Top 12 Day Trips From Savannah, Georgia - Updated 2024

Salim
Salim 
Updated
| 4 min read

Savannah is Georgia’s oldest city and has a rich history that resonates into the present day, offering a mix of well-preserved historic architecture, ingenious art, and vibrant nightlife. It is also famous for its impressive beautiful coastal landscape, which is why hotels and vacation rentals near the beach are aplenty. This lively place has a high reputation for hospitality. You can experience a great stay whether you’re staying in a luxury accommodation or a quaint cabin rental. Savannah is also known as America’s most haunted city. The adventures won’t be complete without a visit to the spooky Bonaventure cemetery and many other haunted places. Aside from these sites within this area, there are other thrills in its environs that you can explore. Discover all the fantastic attractions this coastal city has to offer with these top day trips from Savannah, Georgia.

1. Skidaway Island

Skidaway Island State Park
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Britt Reints used under CC BY 2.0

This island is a twenty-minute drive away from downtown Savannah. It offers a beautiful neighborhood, trails, parks, and spectacular wildlife. Make the best out of your day trip in Georgia by exploring this alluring island. Skidaway Island Park also provides biking, hiking, picnicking, and camping opportunities. You can rent some bicycles at the park’s office.

If you love animals, you will be delighted at the sight of crabs, birds, and deer. You can admire its beautiful scenery and wildlife from the numerous raised trails.

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2. Atlanta (from USD 69.0)

Atlanta Sightseeing Bus Tour lasts for about five hours and showcases the best of Atlanta. Relax in the climate-controlled coach as you enjoy the ride through Atlanta while the guide shares commentary on the city’s history and landmarks. Enjoy the spectacular views of the mansions in Buckhead district.

Stop by significant landmarks, including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. Enjoy this excellent tour and also stop at trendy restaurants for some mouthwatering local cuisines.

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Atlanta 5-Hour Sightseeing Bus Tour

Duration: 5 hours

663 reviews

3. Tybee Island (from USD 69.0)

The magical experience of watching dolphins will make your stay at Savannah memorable. Join the five-hour Dolphin Tour to Tybee Island and have fun. For accessible transit to the destination, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Savannah downtown. You will have the opportunity to observe exciting landmarks and wildlife. Enjoy the fantastic experience of the boat ride and even witness some dolphins ride the waves. Besides, the tour makes a stop at the Crab Shack, where you can have a taste of the delicious meals served at the restaurant.

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Tybee Island Day Trip and Dolphin Cruise from Savannah

Duration: 5 to 6 hours

874 reviews

4. Charleston

BroadStreetCharleston
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Khanrak used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Charleston is an alluring coastal town northeast of Savannah. It has a rich history and features elegant colonial buildings and churches. Take a stroll along the Rainbow Row or at Waterfront Park while you admire the beautiful fountains. You will enjoy the cooling effect of the water if you take a dip on a hot, blistering day. If you crave for a relaxing atmosphere, visit the quaint bars and surf spots at Folly Beach. Other thrills of Charleston include the Gibbes Museum, Patriots Points, and Magnolia Plantation.

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5. Jacksonville (from USD 96.0)

Jacksonville, Florida, offers a beautiful coastline and stunning beaches. Visitors going to Jacksonville for a day trip can enjoy a day of sun, sand, and surf. The city’s vibrant arts and culture scene is showcased through its numerous museums, galleries, and performing arts venues. Explore the historic neighborhoods, such as Riverside and Avondale, with their charming architecture, trendy shops, and eclectic dining options.

Nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the city’s abundant natural beauty by exploring parks, gardens, and wildlife preserves. From kayaking along the St. Johns River to visiting the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, there is something for everyone.

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Downtown Jacksonville Sightseeing Tour by Tuk-Tuk

Duration: 3 hours

41 reviews

6. Jekyll Island (from USD 27.0)

Located off the coast of Georgia, Jekyll Island is a charming day trip destination offering a mix of natural beauty and historical attractions. Start your day by exploring the pristine beaches, where you can relax, swim, or take a leisurely stroll along the shore. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the island’s diverse ecosystems, including marshlands and maritime forests, which can be explored through hiking and biking trails.

