Tybee Island Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

There is a distinct shift in the atmosphere as soon as you cross the Lazaretto Creek Bridge. The air gets saltier, the pace slows down, and the stiff formality of the mainland dissolves into what locals affectionately call “Tybee Time.” This isn’t a manicured resort destination; it is a community of colorful cottages, quirky art, and a deep love for the Atlantic. Whether you are riding a cruiser bike down a sandy lane or watching shrimp boats drag their nets on the horizon, Tybee Island feels like a step back into a classic American summer.

Situated just 18 miles east of Savannah, this barrier island manages to balance its rich military history with an unpretentious beach party vibe. From the marsh-lined creeks of the Back River to the pounding surf of the Atlantic side, Tybee offers a diversity of landscapes packed into just three square miles. It is a place where flip-flops are the only required footwear and every sunset is treated like a local holiday.

A Sentinel of History

While the beaches are the main draw, Tybee Island’s strategic location has made it a vital outpost for centuries. The crown jewel of the island is undoubtedly the Light Station. One of just a handful of 18th-century lighthouses remaining in operation in North America, it has guided mariners into the Savannah River for over 270 years. Climbing to the top offers a perspective that transforms the island from a flat map into a living ecosystem of dunes, maritime forests, and waterways.

Just beneath the light lies Fort Screven, a concrete testament to the island’s role in the Spanish-American War. Walking the battery walls today, you are more likely to see pelicans diving for dinner than soldiers standing guard, but the sheer scale of the fortifications is a reminder of the island’s past importance. This blend of relaxed beach life and serious history gives Tybee a depth that many other coastal towns lack.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Tybee Island Light Station - A towering symbol of the island featuring 178 steps to the top and a surrounding museum complex. Located at the north end of the island (Entry: $12 USD).

Tybee Beach Pier and Pavilion - The heart of the island’s social scene, stretching into the Atlantic for great fishing and people-watching. Located on the south end at the end of Tybrisa Street (Free).

Tybee Island Marine Science Center - A newly expanded facility dedicated to the preservation of the Georgia coast, featuring touch tanks and turtle exhibits. Located near the North Beach parking lot (Entry: $10 USD).

Little Tybee Island - An untouched wilderness preserve south of the main island, accessible only by boat or kayak, offering camping and unparalleled solitude. Distance varies, boat access required (Free access, tour prices vary).

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Tybee is straightforward, it is a straight shot east from Savannah on US Highway 80, but timing is everything. On summer weekends and holidays, this two-lane road can become a bottleneck. Plan to arrive early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the midday rush. Once you are on the island, the best way to get around is by bicycle or golf cart, both of which are readily available for rent and allow you to bypass the car traffic.

Parking is strictly enforced on Tybee Island 365 days a year, from 8 AM to 8 PM. There is no free public parking, so downloading the ParkTybee app before you arrive is highly recommended to manage your meter remotely. Pack plenty of sunscreen, but also bring bug spray; the marsh side of the island is beautiful but can be home to biting sand gnats, especially at dawn and dusk.

Ultimately, Tybee Island is a destination that rewards those who slow down. Don’t try to cram every activity into a single day. Instead, pick a spot on the sand, watch the tide roll in, and let the rhythm of the island take over. Whether you are there for the history, the seafood, or just the sound of the waves, Tybee provides a welcome respite from the rush of the modern world.