If you’re from Savannah, you know, and if you’re a visitor to Savannah, you’ll quickly learn that palm tree-dotted Tybee Island is the city’s favorite seaside destination. It’s less than 20 miles from Savannah, making it a delightful add-on to a local visit. Plus, it’s a refreshing break from the heat of Georgia summers. Come enjoy miles of oceanfront, numerous annual festival and parades and a laid-back beach atmosphere at the place affectionately called “Savannah’s Beach.” Here’s what to know and what to do on Tybee Island.

How Do I Get to Tybee Island?

What Should I Do on Tybee Island?

1. Visit a Cool Lighthouse

Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse is on Tybee Island – it’s also one of the best-preserved lightstations in the country. The present Tybee Island light station – the fourth built on the site – dates back so 1867. Check out the exhibits about the Euchee tribe, the history of Fort Screven and the Golden Era of Tybee, then climb the tower for views of the Atlantic Ocean, Savannah River, Hilton Head Island and more. There’s even more to learn at the Tybee Island Museum in the 1898 Fort Screven, a coastal Georgia artillery battery that chronicles nearly 400 years of history.

2. Fort Pulaski National Monument
Spend some time learning the history of the region on Cockspur Island between Savannah and Tybee Island. You can tour Fort Pulaski, which is where the Union Army forced the Confederates inside to surrender during the American Civil War. Today you can witness daily cannon firings, usually a big hit with everyone. While you’re on Cockspur Island, take advantage of the great hiking and wildlife viewing along the trails.

3. Go Dolphin-Watching
Many public dolphin-watching tours depart from Tybee Island. You may also arrange a private charter boat tour to nearby barrier islands and marshes. Or, explore the island’s Back River, channels and salt marshes on a chartered boat tour.

4. Hit the Beach

There are more than 5 miles of beach on Tybee, the most popular of which is South Beach, near the pier and bustling Tybrisa Street. This is the epicenter of the island, with a downtown district full of shops, restaurants, bars and attractions for all. North Beach, near the lighthouse, is typically quieter, but has access to a range of historic attractions, unique eateries and fun boutiques. Tie your beach visits to a trip to the Tybee Marine Science Center to learn about the beaches and marshes you’re enjoying. In the Touch Tank, meet fiddler, horseshoe and hermit crabs. Guided talks, beach walks and ecological tours by marine biologists are available for all ages.

Another option is Tybee’s Back River Beach, known to locals as the “secret beach.” Escape the crowds and enjoy a wide beach, gentle waves, dolphin sightings and unbelievable sunsets.

Or, head to Mid Beach, a centrally located beach neighborhood south of Lovell Avenue. Find beautiful vacation rentals and great waterside dining, conveniently located to practically everything.

5. Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding
Paddle along through Tybee Island’s creeks and waterways, giving you an up-close view of the landscape and local wildlife. Little Tybee Island and Wassaw are favorite paddling destinations, as well as the Cockspur Island Lighthouse and the Savannah River. There are several Tybee Island operators who rent kayaks and paddleboards – some offer guided paddling tours.

6. Attend a Festival
It seems like there’s always something to celebrate in Tybee Island. Locals and visitors alike head here for New Year’s Day fireworks off South Beach, the Mardi Gras Parade and Street Party, the Irish Heritage Celebration Parade, the Tybee Wine Festival, the Sand Arts Festival, Rainbow Days, the Beach Bum Parade, Fourth of July and Labor Day fireworks, Pirate Fest and, finally, a Christmas parade.

7. Go Biking

Explore Tybee Island by bike, feeling the sea breezes in your hair. There are bike trails and dedicated bike lands, making cycling a safe and easy way to get around. Some bike rental companies will deliver your bike directly to your hotel or Tybee Island vacation rental. Ask about fat-tire bikes for fun, easy beach riding.

8. Eat Ice Cream
Be sure to indulge in a cool treat on this beachy island – there are several sweet shops serving up creamy goodness and gourmet ice pops. Favorites include the Sugar Shack, Sweetie Pies at Seaside Sisters and King of Pops.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Tybee Island?
For warm-weather activities and plenty of beach days, the most pleasant time to visit Tybee Island is early April through late May or late September to early November. The high/peak tourist season is spring and summer, so if you visit during this shoulder seasons, you’ll miss the majority of the crowds, but still enjoy lovely weather. August is the busiest time, so make your Tybee Island vacation rental reservations early if that’s when you’re arriving.

How Do I Get Around Tybee Island?
Once you’ve arrived at your hotel or Tybee Island vacation rental, ditch the car and use local transportation instead – bike, golf cart or your own two feet. Rent a bike from one of the local operators and explore the island’s colorful neighborhoods or ride along the shoreline.

Or, rent a four-, six- or eight-passenger golf cart and cruise along the island’s roads and paths like a local. There are gas and electric carts and free deliver and pickup!

Or, walk all around the island, with a cool drink in hand. The whole island is about 5 miles in diameter, so everything is relatively close by.