Looking for the best beach near Savannah GA but not sure where to start? With so many options nearby, it can be hard to pick the right one for your trip.
Some beaches are close and convenient. Others are quieter, wilder, or better for specific activities.
This article covers 15 great beaches, how far they are, what they offer, and who they work best for. You will also find tips on timing, parking, and avoiding common mistakes most visitors make.
By the end, you will know exactly where to go based on your plans and travel style. This guide cuts through the confusion so you can plan your beach day with confidence and zero guesswork.
How to Pick the Best Beach Near Savannah GA
Start by thinking about what you actually want from the trip, not just which beach is closest.
A good beach should be clean, safe, and easy to reach, but beyond that, it comes down to your specific needs. Some people want calm, shallow water for kids.
Others want shells, waves, or a quiet stretch away from the noise. Parking, restrooms, and food access matter more than most people expect, and a beach with no shade or facilities can quickly turn a fun day into a frustrating one.
Distance is worth mapping out before you leave too. Tybee Island sits about 18 miles from downtown Savannah, roughly a 25 to 30 minute drive.
Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island, both part of Georgia's Golden Isles, are farther south at about 1.5 to 2 hours by car, while Hilton Head runs about an hour north into South Carolina.
Families with young kids need calm water and clean facilities. Couples often want something quieter.
Friends or solo travelers may prefer beaches with more activity and food nearby. Matching the beach to your group makes all the difference.
15 Best Beaches Near Savannah GA
These 15 beaches near Savannah range from lively and convenient to quiet and completely off the radar.
1. Tybee Island Beach
Tybee Island is the closest beach to Savannah and the most popular choice for a reason.
It sits about 18 miles east of the city and offers a full beach experience with wide sandy shores, lifeguards, restaurants, and shops nearby.
The water is warm in summer and great for swimming. Parking can fill up fast on weekends, so arriving before 9 AM makes a big difference.
Tybee works well for families, first-time visitors, and anyone who wants convenience along with a solid beach day.
2. North Beach
North Beach is the quieter end of Tybee Island, located near the Tybee Island Lighthouse.
The lighthouse and the nearby Fort Screven Historic District give this area more depth than a typical beach stop.
It has a more relaxed feel compared to the main stretch. Fewer crowds gather here, and the views of the lighthouse add something different to the scenery.
North Beach is also one of the better spots on Tybee for dolphin spotting and birdwatching, especially when the tide is low.
This spot is great for a morning walk, shell hunting, or just sitting without the noise of a packed beach. The parking area is smaller, so getting there early helps, especially during summer months.
3. Mid Beach
Mid Beach runs along the middle section of Tybee Island and offers a mix of activity and calm. It has restroom access, outdoor showers, and enough open space to spread out.
This section tends to attract a mix of families and couples. The only oceanfront restaurant on Tybee Island is located along this stretch, which makes it a convenient stop if you want food without driving far.
The water conditions here are similar to the rest of Tybee, making it good for swimming and wading.
If the main beach feels too crowded, walking toward Mid Beach often gives you more room without giving up amenities.
4. South Beach
South Beach is the main hub of Tybee Island. This is where most of the action is, including the Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion, beach volleyball, rentals, and nearby food spots.
The pier is a popular spot for fishing and has even appeared in movies filmed in the Savannah area. It gets busy during summer and on holidays.
If you enjoy people watching and a lively scene, this is the place. Kids love the area near the pier. Just plan for traffic and limited parking during peak season.
Arriving early or using the shuttle from nearby lots saves time and frustration.
5. Back River Beach
Back River Beach sits on the west side of Tybee Island along the Back River. It is known locally as Tybee's secret beach, which keeps crowds low.
The water here is calmer and shallower, making it a solid choice for families with toddlers or anyone who wants to avoid waves.
Dolphin sightings are fairly common from this shore, especially in the early morning. Sunsets from this side of the island are impressive.
There are no lifeguards, so keep an eye on kids at all times. It has a local, laid-back feel that regular visitors tend to appreciate.
6. Little Tybee Island
Little Tybee Island is a barrier island just south of Tybee Island. There are no roads, bridges, or facilities here. You reach it by kayak, canoe, or small boat.
