Savannah historic centre or beach

Question

Savannah will be our last stop of a 3 week roadtrip we’ll be arriving from Charleston & have 3 nights there. I’m torn between heading to a beach location and just crashing/chilling on the beach the last 3 days or staying in the historic centre and doing a day trip to Tybee or even just stopping a few hours at Hilton Head en-route from Charleston. Have the Tybee island beach resorts got nice hotels and restaurants and places to walk & enjoy nature and then maybe we just dip into Savannah HC on 1 day ?

If Savannah HC is unmissable and it’s easy to fill 3 days then I could forfeit my beach hankering

I know it’s just personal preference really but any comments about beach vs city ..?

Answer

It sounds like you have a tough but fun decision to make for your last few days! Both Savannah's historic center and the nearby beach options (Tybee Island or Hilton Head) offer unique experiences, and each one could be a great way to wrap up your road trip. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

Option 1: Stay in Savannah Historic Center and Visit the Beach If you choose to stay in the historic center of Savannah, you'll have easy access to the charming cobblestone streets, stunning architecture, parks, and famous squares that make this city so unique. There’s no shortage of things to do and see within walking distance, from the majestic Forsyth Park to the impressive historic homes and beautiful churches. You'll also be close to top restaurants and bars. This option would allow you to enjoy the vibrant city atmosphere without feeling rushed. Plus, a day trip to Tybee Island or a stop at Hilton Head could give you a nice beach break without sacrificing the city experience.

Key Activities in Historic Savannah: Walking tours, boat cruises along the river, shopping at local boutiques, enjoying the food scene (don't miss the classic Southern dishes), and exploring museums and art galleries.
Day Trip to Tybee Island: Tybee Island is just a 20-minute drive from downtown Savannah and has a relaxed, small-town vibe. You can spend time on the beach, visit the historic lighthouse, or enjoy the nature reserves. There are plenty of great seafood restaurants and a laid-back beach town atmosphere.
Hilton Head Stop: If you’re coming from Charleston, stopping by Hilton Head on your way to Savannah is definitely doable, though it would add about an hour to your drive. Hilton Head offers beautiful beaches, nature preserves, and upscale resort areas.

Option 2: Stay on Tybee Island or Hilton Head and Visit Savannah If your heart is set on a relaxing beach experience, Tybee Island is a great choice. It's a charming, low-key beach town with the added bonus of being close to Savannah for a quick day trip. Many of the beach resorts on Tybee offer both comfortable accommodations and good dining options. You can spend your days enjoying the sun and sand and then head into Savannah for a day of sightseeing and shopping.

Tybee Island Resorts: Tybee has a range of accommodations from casual beach cottages to more upscale resorts like the Hotel Tybee, which offers beachfront access, restaurants, and outdoor activities. The island is quieter than Hilton Head, so if you prefer a laid-back vibe, it’s a great choice.
Nature and Walking: Tybee Island is great for walking, whether you’re strolling along the beach, exploring the salt marshes, or visiting the historic lighthouse. It’s a nature lover's haven with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Restaurants on Tybee: While Tybee Island has a good selection of casual seafood restaurants, if you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, you’ll need to head back to Savannah for a more diverse food scene.

Comparing Beach vs. City: It really comes down to what kind of experience you want to have in your last few days. If you’re more interested in soaking up some beach time and unwinding, Tybee or Hilton Head could be the perfect choice. But if you want to explore history, culture, and enjoy great food in a unique Southern city, then Savannah’s historic center will definitely provide an enriching experience. You could also have the best of both worlds by splitting your time between Savannah and a nearby beach.

Conclusion: If you enjoy the beach but also want to experience the charm of Savannah, staying in the historic district and taking a day trip to Tybee Island seems like a perfect balance. However, if you’re really craving the full beach experience with a relaxed pace, staying on Tybee Island or Hilton Head and visiting Savannah for a day is also a wonderful option. Both options will offer memorable experiences to finish off your trip!

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