Savannah Travel Guide: top wellness recommendations from your city insiders

Savannah has quickly grown into a popular location for getaways, so we’re here to help you get hand picked and curated recommendations from your wellness city insiders.

In today’s wellness insider series, you’ll read about some of the top spots recommended by your local tour guides (aka Savannah’s very own healers — ranging from astrologers, tarot readers, and yoga teachers). Skip down below to start reading.

Your Savannah Wellness Insiders:

Betsy H. Betsy has been teaching Pilates for 18 years. She is a classically trained Pilates Instructor with a contemporary, creative approach. She is also a certified nutritionist with a masters degree in Integrative Nutrition and an IIN health coach. Merging the worlds of nutrition and movement is a powerful way to change lives. Pilates by Betsy

Carmen L. Carmen Loup has been reading and illustrating Tarot since 2014 and loves to share the wisdom of Tarot in a fun and relaxed environment. Carmen heals with humor and light, creating a safe space for everyone to set down burdens and regain joy. @cosmiccornersavannah

Cynthia R. Cynthia has been a certified tarot reader over ten years. She is an Intuitive Tarot Reader for those that want to go deep, exploring and integrating all of the parts of self into one radiant whole. Cynthia explores with you the personal meanings of the cards for you in a given moment, offering a bridge to offer insight into lifes’ conundrums, and clarifying choices you face. @intuitive.tarot.wisdom

Kierstin N. Kierstin's classes are an opportunity to feel empowered, supported, and most importantly have fun. As a yoga therapist Kierstin always finds a way to integrate emotional regulation, grounding, centering techniques, strength, balance, and a sense of release. @dualityrising

Kim W. Kim Watson, the owner and founder of The Collective Savannah. In just three short months of being open The Collective Savannah won Best Barre and Pilates Studio for Connect Savannah Magazine. @thecollectivesavannah

Sarah D. Sarah was inspired to become a Licensed Massage Therapist after experiencing years of chronic illness and pain and through her own healing journey she realized the importance of a holistic approach to healthcare and was moved to help others. Outside of the treatment room, Sarah is a professional writer, poet and translator and has been blessed to experience life in three different countries (England, Germany and the US). @limegreenlotus_sjd


Savannah Travel Recommendations:

If it was someone’s FIRST time to Savannah - what are your top 3 ‘must-see’ things?

“I always recommend exploring the squares downtown and taking in the beautiful architecture of this charming city. There are some happing local hot spots such as Liberty St. (corner of Drayton) downtown where you will find adorable shops, restaurants and some fun bars plus the Desoto Hotel which is beautiful and old. A must see for me is the newly built Plant Riverside Hotel which is basically a Natural Museum of History.“ ~Betsy

Wormsloe Historical Park, St. John the Baptist Cathedral, and Bonaventure!” ~Carmen

What is your favorite way to unwind in the city?

“This is a hard one, There are so many fun things to do.  My favorite day is usually Sunday where I start it at Savannah Bend Marina on the Intercoastal doing a yummy flow class on the dock with my Collective Savannah community. Then hitting the water in some way...The beach a roof top pool, paddle boarding.  Anything outside and moving and water related.” ~Kim

I love soaking in the sun at Forsyth park, walking the puppies at Skidaway Island State Park, or catching a wave on Tybee Island! ~Kierstin

“My favorite way to unwind is a picnic at Forsyth Park with friends or hit the beach at Tybee. Tybee Island is about 35 minutes from downtown and there are a lot of fun bars & restaurants located on the island. The North Beach Grill or The Deck are both great places to set up so you can have access to bathrooms and a bar/restaurant.” ~Betsy

What are some of your favorite restaurants?

Shuk Mediterranean and Green Truck Pub to get away from the downtown hustle. These are local favorites!” ~Carmen

Collins Quarter, Ardsley Station, Despositos, Tequilla Town, Oak 36, The Wyld Dock ~ Kim W.