That effort filters out the crowds and leaves behind a mostly wild, natural beach. It is protected land, so no development is allowed.
Birdwatching, shelling, and exploring tidal flats are the main draws. Go with a guide if you are unfamiliar with the area, as tides and water channels shift throughout the day.
7. Driftwood Beach
Driftwood Beach is located on Jekyll Island and is unlike anything else on this list.
The beach is covered in large, weathered tree trunks and twisted driftwood that have been shaped by wind and tides over time.
It is one of the most photographed spots on the Georgia coast. Swimming here is not the main point. People come to walk, take photos, and take in the raw, natural setting.
It is free to access and open year-round, though the island charges a small parking fee per vehicle.
Note that high tide can make parts of this beach hard to reach, so check the tide schedule before you go. The best light for photos comes in the early morning or late afternoon.
8. East Beach on St. Simons Island
East Beach is the largest beach on St. Simons Island and one of the best overall in the region.
It stretches along the southeastern coast of the island and has a calm, family-friendly atmosphere.
At low tide, long sandbars appear and can be walked out more than a quarter mile, which kids love.
The beach is wide with plenty of space, and the Neptune Park area nearby offers playgrounds, picnic tables, and a pool.
Parking is available but fills quickly on summer weekends. This beach suits families, walkers, and those who want a full day out without the drive down to Jekyll Island.
9. Coast Guard Beach
Coast Guard Beach is a smaller, quieter stretch of shoreline on St. Simons Island near the southern tip.
It sits close to the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum, which is worth a quick visit if you have extra time.
The area around it has interesting history, and walking the nearby paths gives you a sense of the island beyond the typical tourist spots.
It is not a full-facility beach, but the calm atmosphere and low crowd levels make it worth including if you are already spending time on St. Simons.
10. Sea Island Beach
Sea Island is a private, upscale island located just off St. Simons, within Georgia's Golden Isles group.
Access to the beach is primarily for guests of The Cloister resort, which makes this a less accessible option for most day visitors.
However, if you are staying at the resort or have a connection, the beach is pristine and rarely crowded. The water is calm and clean, and the service is top-level.
It is worth knowing about if you are planning a special trip or a longer stay in the Golden Isles area.
11. Jekyll Island Beach
Jekyll Island has more than 10 miles of beach along its Atlantic coast, making it one of the longest stretches of public beach in Georgia.
The island limits development, which keeps the beaches natural and uncrowded compared to more commercial spots.
The Georgia Sea Turtle Center sits near the center of the island between Driftwood Beach and St. Andrews Beach, and it is a worthwhile stop if you visit during turtle nesting season.
Parking is available throughout, and the island has bike paths, making it easy to visit multiple beach sections in one day.
A small fee applies to enter the island by car. Families, outdoor lovers, and nature fans tend to get the most out of a Jekyll Island visit.
12. Great Dunes Beach
Great Dunes Beach is one of the named access points on Jekyll Island and features a wide, open beach with a large grassy area and picnic facilities nearby.
The dunes here are more prominent than at other Jekyll spots, giving the area a slightly different look and feel. It is a good base for a full beach day with chairs, coolers, and kids in tow.
Restrooms and parking are available. The beach here is wide enough that even on a busy summer day, you can find room to set up without feeling crowded.
13. Glory Beach
Glory Beach on St. Simons Island holds historical significance as the location of the 1989 film "Glory." Beyond that history, it is a quiet beach spot with local character.
It is not heavily developed or commercialized, which appeals to visitors looking for something off the beaten path. The beach itself is small but peaceful.
If you are spending time on St. Simons and want to see a spot that is not on every tourist itinerary, this one is worth the short detour.
14. North Beach on St. Simons Island
The northern end of St. Simons Island offers a quiet beach experience away from the more visited southern stretches. This area feels more residential and calm.
Locals use it for morning walks and fishing, and it rarely gets the crowds that East Beach sees. Access points exist along the northern shore, though parking is limited.
This is a good option if you want a low-key afternoon by the water while staying on St. Simons Island without driving far.
