Tybee Island - people walking on beach during daytime
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Tybee Island

4.6
·491k reviews·Tybee Island, United States

Tybee Island, Savannah's beach, offers a nostalgic, laid-back coastal escape with wide beaches, gentle waves, and a close-knit community vibe.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdMedium
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Tybee Island - people walking on beach during daytime

Tybee Island

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Tybee Island, Savannah's beach, offers a nostalgic, laid-back coastal escape with wide beaches, gentle waves, and a close-knit community vibe.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Tybee Island is the ideal escape for summer, offering a nostalgic getaway with warm and gentle waves."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Strategy

Arrive early for prime parking spots, especially on weekends. Consider shuttle services if parking is scarce.

🌅 Sunrise at North Beach

Start your day with breathtaking sunrises at North Beach for a serene experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tybee Island Light Station

Tybee Island Light Station

Tybee Island

Climb Georgia's oldest and tallest lighthouse for panoramic ocean and island views. A must-see for history buffs and view-seekers alike.

North Beach

North Beach

Northern tip of Tybee Island

Known for its stunning sunrises and calmer waters, North Beach is perfect for a peaceful start to your day or a relaxing swim.

The Crab Shack

The Crab Shack

Tybee Island

A popular, lively seafood restaurant with a unique atmosphere and delicious, fresh catches. Expect a fun, casual dining experience.

Back River Beach

Back River Beach

Southern end of Tybee Island

Ideal for sunset viewing, this beach offers a tranquil setting to wind down your day and enjoy the coastal scenery.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Tybee Island Parking

Parking on Tybee Island can be a challenge, especially during peak season. Arrive early to snag a spot, or consider using the island's shuttle services. Some areas, like the south end, have dangerous currents, so always be aware of beach conditions and heed warnings. TikTok

Embrace the Island Vibe

Tybee Island offers a relaxed, nostalgic getaway just 20 minutes from Savannah. It's known for its close-knit community and gentle waves, making it perfect for a laid-back beach escape. Plan excursions in advance using resources like TripAdvisor for a seamless experience. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer people, more relaxation
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset hours
Why
Spectacular views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dangerous current on the south end of Tybee island ga #beach #beachvibes #danger #drowned #lostatsea #tybeeisland #alangibbs #traveltiktok #travel #adventure #sandbar #water #atlanticocean #savannah
@alangibbs
28.5K likes • 885.5K views

🚗 Parking Strategy

Arrive early for prime parking spots, especially on weekends. Consider shuttle services if parking is scarce. Reddit

🌅 Sunrise at North Beach

Start your day with breathtaking sunrises at North Beach for a serene experience. Instagram

As Georgia Girl it’s insane I have never been to Tybee Island, this is your sign to book that spontaneous beach trip with your bestie and go on an adventure you will never forget! We booked all our fun excursions in Tybee & Savannah using @Tripadvisor | Travel Planning ! WE HAD A BLAST! #fyp #foryoupage#Tripadvisorpartner
@thisisnotchristy
27.6K likes • 391.2K views
How to spend a day on Tybee Island 🌊🌞 1. Tybean coffee run ☕️ 2. Catch the sunrise at North Beach ⛅️ 3. Stop by The Deck (my favorite Tybee restaurant) for lunch and a spicy mango margarita 😋 4. Take a sunset dolphin tour at Captain Derek’s 🐬 5. End your day watching the sunset at Back River Beach 🌅 Let me know your fave spots in Tybee! #savannah #savannahgeorgia #savannahga #sav #savga #tybee...
seeandsavorsavannah
3.2K likes • 129.8K views

⚠️ Be Current Aware

The south end of Tybee Island can have dangerous currents; always check conditions and heed warnings. TikTok

🚲 Rent a Bike

Explore the island at your own pace by renting a bike. Many places offer cruisers with baskets. Instagram

Welcome to Tybee Island ☀️🌊⛱️🐚🏖️ Located just 20 minutes from downtown Savannah, Tybee Island has been a nostalgic getaway since the late 1800s. Home to a close-knit community, wide beaches with warm and gentle waves, Tybee is the ideal escape for summer. ☀️🐚 . . #VisitSavannah #VisitTybee #savannah #tybeeisland #exploregeorgia #savannahsbeach #tybee
visitsavannah
7.1K likes • 128K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Strategy

Arrive early for prime parking spots, especially on weekends. Consider shuttle services if parking is scarce. Reddit

🌅 Sunrise at North Beach

Start your day with breathtaking sunrises at North Beach for a serene experience. Instagram

⚠️ Be Current Aware

The south end of Tybee Island can have dangerous currents; always check conditions and heed warnings. TikTok

🚲 Rent a Bike

Explore the island at your own pace by renting a bike. Many places offer cruisers with baskets. Instagram

🐬 Dolphin Tours

Book a dolphin spotting tour for a memorable encounter with marine life. Instagram+1

☕ Grab Local Coffee

Fuel your island adventures with a stop at a local coffee shop like Tybean Coffee. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors love Tybee Island for its relaxed, nostalgic atmosphere and beautiful beaches, offering a perfect escape from city life. The island is praised for its family-friendly environment and opportunities for outdoor adventures like dolphin watching. However, some find parking to be a significant hassle, and certain areas can experience strong currents.

