Top 10 Resorts in Savannah
The top 10 resorts in Savannah range from historic, riverfront properties to modern luxury hotels with full-service spas and golf. Most are located in the Historic District or along the Savannah River, offering rates that typically start between $200 and $600 per night depending on the season. These resorts provide amenities like pools, fine dining, and concierge services, though true "resort" designations are less common than in coastal beach towns.
I've spent 25 years in this business, and I've learned one thing about Savannah: calling something a "resort" here is a stretch. You're not getting Cancún beachfront—you're getting oak-shaded squares, antebellum mansions, and a buzzing riverfront. The "resorts" in Savannah are really luxury and boutique hotels concentrated in the Historic District and along the Savannah River. The ones that matter pair real spa, rooftop, and dining programs with locations that put Forsyth Park, River Street, and the city's squares at your doorstep.
Here's the shortlist of what's worth your money in 2026-2027, ranked by what I'd actually book.
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The Quick Decision Tree (Skip the Fluff)
What's your priority?
- Full riverfront resort → JW Marriott Plant Riverside
- New design luxury → Hotel Bardo
- Award-winning service → Perry Lane Hotel
- Downtown value + rooftop → The DeSoto
- Historic mansion → Mansion on Forsyth Park
Where do you want to be?
- River views + dining → JW Marriott or Bohemian
- Forsyth Park location → Bardo or Mansion on Forsyth
- Boutique design → Perry Lane or The Alida
Budget over $400/night?
- Yes → JW Marriott Plant Riverside
- No → The DeSoto or Marshall House
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1. JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District 🏆 Best Overall
Price: $450–$900/night peak | Location: Plant Riverside District, on the Savannah River
Look, if you want the closest thing to a real resort in Savannah, this is it. The AAA Four Diamond JW Marriott is built into a restored riverside power plant—three buildings with 419 rooms, suites, and lofts, a full-service spa, rooftop pools, and an absurd 12 restaurants and bars overlooking the Savannah River. The Plant Riverside District around it adds live music, shopping, and a geode-and-gem gallery. It's big, it's busy, and it's the most complete destination you'll find.
The catch: Premium peak pricing, and it's not intimate. But when you want everything on property with a river view, this is the move.
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2. The DeSoto 💎 Best Value
Price: $220–$420/night peak | Location: Downtown Historic District
This 125-year-old landmark has hosted presidents and celebrities, and it's still the smartest value in town. The rooftop pool with downtown views, multiple restaurants, and a central location walking distance to squares and River Street—all at a rate noticeably below the new luxury arrivals. Yes, it's an older property and rooms vary by wing, but for the money, you're getting real amenities. The best central value in Savannah, hands down.
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3. Perry Lane Hotel
Price: $350–$650/night peak | Location: Historic District, near Forsyth Park
The #1 Best Hotel in Savannah by Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards isn't hype—it's earned. Its 167 rooms and 12 suites sit amid live oaks near Forsyth Park and Chippewa Square, with three dining venues, a buzzing rooftop pool, a cozy library, and an extensive curated art collection. The rooftop scene gets busy on weekends, but for polish and a rooftop scene near the park, this is your pick.
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4. Hotel Bardo Savannah
Price: $450–$850/night peak | Location: Directly on Forsyth Park
The newest design-luxury darling, and it earns the buzz. Hotel Bardo sits directly on Forsyth Park—the best park-front position in the city—with bold contemporary rooms, its restaurant Saint Bibiana serving Italian-inspired family-style cuisine, and a pool and bar program that feels glamorous and of-the-moment. It's among the priciest rooms in Savannah, and the design-led look might not scream "old Savannah," but for the most current, park-front address, this is it.
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5. Mansion on Forsyth Park
Price: $300–$600/night peak | Location: Facing Forsyth Park
Built in 1873, this Gilded-Age mansion faces the park and combines a grand Romanesque mansion with a modern wing. Rooms range from carriage-house quarters to suites with four-poster beds, fireplaces, or clawfoot tubs, and the hotel is famous for its extensive art collection, spa, and 700 Drayton restaurant. Older mansion rooms vary in size and layout, and the blend of historic and modern wings can feel uneven—but for art, history, and a park-facing address, it's unmatched.
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6. The Alida, Savannah
Price: $300–$550/night peak | Location: Riverfront, near Plant Riverside
This Tribute Portfolio hotel places you steps from the Savannah College of Art and Design, Plant Riverside, and the riverfront. Its 173 curated rooms—every one with a king bed—include 21 suites with views and Savannah's largest penthouse, plus a rooftop bar that's a local favorite. No full resort amenities like a spa, but for design-forward rooms with riverfront proximity and a killer rooftop bar, it's a solid pick.
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The Bottom Line
Savannah doesn't do cookie-cutter resorts. It does personality, history, and location. Pick the one that matches your vibe—and if you're still waffling, the JW Marriott or The DeSoto will never steer you wrong.
