Skidaway Island Travel Guide

Discover the best of Skidaway Island, Georgia with our comprehensive travel guide. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks, we've got you covered.


Introduction to Skidaway Island

Located in Coastal Georgia, Skidaway Island is a charming and picturesque area that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Whether you are a nature lover looking to explore the island’s scenic landscapes, or a history buff interested in learning more about the area’s rich heritage, Skidaway Island has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Skidaway Island

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Skidaway Island is home to a number of museums and historical landmarks that offer visitors a glimpse into the island’s fascinating past. The following are some must-visit attractions:

  • Skidaway Island State Park: This park features miles of beautiful hiking and biking trails, as well as camping and fishing opportunities. Additionally, the park has a rich history that includes Native American settlements and a Civil War–era fort.

  • Pin Point Heritage Museum: This museum highlights the story of the Gullah/Geechee people of Pin Point, a nearby community made up of descendants of slaves who worked on the island’s oyster farms.

  • Bonaventure Cemetery: This cemetery, which dates back to the 19th century, is the final resting place of many of Savannah’s most illustrious citizens, including poet Conrad Aiken and songwriter Johnny Mercer.

Natural Attractions of Skidaway Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Skidaway Island boasts a wealth of outdoor activities and scenic vistas that visitors won’t want to miss. Some of the island’s top natural attractions include:

  • Skidaway Island State Park: In addition to its cultural significance, Skidaway Island State Park offers visitors the chance to explore miles of hiking and biking trails, fish in salt marshes, and camp under the stars.

  • The Rookery: This bird sanctuary is home to a variety of local bird species, including bald eagles, ospreys, and egrets.

  • Wormsloe Historic Site: Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive through the oak-lined avenue leading to Wormsloe’s historic ruins, or hike through the marshes on one of the park’s many trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Skidaway Island

Skidaway Island boasts a wide range of hiking and biking trails that are perfect for visitors looking for a little adventure. Some of the top routes to check out include:

  • Skidaway Island State Park: With over 6 miles of hiking trails and 3 miles of biking trails, Skidaway Island State Park is perfect for visitors of all skill levels. Some of the most popular routes include the Big Ferry Trail and the Avian Loop Trail.

  • Jones Forest Loop: This 5-mile loop trail takes visitors through some of the island’s most scenic landscapes, including dense forests and tranquil marshes.

Best Things to Do in Skidaway Island: Activities and Tours

From kayaking to fishing to historic tours, Skidaway Island offers visitors a host of activities and tours to choose from. Some of the best things to do on the island include:

  • Kayaking: Visitors can rent kayaks and explore the island’s marshes and waterways, or sign up for a guided kayaking tour to learn more about the area’s ecology.

  • Fishing: Skidaway Island’s salt marshes are a haven for anglers, with opportunities to catch a variety of local fish species.

  • Historic Tours: Visitors can learn more about the island’s fascinating history through a range of guided tours, including visits to local plantations and Civil War forts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Skidaway Island

For visitors looking to make the most of their time on Skidaway Island, the following itinerary provides a week-long plan that includes some of the island’s top attractions and activities:

Day 1: Skidaway Island State Park

Spend your first day on the island exploring Skidaway Island State Park. Go hiking or biking on one of the park’s many trails, or relax on the beach and take in the scenic views.

Day 2: Pin Point Heritage Museum

Learn about the island’s Gullah/Geechee heritage by visiting the Pin Point Heritage Museum. Take a tour of the museum and surrounding area to learn more about the unique culture and traditions of this historic community.

Day 3: The Rookery and Wormsloe Historic Site

Spend the day exploring Skidaway Island’s natural beauty by visiting the Rookery, where you can birdwatch and take in the stunning views. Afterward, head to Wormsloe Historic Site to explore the 18th-century colonial estate and its beautiful ruins.

Day 4: Kayaking

Rent a kayak and explore Skidaway Island’s marshes and waterways. Be sure to keep an eye out for local wildlife, including dolphins and alligators.

Day 5: Bonaventure Cemetery and Haunted Ghost Tour

Visit the historic Bonaventure Cemetery and take in the stunning architecture and scenery. At night, take a haunted ghost tour of the cemetery to learn about the area’s ghostly legends and folklore.

Day 6: Fishing

Spend the day fishing in Skidaway Island’s salt marshes, and enjoy the peaceful tranquility of the island’s natural landscape.

