Road Trip Guide
Lowcountry Coastal Drive: Savannah to Charleston
Savannah, GA to Charleston, SC
Start Your Engine
Savannah, GA
The Finish Line
Charleston, SC
110 miles
Miles
3-4 days
Days
Start Stops End
Trip Essentials for Savannah, GA
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Insider Driving Tips
Always carry a high-quality insect repellent; the salt marshes are beautiful, but they are also home to aggressive 'no-see-ums' during dusk and dawn.
Book your historic walking tours in advance, as the most intimate and highly-rated guides often sell out weeks ahead of time.
Drive the scenic backroads like Highway 17 instead of the faster I-95 to ensure you actually see the moss-draped trees and rural landscapes.
Check the tide charts before visiting coastal parks; many hidden paths and beaches are only accessible or safe during low tide.
Embrace the 'Lowcountry pace'โdon't try to cram too much into one day, as the best experiences are found in the spontaneous stops along the way.
The Journey: Stop-by-Stop
Tybee Island, GA
The Crab Shack
โAn iconic, rustic institution where you can feast on seafood platters while feeding live alligators in the on-site sanctuary.โ
Tybee Island Lighthouse
The view from the gallery level looking down at the surrounding dunes and the vast blue horizon.
North Beach
The driftwood-strewn shoreline during the golden hour provides a moody, natural aesthetic.
Back River Beach
A secluded, quiet stretch of sand on the river side of the island, perfect for watching the sunset away from the tourist crowds.
Beaufort, SC
Old Bull Tavern
โA cozy, European-style gastropub that serves elevated comfort food using local, seasonal ingredients in a lively, intimate setting.โ
Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park
The expansive view of the Beaufort River with the iconic swing benches in the foreground.
The Point Neighborhood
The classic, moss-draped Southern architecture framed by bright azaleas and white picket fences.
The Old Sheldon Church Ruins
The haunting, skeletal remains of an 18th-century church hidden deep in the forest, offering a powerful, atmospheric look at the area's turbulent history.
Hunting Island State Park
Shrimp Shack
โA legendary roadside dive famous for its fried shrimp and shrimp burgersโthe perfect fuel for a day of exploring.โ
Boneyard Beach
The dramatic, sun-bleached tree trunks scattered along the shoreline at low tide.
Hunting Island Lighthouse
The view from the top of the tower offering a 360-degree perspective of the surrounding maritime forest and ocean.
Marsh Boardwalk
A long, winding wooden walkway that takes you deep into the heart of the salt marsh, perfect for spotting egrets and herons.
Charleston, SC
Husk
โA culinary temple that celebrates the heritage of Southern cooking, changing its menu daily based on the freshest local produce.โ
Rainbow Row
The famous series of thirteen colorful historic houses that are the quintessential postcard image of Charleston.
The Battery
The sweeping waterfront promenade with its historic cannons and grand homes overlooking the harbor.
Philadelphia Alley
A quiet, historic alleyway filled with lush greenery and original gas lanterns, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city streets.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November) offer the most comfortable temperatures and beautiful blooming landscapes.
Absolutely, there are plenty of parks, beaches, and historic sites that offer engaging activities for children of all ages.