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Best day trips from Savannah

The best places to escape Savannah for a day — drives, train rides, and easy outings within 1–3 hours of the city.

Savannah, GA, USA· Airport: SAV
Savannah — Day trips | CheapoTrav travel guide

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Key facts

  • Most notable day trips from Savannah are within a 90-minute drive, reaching destinations in both Georgia and South Carolina.
  • A rental car offers the greatest freedom for exploring coastal barrier islands and small historic towns around Savannah.
  • Popular destinations include Tybee Island (beaches), Hilton Head Island (resorts), Beaufort (history), and Congaree National Park (nature).
  • Public transportation options like buses connect Savannah to Tybee Island, while other routes may require private transport or tours.
  • Consider combining a visit to a historic site with a natural preserve, like Fort Pulaski and McQueen's Island Trail.
  • Day trips offer varied experiences, from Revolutionary War history at Old Sheldon Church to Civil War sites on Jekyll Island.
  • Early departures are advisable for destinations prone to traffic, such as Hilton Head Island on summer weekends.

Savannah, with its historic squares and Spanish moss, is a destination rich in atmosphere. However, for those staying a few days, the surrounding Lowcountry offers a distinct set of experiences worth exploring. Many excellent day trip options are available within a comfortable driving distance, typically an hour to an hour and a half, allowing you to depart after breakfast and return for dinner without feeling rushed. These excursions provide a change of scenery and a deeper appreciation for the region's diverse history and natural beauty.

Consider what type of experience you're seeking beyond Savannah's city limits. Are you interested in barrier island beaches and wildlife? Revolutionary War history or Civil War battlefields? Perhaps a taste of a neighboring state's coastal charm, or the tranquility of a smaller, less-trafficked historic town. Each direction from Savannah opens up different possibilities, from secluded state parks to bustling resort communities. Planning ahead ensures you maximize your time and hit the highlights of your chosen destination.

While Savannah itself is highly walkable, venturing out into the Lowcountry generally requires a vehicle. Renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring at your own pace, stopping where and when you please. Alternatively, several local tour operators offer guided excursions to popular spots like Tybee Island, Beaufort, or Hilton Head, handling transportation and often providing local insights. Regardless of your preferred method, these short trips are an excellent way to broaden your Southern Georgia and South Carolina experience.

Remember to pack essentials like water, sun protection, and comfortable shoes, as many day trip destinations involve walking or outdoor activities. A cooler with snacks can also be a good idea, especially if you plan on visiting a less developed area. If specific historical sites or attractions are priorities, check their operating hours and consider booking tickets in advance, particularly during peak seasons. Should you need personalized itinerary advice or assistance with car rentals, our travel agents are available to help.

In this guide

  • Top picks for day trips
  • How to get there from Savannah
  • Best for nature
  • Best for food and drink
  • Tips for planning

Frequently asked questions

What are the best beach day trips from Savannah?
For a quintessential beach experience close to Savannah, Tybee Island is the most straightforward option, located just under 30 minutes east. It offers three distinct public beaches, a pier, and the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum. For a slightly longer drive (about an hour), Hilton Head Island in South Carolina provides a more developed resort beach experience with extensive bike paths and golf courses. Further south, Jekyll Island, about an hour and a half away, offers a quieter, more natural beach setting along with historic cottages and conservation areas.
Are there any historical day trips worth taking from Savannah?
Absolutely. Just a short drive east, Fort Pulaski National Monument offers a fascinating look into Civil War engineering and siege tactics. About an hour north in South Carolina, Beaufort boasts a well-preserved historic district with antebellum architecture and a rich Gullah-Geechee cultural heritage. Slightly further south from Savannah, you can explore the historic district of Brunswick, GA, or the 'Millionaire's Village' on Jekyll Island, detailing the opulent winter homes of America's wealthiest families from the early 20th century.
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What's the best way to get to day trip destinations from Savannah?
Renting a car typically offers the most flexibility and convenience for day trips from Savannah, allowing you to set your own schedule and explore off-the-beaten-path locations. For popular destinations like Tybee Island, public transportation (Chatham Area Transit, CAT) is available. Several local tour companies also offer guided excursions to places like Tybee Island, Hilton Head, or even longer trips to Charleston, which can be a good option if you prefer not to drive or want a curated experience with a guide.
Can I visit Charleston, SC, as a day trip from Savannah?
While Charleston, SC, is a popular destination, treating it as a day trip from Savannah requires an early start and a late return. The drive is approximately two hours each way, so a significant portion of your day will be spent on the road. If you're determined, focus on a few key areas like the historic district, Battery Park, and maybe a quick carriage tour or a visit to a specific house museum. However, many travelers find Charleston warrants at least an overnight stay to fully appreciate its charm without feeling rushed.
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Are there any nature-focused day trips from Savannah?
Yes, the Lowcountry surrounding Savannah is rich in natural beauty. Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge is accessible by boat and offers undeveloped barrier island ecosystems for birdwatching and beachcombing. Ossabaw Island, also boat-access only, is another pristine natural preserve. For a terrestrial experience, the Skidaway Island State Park, a short drive south of Savannah, features maritime forest trails and observation towers overlooking salt marshes. Further afield, the ACE Basin National Estuarine Research Reserve offers extensive wildlife viewing opportunities, though it's a longer drive.
What should I pack for a day trip from Savannah?
For day trips from Savannah, practical packing is key. Regardless of the destination, bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent, especially if you plan on outdoor activities or visiting marshy areas. If heading to the beach, pack swim attire, a towel, and beach essentials. For historical sites, a small backpack for water, snacks, and any souvenirs is useful. Always check the weather forecast for your specific day trip location, as conditions can vary slightly from Savannah.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares

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