A Travel Price Comparison for Georgia Saint Simons vs. Savannah for Attractions, Food, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Saint Simons or Savannah?

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

Should I visit Saint Simons or Savannah? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Saint Simons

Saint Simons is a relaxing, laid back, and scenic island. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Savannah

Savannah is a charming, scenic, and historic city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Saint Simons and Savannah: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Saint Simons or Savannah?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Saint Simons. Although Saint Simons and Savannah are both popular with visitors, Saint Simons has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Saint Simons is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, hiking, and small town charm, while Savannah is known for its museums and historical sights. Saint Simons is more touristy than Savannah and is known for its beaches, charter fishing, and golf courses. It is also home to East Beach. Savannah is popular for its maritime past, its southern atmosphere, and its Historic District.

How is Saint Simons different from Savannah?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint Simons or Savannah?

Saint Simons
Savannah

Savannah is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Savannah offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

While most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. St. Simons Lighthouse is a highlight for many visitors. There's a maritime museum attached to the lighthouse as well. Fort Frederica National Monument is another historic site that is worth a visit.


Is the Food Better in Saint Simons or Savannah? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saint Simons
Savannah

Dining out at restaurants in both Saint Simons and Savannah can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Saint Simons makes for a great culinary experience. There are more than 70 restaurants on the island that range from cafes to fine dining. You can enjoy an eggs benedict for brunch, crab cakes for lunch, and shrimp and grits for dinner. Many restaurants take advantage of the mild climate by offering outdoor seating. There are also several dessert places with ice cream or donuts.

Savannah has a huge number of terrific 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.

Is Saint Simons or Savannah Better for Nightlife?

Saint Simons
Savannah

Saint Simons is a moderate island for nightlife. However, Savannah is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Most people don't head to Saint Simons specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are several family-friendly bars with laid back atmospheres around town, but if you're looking for a wild night out, there aren't a lot of places to go.

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 Saint Simons or Savannah Better for Resorts?

Saint Simons
Savannah

Saint Simons is a popular place for its resorts. However, Savannah is not a resort destination.

Saint Simons has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are a handful of nice resorts with pools and beachfront settings.

Savannah is not a resort destination.


Is Saint Simons or Savannah Better for Beaches?

Saint Simons
Savannah

Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is considered a top beach destination. There's golden sand and a beautiful setting. Visitors enjoy swimming or walking along the coastline. You'll also find piers and playgrounds. East Beach is one of the most popular.

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 Saint Simons or Savannah Better for its Old Town?

Saint Simons
Savannah

Savannah is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Savannah. 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.

Saint Simons does not have a historic old town.

Is Saint Simons or Savannah Better for Hiking?

Saint Simons
Savannah

Saint Simons is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Savannah is not a hiking destination.

Saint Simons is a good destination for hiking. There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy a walk in nature. Cannon's Point Preserve has a nice trail system. Other trails on the island include John Gilbert Nature Trail, Earth Day Nature Trail, and Wanderer Memorial Trail.

Savannah is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Saint Simons or Savannah?

Saint Simons
Savannah

Shopping is a popular activity in both Savannah and Saint Simons.

Saint Simons is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find a good concentration of gift shops and clothing boutiques on the island. Antiquing is also popular. Head to Pier Village for a nice mix of shops.

Savannah is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Is Saint Simons or Savannah Better for Families?

Saint Simons
Savannah

Saint Simons 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.

Saint Simons is a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches are kid-friendly and there are many family-friendly restaurants in town. There's also the St. Simons Lighthouse, minigolf, and kayaking, as well as Neptune Park Fun Zone.

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 Saint Simons or Savannah Better for Couples?

Saint Simons
Savannah

With fun activities for couples, both Saint Simons and Savannah make for a high quality place to visit.

Couples visit Saint Simons frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic restaurants, beautiful beaches, and nice hotels. Sunset walks on the beach or a round of golf all make this a favorite couple's destination.

Savannah is a great island if you're traveling as 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.


Is Saint Simons or Savannah Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint Simons
Savannah

Savannah is a popular place for backpackers. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Savannah. There's a hostel in town, as well as a number of cheaper motels that are a bit outside of the Historic District.

Saint Simons is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds in the area that offer access to the island.

Is Saint Simons or Savannah Better for Students?

Saint Simons
Savannah

Savannah is a popular place for students. However, Saint Simons is not popular with students.

Savannah is popular with students. There are a couple of colleges in town including the Savannah College of Art and Design.

Saint Simons is not popular with students.

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

Saint Simons
Savannah

Savannah is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Saint Simons is a island with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally 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 quite limited in Saint Simons. While there are trolley tours available, public transportation is basically non-existent.


Is Saint Simons or Savannah a more walkable city?

Saint Simons
Savannah

Savannah is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Saint Simons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Saint Simons is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but to access much of what is available, you'll want to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Saint Simons Worth Visiting? and Is Savannah Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Savannah or Saint Simons?

How long in Saint Simons or Savannah?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Savannah than Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons or Savannah? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saint Simons 2-4 
    Savannah 1-3

One day in Saint Simons or Savannah?

