Tybee Island is a fun break from Savannah. Downtown and the historic districts are so structured and, yes they’re beautiful, but they’re so formal at times. There are lots of wonderful things to do on Tybee Island, both in winter and summer, so it makes a great escape from the city. The feel of Tybee is mellow, like a Florida or California beach town, but it’s so close to Savannah that if you need anything or want to play fancy for a day, that’s just a short drive away.
We’ve put together our favorite Tybee Island activities and places to eat and, I think, we’ve created a great getaway plan. If you have additional suggestions or questions, please leave a comment or send us a note. We’re happy to share more or head over to the island to research stuff!
Where is Tybee Island, Georgia?
Tybee Island is known as Savannah’s beach, so clearly it’s over on the coast. If you follow the Savannah River east you’ll pass Old Fort Jackson and then Fort Pulaski and eventually come to Tybee Island. It’s one of the Georgia barrier islands, so it’s surrounded by tidal rivers and low-lying islands. It’s beautiful. There are lots of things to do on Tybee Island, so whether you plan on just enjoying the beach or if you’re looking for some history and science, you’ll be in a wonderful location that you’ll enjoy.
From downtown Savannah, Tybee Island is about 25 minutes away. It’s the very end of the Georgia coast, so if you’re doing a road trip from Jacksonville, Florida to the northernmost beach, this is it! Tybee Island is a 2.5 hour drive from JAX, and the same from Charleston, SC. Tybee is also the closest beach to Atlanta (4 hours).
Getting to Tybee Island
Like with many places, the easiest way to get to Tybee Island is be car. It’s a 25-30 minute drive from downtown Savannah and there’s rarely traffic along the route. If you want to head to the island via bike, it’ll take more than an hour, but it’s a great option for a really fun, sunny and active Tybee adventure.
For Savannah visitors without cars, you can actually catch the Chatham Area Transit #10 bus from the historic district out to the island. It’s a long bus ride, but is an inexpensive and effective option for non-drivers.
Where to Stay on Tybee Island
Staying on Tybee Island may not be the right choice for everyone heading to Savannah. If you’re not looking for a super chill beach trip, Tybee Island probably isn’t going to be your preferred home base. If your goal is to enjoy a Georgia beach vacation, Tybee is THE spot for you! There are a number of beach inns and hotels on the island, perfect for a low-key getaway.
There are also some vacation rentals on Tybee Island, but far fewer than you might expect. Tybee has restricted the expansion of the number of Short Term Vacation Rentals (STVR) and this year, if you’re not already operating one you can’t get a permit for one. The restrictions include renting out places for less than 30 days, but for those existing already, they can continue to operate within certain guidelines. This shouldn’t have an impact on what you find when YOU are looking for a beach getaway, but it will just mean that inventory for vacation rentals may be limited, especially in busier times.
Things to Do on Tybee Island
As I said, there are lots of fun and relaxing activities on Tybee Island. Yes, we gravitate towards beach time, but there’s more to the island than the sand. Our top picks for things to do are below. And if you’re super beach-focused, you’ll also find a list of beach access spots on Tybee Island.
Visit the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum
The Tybee Island Light Station and Museum is one of the most popular attractions on Tybee Island, Georgia. The lighthouse, which was first built in 1736, is the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Georgia, standing at 145 feet tall. Visitors can climb the 178 steps to the top of the lighthouse, where they can check out breathtaking views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean.
Note: even though everyone says the lighthouse was built in 1736, the current lighthouse was actually built in the 1860s and then suffered damage from war, a hurricane and an earthquake. The original lighthouse site was nearby, but the current lighthouse is NOT on that exact spot.
The museum, which is housed in the old lighthouse keeper’s cottage, features a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the lighthouse and the island’s maritime history. Visitors can learn about the role the lighthouse played in guiding ships into the Savannah River, and about the lives of the lighthouse keepers and their families. There’s also an exhibit about Black History and the Tybee Island Lighthouse.
One of the most interesting exhibits at the museum is the actual keepers quarters. Unlike the St Augustine Lighthouse where the keepers quarters are mostly a maritime museum now, the Tybee Island light keepers quarters are still set up almost completely like they were through the 1800s.
In addition to the lighthouse and museum, the Tybee Island Light Station also has several other historic buildings on its grounds, including a 19th-century military battery and a Victorian-era summer cottage. Visitors can take a guided tour of the entire site, or explore on their own at their own pace.
Overall, a visit to the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Tybee Island. With its rich history, stunning views, and fascinating exhibits, it is a truly unforgettable experience.
Beach Time on Tybee Island
Tybee Island has miles of beautiful sandy beaches on the other side of the dunes, making it one of the most popular destinations for beachgoers in the South outside of Florida. The sand is a nice mix of fine, soft sand like you find on Cumberland Island and chunky coquina sand like in parts Florida.
One of the most popular beaches on the island is South Beach, located near the pier. This beach has lifeguards on duty during peak season, and it is a great spot for people-watching and taking in the views. There are also several beachfront restaurants and bars nearby, making it a convenient spot for a meal or a drink.
