Savannah GA Beach Guide: Closest & Best Beaches

Planning a trip and thinking where to find the perfect Savannah GA beach experience? You are not alone.

On my first trip to Savannah, I assumed I would be able to walk from the Historic District to the ocean.

I quickly found that Savannah sits inland, but reaching the coast was much easier than I expected.

After spending time at Tybee Island and several nearby beaches, I realized each one offers a completely different experience depending on whether you want lively crowds, quiet nature, or a full resort atmosphere.

This guide covers the closest and best beaches near Savannah, helping you choose the right spot based on your time, travel style, and interests.

Let’s get started.

Does Savannah, Georgia Have a Beach?

Savannah, Georgia does not have a beach within the city itself. The city sits inland along the Savannah River, not directly on the Atlantic Ocean.

However, Savannah GA beach access is easy thanks to nearby coastal islands.

Tybee Island, known as Savannah’s beach, is just 18 miles east of downtown and takes about 30 to 40 minutes to reach. It offers public beaches, a pier, restaurants, and a historic lighthouse.

Other beaches near Savannah include Hilton Head Island, Daufuskie Island, St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island. Most visitors stay in Savannah and enjoy day trips to the beach.

Why People Call Tybee Island “Savannah Beach”

Tybee earned the nickname because it is the closest and most practical beach from the city.

Savannah sits about 18 miles inland along the Savannah River.

There is no beachfront within the city limits. When locals or visitors say “Savannah Beach,” they almost always mean Tybee Island.

Tybee is a small barrier island connected to Savannah by US Highway 80.

The drive is straightforward, and the island feels like a natural extension of the Savannah experience. That combination of proximity and easy access is exactly why the nickname stuck.

Beach Comparison Table

Use this table to quickly compare all major beaches near Savannah before planning your trip.

Best Beaches Near Savannah, Georgia

These beaches are easy to reach from Savannah and offer different coastal experiences.

1. Tybee Island (South Beach)

Tybee Island South Beach is the most popular Savannah GA beach and the busiest part of the island.

Located about 18 miles east of downtown Savannah, it is an easy 30 to 40 minute drive. This beach is known for its energetic vibe, soft sand, and central location near the Tybee Island Pier.

Restaurants, bars, ice cream shops, and souvenir stores line the nearby streets, making it very walkable.

Nearby Attractions:Tybee Island Pier, Tybee Island Marine Science Center, Fort Pulaski National Monument

Where to Eat Nearby:The Crab Shack, Sting Ray’s Seafood, Fannie’s on the Beach

Why choose it:This is the easiest beach for first-time Savannah visitors who want dining, shops, and ocean access without a long drive.

Best for:First-time visitors, dining, nightlife, and an active beach scene

2. Tybee Island (North Beach)

North Beach is located on the quieter end of Tybee Island, near the historic lighthouse.

It is the same 30 to 40 minute drive from Savannah, but the atmosphere is much calmer than South Beach.

The sand is slightly firmer, crowds are smaller, and views of cargo ships passing offshore are common. Watching cargo ships from North Beach is surprisingly memorable.

Nearby Fort Screven adds a touch of history to the area.

Nearby Attractions:Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, Fort Screven historic grounds

Why choose it:North Beach feels noticeably quieter than South Beach, even on busy weekends. It is the best option if you want to relax without fighting for space.

Best for:Relaxation, families, scenic views, and a slower pace

3. Back River Beach (Tybee Island)

Back River Beach is a secluded spot on the western side of Tybee Island, about 40 minutes from Savannah.

It is often considered a hidden gem because it is quieter and less developed. The calm water makes it ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding, and dolphins are frequently seen near the shore.

Back River Beach is my favorite place for sunset on the entire island.

Why choose it: Back River Beach has the best sunsets on Tybee. The western exposure and calm water make it worth the extra few minutes of driving, and it stays quiet even when the rest of the island is busy.

Best for:Couples, quiet beach time, sunsets, dolphin watching, and peaceful walks

4. Savannah River Beach

Savannah River Beach offers a very different coastal experience compared to ocean-facing beaches.

Located near Tybee Island’s western edge, it is under 40 minutes from Savannah.

