A Travel Price Comparison for Georgia Jekyll Island vs. Savannah for Attractions, Food, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Jekyll Island or Savannah?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Jekyll Island and Savannah can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is a natural, relaxing, and secluded island. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and museums.

Savannah

Savannah is a beautiful, charming, and scenic city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Jekyll Island and Savannah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Jekyll Island or Savannah?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Savannah than Jekyll Island, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Savannah is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Jekyll Island is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, and hiking. Jekyll Island is well known for its quiet beaches and its Historic District. Savannah is well known for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District. Also, Savannah is famous for Forsyth Park.

How is Jekyll Island different from Savannah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Savannah and Jekyll Island. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jekyll Island or Savannah?

Jekyll Island
Savannah

Savannah is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Savannah. The city's long history can be explored at the Savannah History Museum. With the Savannah School of Art and Design in town, you'll also find a great art culture with several museums such as the SCAD Museum of Art and the Jepson Center for the Arts. There's also the Georgia State Railroad Museum and the Sea Maritime Museum. There are several historic houses that you can visit as well, such as the Andrew Low House, the Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace, and Harper Fowlkes House.

Jekyll Island is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Mosaic is the history museum on the island. The museum also offers historic tours of the area's sites. The Historic District is a popular place to visit with its well-maintained historic cottages and other structures.


Is the Food Better in Jekyll Island or Savannah? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Jekyll Island
Savannah

Savannah is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Savannah has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local restaurants highlight southern hospitality as well as the cuisine. You'll find many classics such as crab cakes, shrimp and grits, and fried fish. There are many restaurants in historic buildings in the Historic District, but you'll also find a number of casual eateries in other neighborhoods.

Jekyll Island offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Many restaurants are casual with low country dishes or fried seafood. You'll find some brunch places as well as cafes and quick dining eateries around town.

Is Jekyll Island or Savannah Better for Nightlife?

Jekyll Island
Savannah

Jekyll Island is not a good place to visit for nightlife. However, Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

People don't go to Jekyll Island for the nightlife. There are sunset cruises, but otherwise the nightlife scene is quiet.

Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife. Downtown Savannah and River Street are filled with bars and clubs that keep things lively when the sun goes down. During the warmer months there are outdoor venues, concerts and events, but even during the cooler seasons things stay busy.

Is Jekyll Island or Savannah Better for Resorts?

Jekyll Island
Savannah

Jekyll Island is a moderate island for its resorts. However, Savannah is not a resort destination.

Jekyll Island has a few resort options worth checking out. You'll mostly find mid-range hotels on the island.

Savannah is not a resort destination.


Is Jekyll Island or Savannah Better for Beaches?

Jekyll Island
Savannah

Jekyll Island is a well-known place for its beaches. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beache.

Jekyll Island is considered a top beach destination. Unspoiled beaches are the biggest draw. Some areas are rocky, but the beaches are peaceful and perfect for walks if you want to get away from the crowds. Much of the island is a state park, so it's undeveloped and pristine.

Many people head to Savannah to enjoy the beach. While Savannah doesn't actually have a beach, you can head to nearby Tybee Island for waves and sun. It's about half an hour away and the closest beaches to the city are on the island's north side.

Is Jekyll Island or Savannah Better for its Old Town?

Jekyll Island
Savannah

Savannah is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Jekyll Island does not have a historic old town.

Savannah is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. There's an impressive Historic District that is filled with gardens, historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and Oak-lined streets. There are wonderful hotels and traditional restaurants that offer a beautiful experience.

Jekyll Island does not have a historic old town.

Is Jekyll Island or Savannah Better for Hiking?

Jekyll Island
Savannah

Jekyll Island is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Savannah is not a hiking destination.

Jekyll Island is a popular spot for hiking. The state park has some trails that are nice. There are also beach walks, bike trails, and routes that take you through historic sites.

Savannah is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Jekyll Island or Savannah?

Jekyll Island
Savannah

Savannah is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Savannah. Shopping opportunities include art galleries, trendy clothing boutiques, and larger shopping malls. Visitors can wander down the popular Broughton Street, but there's also a City Market and Starland District.

Jekyll Island is a good destination for shopping. You'll find a few gift shops and boutiques, but in general, shopping options are limited.

Is Jekyll Island or Savannah Better for Families?

Jekyll Island
Savannah

Jekyll Island is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Savannah is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Jekyll Island is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love climbing and playing at Driftwood Beach, which is like a natural playground. Animal lovers will enjoy dolphin cruises or a visit to a turtle hospital. There's also the standard beach activities like minigolf, bike rental, and tram tours.

