bday trip Savannah/HiltonHead Trip

Question

Hi all,

I am planning my bday with a group of 10. One day in Savannah and one day in Hilton Head. Travel dates Apr 25-28. I haven't decided which place should be home base yet. Age group 40-53 but 40 is the new 20 right...lol We plan to arrive early on Friday to see parts of Savannah on arrival day as well as all Saturday.

We will be staying in an AIRBNB/VRBO but it looks like places for a group this size is a little further out than the Historic District.

What areas too far out or unsafe? I see my options as Midtown, Tybee, Midcity, Starland District and Forsyth Park. A few options in Historic district but not enough beds unfortunatley.

1. What areas should we stay away from for safety reasons?

2. Don't mind Ubering but also don't want to be 30mins away from downtown. Not sure about the parking situation so didn't want to rent a car if we didn't have to unless it makes more sense.

3. Should we stay in Hilton Head and just make Savannah a day trip as Hilton head have more properties that accommodate big parties but seems like not much to do there.

P.S. We want to hit some rooftop bars for nightlife suggestions please??

Thanks in advance

Answer

Sounds like an exciting birthday trip! Savannah and Hilton Head are both great spots, and with a group of 10, you’re bound to have a memorable time. Here are some thoughts on your plans, including where to stay and what to do:

1. Areas to Stay In and Safety Concerns:

In general, the areas you mentioned—Midtown, Tybee, Midcity, Starland District, and Forsyth Park—are all decent options for your stay, but let’s go through each one:

Midtown: This area is relatively safe, but it’s a bit farther from the Historic District (about 10-15 minutes by car), so you’ll need to rely on Uber or drive yourself. It’s a more residential area, and while it’s not dangerous, it lacks the vibrancy of being closer to the historic center. It’s also quieter at night, which might be a plus or minus depending on your preferences.
Tybee Island: Tybee is about a 20-minute drive from downtown Savannah. It’s a popular destination for beachgoers, and while it’s safe, you’ll miss out on the nightlife and convenience of being near downtown. Tybee is great for a beachy, laid-back atmosphere, but if you’re planning to be more active in Savannah, staying there may feel a bit too far out.
Midcity: Midcity is an up-and-coming area with trendy spots, but it’s a little farther from the Historic District (about 10-15 minutes by car). It’s safe, and if you want a more local, artsy vibe, this could be a good option. It’s not as bustling as downtown, but there are some cool cafes and bars to check out here.
Starland District: The Starland District is a trendy, artsy neighborhood that’s gaining popularity. It’s closer to downtown (about 5-10 minutes by car) and has some great spots for dining and nightlife. It’s a safe area and offers a more unique, local vibe compared to the Historic District. Great for walking around and exploring, but parking can be tricky in some spots.
Forsyth Park: Forsyth Park is in the Historic District and offers a central location. This is one of the most iconic spots in Savannah, so it’s an ideal location if you want to be in the heart of the action. You’ll be within walking distance of many attractions, and it’s a very safe area. However, parking in this area can be a bit challenging, so consider using Uber or Lyft if you're not renting a car.

2. Parking and Getting Around:

For a group of 10, parking could be tricky in the Historic District, especially since it’s a popular area for tourists. However, Savannah is known for its walkability, and many attractions are within walking distance. Using Uber or Lyft to get around is a great option, especially if you’re staying in the Historic District or areas like Starland, where parking can be limited. If you choose to stay a little farther out, you might find more parking options, but you’ll likely have to Uber into downtown to access most of the attractions and nightlife.

3. Staying in Hilton Head vs. Savannah:

Hilton Head is a beautiful destination, but it’s more known for its laid-back, beachy vibe, golf courses, and nature than for its nightlife or cultural attractions. While it’s a great place for outdoor activities, you may find it lacks the excitement of Savannah’s historic charm and nightlife. Given that you’re planning to spend one day in each place, staying in Savannah would be ideal for enjoying the city's history, restaurants, and nightlife. You can easily take a day trip to Hilton Head if you’re craving some beach time. Keep in mind that the drive from Savannah to Hilton Head is about 45-60 minutes, so it’s not too far if you want to spend a day on the island.

Nightlife and Rooftop Bars:

As for nightlife, Savannah has a great selection of rooftop bars and spots for fun after dark. Here are a few recommendations for your group:

The Rooftop at The DeSoto: This is one of the most popular rooftop bars in Savannah, offering a great view of the city. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy cocktails and take in the beautiful scenery.
Rocks on the Roof: Located at the Bohemian Hotel, this rooftop bar has a lively atmosphere with views of the river and the Historic District. It’s a great place to grab a drink and enjoy the sunset.
The Peregrin: A chic rooftop bar with stunning views and a laid-back vibe. It’s a bit more relaxed, and it has a great cocktail menu.
The Grey: While not a rooftop bar, this is a must-visit for its cocktail program and unique dining experience.

Final Thoughts:

If you're looking for an easy access to both Savannah’s attractions and some quieter moments in Hilton Head, you might want to stay in Savannah and take Hilton Head as a day trip. It’s very doable, and you’ll be able to enjoy both locations without feeling too spread out. Just keep in mind that staying in or near the Historic District will give you more options for dining, entertainment, and overall convenience.

Happy travels, and enjoy your birthday trip!