Planning a trip between two of the Southeast’s most loved coastal spots? I’ve made this drive dozens of times, and I’m here to give you the complete breakdown.
How far is Hilton Head from Savannah? The short answer is about 36 miles, but there’s more to know before you hit the road.
I’ll walk you through exact distances, drive times, and the best routes to take. You’ll also learn about alternative ways to get there if driving isn’t your thing.
Whether planning a day trip or a longer stay, this guide covers everything you need.
Let’s make your travel between these two cities as smooth as possible.
Distance and Drive Time Between Savannah and Hilton Head
The trip from Savannah to Hilton Head is shorter than most people think. Both cities sit close to the coast, which makes getting between them pretty straightforward.
Exact Mileage
The driving distance is approximately 36 miles. That’s from downtown Savannah to the main entrance of Hilton Head Island.
The actual mileage might vary slightly depending on your exact starting and ending points.
The straight-line distance is about 28 miles. But obviously, you can’t drive in a straight line across water and land. Roads add a few extra miles to your trip.
If you’re staying in different parts of either city, add or subtract a few miles. Hotels near the airport in Savannah will add about 10 minutes to your drive.
The same goes if you’re heading to the far end of Hilton Head.
How Long Does the Drive Take?
Most people complete the drive in 45 to 60 minutes. I usually budget an hour to be safe. Traffic and the time of day make a big difference in your travel time.
Morning rush hour (7-9 AM) can slow you down significantly. Afternoon traffic (4-6 PM) is even worse, especially on Fridays. If you’re travelling during these times, expect delays.
The best time to drive is mid-morning or early afternoon. I’ve found that leaving around 10 AM gives you the smoothest ride.
Weekend mornings are also great, but Saturday afternoons can get busy during tourist season.
Summer weekends see the heaviest traffic. Spring and fall offer easier drives with less congestion on the roads.
Driving from Savannah to Hilton Head
Driving yourself gives you the most flexibility for this trip. The route is simple and well-marked, so you won’t need to stress about getting lost.
The Recommended Route
Take US-278 East the entire way. This is the main highway connecting Savannah to Hilton Head. You’ll follow signs for Hilton Head Island as soon as you get on this road.
Start by heading east out of Savannah on US-80. Merge onto I-95 North for a brief stretch. Then take Exit 8 for US-278 East toward Hilton Head.
Stay on US-278 as it takes you through parts of South Carolina. The road crosses the bridge onto Hilton Head Island. You can’t miss it because there’s only one main bridge to the island.
The roads are well-maintained and clearly marked. Most of the drive is highway with two lanes in each direction. You’ll see plenty of signs reminding you that you’re heading the right way.
Driving Tips for the Journey
I always recommend using GPS even though the route is simple. Sometimes construction or accidents force detours, and you’ll want updated traffic information.
Here are my top tips for a smooth drive:
- Fill up your gas tank in Savannah before leaving
- Download offline maps in case cell service gets spotty
- Keep sunglasses handy since you’ll be driving east in the morning
- Watch for speed limit changes, especially as you enter South Carolina
- Have a credit card ready for potential bridge tolls
Gas stations are plentiful along the route. You’ll find several options right off US-278 if you need to stop. Rest areas are limited, but there are plenty of fast-food restaurants with bathrooms.
The drive offers some nice marsh views, especially as you get closer to Hilton Head. You’ll cross from Georgia into South Carolina about halfway through your trip.
Don’t worry, there’s no border checkpoint or anything like that.
Alternative Transportation Options
Not everyone wants to drive, and that’s totally fine. You have several other ways to get from Savannah to Hilton Head without a car.
Ride-Share Services
Both Uber and Lyft operate in this area. I’ve used them multiple times for this route. The service is reliable, though availability can vary depending on the time of day.
Expect to pay between $65 and $100 for a one-way trip. Prices surge during peak hours and busy weekends.
I’ve paid as low as $60 during slow times and as high as $120 on a Friday evening.
Book your ride at least 30 minutes in advance if possible. Drivers sometimes need extra time to reach you, especially if you’re staying outside downtown Savannah.
The wait can be 15-20 minutes during busy periods.
Check both apps before booking. Prices can differ by $10-20 between Uber and Lyft at the same time.
Taxi Services
Traditional taxi companies serve both cities. They’re a solid option if you prefer calling ahead and having a guaranteed pickup time.
Taxi fares run about $80-110 for the trip. That’s slightly more than ride-shares in most cases. But taxis offer more predictable pricing without surge charges.
