Tybee Island, Georgia
Savannah's laid-back beach — wide sandy shores, a historic lighthouse, and low-key sunsets.
Overview
Tybee Island is Savannah's beach — 20 minutes from the historic squares but a world away in pace. It's a classic low-key Georgia barrier island: wide sandy shores, a working black-and-white lighthouse you can climb, a tiny walkable downtown, and a salty, no-frills atmosphere that's pure old coastal Georgia. Come for the day from Savannah or stay a few nights — the pace drops the moment you cross the bridge, and the sunsets over the Back River are the kind you don't rush.
Live Conditions
Updated Oct 20Current weather conditions are unavailable, but visitors should be aware of the ongoing Georgia Power Storm Hardening Project across the island.
- PooGrass Bluegrass Festival (Oct 25, 2026)
- Jake Shimabukuro at Tybee Post Theater (Oct 29, 2026)
- Tybee Island Kite Festival (Nov 7, 2026)
- Tybee Island Seafood Fest (Nov 8-15, 2026)
- Tybee Island Lighthouse
- Tybee Post Theater
- The Shoppes at 1207
- Tybee Oaks shopping centers
- Treylor Park - Beach Party
- Sunrise Restaurant
- North Beach Bar & Grill
- Tybean Coffee Bar
Fall festival season is in full swing on Tybee, though visitors should be mindful of the ongoing power grid upgrades around the island.
Things to Do
- Climb the Tybee Island Lighthouse (178 steps) for the best panoramic view on the Georgia coast.
- Walk or bike the Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion — free, fishing-friendly, and great for sunset.
- Relax on the wide South Beach sand — the main swimming beach with lifeguards in season.
- Explore Fort Pulaski National Monument on the drive out — a Civil War fort with moats and trails.
- Take a dolphin-watching cruise out of Lazaretto Creek.
- Eat low-country shrimp and crab at a dockside spot like The Crab Shack.
- Watch the sunset over the Back River from the north end of the island.
Best Beaches
- South Beach — the main wide swimming beach with lifeguards and amenities.
- North Beach — quieter, shelly, and steps from the lighthouse; great for sunsets and birding.
- Back River Beach — calm water on the inland side, perfect for paddling and small kids.
Where to Stay
- A beachfront inn or motel near the pier for walkable sand and dining.
- A vacation rental on the north end for quiet and lighthouse views.
- Day-trip from a Savannah hotel if you want city + beach in one trip.
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