15. St. Andrews Beach Park
St. Andrews Beach Park is located on Jekyll Island near the southern tip and offers one of the most scenic and peaceful beach experiences in the area.
The park has picnic facilities, restrooms, and beach access in a setting that feels far removed from commercial tourism.
The shoreline here is wide, and the water tends to be calmer at this end of the island.
It is a favorite among locals and repeat visitors to Jekyll Island who know to skip the busier northern access points on crowded days.
Common Mistakes When Choosing a Savannah Beach
Many visitors make avoidable mistakes that turn a good beach day into a stressful one.
Choosing Based Only on Distance
Tybee Island is the closest beach, so most people default to it without thinking further. But closer does not always mean better for your specific needs.
If you have a full day and want a quieter spot, Jekyll Island or Little Tybee might serve you better even with the longer drive.
And if you want a full resort-style family beach within an hour, Coligny Beach on Hilton Head Island is worth considering.
Ignoring Tides and Weather Conditions
Tides significantly affect beach width, water depth, and overall conditions. Low tide often reveals more sand and makes beaches more walkable.
High tide can reduce usable beach space dramatically, and at Driftwood Beach it can cut off access entirely.
Check a local tide chart before heading out, especially if you plan to visit tidal areas or bring young children.
Assuming Every Beach Has the Same Amenities
Some beaches have restrooms, showers, lifeguards, and food vendors. Others have none of those things. Little Tybee Island and Wassaw Island, for example, have no facilities whatsoever.
Going prepared with water, snacks, sunscreen, and a first aid kit makes a big difference at less developed spots.
Visiting Popular Beaches at Peak Times
Summer weekends between 10 AM and 3 PM are the busiest times at Tybee and East Beach on St. Simons. Traffic, parking, and crowds peak during those hours.
Arriving early, visiting on a weekday, or choosing a less popular beach during peak season makes the experience far more enjoyable.
Tips for Choosing the Right Beach
These small steps before you leave can save you hours of frustration and make your beach day far more enjoyable.
- Check conditions before you leave. Look at the forecast, tide schedule, and water temperature at least 24 hours ahead to avoid a wasted drive.
- Arrive before 9 AM on weekends. Parking fills fast in summer, and getting there early means better spots and more room on the sand.
- Visit on weekday mornings. Crowds are thinner, parking is easier, and the cooler air makes the experience noticeably better.
- Time your visit around low tide. It opens up more sand, reveals sandbars, and makes wading safer for kids and shell hunters.
- Match the beach to your activity. Swimming, fishing, kayaking, and photography all point to different spots, so plan accordingly.
- If wildlife is part of your plan, visit Jekyll Island between May and August when sea turtle nesting season is active and the Georgia Sea Turtle Center has the most to offer.
Conclusion
The best beach near Savannah GA depends on what you are looking for and who you are bringing along.
From the lively shores of Tybee Island to the quiet natural beauty of Little Tybee and Jekyll Island, there is a spot that fits every type of traveler.
Use the tips and details in this guide to narrow down your choices before you go. A little planning goes a long way toward a better beach day.
If this helped you, share it with someone else planning a Savannah beach trip or drop a comment telling us which beach you chose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any dog-friendly beaches near Savannah?
Yes. Dogs are allowed on parts of Tybee Island beach during certain hours, typically early morning and evening. Jekyll Island also permits leashed dogs in some areas. East Beach on St. Simons Island is another dog-friendly option worth considering.
What is the water temperature like at Savannah area beaches in summer?
Water temperatures along the Georgia coast typically range from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit during summer months, making it comfortable for swimming.
Is there an entry fee for Jekyll Island?
Yes. Jekyll Island charges a small parking fee per vehicle to enter the island. The fee helps fund conservation and maintenance of the public beaches.
Can you camp near any beaches close to Savannah?
Yes. Jekyll Island State Park offers camping options near the beach. Skidaway Island State Park is another nearby option, though it is not directly on the coast.
What months are best for avoiding jellyfish at Georgia beaches?
Late spring and early fall tend to have fewer jellyfish than peak summer. Water conditions vary yearly, so checking local beach reports before visiting is a smart move.