Choose a taxi if you’re travelling with lots of luggage or need a larger vehicle. They also work better if you have an early morning flight and can’t risk a ride-share cancellation.
I recommend calling a taxi service the day before your trip. Get a quote and book your ride to avoid any last-minute scrambling.
Rental Cars
Renting a car makes sense if you’re staying in Hilton Head for several days. You’ll have freedom to explore the island at your own pace. Plus, you won’t rack up ride-share fees for local trips.
Major rental companies have locations throughout Savannah. The airport has the most options, but downtown locations exist,too. Daily rates start around $40-60 depending on the season.
Most rental companies let you return the car in Hilton Head. This flexibility helps if you’re not returning to Savannah. Just confirm the return location when you book to avoid extra fees.
What to See Along the Way
The drive is short, but you can still fit in some interesting stops. I like to add an hour or two to my trip when I have time to explore.
Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge
This refuge sits right off US-278 just before you reach Hilton Head. You can’t miss the entrance on your left side. It’s completely free to visit and worth the detour.
The refuge has several easy hiking trails. Most are flat and suitable for all fitness levels. You’ll see tons of birds, especially during migration seasons in spring and fall.
Budget 30-60 minutes if you want to stop here. A quick walk on the main trail takes about 30 minutes. Serious birdwatchers might want to spend an hour or more.
Bring binoculars if you have them. The wildlife viewing is excellent, with alligators, deer, and countless bird species. I always keep my camera ready when I visit.
Other Worthwhile Stops
Several small towns dot the route between Savannah and Hilton Head. Bluffton is my favourite stop for a quick coffee or snack. The historic district has charming shops and cafes.
Roadside farm stands pop up seasonally along US-278. They sell fresh produce, boiled peanuts, and local honey. I always grab boiled peanuts when I see them available.
Photo opportunities abound along the marshlands. Pull over safely at designated spots to snap pictures. The golden hour before sunset creates amazing lighting on the water.
Planning Your Trip
A little planning makes this trip much smoother. I’ve learned from experience what works best for travelling between these two cities.
Keep these tips in mind when planning:
- Spring and fall offer the best weather and smaller crowds
- Summer brings heat, humidity, and lots of tourists
- Winter is quiet, but some island businesses close
- Pack sunscreen no matter what season you visit
- Bring a cooler with drinks and snacks for the ride
- Check South Carolina entry requirements traveling from another state
- Download podcasts or music since radio stations fade out
- Wear comfortable clothes for driving
Parking in Hilton Head is generally easy to find. Most hotels offer free parking, and public beaches have large lots.
You’ll pay for parking at some beach access points, usually around $5-10 per day.
A day trip is totally doable if you leave early and return late. But I prefer staying overnight to really enjoy Hilton Head.
The island has so much to offer that rushing through it feels like a waste.
Conclusion
So, how far is Hilton Head from Savannah? Just 36 miles and about an hour of easy driving. I’ve done this trip countless times, and it never gets old.
The drive is straightforward, whether you take your own car or use a ride-share service. US-278 gets you there with minimal hassle. Stop at Pinckney Island if you have extra time.
Both cities deserve your attention. Savannah has incredible history and food, while Hilton Head offers pristine beaches and golf. Many visitors split their vacation between the two.
Start planning your trip today. Book your accommodations early, especially during peak summer months.
You’re going to love going around these two amazing coastal destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Take Public Transportation from Savannah to Hilton Head?
No direct public transit connects these cities. Greyhound and Amtrak don’t service this route. Your best options are driving, ride-shares, taxis, or rental cars for getting between the two destinations.
Is Hilton Head Worth Visiting for a Day Trip from Savannah?
Yes, absolutely. You can see quite a bit in one day if you leave early. Focus on beaches and maybe one other activity. Stay overnight if you want to explore restaurants and shops without rushing back.
What’s the Best Time of Year to Travel Between These Destinations?
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer perfect weather and fewer crowds. Summer is hot and busy, but great for beach activities. Winter is quiet and affordable but some businesses have limited hours.
Are There Any Tolls on the Route?
The Cross Island Parkway on Hilton Head charges a small toll (around $1.25). The main route from Savannah to the island entrance has no tolls. Keep some cash or a credit card handy just in case.
Can You Walk or Bike from Savannah to Hilton Head?
Walking isn’t realistic due to the distance and highway traffic. Biking is technically possible but dangerous on busy US-278. If you want to bike, drive to Hilton Head first where the island has excellent bike paths.
