Tybee Island, “Savannah’s Beach” | To-Do List
Attractions and things to do on Tybee Island, Georgia
Story by M.E. Law, Photos by Rick Schettino
Tybee Island Georgia is a charming little seaside town a mere 20 miles away from the bustling, historical city of Savannah.
This delightful getaway is a popular destination for families, boasting more than five miles of pristine beach, warm rolling waves, and, not surprisingly, magnificent sunrises and sunsets.
There are plenty of things to do on Tybee Island for the whole family. This incredible stretch of rippling sand and dramatic tides has been named one of American’s best beaches. Its hospitable shores are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, strolling, shelling, and surfing.
We arrived in Tybee Island as the second half of the pandemic was in full swing. So, sadly, we didn’t get to experience the full gamut of what the island has to offer.
We had spent a couple of months in the Smokey Mountains, Blue Ridge Parkway, and Charlotte area and it was starting to get chilly at higher altitudes.
So we found a cozy little studio for a nice price on Airbnb a block from Tybee Island beach and pounced on it. We negotiated a reduced rate with the host and ended up staying there for over two months!
Although many restaurants were open for business we chose to stick with takeout. Gerrold’s Pig and Shrimp quickly became our favorite pigout for their tangy, smokey barbecued ribs, jalapeno hushpuppies, and fried oysters.
A brief history of Tybee Island
Tybee Island has a rich history and was first settled by Indigenous Americans who arrived in dugout canoes, before the invasion of Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century.
The sleepy hamlet was then populated by Spanish explorers who moved south in 1704, making Tybee an official part of the Georgia colony.
Tybee Island and the surrounding area played a pivotal role in the American Civil War. Fort Pulaski National Monument is located on Cockspur Island, between Tybee and Savannah. It was named for Casimir Pulaski who lost his life in the 1779 siege of Savannah.
In 1862, the fort was successfully utilized to test the efficacy of the “rifled cannon,” which became a mainstay of the Union Army. Additionally, its impenetrable walls served to protect the sea approach to Savannah.
Eventually, Fort Pulaski was used to house prisoners, subsequently falling to Union forces near the end of the war. This incredible structure is still standing and offers daily tours for those wishing to learn more about the fascinating history of the area.
Tybee Island Lighthouse
There is a famous historical site gracing the coast of Tybee Island, namely the stately Tybee Lighthouse. For 270 years this amazing structure has safely guided countless ships into the Savannah River.
This hardworking monument is the oldest, tallest lighthouse in the state of Georgia. It has been rebuilt several times through the centuries and currently displays its 1916 day mark.
The pinnacle can be reached by climbing 178 stairs where you can enjoy the spectacular view of the surrounding area.
The lighthouse can be seen for miles around and is a favorite backdrop for both budding and professional photographers.
The nature of Tybee Island
Another amazing, educational facility on the island is the Marine Science Center. For the price of admission, this remarkable center offers a self-guided tour featuring live reptiles, fish, and animals in addition to a “touch tank.”
For those wishing to see marine life in its natural habitat, check out Captain Mike’s Dolphin Tours and Captain Derek’s Dolphin Adventure.
Enjoy an afternoon on the water to get up close and personal with frolicking dolphins and other local wildlife from the safety of a chartered boat.
There are also sunset cruises and fishing charters available for excursions.
Explore Tybee Island by kayak or paddleboard
For anyone seeking vigorous activities, there is plenty to keep you busy on Tybee Island.
There are several places on the island with kayak rentals, if paddling through salt marshes teeming with a vast array of local wildlife and birds is your fancy.
A delightful getaway in the immediate area is Little Tybee Island. This uninhabited, pet-friendly pristine barrier island can only be accessed by boat or kayak. It’s great for those wishing to escape civilization and summer crowds and is perfect for camping.
There are other options for athletic types who love being on the water. East Coast Paddleboarding is a school for fledgling paddleboarders in the Tybee Island area.
In addition to paddleboarding lessons, they also offer fitness classes, tours, and sales of gear to accommodate all your paddleboarding needs.
All of East Coast’s instructors are nationally certified. They offer one of the best places to learn this invigorating activity.
A fun way to spend an afternoon on the water is to book a private boat charter from the Tybee Pier & Pavilion.
This iconic pier was originally built in 1891 and was destroyed by fire but rebuilt in 1996 for the Summer Olympics.
Visitors to the pier can revel in gorgeous views while enjoying a delicious snack from the convenient concession stand.
There are also fabulous fishing opportunities both from the pier and the surrounding shoreline.
Tybee Island after dark
Again, because of the pandemic, we didn’t get out much at night on this trip and the nightlife on the island was rather muted. We were also there out of season.
For those seeking an entertaining, relaxing way to spend an evening, look no further than the Tybee Post Theater. This charming theater was originally constructed in 1930.
Post Theater was open to and used exclusively by residents living on Fort Screven. Then the building was abandoned and sat vacant for 40 years. It reopened in 2015 becoming a vital part of the cultural arts scene in the area.
The theatre regularly features live productions, musical performances, and first-run movies.
There are plenty of fun things to do on Tybee Island. It offers a well-rounded mix of relaxing, educational, and athletic activities for all ages and proclivities, all in a breathtakingly gorgeous setting.
So, slip off your sandals, slather on your sunscreen and enjoy the sights, smells, and sounds of this magical island.
We’ve been to a lot of island beaches in our travels, but Tybee Island is one place we’re definitely looking forward to visiting again in the future.