*This is the kind of straight talk I share with my clients at PULSE / CRO Syndicate. No fluff, just what works.*
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How to Choose the Right Savannah Resort for Your Travel Style
Savannah’s “resort” scene is more about curated experiences than sprawling all-inclusive grounds. To avoid disappointment, match your choice to how you actually travel. Here’s a practical breakdown by traveler type, based on what I’ve seen work (and fail) for guests over the years.
For couples seeking romance: Prioritize properties with private balconies or courtyard gardens. The Perry Lane Hotel (a Luxury Collection property) and The Drayton Hotel both offer rooftop bars with skyline views that set a moody evening scene. Expect room rates between $350–$650 per night in peak season (March–May, September–November). Avoid properties on River Street if you’re a light sleeper—the cobblestone streets amplify carriage and bar noise until late.
For families with kids: Look for resorts with suites or connecting rooms, pools (rare in the Historic District), and easy access to Forsyth Park. The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa is the only true full-service resort with a pool, kids’ club, and golf course—but it’s across the river on Hutchinson Island. You’ll need the free ferry to reach downtown. Rates here run $250–$450 nightly, but parking is $25–$35 per day. For walkability, The DeSoto (now a DoubleTree) has a pool and is a 10-minute walk from Forsyth Park, with rooms from $200–$350.
For business travelers or solo adventurers: You want a central location, reliable Wi-Fi, and a workspace. The Kimpton Brice Hotel or The Mansion on Forsyth Park both have strong business amenities and are within a 5-minute walk to multiple coffee shops and co-working spots. Expect rates of $300–$500. Avoid the Planters Inn if you need a desk—its historic rooms are charming but cramped for work.
For history buffs: Stay in the Historic District proper. The Hamilton-Turner Inn (a bed-and-breakfast, not a resort) offers guided history walks with the owner. If you want a resort feel, The Mansion on Forsyth Park has a spa and is steps from the park’s monuments. Rates here are $400–$700, but you’re paying for location and authenticity.
Budget-conscious travelers: No true resort exists under $200 in peak season. Instead, consider The Alida (a Marriott Autograph Collection property) or The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront (a Kessler Collection property) for off-season stays (December–February, excluding holidays) when rates drop to $250–$350. Book directly with the hotel for perks like waived resort fees or breakfast credits.
Pro tip: Always check for hidden fees. Many Savannah hotels add a “resort fee” of $25–$50 per night for amenities like pool access, fitness center, or bike rentals—even if you don’t use them. Ask at booking.
Seasonal Considerations: When to Visit and What to Expect
Savannah’s charm is weather-dependent, and the “resort” experience shifts dramatically with the season. Here’s what I’ve learned from 25 years of watching tourists arrive at the wrong time.
Spring (March–May): Peak season. Temperatures are 65–80°F, and the azaleas are in full bloom. This is when Savannah shines, but it’s also when resorts sell out 3–4 months in advance. Expect rates 30–50% higher than off-season. Book by January for the best selection. The Savannah Music Festival (late March–April) fills rooms, so if you’re not attending, avoid those dates. Humidity is low, making rooftop bars and walking tours ideal.
Summer (June–August): Hot and humid (85–95°F, 80%+ humidity). This is the low season for luxury travel because the heat is oppressive. Resorts drop rates by 20–30%, but you’ll pay for it with afternoon thunderstorms and mosquito-heavy evenings. The Westin Savannah Harbor pool becomes a lifesaver. If you’re visiting, book a resort with a pool or air-conditioned spa. The Perry Lane rooftop pool is small but a popular retreat. Avoid the River Street area in summer—the heat bounces off the cobblestones and the river smell intensifies.
Fall (September–November): The sweet spot. September is still hot (80–90°F) but crowds thin after Labor Day. October and November are perfect: 60–75°F, low humidity, and the Savannah Film Festival (late October) brings celebrities and higher rates. Book September for the best deals ($250–$400 at top resorts). The Mansion on Forsyth Park offers fall spa packages that are worth the splurge.
Winter (December–February): The cheapest time to visit. Temperatures range 35–55°F, and you’ll need a coat. Resorts offer rates 40–60% off peak, with rooms at $200–$350. The Christmas season (mid-November to early January) is a major exception—the city decorates beautifully, and rates spike. Book by October for holiday stays. Otherwise, January and February are dead months, ideal for quiet walks and spa days. The Bohemian Hotel often runs “Winter Warm-Up” packages with complimentary drinks by the fireplace.
Weather warning: Hurricane season runs June–November, with peak risk in September. If you book then, get travel insurance. Savannah floods easily, and some low-lying resorts (like those on River Street) have experienced closures. Always check the hotel’s cancellation policy.
Event-driven pricing: The St. Patrick’s Day celebration (March 17) is Savannah’s biggest event—rooms book a year in advance and rates triple. The Savannah Jazz Festival (late September) and Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon (early November) also drive demand. If you’re not attending, avoid these weekends entirely.
