Public Programs
Tidelands Coastal Ecology Programs – Summer 2026
Our seasoned educators encourage excitement and wonder of the natural world as we explore island ecosystems. Join us for an engaging, hands-on, educational experience and discover Jekyll’s coastal environment.
Summer Coastal Ecology Programs held Tuesdays, Wednesdays Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays in June and July, cost $11 per person (children AND adults). You may sign up for a single day or multiple programs.
Classes are conducted rain or shine so please make sure you are dressed appropriately for the outdoors. At least one parent must attend class with child/children. For more information or to sign up please call 912-635-5032.
For program descriptions see below:
Tidelands Pond Exploration -1:30- 2:30pm -Tuesdays in June/July:
Dockside Exploration: Join us for “belly biology” on the dock! Use dip nets to collect organisms dwelling in and around the fouling community on the water’s edge in Tidelands Pond. Explore how these dockside critters live and feed. (Participants will stay dry). Meets at Tidelands.
And/or
Marsh Ecology Walk in the marsh mud along a tidal creek adjacent to Tidelands Pond and learn about the importance of the salt marsh including; the plants and animals that rely on the nutrient-rich marsh mud (detritus) and call the marsh home. (Be sure to wear shoes that can get muddy for the marsh). Meets at Tidelands.
Live Exhibit Feeding – 1:30- 2:30pm- Wed. and Sat. in June/July:
Learn about marine food webs & feeding adaptations. Watch as we feed our educational ambassadors. Includes 20- minute introduction and then it is time to feed the critters! Meets at Tidelands
Summer Seining – 10:30- 11:30pm- Thursdays and Fridays in June/July:
Pull a seine net through the water and try to catch fish, shrimp, crabs and other organisms found in the ocean. Participants must wear shoes and clothing that can get wet. (We will pull the seine net in calf- deep water along the beach). Meets at Tidelands, then head to beach following. Meets at Tidelands.
Reptile Encounters-1:30- 2:30pm -Thursdays in June/July:
Learn all about the reptile ambassadors that live at Tidelands. Live reptile encounters include opportunity to view resident species including a closer look at snakes, turtles and alligators. Meets at Tidelands.
Nature Walks
Nature walks are available throughout the year. Learn about Jekyll’s coastal ecosystems. Join one of our guides on a walk through the beach, forest, or marsh. Call Tidelands at (912) 635-5032 for more information and to make a reservation!
Join an experienced guide for a 1 to 1.5 hour walk through the beaches, maritime forests and salt marshes of Jekyll Island. We generally offer our regularly scheduled walks from March-October. Reservations are required. Contact Tidelands at (912) 635-5032 to make a reservation. Nature walks are also available by appointment year-round.
Walks generally begin at 9:00 am, but may vary as needed. Additional times/locations may be available. Your guide will meet you at the Nature Walk location with a confirmed reservation. See options below. (Though meeting locations are flexible as needed depending on tide, wind, visitor requests, etc).
Nature Walk Cost:
$11 per person (age 3/under free)
| Mondays – North Tip and Driftwood Beach
Walk Meets at the Clam Creek Picnic Area parking lot on the north end of island (beside the fishing pier), across from the campground. |
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| Wednesdays – South Tip and Beach Creek Walk begins in the maritime forest and explores the south tip beach, including a stop at wildlife observation tower for a view of the marshes of Beach Creek. A great area for birds. Meets at the St. Andrews Picnic Area parking lot on the south end of the island, near rest rooms. |
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Annual Tidelands Annual Art Sale & Silent Auction (Stay Tuned for 2027 date)
Sunday- February 15, 2026- 9:30am- 4:30pm at the Morgan Center- Located in the Jekyll Island Historic District
Mark your calendars for the Annual 4-H Tidelands Art Sale, Sunday- February 15, 2026- 9:30am- 4:30pm at the Morgan Center, in Jekyll Island Historic District. Local artists display coastal- themed art for sale. Includes; paintings, woodwork, jewelry, metal sculptures, books, photographs, hand-made soaps, and more! Be sure to browse silent auction area as well. featuring artwork, island excursions, hotel stays, restaurant gift certificates, dolphin tours, kayak tours, and more!!.
- For more information and program registration, call 4-H Tidelands Nature Center @ 912-635-5032
The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (working cooperatively with Fort Valley State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the counties of Georgia) offers its educational programs, assistance, and materials to all people without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status, and is an Equal Opportunity, Veteran, Disability Institution.