Hope to come to Savannah late March. We like history and nature. I can't decide on how many days for this short get-away.
Perhaps: 1.5 days to see historical areas in Savannah city, 1 day to go to Moon River area for nature & history and 1 day for either Tybee or Hilton Head (walk on beach, kayak, seafood). But should I add another day to see more of Savannah? We're not into shopping and just hanging out but I don't want to rush either. I'd love some suggestions.
Your plan for a short getaway to Savannah sounds fantastic! Savannah offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and coastal charm, so you'll have a lot to explore in a few days. Given your interests in history and nature, here's a breakdown of how you could structure your time:
This is a great starting point. The Savannah Historic District is rich with charming squares, historic homes, and scenic streets. You can easily spend half a day or more exploring the district's highlights like Forsyth Park, the beautiful homes on Jones Street, and the historic landmarks along River Street. Consider taking a guided walking tour to really dive into the history of the area.
A day spent in the Moon River area sounds like a wonderful way to connect with nature and enjoy some history. The area around the river offers great outdoor activities, including birdwatching and enjoying the peaceful nature trails. You can visit the Wormsloe Historic Site for a stunning drive under its iconic avenue of oaks and learn about the colonial history of Georgia. It's a peaceful area and offers a nice break from the city hustle.
Both Tybee Island and Hilton Head are great options for a relaxing day by the water. If you're looking for a laid-back beach day with the opportunity to kayak or walk along the shore, Tybee Island is a great choice. You can visit the lighthouse, stroll along the beach, or rent kayaks for a peaceful afternoon on the water. There are plenty of great seafood spots on Tybee, too.
Alternatively, Hilton Head is a bit further, but if you want a slightly more upscale atmosphere, the island offers beautiful beaches, excellent seafood, and the chance to explore scenic trails by bike or on foot.
If you're not in a rush and want to dive deeper into Savannah, consider adding an additional half or full day to explore. There’s plenty more to see, including the historic Bonaventure Cemetery, which is famous for its large, moss-draped oaks and beautiful statuary. If you enjoy nature, you could also visit the Savannah Wildlife Refuge for some wildlife sightings, or take a boat tour of the Savannah River. Another great option is a visit to the Telfair Museums, which house both art and history exhibits in beautiful historic buildings.
Since you're not into shopping and prefer not to rush, I’d suggest adding that extra half or full day to fully enjoy the natural beauty of Savannah and explore some of its quieter spots, like the parks and squares. Your plan sounds well-balanced, but having an extra day will give you a more leisurely pace and allow you to soak in more of what Savannah has to offer!