Before European colonization, Skidaway Island was home to the Native American Guale people. These early inhabitants lived off the land and surrounding waters, harvesting fish, shellfish, and native plants. The island’s name is believed to have originated from a Native American word, although its exact meaning has been lost to time. In the 1700s, Skidaway Island became part of the expanding British colony of Georgia. During this period, agriculture was primarily used for growing rice and cotton. The island’s rich soil and proximity to the water made it ideal for plantation farming, which sadly relied on the labor of enslaved Africans. After the Civil War, much of the island’s land was abandoned or sparsely used, and it remained relatively undeveloped for many years.

Today, a large portion of Skidaway Island is home to The Landings, a private, planned residential community that features golf courses, marinas, and a range of recreational amenities. Despite this development, much of the island remains protected through parks, nature preserves, and educational centers. Skidaway Island State Park, for example, offers miles of trails through maritime forests and salt marshes, giving visitors and residents a chance to experience the area’s unique coastal environment up close.

Living on Skidaway Island means enjoying a quieter lifestyle while remaining close to Savannah’s amenities. The island has a strong sense of community and is popular among retirees and nature enthusiasts. Wildlife is abundant, including deer, birds, and marine life, and the scenery changes beautifully with the tides and seasons.