This Otherworldly Stretch Of Georgia Shoreline Might Be The Most Unique Beach In The South
We’ve got all types of beaches in the South—from the wide, bike-friendly stretches on Kiawah Island to the white sand and crystal-clear waters in Siesta Key. While each is beautiful in its own right, there are few, if any, beaches that are quite as recognizable as Driftwood Beach, one of the most well-known sites on Georgia’s Jekyll Island.
This is no ordinary beach; you don’t come out here simply to sunbathe. Here, the remains of a maritime forest beckon to photographers, artists, adventurers, and anyone interested in the history of Jekyll Island. Over the years, the effects of tides, storms, and even hurricanes took their toll on the trees.
The soil cover was stripped away, and the saltwater damaged the roots, leaving behind what you see today: ancient, weathered tree trunks, gnarled branches, and massive roots that serve as evidence of decades of erosion. Many are half-buried in the sand, as the tides on this part of the island aren’t strong enough to carry them out to sea. The oak and pine trees create an otherworldly, almost post-apocalyptic scene that’s particularly impactful at sunrise and sunset.
What to Do
Most visitors come to Driftwood Beach to take in the scenery, snap some photos, walk along the beach, and climb on the trees—they're often described as a “natural jungle gym.” If you want to spend the whole day there, bring a portable hammock, a picnic, and plenty of sunscreen. Swim in the calm waters, fly a kite, and play in the sand (just be sure to fill in any holes you dig). Local outfitter Three Oaks Farm also has guided horseback rides along the beach, and it’s a great spot to go stargazing on clear nights.
What to Know
Although you may be tempted to take a souvenir with you, taking any driftwood from the beach is prohibited. Feel free to collect any empty shells or dead sand dollars, though. Driftwood Beach is also dog-friendly, but be sure to pick up after your animals and take all of your trash with you. It’s imperative to leave the beach as you found it. Glass containers, fires, or metal detectors aren’t allowed, and visitors are asked to stay off the dunes and keep their distance from wildlife.
How to Get There
Driftwood Beach is located on the north end of Jekyll Island, between Clam Creek Picnic Area and Villas by the Sea Resort on North Beachview Drive. A bike and pedestrian bath leads to the beach, but public parking is also available to those driving. While the beach itself is free to enter, anyone driving onto Jekyll Island is required to pay a $10 parking fee, which supports the island’s conservation efforts and helps to maintain its infrastructure.
Best Time to Visit
If you want to see Driftwood Beach in all its glory, you’ll need to keep an eye on the tide chart. Plan your visit during an outgoing tide or right as it hits low tide—that’s when you can see the driftwood trees in their entirety, and there’s more space to walk around. Of course, given the beach’s reputation as one of the most unique beaches in the South, you’ll likely encounter other visitors, especially during peak summer season. So if you’d prefer a quieter, less crowded experience, consider a trip to Jekyll Island in the winter. You won’t run into as many beach-goers, and the temperatures are still relatively pleasant (usually in the 50s and 60s during the daytime).
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