Island Treasures: Jekyll Island Treasure Hunt

This Event Happens:  January 1 - February 29, 2026

Every year, Jekyll Island commissions a group of highly skilled artisans from across the U.S. to create an array of stunning, handworked glass globes. During this two-month-long program, "Beach Buddies"  are responsible for hiding plastic replicas in various locations across the island for lucky visitors to find. The best part? This treasure hunt is 100% finders, keepers! If you're one of the lucky ones to find a plastic orb hidden around Jekyll Island, take it to the Jekyll Island Guest Information Center to trade it in for the real thing! 

Where did this fun tradition come from? Long ago, local fishermen would use glass floats to help identify and assist in the functionality of their fishing nets. Every now and then, a glass float would come loose from a net and would wash up on the shore of nearby beaches, becoming a treasure for beachcombers to find! 

Spend a day exploring Jekyll Island in January or February to find these beautiful glass orbs to take a token of the Golden Isles home with you. Want a sneak peek for where to look? Here's a map of where to find them!

Find out more about this annual event.

How Island Treasures Works

Island Treasures is Jekyll Island’s annual hide-and-seek adventure, inspired by an old coastal tradition. Fishermen used glass floats to mark nets, and floats that washed ashore became prized beachcomber finds. Today, artists create one-of-a-kind glass floats for the event.

From January 1 through February 28 (or 29th in a Leap Year), volunteers called Beach Buddies hide clear plastic globes daily. Find one and exchange it at the Jekyll Island Guest Information Center for a numbered glass float.

The hunt is free, though visitors pay the island’s gate fee. Treasures are not guaranteed since only two to four globes are hidden per day, with about 200 placed during the entire season. Kids and adults can participate together, but only one treasure may be claimed per household each year.

Globes are hidden in public areas such as Beach Village, the Historic District and parks, not in dunes, marshes, residential areas or golf courses. Bring a photo ID when claiming your treasure.

Tips for Finding Island Treasures

Start early if you can. Beach Buddies hide globes throughout the day, but morning searches may improve your chances before busy areas fill up. Focus on public spots like Beach Village boardwalks, the Historic District, and Great Dunes Beach Park.

There is no secret formula, so treat the hunt as a fun bonus rather than a guarantee. It is worth doing in one day, especially with beach time, biking, or family attractions. Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen and water, and carry a small bag for snacks or your globe. Stay on marked paths and keep off dunes, marshes, and private property.

Make a Full Day of Your Jekyll Island Adventure

Turn your treasure hunt into a family-friendly day trip. Visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, Georgia’s only sea turtle rehabilitation and education facility, for interactive exhibits. Rent bikes and explore 24 miles of trails past beaches, forests, and historic sites.

For a slower break, picnic at Great Dunes Beach Park, a beachfront park with pavilions, play areas and room to relax. Add Driftwood Beach for photos or play Jekyll Island Mini Golf. When it’s time to eat, grab lunch in Beach Village or browse Golden Isles dining options nearby.

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