Sea turtles

Question

Staying in June- first timer to JI coming for bicycle trails and mother nature. Hoping to see sea turtles nesting at night. Can anyone tell me: a/ is it safe to walk the beach at night looking for them( with a red flashlite of course) b/ is there a special area that is best to view them ? and c/ how buggy can it get in early June on and near the beach?.. Also wondering if the bech infront of the Days Inn and holiday Inn is public and can you rent a chair nearby and for what feeapproximately if you ar looking to stay for a half day?? Thankyou.

Answer

Jekyll Island is a beautiful and unique destination, especially if you're interested in nature and wildlife like sea turtles. Your questions are great, and I'm happy to help with information about the turtles, beach conditions, and your stay at the Days Inn or Holiday Inn.

Sea Turtle Nesting at Jekyll Island:

Sea turtles are a highlight of the summer season on Jekyll Island, with nesting typically occurring from May through August, so you're right on target for June. Here are the answers to your questions:

Is it safe to walk the beach at night looking for sea turtles (with a red flashlight)?
Yes, it is safe to walk the beach at night to look for sea turtles, but there are some important guidelines to follow to avoid disturbing them. It is essential to use a red flashlight as you mentioned, as white lights can disorient both the turtles and their hatchlings. Keep a respectful distance from any nests you may find, and try not to interfere with the turtles. Walking along the beach is generally safe, but it's always best to stick to the designated areas for turtle watching to avoid intruding on their nesting grounds.
Is there a special area that is best to view sea turtles?
The best areas to view sea turtles are typically along the public beach access points where nesting is most likely to occur. While specific nesting sites may vary from year to year, you can usually find active nesting areas on the island's beaches. Some guided tours or turtle patrol programs, like those organized by the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, can help you find the best areas. Be sure to check with local authorities or the center for any restrictions on where to look for turtles.
How buggy can it get in early June on and near the beach?
In early June, the bugs on Jekyll Island, particularly mosquitoes, can be a bit of a challenge, especially in the evening when the temperatures are cooler. To protect yourself, it's recommended to bring insect repellent. Also, the beaches may have sand flies and gnats, but these are usually less of an issue if there's a breeze. If you're planning on walking at night, wearing long sleeves and pants and applying repellent will help make your experience more comfortable.

Beach Access and Rentals near Days Inn and Holiday Inn:

Is the beach in front of the Days Inn and Holiday Inn public?
Yes, the beaches on Jekyll Island are public, so you can access them from both the Days Inn and Holiday Inn properties. There are no private beach areas on the island, so you can freely enjoy the sand and sea from either location.
Can you rent chairs nearby, and what is the fee?
Yes, you can rent beach chairs on Jekyll Island, and there are several services that offer beach chair and umbrella rentals. Prices can vary depending on the season and the provider, but expect to pay around $20-$25 for a half-day rental for a chair and umbrella set. Some services even offer more luxurious options like lounge chairs or cabanas, which may cost a bit more. You can usually rent chairs at the beach access points, or you can inquire at your hotel’s front desk for specific rental information.

Overall, Jekyll Island is a wonderful place to connect with nature, and with some planning, you can enjoy the sea turtle experience and the beautiful beaches without too much hassle. Have a fantastic trip!