The Ultimate Jacksonville to Savannah Road Trip: Hidden Gems
A road trip from Jacksonville to Savannah is a fun way to explore the Southeast. This short but exciting drive takes you through coastal towns, historic sites, and natural wonders.
My family and I snowbird from New England and make this journey every year. We love the Georgia coast before you hit South Carolina. It has it’s own unique vibe that I love. Spanish moss, swamps, live oaks, barbeque, beaches, and more.
Whether you love history, food, or the outdoors, this trip has something for you. Here’s a guide to the best stops along the way.
Start in Jacksonville, Florida
Begin your Jacksonville to Savannah road trip in Florida’s largest city. Before hitting the road, take some time to explore the city of Jacksonville. Visit the Jacksonville Riverwalk for great views of the St. Johns River. If you love the beach, stop by Jacksonville Beach to enjoy the sand and surf.
For history lovers, the Kingsley Plantation is worth a visit. It’s part of the Timucuan Preserve and offers a glimpse into the past. After exploring, grab a meal at a local favorite like The Bearded Pig for some tasty barbecue.
If you’re looking for outdoor fun, visit Hanna Park. Located near the beach, this park offers hiking and biking trails, a freshwater lake for kayaking, and plenty of picnic areas. Surfers love the waves here, making it a great spot to watch or join in on the action.
Stop 1: Amelia Island
About 30 minutes north of Jacksonville, Amelia Island is a great first stop. This small island is known for its beautiful beaches and historic downtown. Take a walk around Fernandina Beach, where you’ll find shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
If you have time, visit Fort Clinch State Park. The park has a well-preserved Civil War fort, scenic trails, and great spots for fishing. It’s a perfect place to stretch your legs before continuing your drive.
Stop 2: Cumberland Island National Seashore
Just across the border in Georgia, Cumberland Island is a must-see. You’ll need to take a ferry from St. Marys, so plan ahead. The island is home to wild horses, untouched beaches, and the ruins of the Carnegie family’s Dungeness Mansion.
If you enjoy hiking, the island has miles of trails through forests and along the coast. It’s a peaceful place to spend a few hours before getting back on the road.
Stop 3: St. Simons Island
Continue your Jacksonville to Savannah road trip with a stop at St. Simons Island. This charming spot offers beaches, history, and delicious food. Walk to the St. Simons Island Lighthouse for a great view, or visit Christ Church, one of the oldest churches in Georgia.
For lunch, try Southern Soul Barbeque, a local favorite known for its smoked meats and sides. If you want some fresh air, rent a bike and explore the island’s many trails.
Stop 4: Jekyll Island
Jekyll Island is another great place to visit. Once a getaway for wealthy families, it’s now a state park with lots to see and do. Driftwood Beach is one of the most unique beaches in the area, with large, weathered trees scattered along the shore.
Visit the Jekyll Island Historic District to see the old mansions and learn about the island’s history. You can also stop by the Georgia Sea Turtle Center to learn about sea turtle conservation.
Stop 5: Darien, Georgia
Darien is a small but interesting town along the route. It’s known for its fresh seafood and rich history. Fort King George Historic Site is worth a visit, offering a look at Georgia’s oldest English fort.
If you’re hungry, try Skipper’s Fish Camp for fresh shrimp, oysters, and more. It’s a great place to take a break before the final stretch to Savannah.
Arrive in Savannah, Georgia
Your Jacksonville to Savannah road trip ends in one of the most beautiful cities in the South. Savannah is known for its cobblestone streets, historic homes, and large oak trees covered in Spanish moss.
Start your visit in the historic district. Walk along River Street, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and great views of the Savannah River. Forsyth Park is another must-see, with its famous fountain and large green space.
For history lovers, visit the Mercer-Williams House or take a guided ghost tour. Savannah is known for its spooky past, and a ghost tour is a fun way to learn about it.
Plantations Near Savannah
If you want to explore the history of the South, visit one of the plantations near Savannah. Wormsloe Historic Site is a top choice, featuring a long, oak-lined driveway and ruins of a colonial estate.
For a deeper look into plantation life, head to the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters, which provides insight into the lives of both the wealthy and the enslaved people who lived there.
Another great stop is the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation, located just south of Savannah, where you can tour an old rice plantation and learn about Georgia’s agricultural past.
Beaches Between Savannah and Jacksonville
Amelia Island offers quiet beaches and great shelling spots. Cumberland Island has remote, untouched beaches with wild horses roaming the shore.
St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island both have long stretches of sand, perfect for a relaxing stop along the way. Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island is one of the most unique, with large, weathered trees creating a striking landscape.
Skidaway State Park
For a great outdoor escape near Savannah, visit Skidaway State Park. This park offers scenic trails through maritime forests, salt marshes, and boardwalks with stunning views. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, crabs, and a variety of birds.
The park also has a campground, making it a great spot for an overnight stay before wrapping up your road trip.
Final Thoughts
A Jacksonville to Savannah road trip is full of history, nature, and great food. We absolutely love the Georgia coastline, it is wild and beautiful.
Whether you make a few quick stops or take your time exploring, this route offers plenty to see and do.
Pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the journey!
More Resources:
Exploring the Legacy: Historic Plantations in Savannah GA
Unveiling the Essentials: Must See Savannah GA