Savannah is a family-friendly island. There's a children's museum in town. There's also many outdoor parks and the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge. Kids will enjoy stopping for ice cream or other sweet treats, which are plentiful as well.

Is Jekyll Island or Savannah Better for Couples?

Jekyll Island
Savannah

Savannah is a very popular place for couples. Also, Jekyll Island is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Savannah makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Trees with Spanish Moss as well as a charming Historic District make this a nice destination for a couple's weekend. There are parks where you can enjoy a picnic. There are also nature trails and many great southern restaurants.

Jekyll Island is a nice destination for couples. There are several basic hotels as well as a few campgrounds. Couples will enjoy the beaches, but the island is small with limited activities and restaurant options. If you love natural scenery then this is a great destination, but there are fewer amenities than there are in many beach areas.


Is Jekyll Island or Savannah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jekyll Island
Savannah

Savannah is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Savannah is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel in town, as well as a number of cheaper motels that are a bit outside of the Historic District.

Jekyll Island is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a few campgrounds in the area as well as some nice beaches.

Is Jekyll Island or Savannah Better for Students?

Jekyll Island
Savannah

Savannah is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Jekyll Island is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Savannah. There are a couple of colleges in town including the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Jekyll Island is not popular with students.

Is Jekyll Island or Savannah Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Jekyll Island
Savannah

Savannah is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Savannah. While there are some types of public transit available, the vast majority of visitors have a vehicle, which they use to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Jekyll Island. There are bus and trolley tours, but public transportation is mostly non-existent.


Is Jekyll Island or Savannah a more walkable city?

Jekyll Island
Savannah

Savannah is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Jekyll Island is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Savannah is a very walkable destination. The Historic District is very walkable, and it makes a pleasant place to explore on foot.

Jekyll Island is not a walkable island. Resources are spread out, so you really need a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Jekyll Island Worth Visiting? and Is Savannah Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Savannah or Jekyll Island?

How long in Jekyll Island or Savannah?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Jekyll Island and Savannah. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Jekyll Island than in Savannah. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Jekyll Island, and 1-3 days is enough time in Savannah.

Families should spend more time in Jekyll Island than Savannah. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Jekyll Island, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Savannah than Jekyll Island. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Savannah that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Savannah than Jekyll Island if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Savannah.


  • How many days in Jekyll Island or Savannah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jekyll Island 2-4 
    Savannah 1-3

One day in Jekyll Island or Savannah?

The island of Jekyll Island offers museums. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the historic destination of Savannah. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Jekyll Island or Savannah?

Jekyll Island is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Jekyll Island, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Savannah. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.


Five days in Jekyll Island or Savannah?

Jekyll Island is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Savannah. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in Jekyll Island or Savannah?

Jekyll Island is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

You'll find museums and food around the city of Savannah. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Savannah or Jekyll Island?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Jekyll Island is $156, while the average daily cost in Savannah is $160. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Jekyll Island and Savannah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Jekyll Island $88
    Savannah $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Jekyll Island $176
    Savannah $168
Compare Hotels in Jekyll Island and Savannah

Looking for a hotel in Jekyll Island or Savannah? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Jekyll Island


Hotels in Savannah


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Jekyll Island Hotel Prices and Savannah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jekyll Island $41
    Savannah $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Savannah

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Savannah:

  • Grave Encounters Tour with Guide and Transfers: $32
  • African American History Walking Tour w/ Transfer: $64
  • Savannah to Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) - Departure Private Transfer: $102
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV): Private Transfer to Savannah: $430
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $205
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Hilton Head Island - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $178
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah : $256
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Hilton Head Island, SC: $221
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Savannah: $205
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Hilton Head Island, SC : $221

Is it cheaper to fly into Jekyll Island or Savannah?

Prices for flights to both Savannah and Jekyll Island change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Jekyll Island $45
    Savannah $58

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Savannah

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Savannah.

