Wassaw Island - North Beach

For dining near Wassaw Island, several options are available in nearby areas. Driftaway Cafe in Savannah offers a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on coastal cuisine, including seafood and steak. Another option is Castaways, known for its casual American dining with ample seafood options. On Tybee Island, The Crab Shack is famous for its seafood platters and BBQ in a lively setting. For a more family-friendly experience, Spanky's Beachside offers a variety of American and Mexican dishes with ocean views.

These restaurants provide a range of dining experiences, from casual to more lively settings, catering to different tastes and preferences. Whether you're looking for seafood, comfort food, or a family-friendly meal, there's something for everyone near Wassaw Island.

For accommodations near Wassaw Island, several hotels and resorts are available in the surrounding areas. On Tybee Island, the Beachview Inn & Spa offers quaint rooms with antique furnishings, providing a cozy stay with free Wi-Fi and breakfast. The Beachside Colony Resort features relaxed beachfront condos with multiple pools. In Savannah, the Hyatt Regency Savannah provides upscale accommodations with river views and an indoor pool. The Dunes Inn & Suites on Tybee Island offers basic rooms with free breakfast and Wi-Fi.

These options cater to different preferences, ranging from cozy inns to larger resorts and hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay for visitors exploring Wassaw Island and its surroundings.

Wassaw Island itself lacks modern amenities like restrooms, shelters, or drinking water, making it a truly natural and unspoiled destination. However, nearby areas such as Tybee Island and Savannah offer a range of amenities. For instance, many restaurants and hotels provide free Wi-Fi, outdoor seating, and bars. Some hotels also offer pools, spas, and fitness centers. Visitors planning to spend time on Wassaw Island should prepare accordingly, bringing necessary supplies and planning for off-island amenities.

The lack of amenities on the island contributes to its pristine condition, making it ideal for those seeking a genuine wilderness experience. For more comfort-oriented activities, nearby towns offer a variety of facilities and services.

Wassaw Island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, birdwatching, and beachcombing. The island's 20 miles of dirt roads provide excellent trails for hiking and biking. Visitors can also engage in saltwater fishing in the estuarine waters adjacent to the refuge. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding during the fall and spring migrations, with over 200 species identified on the island. Additionally, the island's beaches are perfect for sunbathing and playing in the surf.

For those interested in wildlife, Wassaw Island is home to a variety of species, including loggerhead sea turtles, which nest on the island's beaches. The island's natural beauty and diverse wildlife make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Wassaw Island itself does not offer specific disability access features due to its natural and undeveloped state. However, nearby areas such as Tybee Island and Savannah provide more accessible options. Many hotels and restaurants in these locations offer wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking, restrooms, and seating. For visitors with mobility needs, planning ahead and staying on the mainland or nearby islands may be more suitable. The lack of infrastructure on Wassaw Island means that it may not be easily accessible for everyone, but nearby areas can provide necessary accommodations.

Parking near Wassaw Island is primarily available at the mainland marinas or public boat ramps from which visitors depart for the island. For instance, parking is available near the Skidaway Island Bridge, where visitors can launch their boats or join guided tours. On Tybee Island and in Savannah, there are ample parking facilities at hotels and restaurants, including free and paid options. However, once on Wassaw Island, there are no parking facilities, as visitors typically anchor their boats at designated areas.

The parking situation reflects the island's remote and natural state, emphasizing the need for boat access and planning ahead for mainland parking.

Wassaw Island is historically significant, having been purchased by George Parsons in 1866. The island's name comes from the Creek word 'wiso,' meaning sassafras, which was once a valuable commodity. Today, Wassaw Island is recognized as a prime sanctuary for migratory birds and nesting loggerhead sea turtles, with over 80 turtles nesting annually. The island's unique landscape, featuring a 'boneyard beach' on the north end and dune ridges on the south, reflects its dynamic geological history.

The island's pristine condition and rich biodiversity make it a fascinating destination for those interested in natural history and conservation.

Near Wassaw Island, several attractions offer additional experiences for visitors. On Tybee Island, the historic Tybee Island Lighthouse is a must-visit, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. In Savannah, the city's historic district with its beautiful architecture and parks is a major draw. For nature enthusiasts, nearby Ossabaw Island and Back River Beach provide more opportunities for exploration and relaxation. These attractions complement the natural beauty of Wassaw Island, providing a well-rounded experience for those visiting the region.

The combination of natural and historical attractions makes the area around Wassaw Island appealing to a wide range of interests.