Another popular beach is North Beach, which is located on the northern end of the island. This beach is known for its calm waters, making it a great spot for families with young children. It also has restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. Also, this there is a dedicated parking lot (paid) here, so if you want to be close to the car, get here early and grab your spot!
Parking on Tybee Island can be a challenge during peak season, but there are several options available. There are several public parking lots near the beaches (like the North Beach lot), as well as metered street parking. Visitors can also purchase a parking pass for the island, which allows them to park in designated spots throughout the island for a fee. Additionally, many of the island’s hotels and vacation rentals offer parking for their guests WHEN YOU REGISTER YOUR CAR. With a little planning and getting to the beach early, visitors should be able to find a convenient parking spot for their day at the beach.
Dolphin Tours at Tybee Island
Taking a dolphin tour is one of the most popular activities for visitors to Tybee Island. These tours allow visitors to get up close and personal with the playful dolphins that call the waters around the island home, including the mouth of the Savannah River. Several tour companies operate dolphin tours that depart from Tybee Island at the south end or river side, each offering a unique experience.
Yes, I know the tour I’m about to recommend leaves from downtown Savannah (end of MLK on the river), but this is one of the best tours in Savannah and takes you to Tybee Island. Gray Line actually has a boat tour partner that does a combo riverfront/dolphin/Tybee Island tour and it’s one of the most unique and fun ways to experience this side of Savannah. And you get to go past the Cockspur Island light and go to the Tybee Island lighthouse.
Another popular dolphin tour company is out of the Lazaretto Creek Marina: Captain Derek’s Dolphin Adventure. This company offers a two-hour tour that explores the waters around Tybee Island and nearby Little Tybee Island. In addition to dolphins, visitors may also see sea turtles, bald eagles, and other local wildlife. Something interesting about how Captain Derek’s operates is that they both do the sightseeing style and they intentionally cause a wake to attract the dolphins, since dolphins LOVE to play in and chase the wake.
Taking a dolphin tour is a great way to experience the beauty of the Savannah River delta and it’s one of the best activities on Tybee Island. I think it’s fun get up close and personal with some of the local marine life, especially when they’re riding the wakes. With several tour companies to choose from, visitors are sure to find a tour that fits their preferences and budget.
Book a Tybee Dolphin Tour Here!
Visit Fort Pulaski National Monument
Okay, this is one of my favorite places and for sure, one of the best things to do at Tybee Island. Fort Pulaski National Monument is a must-see attraction for history buffs visiting Tybee Island. This historic fort, which played a key role in the Civil War (the Battle of Fort Pulaski), has been preserved as a national monument and is open for visitors to explore. Between the tunnels and seeing the blasts in the walls, you can really feel the history here.
Fort Pulaski was built in the 1840s and was considered to be impossible to conquer. However, during the Civil War, Union troops were able to breach the fort’s walls using newly developed rifled artillery, leading to the fort’s surrender. Visitors can explore the fort’s many rooms and passages, as well as watch demonstrations of historic weapons and equipment.
In addition to the fort itself, visitors to Fort Pulaski National Monument can also visit the nearby Cockspur Island Lighthouse via a nice trail. This lighthouse on the Savannah River can’t be toured, but you can get close. Visitors can take a short hike to the grassy delta to check it out. There is a boardwalk for some of the trail, and plenty of benches along the way.
Visiting Fort Pulaski National Monument is a really interesting journey back in time and a great way to learn more about the Civil War history Savannah is known for. Since Fort Pulaski is on the way to Tybee Island (just off it), it’s easy to add to your visit, either on the way to the island or as you leave.
Ride Bikes Around Tybee Island
Biking is a great way to explore Tybee Island and take in the beautiful scenery. The island is relatively small and super flat, making it easy to get around on two wheels, and there are several options for bike routes and trails.
One of the most popular bike routes on Tybee is along the beachfront. This route follows the paved path along and onto the beach. There are also several bike lanes on the island’s main roads, making it easy and safe to navigate around the island.
For those looking for a longer ride, there is also the McQueen’s Island Trail, which runs from Tybee Island to Savannah. This trail follows an old rail line and offers a peaceful ride through marshes and wetlands. Parts of the trail are currently closed (2023) but there are several stretches that are still open. You can ride on the side of the highway in areas where the trail isn’t open. SAFETY FIRST!
Bike rentals are available on the island, with several shops offering a variety of bikes, including cruisers, tandems, E-Bikes and mountain bikes. Rentals can be hourly, daily, or weekly, and most shops provide helmets and locks with the rental. If you’re staying for a week, there are great deals for 5+ day rentals.
Overall, biking on Tybee Island is a great way to explore the island’s natural beauty and get some exercise at the same time. With bike lanes and trails available, as well as bike rentals on the island, visitors have plenty of options for exploring the island on two wheels.
Go Paddling or Take a Kayak Tour
You know that we LOVE paddling and do it everywhere we travel, including all around Savannah. Kayaking is a popular activity for visitors to Tybee Island, offering a unique perspective on the island’s natural beauty and abundant wildlife. There are several options for kayaking on and around Tybee Island, including guided tours that depart from the island.
