Ways to Prepare for the Heat of Savannah's Summer Weather

Summertime in Savannah, Georgia, can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching over 90°F in July and August. Whether you're a local or a visitor, it's essential to prepare for the high temperatures to stay comfortable during the summer months in Savannah.


In this blog post, we'll share some of our insider tips for staying cool and refreshed during the summer in Savannah, GA.

Safety Tips for the Savannah Heat

Before we share some of the most fun (and refreshing) ways to stay cool in Savannah during the summer, here are some important safety tips to keep in mind.

Stay Hydrated


The most crucial thing to do during the daytime heat is to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day — more than you think you will need — especially if you're spending time outside.


It's also a good idea to cut back on caffeine and alcohol, as they can dehydrate you further. If you are going to tip back a few ice-cold beers in Savannah's Historic District or enjoy a refreshing cocktail in one of the city’s swanky cocktail bars, be sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after consuming alcohol to avoid becoming dehydrated.

Man applying sunscreen to arm


Wear Sunscreen


Sunscreen is another essential item to pack for your trip to Savannah. The sun’s rays can be intense, and you don't want to end up with a painful sunburn. Be sure to apply sunscreen before heading outside and reapply every few hours.


Dress Appropriately


Choosing the proper clothing to pack is crucial during summer in Savannah. Opt for light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that allows your skin to breathe. Avoid wearing dark colors, as they absorb more heat. It's also a good idea to wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck from the sun.


Stay Inside During Heat Waves


Savannah, Georgia, and the surrounding areas occasionally experience heat waves, which are extended periods of unbearably hot and humid weather.
It is best to stay indoors as much as possible during heat waves. If you must go outside, never leave your vacation rental without a full, ice-cold water bottle, wear plenty of sunblock, and take frequent breaks in the shade or in an air-conditioning room to give your body a break from the sun.

Get Outside in the Morning or Evening


Plan your outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler. If you must be outside during the hottest part of the day, take frequent breaks in the shade or indoors. You can also take advantage of indoor activities, such as museums or shopping, during the afternoons.


Seek Out Air Conditioning


If you travel to Savannah in the summer, finding a hotel or vacation rental with a reliable air conditioning unit is essential. It is important to note that many properties in the Savannah Historic District are centuries old and rich with history — so questioning the reliability of the A/C before you book your stay is a smart move.

woman walking dog in park


Take Care of Your Pets


If you are traveling to Savannah, GA, with your furry friend — they will have a spectacular time exploring our dog-friendly city with you. However, you need to take extra care of them during the sweltering summer. Give your furry friend plenty of water, and never leave them in a hot car.


If you want to bring your pup to explore the outdoors, try getting out in the early morning or in the evening after the sun has gone down. During the hottest part of the day, keep your pet indoors to ensure it doesn’t get overheated and its paw pads don’t burn on the sidewalks or pavement.

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Cool Things to Do in the Savannah Summertime


Just because Savannah is hot during the summer doesn’t mean you can’t have a great time! In fact, the heat keeps many tourists away, so you can often find more affordable prices on hotels, vacation rentals, and flights to Savannah during the late summer.

These are some of the best (and coolest) things to do in Savannah during the summer — try to squeeze in as many as you can during your summer vacation!


Spend the Day at Tybee Island


Savannah is located near several beautiful beaches, including Tybee Island. The island is most known for its wide, sandy beaches, including South Beach, which features a pier and pavilion. You can let the kids splash in the waves while you enjoy the view from your shaded cabana.


While on Tybee Island, don't forget to tour Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse. The Tybee Island Lighthouse has stood tall at the mouth of the Savannah River since 1736. It is one of only seven surviving colonial-era lighthouses left today in the U.S.


Take a Dip in the Pool


If you're staying in a hotel or rental property with a swimming pool — take advantage of it!


Swimming is a fabulous way to enjoy the summer weather, especially during the hottest part of the day when you are looking for a way to stay cool. Remember to apply sunscreen before and after swimming, and bring lots of ice-cold water down to the pool to stay hydrated.


If you don’t have a pool at your hotel or rental — no worries! You can always head to the coast to take a swim in the ocean.

man drinking beverage


Grab a Cold Beverage


Savannah is filled with fabulous coffee shops, bars, and cocktail lounges where you can find a refreshing beverage to enjoy that will keep you cool.


If you are walking down River Street, stop by Wet Willie’s for a boozy frozen daiquiri — thanks to Savannah’s open container laws, you can enjoy the drink while you walk around and explore! The Paris Market is a great place to grab an iced coffee if you need a “pick-me-up” in the hot afternoon sun.


Visit Famous Leopold's Ice Cream


Looking for a tasty way to beat the Savannah heat this summer? Look no further than Leopold's Ice Cream, Savannah's oldest ice cream parlor. Founded in 1919 by three brothers, Leopold's has been serving handmade, small-batch ice cream for over 100 years.


With a menu that includes classic flavors like Butter Pecan, Tutti Frutti, and Chocolate Chip, as well as more unique creations like Honey Almond and Savannah Socialite, everyone will find a flavor to love at Leopold’s Ice Cream. While you wait in line (there will be a line — guaranteed!), you can marvel at the charming vintage decor. But when you get your ice cream, be sure to devour it before it melts!


If you want to avoid the line at Leopold’s Ice Cream, we also recommend paying a visit to River Street Sweets. This establishment has a new location on Broughton Street, just a few blocks away from Leopold’s Ice Cream, and serves ice cream and gelato.


Get Spooked on a Ghost Tour


Savannah gets significantly cooler when the sun goes down, making the evenings and nights one of the best times to explore in the summer. And fortunately for you, one of Savannah’s top attractions can only be experienced at night — going on a spooky ghost tour!


Savannah is one of the most haunted cities in the nation, so going on a ghost tour is an absolute must during your summer vacation. Tour providers will take you to some of the city’s most haunted locations, including the Sorrel-Weed House, Mercer-Williams House, Colonial Park Cemetery, and The Olde Pink House. Not only will you learn about these haunted and spooky locations — you will also discover a ton of interesting facts about the city.


Ghosts & Gravestones is the highest-rated ghost tour company in Savannah, GA, so we recommend booking one of this company’s haunted tours to “get spooked” during your trip to Savannah.


Tour the Telfair Museums


To beat the heat, a great indoor activity to consider is a visit to the Telfair Museums.


With three distinct locations in Savannah, including the Jepson Center for the Arts, Telfair Academy, and Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, visitors can explore various art and history exhibits from the comfort of air-conditioned buildings.


Book Your Summer Vacation in Savannah with South Key Premium Vacation Rentals


If you plan a summer trip to Savannah, just be sure to follow the tips listed above — staying hydrated, wearing sunscreen, and staying cool during the hottest parts of the day — and you are bound to have a fun and memorable vacation enjoying the beach, ice cream cones, ghost tours, and more!


If you are looking for the perfect place to stay in Savannah, GA, look no further than our gorgeous rentals in the heart of the Savannah Historic District. Our homes are infused with historic southern charm but also the modern amenities you crave, like A/C, smart TVs, and pet-friendly accommodations.


Browse our stunning rentals to find the perfect place to stay for your summer vacation in Savannah, and if you have any questions, reach out to our team at South Key Premium Vacation Rentals!

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