Treasure hunt underway on the Georgia coast

Want to do a little treasure hunting? You can do just that through the end of February on Georgia’s Jekyll Island.

Every year, Jekyll hosts its annual Island Treasures event. During the first two months of the year, treasure seekers can search for prizes hidden across the island.

Each day, volunteers place 2-5 clear globes around the island, about 250 in total. If you find one, you can bring it to the Jekyll Island Guest Information Center to exchange it for a hand-blown glass ball, made by artists from across the country.

The tradition dates back to the 1950s, when hollow glass balls, also known as floats, used by fishermen would sometimes make their way to shore. Collecting them become a popular activity in the mid-20th century.

Today, the tradition continues with the treasure hunt.

The globes are hidden by “beach buddies” daily from Jan. 2 - Feb. 29 at various times.

“It comes down to luck and timing. Whether you find a globe or not, we hope you’ll enjoy the real treasure that is Jekyll Island and see the annual tradition as an opportunity to explore,” the event’s website reads.

Here are some tips on where to look, or not look, for the treasure: the website notes that the whole island is fair game. However, they will always be placed in common areas like the Beach Village, Historic District and Great Dunes Beach Park.

Also, they will always be placed in plain sight and not off the beaten path. So do yourself a favor and don’t go digging in the dunes or snooping on the golf courses or residential property — they won’t be there.

Also note that prizes are limited to one per household, per year. Or, if you’re not interested in the thrill of the hunt, you can also purchase one of the island treasures here for $65.

Happy hunting, treasure seekers!

DETAILS

Island TreasuresDaily, Jan. 2-Feb. 29Throughout Jekyll IslandIt is free to participate More information

This story was written by Courtney Kueppers with The Atlanta Journal Constitution.

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