Coco and Moss, Zunzi's, Jazz'd~Kierstin

The Wyld Dock Bar is such a fun place to sit and watch the marsh flora and fauna. They have delicious cocktails and yummy food. Little Duck Diner, just off City Market in downtown Savannah, is also a fun place to check out for breakfast or brunch because of its interesting fusion of American and Asian food. It’s not your typical breakfast place.” ~Sarah

What are some of your favorite fitness classes?

'“Beach Yoga with Tybee Yoga and Healing Arts.” ~ Kierstin

“My favorite fitness class is my Zen Pilates at The Hub in Habersham Village on Mon/Wed @ 4:45. It’s a nice mix of Pilates with therapeutic moves and mind/body connection work. Otherwise you can find lots of great yoga studios and other fitness studios all over town. There are many wonderful teachers in this city.” ~Betsy

Any must-stop boutiques or stores you love?

E. Shaver Books at 1921 Bull Street is a must visit shop for booklovers. The unique bookstore is situated in a rambling old house, chock full of an eclectic mix of books and quirky gifts. Browse their ever-changing tarot card selection, too. Just around the corner of E. Shaver Books is the exquisite Chocolat, purveyor of Artisan, handcrafted chocolates.  Chocolat is like a library of exquisite chocolates that you select from, each one more delectable than the last. Mint Julep Truffles, Lemon and Mint, Sour Wood Sea Salt Honey Caramels, Grand Marnier Cherry Cordials to name only a few. I still have not tried every flavor, though I am working on it–my current favorite is the Roasted Fig and Cognac Truffle. There is nothing like goooood chocolate!” ~Cynthia

Any other travel tips for the area?

“Comfy shoes. No high heels or make sure they are wedge. Our streets and sidewalks are not kind to ankles. Flip flops and sandals are best. Hit our famers market Sat morning in Forsyth Park after getting a coffee at one of the local coffee shops. Avoid City Market and the east of River St.  If you are looking for a dance club, find a local and ask them. We are not a formal fancy city, & it's HOT in the summer so pack lightweight fun beachy clothes. Wearing athletic gear also works everywhere here.” ~Kim

Where do you go when you want to be a little witchy?

Cosmic Corner! There are classes and groups almost everyday, always a Tarot reader available, and four rooms full of witchy products to explore. The staff is well versed in a variety of traditions and modalities and all have interfaith training.” ~Carmen

“It’s not hard to feel the witchiness in Savannah. But def go to Starland district. The bars there are unique: Sobremesa, Late Air, Lonewolf…. Plus many of the local artists have their brick & mortars in Starland. It’s funky and eclectic. Not so touristy.” ~Betsy

What's your favorite outdoor experiences or hikes?

Tybee Island Yoga and Healing Arts provides yoga on the beach every week and Savannah Canoe and Kayak has some great tours! Oatland Island Wildlife Center is perfect for a short hike with lots of cool rescued animals. I love the buffalo!” ~Carmen

“For me walking everyday is part of my self-care regime. It’s fantastic for your physical and mental wellbeing and, luckily, Savannah is an extremely walkable city. I particularly enjoy walking at Wormsloe Historic Estate because you get to learn about the history of the former plantation, as well as enjoy Savannah’s unique flora and fauna, and there are actually several trails.” ~Sarah

Anything else for fun Savannah recs?

“For a nice indoor experience, go on an art hop! Telfair Museum is always worth it, and Sulfur Studios is a great local art stop.” ~Carmen

“My favorite museum in the city is the Prohibition Museum because it tells a fascinating tale of Savannah’s role in this turbulent time in history, and even includes a drink at the attached Congress Street Up speakeasy, which is decorated in keeping with the 1920s time period. If you’re into serial killers, freak shows and oddities, vintage pinball machines and haunted dolls, pay a visit to the lesser known and rather unique Grave Face Museum on Lower Factors Walk.” ~Sarah

Looking to add wellness into your weekend?

Head to our “Contact” page to reach out for more information!

@luvcollective

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