This beach is less focused on swimming and more about views of the Savannah River shipping channel. Watching massive cargo ships pass close to shore is what sets it apart.

Best for:Scenic views, photography, and a non-traditional beach experience

5. Hilton Head Island – Coligny Beach

Coligny Beach is one of the most accessible beaches on Hilton Head Island, about one hour from Savannah.

It features wide sandy shores, gentle waves, and excellent public amenities.

The nearby Coligny Plaza offers restaurants, shops, and live entertainment, making it easy to spend an entire day here without moving your car.

Nearby Attractions:Coligny Plaza, Harbour Town Lighthouse, Sea Pines Resort area

Where to Eat Nearby:Skillets Cafe, Island Bagel and Deli, Poke Lola

Why choose it:Coligny is the most family-friendly beach near Savannah with a mix of wide open sand, calm surf, and walkable amenities all in one spot.

Best for:Families, shopping, dining, and convenient beach facilities

6. Hilton Head Island – South Beach

South Beach is Hilton Head’s activity-focused coastal area, located about one hour from Savannah.

It is centered around a marina and is known for water-based adventures. Visitors can enjoy parasailing, kayaking, fishing charters, and boat tours.

Dining options overlook the water, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Best for:Water sports, boating, adventure seekers, and group trips

7. Daufuskie Island

Daufuskie Island is only accessible by ferry, making it one of the most remote beaches near Savannah.

Travel time is about 1 to 1.5 hours, including the ferry ride from Hilton Head.

The island is known for its preserved Gullah Geechee culture, quiet dirt roads, and undeveloped beaches lined with oak trees and marshland.

Best for:Seclusion, cultural history, quiet beaches, and unplugged travel

8. St. Simons Island (East Beach)

East Beach on St. Simons Island is located about 1.5 hours south of Savannah.

It offers wide sandy shores, calm water, and a relaxed coastal feel.

The nearby village area features shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks, making it easy to combine beach time with local sightseeing.

Nearby Attractions: St. Simons Island Lighthouse, Village restaurants, Neptune Park

Best for: Long walks, families, beach-town feel, and calm swimming

9. Jekyll Island Beach

Jekyll Island Beach is part of a protected barrier island located about 90 minutes from Savannah. Over 65% of the island is preserved land, creating a peaceful and natural setting.

Visitors enjoy clean beaches, bike trails, wildlife sightings, and easy access to the Jekyll Island Historic District.

Nearby Attractions:Jekyll Island Historic District, bike trail network, Georgia Sea Turtle Center

Best for: Nature lovers, biking, history, and uncrowded beaches

10. Hunting Island State Park (South Carolina)

Hunting Island State Park sits about 1.5 hours north of Savannah and offers a raw, undeveloped coastal experience.

The island features maritime forests, nature trails, and a historic lighthouse. Its beaches feel untouched, making it ideal for visitors who prefer nature over amenities.

Hunting Island State Park also has a campground if you want to stay overnight.

Best for:Nature lovers, hiking, wildlife viewing, and quiet shorelines

11. Driftwood Beach (Jekyll Island)

Driftwood Beach is one of Georgia’s most photographed beaches and is located on Jekyll Island, about 90 minutes from Savannah.

The shoreline is covered with weathered driftwood trees, creating dramatic scenery. It is best visited early in the morning, especially during sunrise, when crowds are minimal.

Why choose it:Driftwood Beach looks best at sunrise. The light hits the weathered wood in a way that makes for great photos, and the beach is almost empty at that hour.

Best for:Photography, sunrise visits, uncommon coastal scenery

Best Savannah Beaches by Travel Style

A quick-scan list for every type of traveler.

• Best Overall:Tybee South Beach
• Best for Families:Coligny Beach, Hilton Head
• Best for Couples:Back River Beach
• Best for Photography:Driftwood Beach
• Best for Wildlife:Hunting Island State Park
• Best for Water Sports:Hilton Head South Beach
• Best Hidden Beach:Back River Beach
• Best Day Trip from Savannah:Tybee Island
• Best Beach Without Crowds: Daufuskie Island
• Best for Nature Lovers:Jekyll Island Beach

Best Time to Visit Savannah Beaches

Timing your visit makes a big difference in how much you enjoy the coast.

Spring (March to May) is the best overall time to visit.

