I have never received as much response from a blog article than my June 18^th post and then my response posted June 20^th on the topic of the revitalization project on Jekyll Island. Just last week, the Jekyll Island Authority Executive Director, Jones Hooks, sent an email update on information that was shared at their 9/15/08 board meeting. They had contracted an independent research firm, Bleakly and Associates, to do a study analysis on the visitation numbers. According to this report, the island visitation peaked in the 1988-89 time period with approximately 2.1 million guests visiting Jekyll. Regrettably since that time, there has been a steady decline in visitation. Last year only 1.49 million visitors came to Jekyll which is down roughly 23% from the 1988-89 figures. 

This lovely photo shows pelicans on the pilings and in the distance on the right you'll see the Sidney Lanier Bridge (a cable stayed bridge) which spans the South Brunswick River in Brunswick, GA.  The current bridge was built to replace the original lift bridge which was struck by ships two times.  Currently it is the longest spnning bridge in GA and named for poet, Sidney Lanier.

The Jekyll Island Authority and the Wild GA Shrimp Assn. will be bringing the Shrimp and Grits: The Wild Georgia Shrimp Festival from September 19^th-21^st. This annual event is absolutely committed to upholding our fresh, wild GA shrimp versus “that imported variety from God only knows where” as well as their combination with a Southern staple---grits. Certainly other delicious seafood and shrimp dishes will also be available from several local restaurants, so bring your taste buds and come to Jekyll Island in Southeast GA for a truly entertaining experience. In addition to culinary delights, there will be wonderful music, a Family Fun Zone, vendors with arts and crafts, antiques and collectables. You will have the opportunity to take a tour of a “real” shrimp boat or to take a shrimp excursion over the weekend. 

Or better yet, give me a call or an email for more details or events in this wonderful area. September and October are prime months to plan a visit to the Golden Isles as the average temperature for September is 77.9º and 69.6º for October. With the pleasant temperatures and our typical glorious weather, I can almost guarantee you’ll enjoy your stay.   Give me a call!

I would be remiss if I didn’t make mention of this annual event coming up August 15-16^th.  For 25 years running, beach music fans have flocked to enjoy great music and camaraderie on Jekyll Island in Southeast GA. A long running headliner is the group known as The Swingin’ Medallions which have been belting out beach music favorites like “A Double Shot of My Baby’s Love” for decades. Friday’s activities kick off with a Golf Tournament and then on Saturday afternoon the tradition of a FREE concert on the beach with live music performances, delicious food from various venders and probably quite a bit of liquid refreshments!