How to Get from Savannah Airport to Bonaventure Cemetery

For most travelers, especially first-time visitors or those with luggage, a taxi or rideshare is the default and most stress-free choice. It offers a direct connection between the airport and the cemetery gates.

Detailed Cost Breakdown & Pick-up

Service Type	Estimated Fare (SAV to Cemetery)	Where to Find It	Travel Time	Best For
Taxi (Yellow Cab, etc.)	$28 - $35 (flat rate may apply) + tip	Designated stand outside baggage claim.	15-20 min	Those preferring fixed rates, immediate service, or paying cash.
UberX / Lyft Standard	$22 - $30*	SAV Rideshare Lot. Follow signs from terminal.	15-20 min + wait	App users, those seeking slightly lower fares, card payment.
UberXL / Lyft XL	$35 - $45*	SAV Rideshare Lot.	15-20 min + wait	Groups of 3-6 or travelers with extra luggage.

*Rideshare prices fluctuate based on demand (surge pricing).

Step-by-Step Guide & Pro Tips

1. Upon Arrival: Collect your bags. For taxis, proceed directly to the marked stand. For Uber/Lyft, enable your phone's data, open the app, and request a ride to "Bonaventure Cemetery, 330 Bonaventure Road." The app will direct you to the Rideshare Lot.
2. The Route: Drivers typically take I-95 North to GA-21/Augusta Road, then onto Bonaventure Road. Traffic is usually light unless it's rush hour (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM).
3. Payment & Tipping: Taxis accept cash and cards. A 15-20% tip is standard. Rideshares are paid via the app; in-app tipping is recommended.

Authoritative Source: For official airport ground transportation info, visit the Savannah Airport Ground Transportation page.

If you plan to visit other sites like Tybee Island, the Historic District, or Wormsloe, renting a car provides unmatched freedom. All major rental companies are located on-site at SAV.

Choosing Your Rental & Navigating

Rental Agencies: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty have counters in the baggage claim area. Their lots are a short shuttle ride away.

Sample Daily Rates: Economy cars start at ~$35-$50/day, but vary wildly by season, demand, and advance booking. Always book in advance for the best rate.

Driving Directions from SAV to Bonaventure Cemetery:

• 1. From Rental Lot, follow signs to exit onto I-95 North.
• 2. Take Exit 99 for GA-21/Augusta Road toward Savannah.
• 3. Continue on GA-21 for about 3 miles.
• 4. Turn left onto Bonaventure Road. The cemetery entrance will be on your left.

Parking at the Cemetery: Free parking is available inside the cemetery grounds. Drive slowly and respectfully.

Pro Tip: Use a navigation app like Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates. Consider purchasing the rental company's toll pass if you plan to use Georgia's express lanes.

This is the least expensive but most time-consuming and complex option. It's best for solo travelers with minimal luggage who are not pressed for time.

The Two-Leg Journey: Detailed Itinerary

There is no single bus. The route requires a transfer in downtown Savannah.

1. Leg 1: Airport to Downtown (Route 10X - Airport Express)
   • Pick-up: Stop located outside the terminal near baggage claim.
   • Destination: Get off at the Joe Murray Rivers, Jr. Intermodal Transit Center (the main bus station).
   • Fare: $1.50. Exact change or use the CAT Pass app.
   • Frequency: Every 40-60 minutes. Check the latest CAT schedule.
   • Travel Time: ~30-40 minutes.
2. Leg 2: Downtown to Bonaventure (Route 10 - East Savannah)
   • Pick-up: Board at the same Transit Center.
   • Destination: Ask the driver to let you off at the stop closest to Bonaventure Road and Cemetery Drive. You will have a 5-10 minute walk to the entrance.
   • Fare: $1.50.
   • Frequency: Every hour.
   • Travel Time: ~20-25 minutes + walking.

Total Estimated Journey: 60-90+ minutes. Total Cost: $3.00.

Critical Considerations: Bus schedules are limited, especially on weekends and evenings. Service may not align with early morning or late afternoon flights. Space for large suitcases is minimal.

While no shuttle runs directly to the cemetery, some services can drop you nearby or at your hotel first.

Types of Shuttle Services

• Hotel Shuttles: Many downtown hotels offer free airport shuttles. From your hotel, you would then need to take a taxi to the cemetery (a short, ~10 min ride). Always confirm shuttle availability when booking your hotel.
• Private Shuttle Companies: Companies like Savannah Belles Ferry (which also runs shuttles) or Keeper Shuttle offer pre-booked, shared-ride or private van service. You can request drop-off at Bonaventure.
  • Cost: Shared ride: ~$20-$25 per person to downtown; private van: $75+.
  • Advantage: Pre-arranged, meet-and-greet service.

This option is less efficient than a direct taxi for the cemetery but can be cost-effective if combined with a hotel transfer.

This table summarizes all options to help you decide at a glance.

Transport Method	Estimated Cost (One Way)	Travel Time	Convenience / Effort	Best Suited For
Taxi	$28 - $35 + tip	15-20 min	Very High (Direct, door-to-door)	Most travelers, families, those with luggage.
Uber/Lyft	$22 - $35*	15-20 min + wait	Very High	Tech-savvy travelers, small groups.
Rental Car	$35-$50+/day + gas & parking	15-20 min	High (After pickup)	Travelers exploring beyond Savannah.
Public Bus (CAT)	$3.00	60-90+ min	Low (Transfers, walking, schedule-dependent)	Solo budget travelers with light bags and time.
Private Shuttle	$20-$75+	30-45 min (to downtown)	Medium (Must be pre-booked)	Hotel guests, groups preferring pre-paid service.

Verdict: For a straightforward, efficient trip, taxi/rideshare is the best overall option. For absolute lowest cost, public bus is the cheapest but demands patience.

Smart Tips for a Smooth Visit

• Timing is Everything: Visit the cemetery in the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds. Avoid going immediately after your flight if you have heavy luggage—consider dropping it at your hotel first.
• Weather Preparedness: Savannah is hot and humid for much of the year. Bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. The cemetery is largely shaded, but paths can be sandy or uneven—wear comfortable walking shoes.
• Guided vs. Self-Guided: Bonaventure is rich in history. A guided tour (bookable separately) provides deep context. For a self-guided visit, download a map or use a reputable audio guide app.
• Respect the Space: This is an active cemetery. Be respectful, speak quietly, don't sit on graves, and stay on designated paths. Photography is allowed but be discreet.
• Combine Your Trip: The cemetery is near the charming Thunderbolt marina area. Consider pairing your visit with lunch at a local seafood restaurant there.

Local Insights: What First-Timers Should Know

"Many visitors don't realize how sprawling Bonaventure is. If you're short on time, research the specific graves or sections (like the famous 'Bird Girl' statue's original location) you want to see beforehand. Also, ride-share drivers are plentiful for the return trip to downtown, but if you're out near closing time, it's wise to schedule your pickup in advance to avoid a wait." – Local Savannah Tour Guide.