Jekyll Island is renowned for its gorgeous beaches and spectacular year-round weather. Located off the coast of Georgia, it is part of the popular Golden Isles, which include St. Simons Island, Sea Island, and Little St. Simons Island.
This charming and historic destination offers visitors abundant fresh seafood, unique coastal dishes, and popular restaurants.
Wild Georgia Shrimp
The most popular and famous of Jekyll Island specialties is fresh, wild Georgia shrimp.
The area’s nutrient-rich, saltwater coastal marshes and estuaries produce shrimp that is firm in texture and sweet in taste. The local Spartina marsh grass acts as a natural filtration system.
Restaurants use local produce and ingredients to complement the shrimp. Popular offerings often include yellow and purple wax beans. Many of the shrimp dishes also feature an Asian influence due to a history of immigrant work in the local rice fields.
Brunswick StEW
Often when something is so popular, many lay claims to be its originator. That holds true for Brunswick Stew. Virginia, North Carolina, and Georgia all stake it as theirs. Brunswick Stew’s popularity in the region is undeniable.
This hearty, tomato-based stew is full of fresh vegetables and usually chicken. Earlier versions used various combinations of rabbit, squirrel, and other small game.
Brunswick Stew is the ideal accompaniment to any Southern dish. It pairs especially well with fresh seafood and mouthwatering barbeque.
Fresh Oysters
Whether you consider yourself an oyster connoisseur or have never eaten one, Jekyll Island is the perfect spot to indulge in fresh oysters. Fresh oysters are served on the half shell. Local restaurants craft delicious homemade sauces and gelées to complement the oysters and delight the senses.
You can also try your hand at harvesting fresh oysters. The Golden Isles offer a single marshland area that allows recreational oyster harvesting. It’s located off Downing Musgrove Causeway near Jekyll Island.
Score Great Cuisine at These Jekyll Island Restaurants
From a casual waterfront hangout to award-winning fine dining, Jekyll Island’s restaurant scene offers something for even the most discerning palate.
Try the best restaurants on Jekyll Island or enjoy discovering your own hidden gem.
Tortuga Jack’s
This bright Mexican eatery offers oceanfront views and a festive tiki bar. Enjoy the ocean breeze as you sip on your favorite libation.
Tortuga Jack’s offers fresh ideas on Mexican cuisine and the best margarita on the island.
Beach House Restaurant and Tap Room
The Beach House is a popular spot with both locals and visitors. Sample from a wide-ranging menu that boasts burgers and pizza but specializes in fresh, local seafood.
Their wild Georgia shrimp pairs perfectly with real Southern grits. The Low Country Boil is a seafood lover’s dream with shrimp, crab legs, and crawfish.
The Wharf
Ideally located on the Jekyll Island Historic District Pier, The Wharf features waterfront dining and live music. Savor fresh seafood like wild Georgia shrimp, scallops, and oysters.
Southern Soul Barbeque
Nothing says Southern cuisine quite like barbeque, smoked low and slow by expert pitmasters using age-old techniques.
Tucked away in a former gas station, Southern Soul Barbeque offers melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork and other barbeque classics. Try homemade side dishes like fried okra, collard greens, and bowls of hearty Brunswick Stew.
Explore Georgia’s Jekyll Island and Culinary Treasures
When you’re ready to enjoy true Southern hospitality, historic sites, and must-try cuisine, book our Historic Southern Coast Tour. You will experience Jekyll Island, as well as Savannah, St. Augustine, and more.
For more information, call your travel consultant or YMT Vacations at 1-888-756-9072.
