Where is Wilmington Island?

Wilmington Island sits along the U.S. 80 corridor, the road that runs from Savannah out to Tybee Island's beaches. Heading east from Savannah, you cross the Wilmington River and Turners Creek on the way onto the islands, and the Bull River separates Wilmington Island from the marshes and islands that lead to Tybee. Whitemarsh Island is right next door.

Because it's unincorporated, Wilmington Island isn't part of the City of Savannah, even though homes here use Savannah mailing addresses. According to the 2020 U.S. Census, about 15,100 people live on Wilmington Island.

What it's like to live on Wilmington Island

Life on Wilmington Island is shaped by the water. Many neighborhoods back up to marsh or tidal creeks, live oaks shade the older streets, and boating and fishing are part of everyday life for a lot of residents. It feels like a quiet, settled residential community, while still being close to everyday conveniences: grocery stores, restaurants, pharmacies, banks and other shops line the main roads on and near the island.

On the water

Boaters and anglers have easy access to the rivers and sounds around the island. The public Turners Creek Boat Ramp on Johnny Mercer Boulevard, run by Chatham County, has boat ramps, a dock, parking, restrooms and a pavilion. Farther east on U.S. 80 toward Tybee, the county's Lazaretto Creek Boat Ramp and Fishing Pier is another public launch. Some waterfront homes on the island also have private docks.

Golf and recreation

Savannah Country Club, on Wilmington Island Road, is home to an 18-hole golf course designed by Donald Ross in 1927. For years the club was known as the Wilmington Island Club. Today it's a private club with golf, tennis, pickleball and a pool.

Beach days

Wilmington Island isn't a beach town, and that's part of its appeal: quiet island living, with Tybee Island's beaches just east on U.S. 80. Want to live right on the beach? See our Tybee Island guide.

Schools near Wilmington Island

Wilmington Island is served by the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System. May Howard Elementary School, on Wilmington Island Road, is the island's public elementary school. Other public schools in the 31410 area include Marshpoint Elementary School and Islands High School on Whitemarsh Island Road and Coastal Middle School on U.S. 80.

Private schools on the island include St. Andrew's School and St. Peter the Apostle Catholic School.

School zones are set by address and can change, so always check a specific home with the district's school locator before you buy.

Homes on Wilmington Island

On Wilmington Island you'll find single-family homes in established, tree-lined neighborhoods, homes on the marsh or on deep water with docks, and condominiums, including some near the Savannah Country Club golf course.

Waterfront and marsh-front homes come with their own considerations, like docks, bulkheads and elevation, so it helps to have a local agent compare them side by side.

A note on flood zones and insurance

Like much of coastal Chatham County, parts of Wilmington Island are in FEMA-mapped flood zones, and the zone can change from one lot to the next. Before you make an offer, look up the property on the FEMA Flood Map Service Center, ask whether there's an elevation certificate, and get insurance quotes early. Your lender and a licensed insurance agent can tell you what coverage you'll need.

Buying or selling on Wilmington Island with Seaport

Seaport Real Estate is a locally owned and operated brokerage in Savannah, led by Broker/Owner Ben Bluemle. Our agents work across Wilmington Island and the neighboring islands every day, including Dutch Island, Isle of Hope, Skidaway Island and Tybee Island. Behind every agent is an in-house team: marketing and design, a contract coordinator who manages each deal from contract to close, and office support.

• Buying? Start with our home buyer resources or search homes for sale.
• Selling? See how we market homes on our Sellers page, or request a home valuation to find out what your Wilmington Island home could be worth.
• Want to meet an agent first? Browse Meet the Team.

Wilmington Island FAQ

What ZIP code is Wilmington Island?

Wilmington Island uses the ZIP code 31410, with Savannah, GA mailing addresses.

Is Wilmington Island part of the City of Savannah?

No. Wilmington Island is an unincorporated community in Chatham County, Georgia. It's part of the Savannah metro area, but not part of the City of Savannah.

Who can help me buy or sell a home on Wilmington Island?

Seaport Real Estate's local agents. Call 912-202-2042, email [email protected], or visit our office at 7301 Waters Avenue, Savannah, GA 31406, Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5 PM.