When it comes to finding the perfect beach spot, Savannah, GA, has you covered. But with endless coastline and sandy beaches, it can be tough to narrow down your search for the best beach in town. To help make your decision a little easier, we’ve put together a list of our top 11 Savannah, Georgia, beach destinations!
Whether you’re looking for action-packed waves or a peaceful place to relax, we’ve got you covered. So pack your sunscreen and flip-flops and get ready to explore some of the best beaches Savannah has to offer!
Which Savannah, Georgia Beach Should You Visit?
Below, we list some of the best Savannah beaches:
1. Tybee Island’s South Beach
South Beach is the most popular beach on Tybee Island and is located just 20 minutes away from downtown Savannah. This Tybee Island beach is in what’s known as the downtown area at the end of Tybrisa Street. This location is bustling with stores, restaurants, and bars.
The beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing and is a fantastic family beach. However, it gets extremely crowded on weekends, and parking may be difficult. If you can visit on a Tuesday or a Thursday when it’s quieter, that would be great.
2. Tybee Island’s North Beach
Tybee Island’s North Beach is a favorite spot for local residents. It’s also an excellent spot to view the Tybee Island Lighthouse. The beach takes much of the island and is much quieter than elsewhere on the island. The view of the Savannah River from Tybee Island’s North Beach is also breathtaking.
There are several excellent restaurants, unique stores, and intriguing historical sites in this region. So if you’re tired of sitting on the beach, you can go somewhere new. When the tide is out, you’ll find starfish, sand dollars, and sea snails along with birds on this beach.
3. Hilton Head Island – Coligny Beach
Hilton Head Island’s Coligny Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. It’s also the busiest and most crowded beach on Hilton Head. But one good thing about this place is that there are two parking lots close to the beach, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a spot.
The beach has lifeguards on duty, which is always reassuring, and there are showers and restrooms nearby. You can find food, drinks, and ice cream at several stands along the boardwalk. There are also plenty of shops if you need to buy anything. The water here is clean and clear, making it ideal for swimming, boating, and paddling.
4. Isle Of Palms County Park
Isle of Palms County Park is a lovely spot for a family picnic, and it has a playground for the kids. It also has excellent facilities, including showers, restrooms, and a boardwalk. The beach here is wide and sandy, with crystal-clear water.
It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and surfing. You can find several restaurants close by if you get hungry, and there are also tennis courts and a golf course if you want to mix things up. Parking can be difficult to find on weekends during peak season. So if you can visit during the week or out of season, that would be ideal.
5. Wassaw Island
A National Wildlife Refuge, Wassaw Island is one of the only untouched barrier islands along the Georgia coast. The island’s oceanfront regions may be visited during daylight hours, and it is surrounded by miles of sandy beach, which is bordered by maritime forest. It’s a calm and remote location that’s ideal for viewing wildlife, unwinding, or beachcombing.
The island is only accessible by boat, and there are several trips and charters available. It’s a great day trip from Savannah if you’re looking for something more peaceful, natural, and secluded.
6. Folly Island’s Folly Beach County Park
Folly Beach County Park is a beautiful stretch of coastline on Folly Island. It’s less crowded than other beaches in the area, making it perfect if you’re looking for a more relaxing experience.
The beach here is wide and sandy, with clear water that’s ideal for swimming, surfing, and paddling. You can find showers and restrooms close by, as well as a few restaurants. Parking can be difficult to find on weekends during peak season. So if you can visit during the week or out of season, that would be ideal.
7. Hunting Island St Park Beach
About one and half hours away from Savannah is Hunting Island, State Park. The South Carolina park attracts more than a million visitors a year and has five miles of beaches.
It is a natural beach, and while it does get busy here due to the length of the beach, you will always be able to find a secluded spot.
There is so much more to do on the island, too, including exploring the 5000-acre island, which has acres of marsh and maritime forest, a saltwater lagoon, and an ocean inlet. The island also has a boardwalk, nature center, and a lighthouse to explore.
You will need to pay an admission fee to get into the park, and the hours change depending on the season, so please check before you go. Hunting Island is one of the dog-friendly beaches near Savannah.
8. St. Simons East Beach
St Simons Island is one of the Golden Isles and is a barrier island off the coast of Georgia. The island has two main beaches, East Beach and Massengale Park Beach, with both offering different experiences.
