What Do Savannah Locals Do In The Summer

Introducing an exciting new blog series, “What Do Savannah Locals Do In The Summer” where we invite you to join us as we give you the inside scoop on local favorites that make the Savannah area a summer paradise. From the beach days on Tybee Island, Wilmington Island, Whitemarsh Island, Oatland Island, and Talahi Island to the winding Savannah and Ogeechee Rivers, there’s an adventure waiting around every corner. So, lace up your sandals, grab your sunscreen, and let’s embark on an incredible journey through Savannah’s coastal wonders!

The Islands

We’ll cover the crown jewel of Savannah’s coastal offerings – Tybee Island. As a local, you have the privilege of calling this sandy paradise your own. Discover the joy of lounging on its pristine beaches, taking refreshing dips in the ocean, and immersing yourself in the lively beach town atmosphere. From water sports and beach volleyball to beachside picnics and breathtaking sunsets, Tybee Island offers endless possibilities for summer fun all which will come in our next blog post. As we venture beyond Tybee Island, we arrive at Wilmington Island and Whitemarsh Island – two captivating destinations that embody the essence of island living. Delight in the tranquility of these communities, where marshes meet the sea and scenic waterways beckon you to explore their hidden treasures. Enjoy kayaTalking through salt marshes, indulging in delicious seafood at local gems, and savoring the slower pace of life that comes with living on these charming islands. Nestled along the banks of the Wilmington River, Oatland Island invites you to immerse yourself in its natural wonders. As a local, you have the opportunity to explore its wildlife-filled trails, where encounters with playful river otters, majestic birds, and curious deer are common. Discover the Oatland Island Wildlife Center, a haven for rescued animals such as bison, bobcats, bald eagles, and gray wolves, and witness their rehabilitation efforts firsthand. If you ever find a wounded wild animal, you can call the Wildlife Center and let them know and they will be able to help! Whether you’re taking a leisurely hike or embarking on an educational journey, Oatland Island offers an extraordinary escape into nature.

Savannah and Ogeechee Rivers – Exploring the Waterways

Last but certainly not least, we embark on a journey along the Savannah and Ogeechee Rivers, the lifeblood of the region. As a local, you have the opportunity to delve into the rich history of these storied rivers, from strolling along Savannah’s historic River Street, to cruising on your boat or pulling your jon boat up on a sandbar. There are a thousand ways to enjoy the rivers in the area from doing it in luxury to heading out in the woods. 

Other islands and other highly recommend spots from longtime local Kait Lance…

  •  Skidaway Island for the UGA Skidaway Island Institute of Oceanography and the UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium where there are touch tanks, loads of fish, sea turtles, and several trails that run across the marshes. Great for parents who need to get out of the house with littles. 
  • Near the marine science center is a massive community garden called Skidaway Farms. Members can rent beds where they can grow their own produce and flowers.  They also offer various programs and opportunities for locals and area organizations to get advice from experienced farmers on the world of growing .
  • The Skidaway Island State Park has beautiful coastal nature trails and local camping. On the property are massive playgrounds in the shade where local parents meet up for play dates on the weekends. 
  • Take a day to spend on Butter Bean Beach!
  • Burnside Island and Montgomery are next to one another and are low-traffic areas that offer some of the most scenic views in Savannah from the Burnside Island causeway to the shaded Beaulie Avenue and the horse stables on Whitfield Ave. The best way to describe it is as country-living meets coastal lifestyle. From Burnside, bikers can head over the Diamond Causeway to Skidaway Island. The Diamond Causeway’s name speaks for itself as it offers a glimmering view of the Skidaway River. 

Isle of Hope (also in the Moon River District)  

The Isle of Hope Marina is a hot spot during the summer. It’s situated on what locals call “The Bluff” which is home to some of the most beautiful houses in Savannah . The Bluff is covered by Oak Trees that line the road along the water  and is great for bike rides or golf cart trip to take in the scenes of the sail boats and yachts taking off from the marina.. The Isle of Hope pool is another hot spot for locals with its own competitive swim team. 

Wormsloe offers nature trails that overlook the Skidaway River – great for history buffs who would like to hike amidst the historical state park. =

 Coffee Bluff 

The Coffee Bluff Marina is probably one of the most under-appreciated marinas in Savannah. It’s truly a hidden gem that’s tucked away in a place where Coffee Bluff  residents frequent. It’s a full service marina including inshore and offshore charter services.  The marina sells marine fuel, diesel, live bait, frozen bait, fishing tackle, hats, T-shirts, ice and concessions.  

 Thunderbolt 

Besides all of the amazing food spots like Finches, Coaches, Tubby’s , Tortuga’s, and Chiriya’s,  W.E. Honey Park is a great spot for fishing and crabbing. On weekend mornings, find area locals casting a line or a shrimp net, in this small town in the middle of Savannah.  There’s even a local playground for kids to play  and a pavilion for eating and taking shade, plus public restrooms.

The Dairy Farm 

It is a great place to take the dogs for a romp in the tide pools of the marsh at the privately owned Dairy Farm.  ​​ This one is a true local-to-Savannah secret. Tucked away at the far-east end of Tennessee Avenue in Thunderbolt, is the Old Roberds Dairy Farm. It’s also known as the Old Dairy Farm, the Dairy Farm, and the Roberds Dairy by locals. This retired dairy was once a thriving spot for agriculture, but the farm stopped operations in the 1980s. Years ago the cow pastures flooded, making most of the land unusable for its original purposes. Today the land where cows once grazed is mostly marsh flats and beautifully wooded areas with walking paths. 

It’s still privately owned and is now a peaceful 165-acre green space and event venue. Jim Morekis said it best in his 2010 blog post The Roberds Dairy: “The land remains in the family and they have generously granted a sort of informal easement for local dog owners to walk their pets.” We’re big fans of visiting this spot with fido (respectfully keeping our four-legged family members on the leash).