Ready to hit the beach? The Savannah Georgia beaches are some of the best spots you’ll find on the East Coast! From beaches that are perfect for a rowdy trip with friends to quiet spots where you can escape the crowds, there’s a perfect beach here for everyone.
Let’s check out all the awesome beaches that make this area so special!
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Tybee Island
When you’re talking about Savannah Georgia beaches, you’ve got to start with Tybee Island. Just a 20-minute drive from downtown Savannah, Tybee is perfect for day trips or longer stays. Just hop on Highway 80 East (also called Butler Avenue) and follow it until you hit the ocean – you can’t miss it!
The drive is super easy, making it totally doable to hit the beach in the morning and be back in Savannah for dinner.
Best places to stay on Tybee Island:
Plus, Tybee, known as “Savannah’s Beach,” is packed with incredible historic attractions – don’t miss the Tybee Lighthouse and Fort Pulaski while you’re here!
But above all else, slow down while you’re here – Tybee Time is a real thing, and Tybee’s beaches are a great spot to kick back and unwind.
Things to do on Tybee Island:
There are a few different beaches to choose from on Tybee Island:
North Beach
If you’re looking to relax, Tybee’s North Beach is your spot. The Tybee Lighthouse makes an amazing backdrop for your beach day, and the waves here are usually pretty gentle. There’s plenty of parking and bathrooms nearby, making it super easy for families with kids or anyone who wants a hassle-free beach day.
South Beach
Want to join the party? Head to Tybee’s South Beach! This is where you’ll find the Tybee Island Pier and all the action.
Grab some amazing fresh seafood at one of the best restaurants near Tybrisa Street or grab a drink at one of the bars. It’s the perfect place to make new friends, watch a stunning sunset, or just soak up the fun beach town vibes.
Back River Beach
Here’s a local secret – Back River Beach on Tybee’s south end is amazing! It’s usually way less crowded than the other beaches, and you can often spot dolphins playing in the Savannah River. It’s perfect when you want to dodge the crowds and just enjoy some peaceful beach time.
Beyond Tybee: More Amazing Beaches to Explore
Little Tybee Island
Don’t let the name fool you – Little Tybee is actually bigger than Tybee! This isn’t a quick day trip kind of place – you’ll need to plan ahead. The only way to get here is by boat or kayak from Tybee Island (you can rent kayaks from several outfitters on Tybee). Most people launch from the south end of Tybee near the Back River and make the short paddle across.
The camping is incredible – imagine falling asleep to the sound of waves under a sky full of stars. It’s just you and nature out here, making it perfect for adventurous souls who love getting off the beaten path. Plan for at least a full day of adventure, but an overnight camping trip is even better!
Click here for a complete guide to camping on Little Tybee Island! There are no amenities on the island so you’ll definitely want to learn what to expect before you head out.
Hilton Head Island
Just hop over the South Carolina state line and you’ll find Hilton Head Island, which is basically beach paradise with all the bells and whistles. It’s about an hour drive from Savannah – just take Highway 278 East and you’ll cross right onto the island.
While you could do it as a day trip, Hilton Head is really better for an overnight stay or longer.
Some of the Best places to stay in Hilton Head:
Another option is to take the Hilton Head to Savannah Round-Trip Ferry! This day trip is packed with views and it’s so nice to travel with a drink in hand. This is a great option if you decide to stay on the beach in HH and just visit Savannah on a day trip.
Once you get there, Coligny Beach Park near Beach House has everything you could want, but the island is packed with fancy beachfront resorts and amazing golf courses.
If you’re looking for that classic luxury beach vacation with all the amenities, this is your spot. The drive is easy enough that you could split your vacation time between here and Savannah!
Things to do in Hilton Head:
St. Simons Island
St. Simon’s Island is one of my favorite spots in the Golden Isles, about an hour and a half south of Savannah, so a bit far to be considered a “Savannah beach.” Take I-95 South to Exit 38 and follow the signs – you’ll cross over a gorgeous causeway onto the island.
While you could technically do it as a day trip, St. Simons is really worth at least a couple of days of your time. It’s the largest of Georgia’s gorgeous barrier islands!
Our favorite places to stay in St. Simons Island:
East Beach is awesome for everything from swimming to bike riding, and the town itself is super fun to explore. Read on for a complete guide to the beaches of St. Simons Island!
You’re also going to love having so many great restaurants, cool shops, and tons of history all in one place. St. Simons is perfect if you want a beach vacation with plenty of things to do!
Pro tip: consider making this your second stop after Savannah – it’s a great way to experience two totally different sides of coastal Georgia!
Whether you’re planning a wild beach party weekend, a chill family vacation, or a romantic getaway, the beaches near Savannah Georgia are ready to make it happen.
From the fun vibes of Tybee Island to the adventure of Little Tybee and the luxury of Hilton Head, there’s a beach here with your name on it. Time to start planning your beach trip!
Don’t miss these other articles about the beaches of coastal Georgia:
- Georgia Beach Camping: Where to Pitch Your Tent by the Sea
- The Best Beaches in Georgia for Your Next Vacation
- Your Guide to Driftwood Beach, Jekyll Island (2025)
- 10+ Best Beaches Near Brunswick, GA (2025)
- St. Simons Island Beach Guide (2025)
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