Butterbean Beach: Savannah GA Hidden Gem Only Locals Know About

Looking for a quick waterfront getaway in Savannah, Georgia? Feel like you've left the city behind while taking in the beautiful views at Butterbean Beach, just minutes from historic downtown Savannah!

To the rest of the world, Savannah is known for its historic charm, beautiful squares and parks, and peach cobbler. But it's also home to a surprising little beach that you've probably never heard of.

While Tybee Island may be the most famous beach near Savannah, this hidden waterfront gem is even closer. It's a perfect spot to escape to that feels like you're a million miles from the city.

Butter Bean Beach is a park that packs a small river beach, boat ramps, floating dock, bait shop, kayak rentals, picnic tables and pavilion, and stunning marsh views.

Where is Butterbean Beach?

Butterbean Beach is just 20 minutes south of downtown Savannah on the Isle of Hope. Take the Harry S Truman Parkway to GA-204 Spur to reach the park. The address is 25 Diamond Causeway, Savannah, GA 31406.

Turn into the Rodney J Hall Boat Ramp entrance on the right just before you cross the Skidaway River to Skidaway Island, and follow the road to the parking area. (If you go over the bridge, you've gone too far.)

What to do in Butterbean Beach

This Chatham County park offers you plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature. Keep your eyes peeled, and you may spot dolphins, otters or manatees, as well as many different types of birds.

Kayaking

Rent a kayak or canoe and get out on the water. Explore the Skidaway Narrows, Moon River and surrounding inland waters.

Moon River Kayak Tours offers guided tours that take you through the tidal creeks, where you may spot eagles, osprey and egrets. You can also take a walk on an uninhabited island with one of their expert guides.

Swimming

Yes, there is a swimming area at Butter Bean, but it's not your typical public beach. Since it's a tidal river beach, it doesn't have clear water. The water can be murky, as is typical for rivers and marshes.

The riverbank is mostly grass with a small patch of sand. Low tide is the best time to enjoy the sand as much of it is covered during high tide. Bring your beach chair if you want to sunbathe on the grass and enjoy the beautiful marsh views.

Boating

If you have a boat, you can use the public boat ramp to launch your boat to cruise the Intracoastal Waterway. There are two double boat ramps, and the parking lot has parking for your tow vehicle and boat trailer.

The use of the boat ramp is free and easily accessible. There are no launch fees, but permits are required if you will be fishing.

There is also a convenient floating dock and boardwalk that puts you over the water next to the bridge. The pier is right next to the boat ramp and is also a great spot for photos!

Fishing

Anglers can catch local fish including flounder, sheepshead, black drum, redfish, sea trout - even sharks and blue crabs - in nearby waterways. There is also a full-service bait shop, Bandy's Bait Shop, for live bait and all your fishing tackle needs.

Don't forget to get a Georgia Saltwater license before you start fishing. The requirements are different for state residents and visitors, and short-term and annual licenses are available. You learn the details and purchase your fishing permit online here.

Picnic

There are several picnic tables and a picnic pavilion if you want to enjoy the shade along with the view. Pack a cooler with your lunch, grab takeout from a local restaurant on the way, or check out the food trucks during the season.

The picnic pavilion is also available for rent, and there are public bathrooms making this an excellent spot for a gathering or outdoor event.

Food Trucks

During the week food trucks park here, often for lunch and dinner. Be sure to follow your favorite truck on social media to see where they will be each day.

You can also check the local food truck calendar here to see what's scheduled. Trucks that have parked at Butterbean include Pie Society, The Bayou Cafe, Mac Attack and Latin Chicks.

Discover This Hidden Gem

Butterbean Beach is a hidden gem that only locals know about and is a great place to take the family. Spring and fall are the best times to visit, as it can get a little crowded during the summer months.

If you want to get out of the city for a couple of hours to enjoy nature, head to stunning Butterbean Beach Savannah, GA.