9 Fun Outdoor Activities in Savannah, GA

Savannah, Georgia, is a beautiful historic city that attracts visitors from around the country for its charming cobblestone streets, art galleries and historic sites, and world-class culinary scene. However, most travelers don't realize that there are also plenty of spectacular outdoor activities to enjoy in Savannah, GA — both inside and outside the city.

The Best Outdoor Adventures in Savannah, GA

While planning a trip to Savannah, be sure to enjoy these fabulous outdoor attractions that provide a unique perspective of the natural beauty on the barrier islands, marshes, gardens, trails, beaches, and other stunning landscapes surrounding Savannah, Georgia!

1. Sightseeing at Wormsloe Historic Site

Wormsloe Historic Site was formerly the home of Noble Jones, who traveled to Georgia with James Oglethorpe — the founder of Savannah — in 1733.

Though this sprawling estate is one of the most famous historic landmarks in Savannah, GA, and offers a museum and a theater, it is also famed for its natural beauty. Visitors can wander through a majestic tunnel of moss-draped oak trees, explore the hiking trails through the marshes, and marvel at the ruins of this colonial plantation.

2. Water Sports at Tybee Island

Tybee Island is a small barrier island along the Atlantic Ocean that offers three miles of sandy beaches, thrilling waves, and other fun things to do, like beachfront shopping and dining. It's about a 30-minute drive from Downtown Savannah, Georgia.

There are plenty of water sports to enjoy on Tybee Island, including surfing, fishing, swimming, and sunbathing, which makes this island a family-friendly location for adults and kids. There are three popular beaches on Tybee Island — North Beach, South Beach, and Back River Beach — that each offer their own unique "flair" and activities to enjoy.

3. Sea Kayaking at Little Tybee Island

Escape the heavily developed (and touristy) Tybee Island for a change of pace just a short distance away — Little Tybee Island.

Little Tybee Island really isn't "little" at all — it's an uninhabited nature preserve that stretches nearly 6,800 total acres. Little Tybee Island's winding waterways and marshes are perfect for activities like sea kayaking, boating, jet-skiing, and fishing. Since the tides change drastically on Little Tybee Island every few hours, we recommend renting a kayak or boat from a company offering guided tours.

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4. Touring Savannah's Historic District

There are tons of iconic sites to see in Savannah's Historic District, including City Market, Forsyth Park, the Mercer-Williams House Museum, River Street, the Waving Girl Statue, and the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist — just to name a few. And that doesn't even mention any of the stunning 22 historic squares in Savannah, GA!

One of the best ways to explore Savannah's landmarks and deep history is on one of the spectacular tours throughout the Savannah Historic District. We recommend:

• Old Town Trolley Tours of Savannah for a sightseeing trolley tour.
• Footprints of Savannah for a historically rich guided tour.
• The Witching Hours Paranormal Ghost Tours for a spooky take on Savannah's haunted history at night.

5. Teeing up at Championship Golf Courses

If golfing is one of your favorite pastimes, you'll be pleased to learn that Savannah is home to several spectacular golf courses — the ideal place to spend a day outside in Savannah, GA!

If you're staying in Downtown Savannah, you'll likely enjoy golfing at Crosswinds Golf Club, The Club at Savannah Harbor, The Club at Savannah Quarters, and other nearby golf courses. However, if you're willing to drive a few hours, there are dozens of world-class golf courses around Georgia and South Carolina that are perfect for a scenic game of golf.

6. Cruising Down the Savannah River

A Savannah Riverboat Cruise is one of the best ways to enjoy a relaxing evening of dining and entertainment on the Savannah River.

While on the river, you'll enjoy an authentic southern or seafood dinner while watching unique cultural entertainment. There is also outdoor seating available, so you can enjoy gorgeous city views while you spend the evening under the moonlight. They also offer weekend breakfast and brunch cruises if you'd be more interested in joining a cruise during the day.

7. Spotting Dolphins at Hilton Head Island

Savannah, GA, is located just south of South Carolina, so taking a day trip to some of the best beaches on Hilton Head Island is a great way to spend a day outside!

In fact, you can go on a dolphin-watching tour on Hilton Head Island to spot dolphins in their natural habitat. These playful creatures are a sight to behold, and since they spend the entire year in the Atlantic Ocean, most tour providers guarantee dolphin encounters during every boat ride.

8. Learning History at Old Fort Jackson

Savannah, Georgia, is filled with historical attractions, including Old Fort Jackson — a must-see landmark and one of the oldest brick fortifications on the East Coast. This fort became the headquarters for Savannah's river defenses after the fall of Fort Pulaski in 1862 during the American Civil War.

While you're at Fort Jackson, you can watch cannon and musket firings and participate in other hands-on learning experiences. If you're interested in Savannah's war history, this is the perfect outdoor attraction in Savannah, GA, for you!

9. Meeting Wildlife at Oatland Island Wildlife Center

Oatland Island Wildlife Center sits on over one hundred acres of maritime forest and is located between Savannah and Tybee Island. This park is home to 95 animals, including American Bison, Bald Eagles, Bobcats, Donkeys, Grey Wolves, White-Tailed Deer, and more.

Oatland Island Wildlife Center is a popular place to spend a day outside with kids — they'll love meeting the animals that call this wildlife center home!

Book a Vacation Rental with South Key Management for the Perfect "Home Base" to Explore Savannah

As you can see, Savannah has several enjoyable outdoor activities for adults and kids of all ages. Whether you're interested in exploring historical sites, cooling off in the ocean, or enjoying sports like kayaking, golfing, or surfing, you'll find all that (and more!) in Savannah, GA.

Staying in Savannah's Historic District is a great way to put yourself within close proximity to Savannah's most popular outdoor attractions. We hope you'll consider booking one of our beautifully decorated vacation rentals in the heart of Savannah, GA, with South Key Management — we would love to host you!