Tybee Island, also known as Savannah’s Beach, is a laid-back coastal paradise just 20 minutes from downtown Savannah, Georgia. With its sandy beaches, family attractions, and small-town charm, it’s the perfect destination for an affordable beach vacation for couples, families, or friends.
Getting to Tybee Island
Tybee Island is located just 18 miles east of Savannah, Georgia’s historic port city. It’s easily accessible by car via US-80 E, which connects the island to Savannah. Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is the nearest airport, just a 30-minute drive from Tybee. You can also take a scenic ferry ride directly from River Street in Savannah to Tybee Island.
Weather and Geography
Tybee Island is a small barrier island in the Atlantic Ocean. It has a mild climate with warm, humid summers and mild winters. The best time to visit for beach-going and water activities is May through September when high temperatures average 80-90 °F. Winters are mild, with highs in the 60s. The low season is from November to February, when some attractions may have reduced hours.
The island is just 5 miles long and 1/2 mile wide. It has sweeping stretches of beach on the Atlantic side and marshland on the backside facing the mainland.
Top Attractions and Activities
Tybee Island offers a variety of family-friendly attractions and outdoor activities.
Popular sights include:
- Tybee Island Lighthouse – An iconic landmark, this working lighthouse offers tours and panoramic views.
- Fort Screven Historic Site – A military battery captures the island’s history as a military outpost.
- Tybee Island Marine Science Center – Hands-on exhibits focused on local ecology for kids.
- Tybee Island Museum – Learn about the island’s history, culture, and natural history.
Outdoor Activities:
- Swimming and sunbathing – Miles of beaches with lifeguards during summer.
- Fishing – Surf fishing from the pier or charter a deep-sea fishing boat.
- Watersports – Rent kayaks, paddleboards, jet skis, boats and more.
- Biking – Rent a bike and cruise the scenic bike paths and roads.
Things to Know About Tybee Island
Tybee Island has a lively events calendar all year. Some highlights include:
- Tybee Wine Festival – Sample wines and enjoy live music and local food.
- Pirates Fest – Family event with a pirate invasion, parade, and fireworks.
- Beach Bum Parade – Quirky locals-only parade with creative floats.
The historic Tybee Island Light Station is one of the most picturesque lighthouses in America. Tour the lighthouse and climb to the top for panoramic ocean views.
Fort Screven was once an important coastal defense fort. Today you can take a self-guided tour of the batteries and tunnels.
How to Get Around Tybee Island
Tybee Island is very compact, making it easy to get around without a car. Options include:
- Biking – Flat terrain and bike lanes make this a popular option. Bike rentals are readily available.
- Walking – Sidewalks extend along the length of the island for scenic walks.
- Taxi – Affordable taxis can take you anywhere on the island.
- Rental Golf Carts – This is a popular way to cruise around the island at your own pace.
Where to Stay on Tybee Island
Tybee offers a variety of laid-back accommodations, from hotels to vacation rentals.
Top family-friendly hotels include:
- Hotel Tybee – Spacious rooms with balconies, pools, and easy beach access.
- Sea and Breeze – Centrally located with nice amenities like free breakfast.
- DeSoto Beach Hotel – Historic hotel with pool and retro-chic rooms.
For couples, romantic choices include AJ’s Dockside Tybee Island and The Sandcastle Inn and Suites.
Vacation rentals like beachside condos, cottages, and bungalows offer convenient access to the beach. Popular areas to stay are in North Beach near the pier and lighthouse or on the South End near Back River.
Day Trip Ideas
While relaxing on the beach is the main draw, Tybee Island also offers easy day trips, including:
- Savannah Historic District – Easily accessible via ferry for a day of shopping, dining, and museums.
- Fort Pulaski – Tour a Civil War-era fort just 30 minutes away.
- Wormsloe Historic Site – See the ruins of an 18th-century Georgia plantation.
- Oatland Island Wildlife Center – Pet stingrays and gators at this family-friendly center.
Travel Tips and Packing List
- Rent a beach cart to haul gear easily.
- Bring water shoes for exploring tidal pools.
- Pack sunscreen – the sun is strong.
- Grab pre-made sandwiches for a beach picnic.
- Grills are available to cook out seaside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is there to do on Tybee Island with kids?
A: Some top family-friendly activities include swimming and beach play, mini golf, biking the island, visiting the Marine Science Center, climbing the Tybee Lighthouse, chartering a fishing trip, riding the Tybee Island trolley, and exploring historic Fort Screven.
Q: When is the best time to visit Tybee Island?
A: The best time to visit Tybee Island is May through September when all attractions are open, the weather is ideal for beach-going, and the water is warm for swimming. The low season is from November to February.
Q: How do you get to Tybee Island from Savannah?
A: You can drive to Tybee Island by taking US-80 East from Savannah. It’s about a 20-minute drive. Another option is to take a scenic 15-minute ferry ride from Savannah’s River Street directly to Tybee Island.
Q: Can you walk or bike around Tybee Island?
A: Yes, Tybee Island is very compact at just 5 miles long. It has a flat terrain perfect for walking and biking. You can rent bikes or walk the length of the island using the sidewalks and beach boardwalks.
Q: Where should we stay on Tybee Island?
A: Some of the best places to stay are close to the pier, lighthouse, and North Beach. Good family-friendly hotels in this area include Hotel Tybee, Sea and Breeze Inn, and DeSoto Beach Hotel. Vacation rentals are also abundant on the North end and South End near Back River.
Official website: https://www.tybeeisland.com/
Location on Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Q1c6NLCEAa689URS6
Conclusion
With its old-school beach town charm, Tybee Island offers the perfect easy-going coastal getaway. Just close enough to Savannah for convenient access but with a relaxed vibe all its own, Tybee has something for all tastes. Families will love the sandy beaches, water sports, parks, and family attractions. Couples can enjoy romantic walks on quieter stretches of beach and excellent seafood dining. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the scenic bike paths, kayaking, fishing charters, and more. Whether you’re looking for a convenient weekend escape or a longer stay, Tybee Island is one of Georgia’s hidden coastal gems.