  • Grave Encounters Ghost Tour with Cellar and Dinner: $55
  • 2-Hour Southern Food Tour: $63
  • Savannah Southern Fried Expectations Walking Food Tour: $67
  • Savannah Ghost Trolley Tour with Dinner at the Pirate's House: $72
  • Savannah Riverboat Gospel Music Dinner Cruise: $76
  • Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise: $76
  • Savannah First Squares Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour: $82
  • Savannah's Port City Walking Food Tour: $82
  • Famous and Secret East Side/Port City Food Tour: $82
  • 2 HR Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise with Onboard Entertainment: $91
  • Buffet Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment: $91
  • Southern Traditions Dinner Tour: $106

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jekyll Island $10
    Savannah $17

Typical Entertainment Prices in Savannah

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Savannah are as follows:


  • Pub Crawl
    $10

Tours and Activities in Savannah

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Savannah are as follows:

  • "Savannah for Morons" Comedy Trolley Tour: $59
  • 1-Hour Bonaventure Cemetery Golf Cart Guided Tour in Savannah : $30
  • 2 Hour Historical Walking Tour in Savannah: $35
  • 2-Hour Explore Savannah Bike Tour: $45
  • 2-Hour Savannah Sunset Riverboat Cruise: $54
  • 2hr Paranormal Walking Tour: $30
  • 5 Hours Tybee Island Exclusive Bus and Bike Combo Tour: $75
  • 60-Minute Guided Segway History Tour of Savannah: $55
  • 90 Minutes Walking Tour in Savannah: $30
  • 90 minute Original Haunted Savannah Tour | 8pm: $25
  • 90-Minute Savannah Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise: $41
  • Afterlife Tours- Voices of the Dead Tour: $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jekyll Island $6.43
    Savannah $34

Sample the Local Flavors in Savannah

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Savannah:

  • Epic Savannah Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • 90 Minute Historic Savannah Walking Haunted Bar Pub Crawl: $19
  • Captain Stoner Joe's Haunted Pub Crawl: $20
  • Spanish Moss Haunted Savannah Pub Crawl: $20
  • Captain Stoner Dive Bar Crawl Ticket: $25
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl-Walking Tour Historic District: $25
  • Bad Kitty Haunted Savannah Pub Crawl - Spooky, naughty ghosts: $30
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Bloody Murder Savannah Pub Crawl: $30
  • Conjuring Cocktails Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Bar Crawl by the Bridge: $32


When comparing the travel costs between Jekyll Island and Savannah, we can see that Savannah is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Jekyll Island Expensive? and Is Savannah Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Jekyll Island or Savannah?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Savannah in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Jekyll Island as well as Savannah. Many travelers come to Jekyll Island for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Savannah in the summer for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Jekyll Island is around the same temperature as Savannah. Typically, the summer temperatures in Jekyll Island in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Savannah averages at about 82°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Savannah. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jekyll Island this time of the year. In the summer, Jekyll Island often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Savannah. Jekyll Island gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Savannah receives 267 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Savannah. Jekyll Island receives a lot of rain in the summer. Jekyll Island usually gets less rain in July than Savannah. Jekyll Island gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jekyll Island 82°F (28°C) 
    Savannah 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Savannah in the Autumn?

Both Savannah and Jekyll Island are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Jekyll Island in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Savannah for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Jekyll Island is generally around the same temperature as Savannah. Daily temperatures in Jekyll Island average around 70°F (21°C), and Savannah fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Savannah. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jekyll Island. Jekyll Island usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Savannah during autumn. Jekyll Island gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Savannah receives 223 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Jekyll Island usually receives around the same amount of rain as Savannah. Jekyll Island gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jekyll Island 70°F (21°C) 
    Savannah 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Savannah in the Winter?

Both Savannah and Jekyll Island during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Jekyll Island for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Savannah because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Jekyll Island is a little warmer than Savannah in the winter. The daily temperature in Jekyll Island averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Savannah fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

In the winter, Jekyll Island often gets more sunshine than Savannah. Jekyll Island gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Savannah receives 176 hours of full sun.

Jekyll Island usually gets more rain in January than Savannah. Jekyll Island gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jekyll Island 53°F (12°C) 
    Savannah 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Jekyll Island or Savannah in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Jekyll Island and Savannah. The spring months attract visitors to Jekyll Island because of the beaches. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Savannah this time of year.

In the spring, Jekyll Island is around the same temperature as Savannah. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jekyll Island in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Savannah averages at about 66°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Savannah this time of the year. In Jekyll Island, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jekyll Island usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Savannah during spring. Jekyll Island gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Savannah receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Jekyll Island usually receives around the same amount of rain as Savannah. Jekyll Island gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jekyll Island 68°F (20°C) 
    Savannah 66°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Savannah and Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island Savannah
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 52°F (11°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 59°F (15°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 66°F (19°C) 2.9 inches (74 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 79°F (26°C) 5.9 inches (150 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 82°F (28°C) 7.9 inches (200 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 77°F (25°C) 5.6 inches (141 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 59°F (15°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)