Skidaway Island
Skidaway Island
is located about sixteen miles southeast of Savannah. The island is almost eighteen square miles, with a population of permanent residents just over eight-thousand. The island borders Skidaway Narrows, which is part of the intracoastal waterway. About ten percent of the island is marshes while the rest of it is peppered with trails, forests, picnic areas, campgrounds, playgrounds, a boardwalk and a maritime observation tower. It is also a mecca for bikers, joggers and golfers. Skidaway Island State Park is also a major destination point on the island.
One of the largest gated community in the United States, The Landings, is on Skidaway Island. Waterfront homes can fetch up to a few million dollars if they are ever put on the market. The Landings boast the highest per capita income in the state of Georgia. Besides its six eighteen-hole private golf courses (all available with just one membership fee), three world-class tennis centers, gourmet dining in four incredible clubhouses, and just about every maritime sport you can imagine. Most of the households are comprised of married couples, many with children. The Landings host numerous festivals and community events year-round. Tybee Island Beach is about an hour away if you happen to run out of things to do on Skidaway. You can also find plenty of ways to kill some time in downtown Savannah (close if you have a fast crow). Skidaway is not exactly your own private island, but definitely can be your own paradise.
A recent survey of the real estate market indicated you could pick up a two bedroom, two bath condominium for around $170,000. From there single family homes are as diverse in style as well as price. Real estate prices are firm, so if you are looking for a bargain, you will have to remain patient and stay on top of all listings. Vacation homes and investment properties are in high demand.
Skidaway Island is the home of the Skidaway Institute of Oceanology, and division of the University of Georgia. Research scholars from Georgia Tech, Savannah State University and Georgia Coastal College are always active on the seven-hundred acre campus, following ocean wildlife, water tendencies and trends that affect the Georgia coast.
Whether you are walking, biking or driving, there are many historic sites to visit on the island (probably plan on something longer than a three hour tour). The Island boasts many fine hotels, excellent restaurants, some fast food places and all the amenities you could require. The weather is usually mild, the sunshine is plentiful and the people are friendly. There are even ocean breezes you can breathe in to just cleanse your soul. You will not find Ginger, Maryanne, or Gilligan on this incredible island, but you just might find the place you want to spend the rest of your life.