Temperatures are warm but not extreme, crowds are manageable, and parking is much easier to find. Water temperatures start around 60 to 65°F in March and climb toward 70°F by May.

Summer (June to August) is the busiest season.

Expect hot weather, full parking lots by mid-morning, and larger crowds at South Beach and Coligny. Water temperatures hit 80°F or higher. If you go in summer, arrive before 9 AM. Weekdays are noticeably quieter than weekends.

Note that sea turtle nesting season runs from May through October. Nesting areas are marked and protected, so respect all posted signs.

Fall (September to November) is a great time to visit if you want fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.

Water stays warm through September and October. September especially feels like a hidden window where summer heat has eased but beaches are not yet deserted.

Winter (December to February) is quiet. Most beaches are uncrowded and peaceful, but swimming is not comfortable.

Water temperatures drop to 50 to 55°F. Jekyll Island and Hunting Island are still worth visiting for walks and wildlife sightings.

Tybee Island Parking Guide

Parking at Tybee fills faster than most visitors expect, especially in summer.

South Beach has metered street parking and several pay lots near the pier. Rates typically run $2 to $3 per hour.

The main lots fill by 10 AM on summer weekends. Payment is handled through meters or the ParkMobile app, which many visitors find easier.

North Beach has a free parking lot near the lighthouse that fills quickly but turns over more regularly than South Beach. It is worth checking here first if you prefer that end of the island.

Overflow parking is available further inland on Tybee, with a short walk or trolley ride to the beach.

During peak season, local trolley service connects overflow areas to the main beach zones.

Practical tips:Arrive before 9 AM in summer, carry change or download ParkMobile before you arrive, and avoid arriving between 11 AM and 2 PM on holiday weekends if you want a straightforward parking experience.

Amenities Comparison

Check what each beach offers before you go to avoid surprises.

My Recommendations and Local Tips

A few observations from spending time at these beaches that you will not find on a map.

Tybee South Beach is the right starting point for a first visit. It is the most convenient option and gives you the full beach town experience in one trip.

North Beach feels noticeably quieter than South Beach, even on busy weekends. If you want to relax without fighting for space, head there first.

Back River Beach has the best sunsets on the island. The western exposure and calm water make it worth the extra few minutes of driving, especially in summer when the sky stays bright late.

Driftwood Beach looks best at sunrise. The light hits the weathered wood in a way that makes for great photos, and the beach is almost empty at that hour.

If you plan to visit more than one beach during your trip, stay in downtown Savannah. It puts Tybee, Hilton Head, and the Georgia coast all within a manageable driving range without committing to one location.

Arrive early. I recommend arriving before 9 AM in summer, especially for Tybee South Beach. Parking lots fill fast and early arrival means a much easier morning.

Suggested Itineraries

Use these as a starting point and adjust based on your group size and pace.

Half-Day Tybee Trip:Leave downtown Savannah by 8:30 AM. Park at North Beach, walk to the lighthouse, and spend the morning on the sand. Head to South Beach around noon for lunch near the pier. Back in Savannah by 2 PM.

Full-Day Tybee Itinerary:Start at North Beach in the morning. Visit the Tybee Island Light Station before crowds arrive. Move to South Beach for lunch and a few hours in the water. End the evening at Back River Beach for sunset. Dinner at one of the seafood spots on Tybee before the drive back.

Weekend Combining Savannah and Tybee:

Day 1:Explore downtown Savannah. Visit Forsyth Park, the Historic District, and River Street. Day 2:Full beach day at Tybee. Mix time between North and South Beach depending on your mood. Optional stop at Fort Pulaski on the way back.

Nature-Focused Day Trip:Drive 90 minutes to Hunting Island State Park or Jekyll Island. Spend the morning walking beach trails and looking for wildlife. Visit Driftwood Beach on Jekyll in the late afternoon before heading back.

Beach Safety Guide

A few things worth knowing before you get in the water.

Rip currents are the biggest hazard at Savannah-area beaches. If you get caught in one, swim parallel to shore rather than fighting against the current.

Tybee South Beach has the highest rip current activity among local beaches.

