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Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Georgia, USA

Tybee Island, GA

The main route to Tybee Island is driving via US-80 East. The travel scenic causeways.

Shuttle services are available from Savannah, and some cyclists use the bike path extending toward the island.

Island Focus

  • Public beaches for swimming and sunbathing
  • Tybee Island Light Station and Museum for panoramic views
  • Fort Pulaski National Monument (Civil War history)
  • Tybee Island Marine Science Center

Beyond Tybee: More Nearby Destinations

Other charming and historically rich destinations are a short drive from Savannah, making them a day trip option.

Beaufort, SC

Travel north on US-17. The drive is straightforward.

Highlights

  • Preserved antebellum architecture
  • Gullah culture and art galleries
  • Numerous filming locations ("Forrest Gump")

Hilton Head Island, SC

Travel via US-278 East.

Highlights

  • Pristine beaches
  • World-class golf courses
  • Abundant shopping and dining

Independent vs. Organized Travel

Independent Travel

  • Flexible pacing and activity choice
  • Potentially cost-effective for groups
  • Self-navigation is necessary
  • Parking presents challenges

Organized Tour

  • Convenient; transportation often included
  • Guided commentary and pre-arranged itineraries
  • Fixed schedule adherence
  • Larger groups possible

Typical Day Trip Duration

  • Tybee IslandHalf-day to Full-day
  • Beaufort, SCFull-day
  • Hilton Head Island, SCFull-day
  • Darien, GAHalf-day to Full-day
  • Wormsloe Historic Site2-3 Hours
  • Skidaway Island SP2-4 Hours
  • St. Simons IslandFull-day
  • Jekyll IslandFull-day

Day Trip Planning

Research operating hours of attractions. Consider packing a picnic lunch for time and money savings.

Natural Escapes

For those connecting with Georgia's coastal ecosystems, several natural attractions are within easy reach.

Wormsloe Historic Site

South of Savannah, famed for moss-draped live oaks. Serene walking trails and tabby ruins of an early plantation are present. A tranquil escape.

Skidaway Island State Park

On a barrier island. Offers beautiful trails through maritime forest and salt marsh. A prime location for birdwatching and coastal landscape appreciation.

Ossabaw Island

A pristine, undeveloped barrier island south of Savannah, for ecological research and cultural preservation. Access limited to permits and boat transportation.

Canoeing & Kayaking

Creeks and waterways wind through the salt marshes around Savannah. Local outfitters arrange guided kayak or canoe tours. Deep immersion into the Lowcountry's natural environment.

Water Activities

  • Guided kayak tours
  • Canoe excursions
  • Wildlife observation

Coastal Exploration

The coastal area around Savannah presents varied opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Further Exploration

  • Birdwatching locations
  • Salt marsh trails
  • Barrier island views

Environmental Considerations

Waste ReductionHigh
Water ConservationImportant
Carbon FootprintVariable
Local EcosystemsDelicate
Conservation SupportEncouraged
LitteringAvoided

Respect Nature

  • Observe all posted rules in natural parks or beaches.
  • Remain on marked trails.
  • Avoid disturbing wildlife.
  • Refrain from picking plants or taking natural souvenirs.
  • Support local conservation organizations.

Cultural Excursions & Multi-Day Journeys

Extend your cultural exploration beyond Savannah to nearby towns with their own historical narratives, or venture further for multi-day experiences.

Charleston, SC

Historic Southern port city, distinctive architecture, and world-class culinary scene.

Jacksonville, FL

Florida's largest city. Urban attractions, growing arts and culinary scene, Atlantic Ocean beaches.

Atlanta, GA

Georgia's capital. Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.

Darien, GA

A historic fishing village and one of Georgia's oldest planned cities. A glimpse into Georgia's timber and fishing industries is present.

Aspects

  • Historic fishing village
  • Oldest planned cities in Georgia
  • Fort King George State Historic Site

St. Simons & Jekyll Island, GA

These are two of Georgia's "Golden Isles," recognized for natural beauty and rich history.

Island Highlights

  • Charming villages and beaches
  • Fort Frederica National Monument
  • Jekyll Island Club National Historic Landmark District

Multi-Day Journey Highlights

Combining Savannah with other regional destinations creates a comprehensive itinerary.

Charleston, SC

Rivals Savannah in charm and historical depth. Distinct architecture, culinary scene, historic homes, plantations.

Jacksonville, FL

Florida's largest city. Urban attractions, growing arts and culinary scene, Atlantic Ocean beaches.

Atlanta, GA

Georgia's capital. Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, MLK Jr. National Historical Park.

Multi-Day Trip Tip

For multi-day extensions, renting a car for the entire trip or relying on inter-city buses/trains and local transport at each destination are considerations.