The bike paths
Twenty miles of trails overlooking the shore loop through marshes, maritime forest, and the Historic District. Bike rentals are available at many hotels and at Mini Golf and Bike Rentals -- rentals from $4.75 per hour to $10.25 per day; (912) 635-2648.

The Island Sweets Shoppe
Set in a wood-shingled cottage in the Historic District, the shop offers ten flavors of ice cream and homemade chocolates -- (912) 635-3135.

Family-friendly lodging
From the Jekyll Island Club Hotel and the Clarion Resort Buccaneer (both with children's programs) to camping under shady oaks at the Jekyll Island Campground -- $19.94 nightly; (866) 658-3021 -- and basic, beachside lodging at the Days Inn & Suites -- nightly rates are $106.95 for a room for four and $209.95 to $229.95 for a one-bedroom suite with kitchenette; (888) 635-3003.

SeaJay's Waterfront Cafe
Here you can dine harborside while listening to music and feasting on the Low Country Boil Buffet -- adults, $14.95; kids ages 10 and under, $7.50; buffet includes shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob, potatoes, slaw, rolls, and dessert; other menu choices available; (912) 635-3200.

Summer musicals under the stars.
The Jekyll Island Amphitheatre offers fabulous performances by students from Valdosta State University -- ticket prices start at $12 for adults and $10 for students; kids under age 6, free; (877) 453-5955.

Santa's Christmas Shoppe
This souvenir store with its singing moose wreath on the front door was our favorite shop in the Historic District (912) 635-3804.

Abundant wildlife and natural areas
In addition to our exciting encounter with a loggerhead turtle, we saw deer, rabbits, and wading birds. The Tidelands Nature Center even offers guided walks -- adults, $5; kids ages 8 to 18, $3; (912) 635-5032. Hands-on education is part of the fun at the Tidelands Nature Center.

Louisiana writer Barbara Nielsen is a frequent contributor to our annual "Great Little Beach Towns" feature.

Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated August 2005.