East Beach is wide and sandy with plenty of space for sunbathing, picnics, volleyball, and Frisbee. The beach is also a great spot for fishing, surfing, and swimming.
There are showers, restrooms, and a playground close by, as well as a few restaurants and cafes. Parking can be difficult to find on weekends during peak season. So if you can visit during the week or out of season, that would be ideal. It’s about an hour from Savannah
9. Butterbean Beach
Butterbean Beach is located on the banks of the Skidaway River. It’s a tiny beach on the outskirts of town, and because locals flock to this beach in the summer, it may get quite crowded. It’s best to go at low tide since there’s more beach accessible then.
There is a covered pavilion and some toilets, as well as accessible parking. The water may be icy in the winter, but it can also be chilly outside of the summer months.
The beach is located adjacent to the Rodney J. Hall Boat Ramp off the Diamond Causeway in Savannah, on the right side of the bridge that spans the river.
10. Jekyll Island – Driftwood Beach
Driftwood Beach, located about an hour and a half from Savannah, is the place to be this summer. This region is stunning, having been a wealthy person’s winter retreat. It’s also a much more peaceful beach with some tree gravesites.
The sand is filled with erratic and erosion-weary driftwood logs that make for a lovely backdrop. Driftwood Beach is at the northern extremity of Andros Island, which is said to be quite beautiful and haunted.
Jekyll Island is a lovely place, with a historic district and some magnificent 19th-century structures. There are miles of beaches here, as well as easy beach access to them all. There is an entrance/parking fee for all cars that enter the island.
Also, keep in mind that when the tide is high, this beach becomes inaccessible, so make arrangements ahead of time. This beach is one of the most beautiful near Savannah.
11. Back River Beach
Back River Beach is a secluded beach located on the south end of Tybee Island. This beach is only accessible by foot, bike, or golf cart, so it’s quite a trek to get here. But once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous views and plenty of privacy.
The sand here is white, and the water is crystal clear. There are no facilities at this beach, so make sure to pack everything you need for a day in the sun. And since it’s only accessible by foot, bike, or golf cart, be prepared for a bit of a hike.
Back River Beach is on the outskirts of a remote area at the end of Highway 80. Back River is Tybee’s “hidden beach,” with gentle waves, dolphins, and stunning sunsets.
5 Tips For Beach Day Success
1. Check the Tide Tables
Tides can play a big role in how enjoyable your beach day is. If you go at high tide, you may find yourself swimming in place or getting pulled out to sea. Conversely, if you go at low tide, you might have to walk a long way to get to the water. To avoid any surprises, check the tide tables before heading to the beach.
2. Bring Sunscreen
This one seems like a no-brainer, but it’s worth repeating: don’t forget the sunscreen! No matter what time of year it is, the sun’s UV rays can damage your skin. So slather on that SPF 30 (or higher) and enjoy your day in the sun without worry.
3. Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to get dehydrated when you’re spending a day at the beach. Between the sun and the salt water, your body will lose fluids quickly. To avoid feeling lightheaded or dizzy, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
4. Bring A Beach Bag
A beach bag is essential for carrying all your beach day essentials, like sunscreen, towels, snacks, and water. It’s also helpful for storing your things while you’re in the water.
5. Don’t Leave Your Things Unattended
This one is important for two reasons: first, it’s easy for things to get lost or stolen when they’re not being watched. Second, if there’s an emergency, you’ll want to be able to grab your things and go quickly. So make sure to keep an eye on your belongings, and don’t leave them unattended for too long.
Need A Place To End A Beach Day? Stop By Our Restaurant!
After a long day at the beach, you’ll probably be hungry. And what better way to end your day than with a delicious meal? The Chocolate Martini Bar is the perfect place to relax and refuel. We offer a wide variety of dishes, so there’s sure to be something for everyone. And our wait staff is always happy to make recommendations. So come on in and enjoy a delicious meal after a day spent in the sun!
Please note that our reservations do take priority, and we strongly suggest you contact us and make a reservation before your arrival. You can do that by booking now! Stop in to enjoy all our unique flavors or order for pickup at (912) 348-2100. We hope to see you soon!
