Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island GA

Jekyll Island's beloved Driftwood Beach enchants all who visit its beautiful shores. The beach and its iconic driftwood formed as a result of decades of erosion. What was once a maritime forest is now a sandy shore lined with weathered tree trunks and branches, creating a sight that's truly unique to the Golden Isles. Driftwood Beach is ideal for a sunny afternoon, a morning picnic, and even stargazing late at night. 

Parking for Driftwood Beach is located along the entryways, right off of N. Beachview Drive. A small paved parking area is also available near the bike path bridge on N. Beachview Drive. All parking is free, but please be aware there is a $8 daily fee to access Jekyll Island. Learn more about the Jekyll Island entry fee and parking passes.

Locations and Directions

Best Time to Visit

Driftwood Beach Weddings

Photo Gallery

The milky way shines above Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island, Georgia

Where is Driftwood Beach?

Driftwood Beach is located on the northern end of Jekyll Island. It can be found on N. Beachview Drive between Clam Creek Picnic Area and Villas by the Sea Resort.

If you are coming to Jekyll Island just to visit Driftwood Beach, the best route once you get on the island is to continue straight on Ben Fortson Parkway to the roundabout. At the roundabout, take the third exit onto N. Beachview Drive. Continue on N. Beachview Drive for approximately 4 miles. Just before you reach Driftwood Beach, you will pass Villas by the Sea Resort on your right. Slow down as the entrance to Driftwood Beach will be nearly immediately next. Once you pass Villas by the Sea Resort, you'll see the parking areas for Driftwood Beach and the sandy walkways leading out to the beach. You've arrived! View a map of Jekyll Island.

Best Time to Visit

It's always a good time to explore Driftwood Beach! However, you should be aware that this beach is very dependent on the tides, meaning when it's high tide, the beach isn't as accessible or spacious. The best time to visit Driftwood Beach is on an outgoing tide, or at low tide. Check a current tide chart before planning your visit.

Driftwood Beach Weddings

There's no place more magical for a dream beach wedding than Driftwood Beach! Plan your Georgia beach wedding at Driftwood Beach for memories that will truly last a lifetime. There's no fee or cost associated with hosting your wedding ceremony at Driftwood Beach. Jekyll Island's beaches are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Local vendors, such as event rental companies, are readily available to provide any chairs, decor, or equipment needed for your wedding. 

Please visit the Jekyll Island Authority's website for further information. Learn more.

Driftwood Beach Photo Gallery

Need even more inspiration to plan your visit to the most beloved beach in the Golden Isles? Here are some of our favorite fan photos of Driftwood Beach. Be sure to include our hashtag #goldenisles when you visit, and you may even see your photo appear in the gallery below!

It's true - Driftwood Beach is even more spectacular in person! No visit to the Golden Isles is complete without a visit to Jekyll Island's Driftwood Beach