic Great Dunes course
- Indian Mound, Oleander, Pine Lakes courses
- Very affordable ($50-100 green fees)
- Golf packages with lodging available
Bottom line: Jekyll Island is better for budget-conscious golfers seeking variety. Amelia Island offers more upscale, resort-quality courses.
🏆 The Verdict
Choose Amelia Island If You Want:
- More dining and nightlife options (100+ restaurants)
- Luxury resort experiences (Ritz-Carlton, Omni)
- Horseback riding on the beach
- A walkable Victorian downtown
- More variety in accommodations
- To stay in Florida
Choose Jekyll Island If You Want:
- Maximum peace and quiet (fewer tourists)
- Iconic Driftwood Beach photos
- Budget-friendly golf (63 holes!)
- Gilded Age history and mansion tours
- A completely undeveloped, natural feel
- Georgia Sea Turtle Center experience
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How far apart are Amelia Island and Jekyll Island?
Only about 35 miles apart—roughly a 45-minute drive. Many visitors choose to explore both islands on the same trip!
Which island is more affordable?
Jekyll Island is generally more budget-friendly, with lower accommodation rates, cheaper golf, and fewer upscale dining options. Amelia Island has more luxury options but also has mid-range choices.
Which has better beaches?
Both have beautiful, uncrowded beaches. Amelia Island has more beach length (13 miles vs 10) and unique sparkling quartz sand. Jekyll Island has the iconic Driftwood Beach, which is one of the most photographed spots in Georgia.
Can I visit both islands in one trip?
Absolutely! A popular itinerary is 3-4 days on each island. They're close enough for a day trip to the other island if you're short on time.
Which is better for families?
Both are excellent for families. Amelia Island offers more resort amenities and kid-friendly dining. Jekyll Island has the Sea Turtle Center, bike paths, and a more laid-back atmosphere that's great for unplugging with kids.
Ready to Experience Amelia Island?
Discover why Amelia Island's pristine beaches, world-class resorts, and charming Victorian downtown make it the perfect coastal getaway.