Day 7: Historic Plantation Tour

Wrap up your week on Skidaway Island with a tour of one of the island’s many historic plantations. Learn about the area’s rich history and take in the stunning architecture and scenery.

Food and Drink Scene of Skidaway Island

Must-Try Dishes

Skidaway Island is known for its fresh seafood, including shrimp, oysters, and crab. Visitors won’t want to miss out on trying some of the island’s local dishes, including:

  • Lowcountry Boil: This popular dish features boiled shrimp, corn, potatoes, and sausage, and is a staple of Southern cuisine.

  • Grits and Shrimp: Made with creamy grits and fresh shrimp, this classic Southern dish is a must-try for visitors to the island.

Local Beverages

When it comes to beverages, Skidaway Island is known for its craft beer and locally roasted coffee. Visitors can try some of the island’s best brews and coffee blends at local cafes and breweries.

Where to Stay in Skidaway Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Skidaway Island offers visitors a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some of the best places to stay on the island include:

  • The DeSoto Savannah: Located in nearby Savannah, this luxury hotel offers visitors stunning views of the city skyline and easy access to Skidaway Island and other nearby attractions.

  • Thunderbird Inn: This iconic motel in Savannah offers visitors a taste of retro nostalgia, with fun decor and modern amenities.

  • River Street Inn: Located in the heart of Savannah’s historic district, this beautiful hotel is perfect for visitors looking to explore the city’s many attractions.

What to Buy in Skidaway Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Skidaway Island won’t want to leave without picking up a few local products or souvenirs. Some of the best things to buy on the island include:

  • Local honey: Skidaway Island is home to a number of bee farms that produce delicious, locally sourced honey.

  • Seafood: Visitors can pick up fresh local seafood, including shrimp, crab, and oysters, from the island’s many seafood markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Skidaway Island

Skidaway Island is known for its friendly locals and Southern hospitality. Visitors to the island should be sure to take the time to chat with locals and learn about the area’s unique traditions and culture.

Best Time to Visit Skidaway Island

The best time to visit Skidaway Island is in the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. Visitors can enjoy the island’s natural beauty and cultural attractions without having to battle the intense summer heat and humidity.

Do’s and Don’ts of Skidaway Island

Do:

  • Explore the island’s natural beauty by taking a hike or renting a kayak.

  • Take the time to learn about the area’s fascinating cultural history.

  • Try some of the island’s delicious seafood dishes.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the island’s natural landscape.

  • Ignore the area’s rich cultural heritage and history.

  • Be disrespectful to locals or other visitors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Skidaway Island

Skidaway Island is generally a safe place to visit, and visitors should take the same precautions they would in any other unfamiliar area. This includes avoiding deserted areas after dark, keeping an eye on personal belongings, and staying aware of your surroundings at all times.

Health in Skidaway Island

Visitors to Skidaway Island should be aware that the area is prone to high humidity and heat during the summer months. It’s important to stay hydrated and take breaks in air-conditioned areas to avoid heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Getting to Skidaway Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Skidaway Island

The nearest major airport to Skidaway Island is Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, which is located approximately 30 minutes from the island. The airport offers a range of domestic and international flights to and from major cities throughout the U.S. and beyond.

Bus Stations Near Skidaway Island

Greyhound offers bus service to Savannah, which is the nearest major city to Skidaway Island. Buses run daily from a number of major cities throughout the United States.

Other Options

Visitors to Skidaway Island can also drive to the area, as the island is easily accessible by car. Additionally, there are a number of taxi and shuttle services available for visitors who prefer not to drive.

How to Get Around in Skidaway Island

Visitors to Skidaway Island can get around by car, bike, or foot. Many of the island’s top attractions are located within a short distance of each other, making it easy to explore the area using any of these methods.

Where to Go Next from Skidaway Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Skidaway Island can easily explore nearby cities and attractions, including:

  • Savannah: Just a short drive from Skidaway Island, this historic Southern city is home to a range of cultural landmarks and attractions.

  • Tybee Island: This nearby beach town offers visitors the chance to swim, sunbathe, and explore local shops and restaurants.

  • Hilton Head Island: This popular resort town is just a short drive from Skidaway Island, and offers visitors a range of outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions.

Conclusion

Skidaway Island offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance, making it the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore the rich history and diverse landscapes of the South. With its stunning beaches, lush forests, and fascinating museums, Skidaway Island is a must-visit for any traveler looking to experience the best that Georgia has to offer.