St Augustine to Savannah, Georgia: 3 FUN Ways
Thinking about a road trip from St. Augustine to Savannah, Georgia? Great idea!
Few cities have more historical relevance, amazing things to do and places to explore than St. Augustine and Savannah, Georgia. Like many road trips, getting to your destination can be half the fun.
St. Augustine to Savannah Road Trip
In this post, we list three ways we have driven to Savannah from St. Augustine on fun road trips. Each way has its pros and cons, but all offer the same result – a fun trip between iconic cities.
The Scenic Way
St. Augustine to Savannah, Georgia via our most-used route is the fun way! We use Florida’s A1A (now known as Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway) to the Mayport Ferry, which crosses famed the St. John’s River. Continue on through Amelia Island, where we have lunch, then off the island to I-95 and finish the drive. Total drive time is about 5.5 hours.
The Fastest Way
Driving from St. Augustine to Savannah Georgia the fastest way is the interstate highway. Simply enter I-95 in St. Augustine and in Savannah, use the I-16 exit to Route 17 and enter downtown. Total drive time to Savannah from St. Augustine is about 3 hours.
The Best Way
Driving from St. Augustine to Savannah is to hug Florida’s beautiful coast on A1A, know known as Jimmy Buffett Memorial Highway, to Mayport. Take the fun Ferry across the river to Route 105 west to I-295 that circumvents Jacksonville traffic and delivers you to I-95 north to Savannah. Total drive time is under 5 hours.
Short Video Crossing the St. John's River
Things to Consider When Driving to Savannah from St. Augustine
As indicated above, you have at least three choices for getting to Savannah, Georgia, from St. Augustine. Each has its benefits and choices.
Whichever route you choose, here are a few important travel tips and things to consider to make your road trip smooth and enjoyable:
⏱️ Drive Time & Traffic
Timing Matters: Try to avoid rush hour in Jacksonville (7–9 AM and 4–6 PM) if taking I‑95 or passing through the city.
Summer Travel: If you’re traveling in summer, expect heavier traffic on weekends and holidays, especially near beach towns.
Ferry Schedules: The Mayport Ferry runs every half hour, but it’s worth checking the ferry schedule ahead of time, especially during off-peak seasons or weather delays.
🚗 Gas, Snacks, and Rest Stops
There are plenty of gas stations and convenience stores along I‑95, but if you take the scenic or best route, services may be spaced out. Good places to stop:
Jacksonville area – Multiple exits with fast food and gas.
Amelia Island – A perfect place for a stretch, snack, or meal.
Brunswick, GA – Near the Golden Isles, a solid halfway break.
🌿 Scenic Stops Along the Way
Want to turn your road trip into a full-day adventure? Consider stopping at:
Fort Clinch State Park (Fernandina Beach) – A historic Civil War-era fort with trails and beaches.
Amelia Island Historic District – Shopping, dining, and coastal charm.
Jekyll Island or St. Simons Island – If you’re feeling adventurous, take a detour to one of Georgia’s Golden Isles for a few hours.
Darien, GA – A small historic town with fresh seafood and boardwalks.
📸
Things to Pack for the Trip
Reusable water bottles
Travel snacks or cooler
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Travel apps (Waze, Google Maps, ferry tracker)
Camera or smartphone for roadside scenery
Beach towel (just in case you want to dip your toes in the water!)
🌦️ Weather Watch
Always check the local weather forecast for both cities and the route in between—especially during hurricane season (June–November) or winter storms further north. Coastal fog and thunderstorms can slow your drive.
📱 Navigation & Connectivity
While I‑95 has strong cellular service throughout, some coastal routes may dip in and out of service. It’s smart to download offline maps if you’re taking the scenic or best route, especially through less developed areas.
Final Thoughts: Choose Your Adventure
Whether you’re looking to save time, soak in the scenery, or strike the perfect balance, the drive from St. Augustine to Savannah offers more than just miles on the map—it’s a chance to enjoy the Southeastern coastline in all its Southern charm.
No matter which way you go, you’ll find great food, friendly towns, and gorgeous views along the way. So roll the windows down, turn on some Jimmy Buffett, and enjoy the ride.
FAQs About Your Savannah Road Trip
How far is it from St. Augustine to Savannah, Georgia?
The distance between St. Augustine, Florida and Savannah, Georgia is approximately 180 miles. Depending on the route you take, the drive can take between 3 and 5.5 hours.
What is the fastest route from St. Augustine to Savannah?
The fastest route is via Interstate 95 (I‑95) northbound. It typically takes about 3 to 3.5 hours and offers a direct path with easy access to Savannah’s historic district via I‑16 and Route 17.
Can I take a scenic route from St. Augustine to Savannah?
Yes! A popular scenic route includes driving north on A1A along Florida’s coast, taking the Mayport Ferry across the St. Johns River, passing through Amelia Island, and then connecting to I‑95. This route adds more time but offers coastal views and charming stops.
What is the best way to avoid traffic in Jacksonville on this drive?
To avoid Jacksonville’s downtown traffic, consider taking A1A to the Mayport Ferry, then Route 105 to I‑295, which loops around the city. From there, you can rejoin I‑95 North and continue to Savannah with minimal delays.
Are there any fun stops along the way from St. Augustine to Savannah?
Yes! Popular stops include Amelia Island, Fernandina Beach, Fort Clinch State Park, Jekyll Island, and the town of Darien, Georgia. These offer beaches, nature trails, historic sites, and great seafood.
Is the Mayport Ferry part of the route to Savannah?
The Mayport Ferry is an optional part of the scenic or “best” route. It crosses the St. Johns River and adds a unique experience to the drive. It operates roughly every 30 minutes—check schedules in advance for smooth travel.
How long does the scenic route from St. Augustine to Savannah take?
The scenic route, including the Mayport Ferry and a stop in Amelia Island, typically takes about 5.5 hours depending on traffic, ferry timing, and how many stops you make along the way.
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