Beach flag system at Tybee:

• Green:Calm conditions
• Yellow:Moderate surf or currents, swim with caution
• Red: High hazard, dangerous surf or strong currents
• Double Red:Water closed to swimmers
• Purple:Marine pests present

Jellyfish appear regularly at Tybee and Hilton Head, especially in late summer. Most are moon jellyfish and cause mild stings. Rinse with seawater, not freshwater, if stung.

Sharks are rare near Savannah beaches but present in the water. Avoid swimming at dawn, dusk, or near fishing piers. Do not wear shiny jewelry in the water.

Sea turtles nest on local beaches from May through October. If you see a nest marked with tape or signs, stay clear. Do not use white flashlights on the beach at night during nesting season, as it disorients hatchlings.

Alcohol and glass:Glass containers are banned on Tybee Island beaches. Alcohol rules vary by area, so check posted signs before bringing any onto the sand.

Fishing:Surf fishing is allowed on most beaches. Tybee Pier has its own fishing regulations and a small fee for anglers.

Where to Stay Based on Your Beach Choice

Your lodging choice will shape how easy beach access feels each day.

Stay in downtown Savannah if you want to explore the city and take one or two beach day trips.

You get the most hotel options, easy restaurant access, and a central location that works for Tybee, Jekyll, Hilton Head, or St. Simons.

Stay on Tybee Island if the beach is your main reason for the trip. You can walk out your door and be on the sand in minutes.

Dining and nightlife options are more limited than downtown, but the convenience is hard to beat.

Stay on Hilton Head if you want a full resort experience.

The island has upscale hotels, beach access, golf, and a polished infrastructure built around longer stays. It is a different feel from Tybee but ideal if you are traveling with family or want more amenities.

Common Mistakes to Avoid at Savannah Beaches

Small planning mistakes can turn a great beach day into a frustrating one.

Arriving after 11 AM in summer. Parking at Tybee South Beach fills by mid-morning on weekends. If you arrive late, you may spend 30 minutes circling.

Underestimating the drive to further beaches. Jekyll Island and Hunting Island are 90 minutes each way. Factor that in before planning a half-day trip.

Ignoring tide schedules. Low tide exposes more sand and makes Back River Beach and Driftwood Beach significantly better. Check tides the night before at tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov.

Forgetting a parking app. South Beach meters use ParkMobile. Download it before you leave the hotel.

Walking on protected dunes. Dune grass holds beaches together and protects nesting sea turtles. Stay on marked paths at every beach.

Skipping sunscreen on overcast days. UV exposure is high along the Georgia and South Carolina coast even when it is cloudy.

Tips to Follow at Savannah GA Beaches

A little preparation can make your beach visit safer and more enjoyable.

• Arrive early during peak season to find parking, especially on Tybee Island
• Check posted beach rules, including swimming and pier restrictions
• Watch for rip current warnings and beach safety flags
• Use parking apps or carry payment for paid beach parking
• Apply reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life
• Bring water and sun protection during warmer months
• Follow pet rules, as most beaches restrict dogs during peak hours
• Stay off dunes and respect wildlife areas

Planning ahead helps you enjoy Savannah-area beaches without stress or surprises.

Conclusion

Savannah may not sit on the ocean, but finding the right Savannah GA beach is simple with a little planning.

From the energy of Tybee Island to quiet, nature-focused beaches nearby, there is an option for every travel style.

Start with the comparison table to narrow your choice, use the itinerary section to plan your time, and check the parking guide before you go.

Use this guide to plan your beach days with confidence, save time on the road, and enjoy the coast at your own pace.

Start planning now and make your Savannah beach trip truly memorable. Drop down comments and share your experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you swim at Savannah beaches?

Savannah itself does not have swimmable beaches. Swimming is allowed at nearby beaches like Tybee Island and Hilton Head, following posted safety flags and rules.

Are Savannah GA beaches free?

Yes, public beaches near Savannah are free to enter. Parking fees and state park entry fees may apply depending on the beach.

How far is Tybee Island from Savannah?

Tybee Island is 18 miles from downtown Savannah. The drive takes 30 to 40 minutes depending on traffic.

Are dogs allowed on Tybee Island beach?

Pet rules on Tybee Island have changed over time and vary by season. Check the current ordinance at cityoftybee.org before your visit to confirm the latest rules.