Saint Simons is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

In Savannah, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this scenic city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Saint Simons or Savannah?

Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Savannah is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Saint Simons or Savannah?

Saint Simons 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Savannah. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Saint Simons or Savannah?

Saint Simons is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, 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.

Savannah is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


Which place is cheaper, Savannah or Saint Simons?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint Simons is $176, 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 Saint Simons and Savannah in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint Simons $100
    Savannah $84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint Simons $200
    Savannah $168
Compare Hotels in Saint Simons and Savannah

Looking for a hotel in Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons


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: Saint Simons Hotel Prices and Savannah Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint Simons $49
    Savannah $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Savannah

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Savannah:

  • Private Transfer from SAV to Hilton Head Island, SC : $224
  • Private Transfer from SAV to Savannah: $207
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Hilton Head Island, SC: $224
  • Private Transfer from Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) to Savannah : $259
  • Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV): Private Transfer to Savannah: $439
  • Savannah to Savannah Hilton Airport (SAV) - Departure Private Transfer: $104
  • African American History Walking Tour w/ Transfer: $64
  • Grave Encounters Tour with Guide and Transfers: $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint Simons or Savannah?

Prices for flights to both Savannah and Saint Simons 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
    Saint Simons $48
    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
  • Monday Gospel Dinner Cruise: $76
  • Savannah First Squares Culinary & Cultural Walking Food Tour: $82
  • Savannah's Port City Walking Food Tour: $82
  • 3-Hour First Squares 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.
    Saint Simons $16
    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:

  • Old Squares GPS Audio Guided Walking Tour: $5.50
  • Ghosts of Savannah Self-Guided Haunted Tour: $7.75
  • Savannah’s Historical District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Savannah Historical District: Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $7.99
  • Self Guided Audio Ghost Tour in Savannah in 6 Languages: $9.00
  • Self Guided Audio Ghost Tour in Savannah in 6 Languages: $9.00
  • Johnson Square to Independent Presbyterian: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Savannah: $9.99
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Savannah by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Savannah Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $13
  • Savannah Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $13
  • Savannah Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $14
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saint Simons $60
    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
  • Spanish Moss Haunted Savannah Pub Crawl: $20
  • Savannah Beer and Boos Haunted Pub Crawl: $25
  • Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $30
  • Bloody Murder Savannah Pub Crawl: $30
  • Savannah Bar Crawl by the Bridge: $32
  • Late Night Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl: $33
  • Spooky Savannah Haunted Pub Crawl: $33
  • True Crime Pub Crawl - the Original Savannah Murder Tour: $35
  • Midnight in the Garden Walking Tour and Pub Crawl: $35
  • Pub Crawl and Ghost Tour: $35


When comparing the travel costs between Saint Simons and Savannah, we can see that Saint Simons 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 Saint Simons Expensive? and Is Savannah Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Saint Simons or Savannah?

Savannah has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Saint Simons. When comparing the sizes of Saint Simons and Savannah, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Saint Simons or Savannah?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Saint Simons or Savannah in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint Simons and Savannah. The summer months attract visitors to Saint Simons because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Savannah this time of year.

Saint Simons is around the same temperature as Savannah in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Savannah fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Savannah this time of the year. In Saint Simons, it's very sunny this time of the year. Saint Simons usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Savannah during summer. Saint Simons gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Savannah receives 267 hours of full sun in the summer.

Savannah receives a lot of rain in the summer. Saint Simons gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Saint Simons usually receives less rain than Savannah. Saint Simons gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 7.9 inches (200 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saint Simons 82°F (28°C) 
    Savannah 82°F (28°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Savannah in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Saint Simons as well as Savannah. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Saint Simons this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Savannah for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Saint Simons is around the same temperature as Savannah. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint Simons in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Savannah averages at about 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Savannah. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Saint Simons this time of the year. In the autumn, Saint Simons often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Savannah. Saint Simons gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Savannah receives 223 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Savannah. Saint Simons gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 2.8 inches (71 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saint Simons 70°F (21°C) 
    Savannah 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Savannah in the Winter?

Both Savannah and Saint Simons are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saint Simons for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Savannah in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Saint Simons is generally a little warmer than Savannah. Daily temperatures in Saint Simons average around 53°F (12°C), and Savannah fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

Saint Simons usually receives more sunshine than Savannah during winter. Saint Simons gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Savannah receives 176 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint Simons usually receives more rain than Savannah. Saint Simons gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saint Simons 53°F (12°C) 
    Savannah 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Saint Simons or Savannah in the Spring?

Both Savannah and Saint Simons during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Saint Simons in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Savannah for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Saint Simons is around the same temperature as Savannah in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint Simons averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Savannah fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

In Savannah, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint Simons. In the spring, Saint Simons often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Savannah. Saint Simons gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Savannah receives 275 hours of full sun.

Saint Simons usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Savannah. Saint Simons gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Savannah receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saint Simons 68°F (20°C) 
    Savannah 66°F (19°C)

Typical Weather for Savannah and Saint Simons

Saint Simons 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)