The Jekyll Island Authority (JIA) is opening The District Shops at Historic Pier Road, a reimagined shopping and dining destination in the heart of the Jekyll Island National Historic Landmark District, within easy walking distance of the fabled Jekyll Island Club. Nearly two years in the making, the JIA is introducing ieight new retail experiences, creating a vibrant, welcoming place for visitors and residents to shop, sip, and savor all that Jekyll Island has to offer.
Jekyll Island is managed by the Jekyll Island Authority, a self-supporting state entity established by the Governor and Georgia State Legislature.
The District Shops are the latest reimaginations to Jekyll Island, a popular family and golf destination along the Southwest Georgia Coast. The renovated Great Dunes golf course – one of three courses on the island – is expected to be open this fall, again highlighting Jekyll Island as a premier golf destination in the Southeast U.S.
The District Shops – originally home to service buildings and trade shops supporting the former Jekyll Island Club during the Gilded Age – each retain their original architectural character while integrating improvements such as upgraded landscaping, new lighting installations, and inviting outdoor gathering areas.
While Pier Road has long been a cherished part of the island’s story, this revitalization addresses past challenges by creating a dynamic shopping and dining destination that better serves Jekyll’s growing number of visitors.
“We are thrilled to see this vision for Pier Road come to life,” said Mark Williams, executive director of the Jekyll Island Authority. “This project reflects our continued commitment to preserving Jekyll Island’s historic character while enhancing the experience for visitors and residents. It’s a thoughtful balance of preservation and progress, designed to serve the community and honor the spirit of this special island. Pier Road has long been a hub for connection and discovery, and we’re proud to carry that legacy forward with The District Shops.”
Set against a backdrop of grand live oaks draped in Spanish moss, the District Shops at Historic Pier Road feature a curated collection of retail experiences, including:
- 31•81, a Jekyll Island Lifestyle Shop inspired by the island’s coastal coordinates – approximately 31.0735° N, 81.4114° W – offering a curated collection inspired by the barrier island itself and featuring brands such as Southern Tide, Comfort Colors, Smathers & Branson, Lilly Pulitzer, and Dune Jewelry.
- Founder’s Social provides a casual yet historically inspired setting for guests to enjoy casual fair, Georgia craft beer, and outdoor seating in a shaded beer garden.
- Georgia Grown Signature Shoppe, developed in partnership with the Georgia Department of Agriculture, highlights locally sourced products that showcase the state’s agricultural legacy, craftspeople, and tradition.
- J.P. & Company, a Gilded Age Portrait Studio, invites guests to don period costumes and participate in portrait experiences evocative of the island’s golden era.
- Jekyll Island Sweets features handmade confections, candy-making demonstrations, and a variety of seasonal ice cream flavors in an old-fashioned candy shop setting.
- North Pole South specializes in Christmas ornaments and gifts, offering coastal-inspired keepsakes for year-round holiday shopping.
- Pier Road Outfitters is stocked with essentials for outdoor exploration while on Jekyll Island, from biking along its 24-miles of paths to sunbathing along its pristine shores.
- Wake Up Coffee Company, a local favorite, serves handcrafted coffee beverages and freshly baked goods.
The Jekyll Island Authority will host a grand opening celebration on June 7 from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. The day-long event marks the culmination of the multi-year reimagination project and will include live music performances from Idle Hands and Squirt Gun, family-friendly entertainment featuring a walking magician, face painting, yard games, and living-history characters.
The first 100 shoppers at each retail shop will receive an exclusive commemorative gift with their purchase and be treated to complimentary samples and opening specials throughout the day.
Photos Courtesy of Jekyll Island Authority