Beyond the Room: Resort Amenities That Actually Matter in Savannah
Savannah’s resorts aren’t about water parks or sprawling golf courses—they’re about curated extras that enhance your city experience. Here’s what to look for (and what to skip) based on real guest feedback and my own stays.
The spa factor: Only a handful of Savannah resorts have full-service spas. The Mansion on Forsyth Park has a 5,000-square-foot spa with a eucalyptus steam room, sauna, and treatment rooms—book a 60-minute massage ($150–$200) for a post-walk recovery. The Westin Savannah Harbor has a spa with a hydrotherapy pool and couples’ suites. Avoid hotel “spas” that are just a single treatment room with a massage table—they’re overpriced for what you get. If spa is non-negotiable, pay up for the real deal.
Rooftop bars and dining: The best Savannah resorts have rooftop spaces that double as social hubs. The Perry Lane rooftop bar, The Peregrin, offers craft cocktails and skyline views—perfect for sunset. The Drayton has a rooftop lounge with a fireplace. The Bohemian has a riverfront terrace but no true rooftop. If you’re not staying at these, you can still visit as a guest—but expect a 30–60 minute wait on weekends. Pro tip: Go at 4 PM when they open for walk-ins.
Parking and transportation: This is where many visitors get burned. Most Historic District resorts have no on-site parking; they use valet lots costing $35–$55 per night. The Westin Savannah Harbor has free self-parking but charges $25 for valet. The DeSoto has a parking garage attached, but it’s $30 per night. If you’re driving, factor parking into your budget—it can add $100–$200 to a weekend stay. Better yet, skip the car: Savannah’s Historic District is walkable, and the free Savannah Belles Ferry connects Hutchinson Island to downtown.
Pool quality: Only The Westin Savannah Harbor has a large outdoor pool with a hot tub. The Perry Lane has a small rooftop pool (more of a plunge pool). The Mansion on Forsyth Park has no pool. If swimming is a priority, you’re limited to the Westin or the Hilton Savannah DeSoto (which has a basic pool). Don’t expect resort-style water features.
Pet policies: Savannah is dog-friendly, and many resorts welcome pets. The Kimpton Brice has no pet fees and provides dog beds and bowls. The Perry Lane charges a $75 fee per stay. The Mansion on Forsyth Park allows dogs under 50 lbs with a $100 fee. Always confirm weight limits and restrictions—some historic properties exclude certain breeds.
Breakfast and dining: “Complimentary breakfast” at Savannah resorts is often a continental spread (pastries, fruit, coffee) rather than a full buffet. The Hamilton-Turner Inn includes a full Southern breakfast. The Alida has a restaurant, The Lost Square, but breakfast isn’t included. If you want a hearty meal, skip hotel breakfast and walk to The Collins Quarter or B. Matthew’s Eatery—both are within a 5-minute walk of most Historic District resorts.
The hidden gem: The Eliza Thompson House (a bed-and-breakfast, not a resort) offers afternoon wine and hors d’oeuvres, evening desserts, and a courtyard garden—all included in the room rate. It’s not a resort, but for $250–$400 per night, it delivers more “resort-like” hospitality than many hotels charging double.
Sources
- Savannah Convention & Visitors Bureau — official tourism information and resort listings for Savannah
- TripAdvisor — user reviews and rankings of Savannah resorts
- U.S. News & World Report Travel — curated lists and ratings of top resorts in Savannah
- Condé Nast Traveler — editorial recommendations and features on Savannah accommodations
- Travel + Leisure — expert reviews and annual "World’s Best Awards" for Savannah resorts
- Georgia Department of Economic Development — state tourism resources and hospitality industry data for Savannah
FAQ
Are these actually resorts or just hotels? Most properties in Savannah that call themselves resorts are really luxury boutique hotels or upscale inns. You won’t find sprawling beachfront complexes—instead, expect historic buildings with spa, rooftop, and dining amenities concentrated in the Historic District or along the river.
What’s the best time of year to book a Savannah resort? Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the most pleasant weather for walking the squares and riverfront. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is quieter with lower rates, though some outdoor pools may close.
Which area should I stay in for the best experience? The Historic District is ideal for walkability to Forsyth Park, River Street, and the city’s squares. For river views and nightlife, the Savannah River corridor is a strong choice, while midtown options trade convenience for more space and lower prices.
Do Savannah resorts have real spas and pools? Yes, several top-tier properties feature full-service spas and heated outdoor pools, though they’re often smaller than typical resort pools. Rooftop pools with skyline views are a standout feature at a few luxury hotels.
Are these resorts family-friendly or more for couples? It varies—some properties cater to adults with quiet lounges and spa packages, while others offer family suites and kid-friendly dining. Check each resort’s policy, as many are boutique-sized and may limit children under a certain age.
How far in advance should I book for 2026–2027? For peak spring and fall seasons, booking 3–6 months ahead is wise to secure preferred room types and rates. Last-minute deals sometimes appear in winter, but the best properties in the Historic District fill up quickly.