Driftwood Beach: #1 Breathtaking Beach on Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island’s Best-Kept Secret

If you’re looking for a beach getaway with an added dose of mystery and wonder, look no further than Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island. Driftwood Beach lies on Jekyll island, one of the scenic quartet of barrier islands on the coast of Georgia. This unique spot is full of surprises and will be sure to leave any visitor feeling like they discovered something truly magical.

To visit Jekyll Island you have to pay to enter the island; you can pay at the gate or online; for regular vehicles, as of 2025, it is $10 a day to park on Jekyll Island.

NOTE: If you are a Disabled U.S. Veteran, stop at the visitor center prior to the gate and you can get a free annual parking pass for your vehicle if you show that you are a disabled veteran. All I had to show was my VA rating letter. (I just downloaded this on the go from VA.gov), drivers license, and a photo of my tag on the car we were driving and they got me put right in the system.

There are others that qualify for free parking, see the website for details. For any questions on parking see their website for details.

Gnarly oak trees litter a desolate beach, standing like twisted sculptures in front of a picturesque coast. Some of the trees remain fully exposed and some appear to emerge from the depths of the sand. This beach is a sight to behold, looking like a graveyard for sun-bleached trees. With sand-covered driftwood that overlooks the Atlantic and stunning sunrises with views that are impossible to forget – This beach has it all!

You’ll find the sandy shores lined with weathered driftwood, once part of a maritime forest that has been shaped over decades by erosion. From taking in some sun during an afternoon at the beach to stargazing late into the night – Driftwood Beach is ideal for making magical memories! Found between Clam Creek Picnic Area and Villas by The Sea Resort along N. Beachwood Drive, with its stunning views and ethereal landscape, it’s no wonder this hidden gem has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

The Perfect Setting For Productions

Driftwood Beach is one of those rare places that looks like it was made for a movie set or photoshoot. In fact this beach has been the set for productions like “The Menu”, “The Walking Dead”, “The Color Purple: The Musical” and “The In Between”. The ocean reaches up to meet the driftwood at high tide, creating an almost surreal atmosphere that will take your breath away. It’s truly a sight to behold!

The beach has also become a favorite spot for photographers wanting to catch the sunrise, families wanting a beautiful back drop for their family photos and couples who want the memories of a unique spot for proposals and weddings.

A Serene Escape from the World

In addition to its aesthetic beauty, Driftwood Beach is also a great place to get away from it all. You can head there well before sunrise to embrace the peacefulness and watch the beauty as the sun rises over this beautiful piece of coastline. It’s definitely one of those places where time stands still and you can really appreciate nature at its finest.

Take Time To Explore

Driftwood Beach isn’t just about taking pictures—it’s also about exploration! Simply stroll along the beach and let your imagination run wild. There are so many possibilities when you’re surrounded by such unique scenery; all you need is an open mind and a few hours to really take it all in! Plus, there are plenty of nearby attractions on Jekyll Island if you want to make a day out of it. You can also explore the nearby Sea Turtle Center, explore the island in the almost 25 miles of bike trails, or go on a dolphin tour.

If you’re ever visiting Jekyll Island or looking for something new to explore on your next trip, be sure to check out Driftwood Beach! With its awe-inspiring views, tranquil setting, and endless possibilities for exploration, this hidden gem is sure to give you an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more. Escape to Jekyll Island’s enchanting Driftwood Beach and explore a landscape unlike any other. Driftwood Beach truly has something for everyone! So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and start planning your escape today!

Recently, in 2025, I revisited, and found even more gems in Jekyll Island; I will be writing about more of the locations there soon, but wanted to mention the other beach area with driftwood here. There is another beach on the island that faces the west that has more potential for beautiful colors at sunset time than Driftwood Beach. St Andrews Picnic Area & Beach on the west side of the island, not to be confused with St Andrew Beach (aka Glory Beach) located on the east side of the island has some opportunity to photograph with many of the old driftwood trees.

Be sure to bring plenty of bug repellant if you go at sunset as the mosquitos get really bad, but the sunset photos are worth it!