Jake Cain is an entrepreneur and writer from Cincinnati, Ohio. He spends his free time driving around the country in his late 90’s conversion van, affectionately known as the “Monster Van” with his wife and 3 boys.
One of Georgia’s most charming destinations, Savannah is also known as the “hostess of South”. Savannah has no shortage of happening bars, restaurants, parks, and other activities to keep visitors busy.
There are also several fascinating historical architectures typical of the South in the form of museums and amazing galleries. Apart from that, there are plenty of natural and cultural gems near Savannah which the visitors can explore.
Let us talk about some of the best day trips from Savannah.
Tybee Island, Georgia
Located just 25 minutes away from Savannah, Tybee Island has a lovely quaint olden California vibe with its seafront neighborhoods. Visitors can enjoy the many sandy beaches, restaurants, bike paths and more.
If you want some lively fun and entertainment, then head to the pier where most of the live shows and entertainment shows are held. There are fun dining options here as well and you can also just take a stroll at the pier in the evening.
For a quieter experience, book a private tour of the island’s iconic lighthouse tower and on-site museum.
Also, try the Original Crab Shack for a bit of culinary delight to your fun getaway.
- Distance: 25 minutes
- Ideal for: Fun getaway
Golden Isles, Georgia
Golden Isles is made up of barrier islands that stretch out into the Atlantic and form 150 miles of subtropical coastline. The area comprises of pristine, secluded beaches and ancient forests.
The most popular islands are Jekyll Island, St Simons Island and Sea Island. These are all accessible by car and make for a great day trip from Savannah.
Make sure to check out Driftwood Beach which is named so because of the arrangements of driftwoods found here.
- Distance: 1 hour and 25 minutes
- Ideal for: Beach fun
Bluffton, South Carolina
Around an hour away from Savannah, lies the small town of Bluffton. This quaint town is perfect for a relaxing but fulfilling day.
Situated along the May River, there is some truly magnificent seafood here that can be tried in places such as the famed FARM restaurant.
History lovers can start their tour at Heyward House Museum & Welcome Center, one of eight Antebellum homes remaining in the town. Visitors can end their day trip by strolling the Bluffton streets which are lined with creations from local artists which visitors can choose to buy.
- Distance: 30 minutes
- Ideal for: Small-town fun
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Just 40 minutes away from Savannah across the state lines in South Carolina lies the lovely Hilton Head Island.
This beautiful island offers beach views, shopping, dining, and plenty of recreational activities like biking, golf. Hilton Head Island is the perfect place to visit if you have rejuvenation and relaxation in your mind.
The island is home to some of the best beaches in the country as well as some of the most spectacular golf courses in the world. Coligny Beach is a popular beach that has amenities like bikes, car rentals, walking paths and shopping plaza.
- Distance: 40 minutes
- Ideal for: Relaxing getaway
Savannah National Wildlife Refuge, Georgia
Only 15 miles from downtown Savannah lies the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge which takes you into the wild.
Earlier, this area was filled with rice plantations in the 1800s and now it is a wild expanse of marsh and woods. Highlights include over 40 miles of hiking and walking trails, a visitor’s center and four-mile photography and wildlife observation road.
Visitors can indulge in a canoe ride, scenic drive, and a picnic as well. There are many animals you can spot here like alligators, otters, deer, and squirrels.
- Distance: 10 minutes
- Ideal for: Outdoor lovers
Skidaway Island, Georgia
Skidaway Island is only 25 minutes away from Savannah and makes for a fantastic day trip from the city. The main attraction here is wildlife-laden Skidaway National Park.
Visitors can take advantage of six miles of hiking trails, an observation tower, bike rentals, and a boardwalk.
The national park offers several opportunities to view deer, egrets, crabs, and other animals in their natural habitat among the salt marsh.
- Distance: 25 minutes
- Ideal for: Outdoor lovers
Beaufort, South Carolina
This historic waterfront town in South Carolina makes for a relaxing getaway from Savannah, Georgia. It is the second-oldest town in SC.
