You can hunt for treasure right now at this island near Jacksonville & it's totally FREE

Photo courtesy of Jekyll Island Authority

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Put down the metal detector, the only thing you will need to find hidden treasure at an island, not too far from Jacksonville, is a sharp eye! South Georgia's Jekyll Island is currently hosting their annual "Island Treasure" event, and it's the perfect excuse to get out and have some fun in the sun.

The event runs from the beginning of January until the end of February, giving you plenty of time to plan a trip. 

This state park commissions artists from across the country to make the "treasures" --colorful, hand blown glass orbs-- and while they are the prize, they aren't exactly what you'll be searching for. 

"Each day, volunteers called Beach Buddies will hide clear globes around the island for lucky guests to find and redeem for a real glass float," the island's website states.  

There are 5 key areas to explore if you want to find a goodie:

• Beach Village
• Historic District
• Beach Parks
• Common Areas
• Along Established Paths

Photo courtesy of Jekyll Island

There are several areas you should avoid when hunting:

• Dunes
• Marsh
• Residential Property
• Golf Course or Driving Range
• Off Established Paths

According to the island's website, collecting glass orbs has been a beloved pastime since the 1900s. 

"In the early 1900s, east coast fishermen used hollow glass balls, or floats, on their nets as markers. Occasionally, the floats would break loose and wash ashore for lucky beachcombers to find and keep. Collecting these rare, highly sought after glass floats became a hobby in the 1950s."

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The park hides around 250 globes in total, however, only one treasure can be claimed per household per year. If you do happen to find a clear globe, you can take it to the guest information center to claim your prize! Additionally, to know how many have been claimed so far, you can check at the guest information center prior to embarking on your journey. 

The island is free to visit, but there is a small fee for vehicle parking. Jekyll Island is located at 901 Downing Musgrove Causeway, Jekyll Island, GA. Hours are currently Monday-Saturday: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

You can find more information about the event here.