7 Best Day Trip Ideas for Savannah Locals (2024)

Wondering where to spend your Sunday Holiday outside Savannah? Spontaneous day trips are always the best, given you have such exciting spots nearby. Though if you are a local of Savannah, there are multiple day trip options for you within an easy driving distance. Savannah, or the Hostess of the South, has multiple exciting elements within its city limits. However, as you plan your itinerary, you can’t overlook the fact that there is to do outside of Savannah as well. Especially when the town is jam-packed with tourists, stepping out for a day of peace is always necessary.

Savannah’s location near both the South Carolina and Florida borders provides the locals with multiple options to explore. You are always nearby some beautiful Southern beaches or charming coastal towns. If not that, then the Georgian land will present some excellent Islands where you can make it back and forth in a day from Savannah.

7 Best Day Trip Ideas for Savannah Locals

So, what are you waiting for, take inspiration from the list below and plan your quick day trip outside Savannah? Have a look:

1. Tybee Island

Probably the easiest and preferred day trip from Savannah will land you on Tybee Island. It takes nearly 24 minutes to cover the 17.6 miles route from Downtown Savannah towards Tybee Island. This magical leafy residential island is home to everything from a beautiful neighborhood, salt flats, marshland, forest, and the mini beach stretches.

Even though Tybee is always high on the crowd, there’s some weird charm to this island that one still can’t stop going back and again. The entire island is filled with just single-story buildings that add the authentic coastal town vibe. While most of its region stays lively and noisy, the north side of Tybee Island is ideal for those who prefer spending time in peace.

Things To Do On Tybee Island:

• Go for Bird Watching.
• Enjoy Water sports, including Kayaking, surfing, sailing, and fishing.
• Do not miss the spectacular Dolphin tours
• Do visit the Tybee Lighthouse & Museum climbing
• Go for local dining and shopping.
• Enjoy nature hiking and biking.

2. Fort Pulaski National Monument

Fort Pulaski National Monument is another ideal day trip spot near Savannah. One can take a quick 20 minute drive and easily cover the minor distance of 13.9 miles. The National Monument is still an imposing structure and has quite a prominent historical value. Once noted as the most spectacular harbor defense structure of the U.S., the fort today is a heritage symbol. A visit here allows individuals to get a chance to experience many interesting and exciting activities year-round, both indoors and outdoors.

Things To Do In Fort Pulaski National Monument Area:

• Explore the Fort rooms with period furnishing.
• Visit the Contraband Camp.
• Walk through the North Pier Trail
• Learn about the Civil war stories associated with Fort Pulaski.

3. Savannah National Wildlife Refuge

The Savannah National Wildlife Refuge is just 33 minutes and 16.4 miles from downtown Savannah. This outdoor playground is located over the border in South Carolina and makes for the best day trips from Savannah. The wildlife refuge covers a huge area of 30,000 acres which consist of woodland, freshwater marshes, river deltas, and creek. On a good weather day, the area offers so much to do; however, bad weather signs might ruin the experience. Visitors should be prepared with comfortable shoes and a map to make the event easier.

Things To Do In Savannah National Wildlife Refuge:

• Begin with exploring the visitors’ center.
• Explore 50 miles of hiking trails.
• Enjoy the 4-mile wildlife car drive (on the Laurel Hill Wildlife Drive).
• Canoe up and down the waterways.

NOTE: DO check whether the park is open or not before planning the trip.

4. Golden Isles

It might take an hour and a half to reach, but a day trip to Golden Isles from Savannah is worth all time and effort. Golden Isles are basically the barrier islands on the southern stretch of Georgia’s coastline. The major attraction of the Isles includes Jekyll Island, St Simons Island, and Sea Island. Each of them is accessible via a comfortable car drive along the scenic coast. Golden Isles boast true natural beauty in the name of beaches, creeks, rivers, and ancient forests. Not to forget, the serene environment for relaxation is the USP of these barrier islands.

Things to do in Golden Isles:

• Driftwood Beach (The most attractive feature and Golden Isles and a must-visit).
• Climb St. Simon Island Lighthouse for a bird’s eye view of the entire Golden Isles.
• Learn about history at the Bloody Marsh Battle Site.
• Experience rich culture and history at Cannon’s Point Preserve.
• Explore the historic downtown, Brunswick.
• Visit the marines at Georgia Sea Turtle Centre.
• Spend a night at Jekyll Island’s National Historic District.

5. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, though, is a little too far away from Savannah, but if roads excite you, then why not? Charleston is nearly 2 hours away from Savannah towards the city’s northeast. This South Carolina coastal town features a rich history with elegant colonial buildings and churches. A visit to this beautiful city will make you agree that Charleston is a top vacation spot for individuals seeking history, art, culture, and entertainment. Not only that, but since it is a coastal city, Charleston also boasts some quintessential beaches that offer adventure and a relaxing atmosphere.

Things to do in Charleston:

• Explore the beauty of Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
• Walk down the King Street
• Shop at the Charleston Farmers Market
• Spend an evening at the Waterfront Park
• Surf and relax at the Folly Beach

Visit attractions including South Carolina Aquarium, Gibbes Museum, Charleston Tea Plantation, and Middleton Place.

6. Bluffton, South Carolina

Another great spot in South Carolina that Savannahians can make a day trip to is Bluffton. Reaching the beautiful town of Bluffton takes nearly half an hour along magnificent scenery. It is a go-to destination for individuals who want to explore an illustrious stretch of land and water altogether. May River is the central attraction of Bluffton apart from being the main income source for major residents. Much of the town revolves around the sale of seafood and restaurant business. Besides that, the town is also popular for its quaint downtown, antebellum architecture, and gorgeous parks. No matter what time of the year it is, the laid-back atmosphere, hospitality, and charm keeps inviting travelers to Bluffton.

Things to do in Bluffton:

• Take a trip with the Spartina Marine Education Charters
• Observe and shop art pieces from Four Corners Gallery
• Spend some time in the Palmetto Oaks Sculpture Garden.
• Soak into the eternal beauty and spirituality of the Church of the Cross
• Spare some time in Old Town Bluffton
• Join Marsh Grass Adventures for some kayaking adventure.

7. Isle of Hope

Ideal for a quick evening getaway, the Isle of Hope is just 15 minutes from the Savannah District. Locals of the town often choose it as their go-to day trip spot, especially during the summertime. If its name isn’t enough to intrigue you, then planning a trip to the Isle of Hope is what you need right now. This community’s picturesque landscape and peaceful environment help individuals cut and rejuvenate from their daily city life hustle. The community of Isle of Hope is all about gorgeous restored cottages and extravagant homes that line its beautiful streets. Moreover, the unbeatable views over the Wilmington River and the excellent seafood are what will make you stay back longer.

Things to do in the Isle of Hope:

• Visit Driftaway Café for outstanding seafood
• Eat at restaurants like Sandfly Bar-B-Q, Heiwa’s (Japanese cuisine), and Jalapenos (Mexican cuisine).
• Visit places like Isle of Hope United Methodist Church and Our Lady of Good Hope Catholic Chapel.
• Do not miss exploring the Isle of Hope Historic District
• Stroll along to Bluff Drive and observe the beautiful Wilmington River.