The best way to explore is to download a map and go for a self-guided tour, to enhance the experience you can also hire a local.
Visitors can tour historic Antebellum homes like the Robert Means House, and walk or bike along the Woods Memorial Bridge which was made famous in the film “Forrest Gump.”
End your day with a lovely meal at Saltus River Grill in this second oldest town in South Carolina.
- Distance: 54 minutes
- Ideal for: Relaxing getaway
Jacksonville, Florida
Drive two hours from Savannah and reach this lovely city of Jacksonville in Florida which can make for an exciting day trip. Beautiful gardens, several museums, and nature trails are all here in this city for you to explore.
Home to the longest coastline in the country, Jacksonville is home to many stunning beaches. Apart from chilling at the beach art lovers can explore the contemporary art collection at MOCA Jacksonville or visit the family-friendly Museum of Science and History.
For a fun time, you can also explore the Jax Ax Trail, which includes a self-guided tour of 19 local breweries, including Ale Works and Veterans United.
- Distance: 2 hours
- Ideal for: Family-friendly getaway
Palmetto Bluff, SC
This high-end community of Palmetto Bluff is situated among thousands of acres of wild forests. Here you will find upscale luxury homes plus a rustic charm as well.
Visitors can walk by these lovely homes or explore the activities on May River like canoeing, fishing and more.
You can also relax at the public favorite Montage Hotel, where you can spend the day wandering the beautiful grounds and just enjoy the happy hours.
- Distance: 32 minutes
- Ideal for: Relaxing getaway
Atlanta, Georgia
The exciting city of Atlanta makes for an excellent day trip from Savannah. The unmistakable southern spirit and hospitality will greet you in Atlanta.
Just three hours away, Atlanta should be on top of your list. Visitors can explore world-class museums like the Georgia Aquarium and the Atlanta History Center.
Atlanta offers an exciting food scene and also one of the broadest arts cultures in the southeast. The music scene here is also great. Culture fans can head to the High Museum of Art and Center for Puppetry Arts.
- Distance: 3 hours and 51 minutes
- Ideal for: Fun getaway
Charleston, South Carolina
Located northeast of Savannah, Charleston is a charming town which makes for a fantastic day trip from the city.
Steeped in history, the town is home to beautiful colonial architecture like some of its churches, such as the gorgeous Huguenot Church.
Visitors can also spend some time strolling through Waterfront Park and admiring the picturesque fountains. You can visit Folly Beach as well if you want to relax and spend some time on the beach.
- Distance: 1 hour and 57 minutes
- Ideal for: Relaxed getaway
Francis Marion National Forest, South Carolina
Around three hours away from Savannah, Francis Marion National Forest was named after a revolutionary war hero. This place also shares the same coastline as Savannah.
Find natural wonders here like mountains, waterways, and waterfalls which visitors can spend their time exploring.
- Distance: 2 hours and 26 minutes
- Ideal for: Nature lovers
The Isle of Hope, Georgia
Located 10 miles away from Savannah, Isle of Hope was a resort for the wealthy in the 1840s. This wonderful and quaint community in Isle of Hope characterized by gorgeous restored cottages and extravagant homes lining the streets.
Pass your time by strolling along the Bluff Drive, where you’ll find unbeatable views over the Wilmington River as you walk under enormous moss-hung live oaks.
Enjoy a bite at one of the seafood restaurants in the marina and enjoy the evening as you watch the sun go down.
- Distance: 15 minutes
- Ideal for: Nature lovers
Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge, Georgia
Wassaw National Wildlife Refuge can only be reached by boat. The lack of development in this area means that nature here is untouched and pristine.
A great place for outdoor lovers, there is lots to do here like hiking, exploring wildlife trails and more. There are miles of sandy beaches as well where you can relax and have fun.
- Distance: 20 minutes
- Ideal for: Nature lovers
As we saw, Savannah has a plethora of things to offer to its residents and visitors. There are lots of things to do near Savannah also like visiting the town of Jacksonville or visiting the Golden Isles.
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