You’ve walked River Street, eaten your weight in pralines, and ghost-toured half the city. Now what? Luckily, Savannah sits in the middle of one of the South’s most charming regions—quiet beach towns, moss-draped backroads, historic forts, and quirky communities all sit less than two hours away.
If you notice, road-tripping is back in full swing. These short getaways are perfect for a Saturday morning wander or a lazy Tuesday escape. Most spots are crowd-free if you time it right.
This guide skips the tourist traps. You’ll find coastal hideouts, heritage towns, and offbeat stops, all with real tips you can use.
Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island
Don’t wait until sunset. Get there by mid-morning when the light hits the driftwood just right. This beach is more sculpture garden than sunbathing spot, filled with bleached trees and tidal textures. It’s about 90 minutes from Savannah and free to park at the Clam Creek area.
Wear sandals you can rinse and bring your camera. This place is a favorite for elopement photographers for a reason. Bathrooms are a short walk away, but there’s no shade, so come prepared.
Fort McAllister Historic Park
Only 40 minutes from downtown, this Civil War site offers more than just cannons and plaques. You can walk along the river, explore well-preserved bunkers, or rent a kayak if the weather’s right. Admission runs about $9 in 2025, and the gift shop is surprisingly good.
Bring bug spray and check the DNR site before you go. Occasional events or reenactments pop up without much notice. It’s quiet in the mornings and great for history buffs who want a short, low-key outing.
Tybee Island Lighthouse and Museum
If you want coastal views without the chaos of a beach day, the lighthouse delivers. Climb the 178 steps to the top for panoramic shots, then head to the nearby Battery Garland museum.
The ticket’s under $15 for both and well worth it. Try to get there by 10 a.m. to beat both heat and tour groups. Don’t leave without stopping at Sea Wolf on your way out. It’s walkable and does oysters right.
Wormsloe Historic Site
You’ve seen it on Instagram: that mile-long tunnel of live oaks. But photos don’t do the stillness justice. Go early, gates open at 9 a.m., and you’ll likely have the place to yourself. The walking trail takes you past tabby ruins from the 1700s and ends at a marsh overlook.
Admission is around $10. Don’t skip the museum; it’s small but helps put the site into real historical context. Skip weekends if you want to avoid wedding photo crowds.
Bluffton, South Carolina
Just under an hour northeast, Bluffton offers a low-key artsy vibe without the Hilton Head crowds. Walk along Calhoun Street to see galleries, stop for fresh shrimp tacos at Corner Perk Brunch Café, and check out the old Church of the Cross overlooking the May River.
Parking’s free downtown, but tight on Saturdays. If you visit in the late afternoon, stick around for the weekly farmers market or catch golden hour at Oyster Factory Park.
Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge
Looking to ditch the crowds and hear something other than car horns? Drive about an hour south to this wildlife refuge where the only traffic jams involve herons. Bring binoculars; this is a bird-watching hotspot in spring and fall. The loop road is gravel, but fine for sedans.
Pack your own snacks and water since there are no concessions or restrooms. If you go in late April, expect wildflowers and gator sightings along the pond trails.
Midway Museum and Historic Cemetery
You don’t need a full afternoon here, but just a couple hours to get a snapshot of Georgia’s colonial past. The museum sits inside a former parsonage and includes original artifacts from the 1700s. Admission is $10, and it’s best to call ahead for tour times.
The cemetery next door has graves dating back to the Revolution. Afterward, grab a slice of pound cake from Smokin’ Pig BBQ five minutes down the road.
Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge
This one takes planning. You’ll need to book a boat from Darien (about 90 minutes from Savannah), but once you land, it’s all wild beaches, maritime forest, and zero cell service. Bring bug spray and lots of water. No facilities, no food, no entrance fee—just nature.
Bird migration peaks in spring, but summer offers fewer bugs. Pack light and wear shoes you don’t mind getting soaked on the tide-swept trails.
Statesboro and the Georgia Southern Center for Wildlife
If you’ve got curious kids or just like holding snakes, head to Statesboro. The Wildlife Education Center on campus houses native reptiles, birds of prey, and hands-on exhibits. Admission is under $5.
Afterward, cool off with a nitro cold brew from Three Tree Coffee. It’s about an hour from Savannah, and parking’s free near the university on weekends. Spring and fall are best for visiting since the outdoor enclosures are more active.
Darien’s Waterfront and Shrimp Boat Docks
Darien feels untouched. Walk the dockside boardwalk where shrimp boats still unload their catch daily. You can get there in about 75 minutes via I-95. There’s no entry fee, just park near Vernon Square and stroll.
Pop into Skipper’s Fish Camp for a plate of blackened flounder, or check out the tabby ruins behind the waterfront. Best time to visit? Late afternoon, when the breeze rolls in and the seafood is freshest.
Daufuskie Island, South Carolina
This one’s for the planners. You’ll need to catch a ferry from Hilton Head (reserve ahead online), but Daufuskie rewards the effort with Gullah history, empty beaches, and a pace that hasn’t changed in decades. No cars, so rent a golf cart when you get there.
Visit the schoolhouse museum and grab deviled crab from a local stand. Ferries run less frequently in winter, so spring through early fall is your sweet spot.
Skidaway Island State Park
Only 25 minutes from downtown, Skidaway feels like another world. Spanish moss hangs thick, and the marsh trails are peaceful year-round. Hike the Big Ferry Trail or climb the observation tower for views of the Intracoastal. Entry is $5 per car.
If you’re a camper, consider booking a site here. It’s one of Georgia’s most popular. Midweek mornings are the quietest, and you can often spot deer wandering near the visitor center.
Beaufort, South Carolina
Beaufort charms instantly. The historic downtown is full of antebellum homes, art galleries, and wraparound porches. Drive time is 90 minutes, give or take. Park near Bay Street and walk toward the riverfront park. The best eats? Lowcountry produce at Lost Local.
If you’re into movie trivia, take the short self-guided tour of filming locations from The Big Chill and Forrest Gump. Weekdays are better if you want to avoid wedding parties.
Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation
If you’re interested in the deeper history of the Georgia coast, this place delivers. Located near Brunswick, about 80 minutes south, it’s a preserved rice plantation turned museum. The house tour walks you through furniture, dishes, and diaries left behind.
Admission is $8 in 2025. Bring bug spray and wear comfortable shoes. The walking trail to the marsh is worth it. Great for travelers who want substance over spectacle.
The Smallest Church in America
This stop takes ten minutes, but you’ll remember it. Just off U.S. 17 near Townsend sits a tiny white chapel that fits about a dozen people. Built in 1949, it’s open 24/7, with no entry fee and no staff.
Many visitors leave handwritten prayers on the pews. It’s best seen on your way to or from Darien. Pack a notebook if you’re the kind who likes to leave something behind.