One popular kayak tour company is Sea Kayak Georgia, which offers a variety of tours that explore the waters around Tybee Island and nearby Little Tybee Island. These tours are led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the local wildlife and ecology. Visitors may see dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of bird species on these tours.
Another good option is Tybee Jet Ski & Watersports, which offers a variety of tours for all skill levels. These tours explore the island’s salt marshes, tidal creeks, and estuaries, providing a peaceful and scenic kayaking experience. Visitors may also see a variety of wildlife, including birds, crabs, and fish.
In addition to guided tours, there are also several options for renting kayaks on Tybee Island, including from the vendors I listed above. Single or tandem kayaks for a few hours or a full day are both options, and allow you to explore the island’s waterways at their own pace.
Visit the Tybee Island Marine Science Center
Our family loves it here. The Tybee Island Marine Science Center is a great destination for families and anyone interested in learning more about the marine life that calls Tybee Island home. It’s one of the best activities on Tybee Island, especially in the heat of the summer. This non-profit museum offers a variety of exhibits and interactive programs that allow visitors to get up close and personal with creatures such as sea turtles, snakes, sharks and stingrays.
The center’s touch tanks are a highlight, and our kids always gravitate here. The center also offers educational programs and tours, including beach walks and guided kayak tours. You can save your spot or book a beach walk through the website, but if you want to get out on the water with the Marine Science Center crew you do need to call (912-786-5917).
In addition to its exhibits and programs, the Tybee Island Marine Science Center also works to promote conservation efforts and educate visitors about the importance of protecting marine life and their habitats. They have galleries featuring local artists, scientists that love to share their knowledge and events to raise money for different conservation causes.
Overall, the Tybee Island Marine Science Center is a great destination for anyone interested in marine life and conservation efforts. With its interactive exhibits and educational programs, visitors of all ages can learn more about the natural wonders that call Tybee home.
Do a Sailing Tour from Tybee
Sailing tours are a popular way to explore the waters around Tybee Island, offering a relaxing and scenic way to take in the island’s natural beauty. There are several options for sailing tours that depart from Tybee Island, including those that focus on wildlife or offer sunset views.
One popular sailing tour company is Captain Mike’s Dolphin Tours, which offers a variety of tours that explore the waters around Tybee and nearby Little Tybee Island. These tours are led by experienced captains who are knowledgeable about the local wildlife and ecology. Visitors may see dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of bird species on these tours.
Another popular option is Tybee Island Sailing Charters, which offers private sailing charters for groups of up to six people. These charters can be customized to meet the needs and interests of the group, and can include wildlife viewing, sunset views, or simply a relaxing day on the water.
In addition to guided tours, there are also several options for renting sailboats on Tybee. Visitors can rent sailboats for a few hours or a full day, allowing them to explore the island’s waterways at their own pace.
Overall, sailing tours are a great way to experience the natural beauty and wildlife of Tybee Island. With guided tours and sailboat rentals available, visitors have plenty of options for exploring the island’s waterways by sail.
Tybee Island Farmers Market
The Tybee Island Farmers Market is a weekly event that takes place on Mondays from March through December. This outdoor market showcases a variety of locally grown and produced items, including fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
One of the main products featured at the Tybee Island Farmers Market is fresh, locally grown produce. Visitors can find a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, including tomatoes, corn, cucumbers, and squash, as well as herbs and spices. Many of the vendors at the market use organic and sustainable farming practices, ensuring that their products are of the highest quality.
In addition to fresh produce, the Tybee Island Farmers Market also features a variety of handmade crafts and artisanal products, including jewelry, pottery, and artwork. Visitors can browse these unique offerings while enjoying live music and other entertainment.
Overall, the Tybee Island Farmers Market is a great way to support local farmers and artisans while enjoying fresh, locally grown produce and unique handmade products. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to Tybee, the market is a must-visit destination on Monday mornings.
Eat at the Crab Shack
OMG. I love the Crab Shack and when people visit us in Savannah I make sure we head to the island to eat there. The Crab Shack is one of the best things to do on Tybee Island. What makes this restaurant such a great activity and NOT just a place to eat? The Crab Shack is an open air restaurant where you eat among the trees looking out over the marsh while birds fish below you. You order crab and shrimp and throw the trash into the middle of the table. You see the alligators and rescued exotic birds. It’s fun.
We’ve been here so many times and it continues to be a favorite for our family. Our two favorite things to get are the Snow Country Boil and Brunswick Stew. The Snow Country Boil is a traditional Southeast seafood boil full of shrimp, crab, corn, potatoes and sausage. It’s delicious and comes with a lot of food. The Brunswick Stew is a tomato based sort of chowder, characteristic of the Georgia Coast. Eating at the Crab Shack is one of the best things to do at Tybee Island and is a highlight of any trip to Savannah.
Are you excited to plan a day or a small getaway to Tybee Island? There are so many things to do and the vibe is so beachy, it won’t even feel like you’re in Savannah anymore. We never are bored coming here for a day. If you have any questions about planning a trip to Tybee or need any other recommendation, please leave a comment or send us a note. We’re always happy to share more and help others plan a fun trip to Savannah!
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