The annual Island Treasures hunt begins January 1, 2021and runs through February 28, 2021. 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 these floats in various locations across the island for lucky visitors to find. The best part? This treasure hunt is 100% finders, keepers!
Treasure hunters can explore the island in search of clear, plastic globes that can be exchanged for a handmade, one-of-a-kind glass float at the Jekyll Island Guest Information Center.
Close up glass floats Jekyll Island treasures
The origin of the event dates back to the early 1900s when fishermen used glass floats as markers on their nets. Occasionally, floats would break loose and wash ashore for lucky beachcombers to find and keep. Collecting the rare, highly sought-after glass floats became a hobby in the 1950s.
Island Treasures are always hidden in plain view, in public spaces such as Beach Village, Great Dunes Beach Park, the Historic District, and Jekyll Island Mini Golf.
Beach Buddies will never place a treasure in the dunes, marshes, animal habitats, "off the beaten path" or on private property. And, each weekend, Beach Buddies will double the number of globes hidden around the island. Approximately 250 globes will be hidden throughout January-February.
Glass floats Jekyll Island treasures
Inside each plastic globe, treasure hunters will find a card with instructions to take the globe to the Jekyll Island Guest Information Center. Each card will have a number that corresponds to a real, handcrafted Island Treasure. Hunters will be limited to one glass float per household per year, increasing everyone’s chance to find a glass float. Hunters will also receive a certificate of authenticity and artist biography for their one-of-a-kind float. To receive your Island Treasure, you will need to present a photo I.D. with your instructions card.
The Guest Information Center will be open daily, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. The Center is closed January 1 & finds can be redeemed January 2.
A full FAQ is available on the Jekyll Island website to help treasure hunters: https://www.jekyllisland.com/signatureevents/island-treasures/