Visit the historic district to learn about the island’s fascinating past and tour the elegant Jekyll Island Club, once a private retreat for America’s wealthiest families. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center to learn about conservation efforts and maybe even witness a sea turtle release.

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Jekyll Island Dolphin and Sightseeing Boat Tour

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

1546 reviews

7. Bluffton

Bluffton Park and Water Tower
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Michael Rivera used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Bluffton is a town located along May River and a 35-minute drive from Savannah. This destination exemplifies life in a low-country river town. May River is a source of income to many residents, from sales of seafood to meals served at restaurants. Check out the famous FARM, an exceptional restaurant that offers delicious dishes, including seafood. Bluffton also has a couple of breweries. Boutiques are situated along the few streets of the town. Its laid-back atmosphere, hospitality, and charm attract visitors from around the nation.

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8. Beaufort (from USD 35.0)

This old waterfront town is worth visiting. Admire the gorgeous views of the moss-hanging oak trees along the beautiful avenues. Numerous events and fun activities, including horseback-riding and sports-fishing, are held frequently in this place, and you may be lucky to arrive at the right time. Besides, it is home to historic architecture and scenic film locations. Over a score of Hollywood movies have been shot in Beaufort. Join the Beaufort City Tour and learn from the local guides about the history of each landmark. You can also check the tour operator for the details of this day trip.

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Beaufort City Minibus Tour

Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes

329 reviews

9. Hilton Head Island (from USD 79.0)

The island, which is about 40 minutes away from Savannah, has beautiful beaches for you to enjoy. It is a perfect destination for both recreation and relaxation. Visit Coligny Beach and relax at one of the bars on the beachfront or play volleyball instead.

A day trip to this island will give you the chance to discover exciting things about it. Alternatively, you can explore Hilton Head Island on a jet ski. Have great fun as you zoom past mansions and enjoy the scenic beaches.

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Hilton Head Island Jet Ski Adventure

Duration: 1 hour 40 minutes

168 reviews

10. Cockspur Island

Cockspur Island Light - Chatham County, Georgia - 11 Oct. 2008
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Matt Turner used under CC BY 2.0

This destination is a few minutes’ drive away from downtown Savannah and is located in the southern channel of the Savannah River. This island is home to the national monument, Fort Pulaski. The fort is one of the masonry fortifications used for defense against military forces during the civil war. It may seem that you have traveled back in time when you wander through the galleries and drawbridges of the fort. You can check the visitors’ center at the fort for the history of the site.

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11. Golden Isles

Golden Isles Speedway entrance
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Michael Rivera used under CC BY-SA 4.0

The barrier islands on the southern stretch of Georgia’s coastline and the adjacent mainland constitute Golden Isles. They include Sea Island, St. Simon’s Island, Jekyll Island, St. Simon’s Island, and Brunswick. These locations are also easily accessible by car. Besides, you can have a spectacular scenic drive down the coastline.

The Golden Isles is truly a natural beauty worthy of a day trip in South Georgia, boasting sandy beaches, rich culture, and history. It offers a serene environment for relaxation. You must explore the art galleries, museums, and historical landmarks and its 360-degree breathtaking views.

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12. Isle of Hope (from USD 45.0)

Enjoy the peaceful environment while you explore the picturesque landscape of Isle of Hope and the Wormsloe Plantation. This half-day trip brings you the spectacular views of nature and allows you to experience life away from the city. If you are an outdoor person, you will get to enjoy this tour and learn the history of the sites, including Oak Avenue and Craftsman Bungalows. A stop at a cookie shop and barbecue restaurant complete the tour. Join the trip with an air-conditioned bus for pick-up and return to your hotel.

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Wormsloe Plantation & Isle of Hope Guided Tour from Savannah

Duration: 5 hours

Make your stay in Savannah an unforgettable adventure

There is more to explore in Savannah. One day is enough to discover new places outside the metro. Besides the attractions in this coastal city, its neighboring towns and islands have thrills that you won’t want to miss. From Atlanta to Beaufort and Golden Isles, you can create memories that will last a lifetime here. Explore these exciting destinations with these day trips from Savannah, Georgia.

Frequently asked questions about the day trips from Savannah, Georgia


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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Salim is a lover of adventure and creativity. He is fascinated with the beauty of nature and the great African arts and history. He has visited many of the waterfalls and museums in Nigeria and...Read more

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