Five places to visit for a mini Savannah vacay

By Stephanie Avery

With the stress of midterms over, a much-needed vacation is due, and it is right here in Savannah. From camping to shopping, you can find what you need close by. So, unpack your bags, because relaxation is right around the corner. Here are five places to visit for a mini Savannah vacay. 

Skidaway Island State Park: 

If hiking, biking and nature interest you, Skidaway Island State Park is the perfect getaway. Accessible by coastal highway, Skidaway is a vibe all its own. You can rent bikes, go on a picnic or hike through the maritime forest. The park also has an Interpretive Nature Center with a reptile room, birding station and a giant ground Sloth exhibit. 

Tybee Island: 

If you love the beach but not crowd, Tybee is the place to go. Also accessible by coastal highway, Tybee’s charm is in the salty sea air and bright beach colors. Wander around the Tybee Island Light House or simply go for a walk on the beach. Also, check out the culinary scene because Tybee has some of the best seafood restaurants around. If you get tired of the beach, catch a movie or musical performance at the Tybee Island Post Theatre.

Tanger Outlets: 

Shopping on Broughton St. usually consists of wading through crowds of tourists, so head out the Tanger Outlet Mall located in Pooler. This outdoor mall has everything you’d find in your typical malls such as Bath and Body Works, New York and Company, American Eagle, Auntie Anne’s and more. If you get hungry, right across the street is Jalapenos, Buffalo Wild Wings, Olive Garden, IHOP and others. 

Sea Kayak: 

Instead of getting an adrenaline rush from finishing a last-minute project, get that rush at Sea Kayak. Located on Tybee Island, you can explore the island from the water on a guided kayak tour. Options such as canoeing, paddle-boarding and yoga are also available. You can go as a group or alone, and make it a single or multi-day trip. 

Oatland Island Wildlife Center: 

Animal lovers unite at Savannah’s local zoo, the Oatland Island Wildlife Center, where many of the animals are local to the Savannah area. Their exhibits include Wolf Wilderness, Predators of Georgia and Birds of Prey. Get lost on their scenic trail or enjoy one of their special events, such as the fairy and gnome festival taking place Saturday, May 4. This event allows you to dress up as a fairy, mine for magic gems or frolic your cares away in the enchanted forest.