What People Like

Relaxed island vibe
Beautiful beaches
Family-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Parking challenges
Strong currents

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Tybee Island is conveniently located just a 20-minute drive east of downtown Savannah, Georgia. You can easily reach it by car via Highway 80. TikTokInstagram+1

While there isn't extensive public transit directly onto the island, Savannah offers some bus routes that may get you close. Many visitors opt to drive or use ride-sharing services. Reddit

Once on Tybee Island, renting a bike is a popular and enjoyable way to explore. Many accommodations and shops offer rentals. Walking is also feasible for shorter distances. Instagram

Tybee Island is about a 4-hour drive from Atlanta and Charleston, making it a feasible road trip destination from these cities. Instagram

Yes, parking can be challenging, especially during peak times. Arriving early is recommended, or consider utilizing shuttle services if available. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Access to Tybee Island's public beaches is generally free. However, there may be fees for parking in designated lots. TikTok

The Tybee Island Light Station typically operates daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Instagram

While beaches are free, attractions like the Tybee Island Light Station and the Marine Science Center usually have admission fees. Check their individual websites for current pricing. Instagram+1

Yes, booking tours for activities like dolphin watching or private boat charters in advance is highly recommended, especially during busy seasons, to secure your spot. TikTokInstagram+1

Parking on Tybee Island typically requires payment, often through meters or pay stations. Rates can vary depending on the location and time of year. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Popular beaches include North Beach for sunrises and calmer waters, and the south end for its lively atmosphere. Back River Beach is great for sunsets. Instagram+1

Yes, the south end of Tybee Island is known to have dangerous currents. Always be aware of beach conditions and heed any posted warnings. TikTok

Beyond the beaches, consider climbing the historic Tybee Island Light Station, visiting the Marine Science Center, or taking a dolphin watching tour. Instagram+1

Tybee Island is a family-friendly destination with gentle waves and a relaxed atmosphere. The Marine Science Center is particularly engaging for children. Instagram

Tybee Island offers a nostalgic, laid-back coastal escape with a close-knit community feel, a contrast to more developed beach towns. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Crab Shack is a famous spot for seafood, and The Deck is a local favorite for lunch with a view. Don't forget to try local ice cream spots like Beach Bites. TikTokInstagram+1

Absolutely! The Crab Shack is renowned for its seafood, and many other establishments offer fresh, local catches. TikTokInstagram

Tybean Coffee is a popular spot for coffee and breakfast items, perfect for starting your day. The Surfing Goat also offers bagels. Instagram+2

Yes, Tybee Island has many casual eateries, including seafood shacks and beachside cafes, catering to a relaxed island vibe. TikTokInstagram

Seafood is king on Tybee Island, with fresh catches being a staple. You'll also find classic beach fare and casual dining options. TikTokInstagram

📸 📸 Photography

Back River Beach is highly recommended for capturing stunning sunset photos. The southern end of the island also offers beautiful evening light. TikTokInstagram

North Beach is the prime location for capturing breathtaking sunrise shots over the ocean. Instagram+1

The Tybee Island Light Station, the pier, and the unique beach houses are all iconic subjects for photography. Instagram

While specific photography tours might be limited, many boat tours and excursions offer excellent opportunities for capturing coastal scenery and wildlife. Instagram+1

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most flattering light for beach photography. Midday can be harsh. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Tybee Island is a fantastic destination for families. The beaches generally have gentle waves, making them safer for younger swimmers. The Tybee Island Marine Science Center is a highlight, offering interactive exhibits that kids will love. Instagram Consider packing beach toys and sunscreen for a full day of fun. Many vacation rentals also offer amenities that cater to families, such as extra space and kitchens for preparing meals. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

To enjoy Tybee Island on a budget, focus on free activities like beachcombing, swimming, and watching the sunrise/sunset. Pack picnics to save on dining costs, and look for accommodations slightly off the main beachfront, such as vacation rentals or hotels a short drive away. TikTokInstagram Utilizing bike rentals is also a cost-effective way to explore the island compared to relying on taxis or ride-shares for every trip. Instagram

💑 Couples Retreat

For a romantic getaway, enjoy sunset strolls on Back River Beach or a private dolphin tour. Consider a cozy dinner at one of Tybee's seafood restaurants, followed by a quiet evening listening to the waves. Instagram+1 The laid-back atmosphere of Tybee Island makes it perfect for unwinding together. Booking a beachfront hotel or a charming vacation rental can enhance the romantic experience. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Tybee Island's Beaches

Tybee Island boasts a variety of beaches, each with its own charm. North Beach, located at the northern tip, is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and spectacular sunrises. It's often less crowded, making it ideal for a peaceful start to your day. Instagram+1

Moving south, you'll find the main Tybee Beach area, which is more developed and offers amenities like the pier. Further south, Back River Beach is a local favorite, particularly for its stunning sunset views and a more laid-back vibe. TikTokInstagram It's crucial to be aware of the ocean conditions, as the southern end can experience dangerous currents. Always heed posted warnings and swim in designated areas. TikTok

When planning your beach day, remember that parking can be a significant consideration. Arriving early is often the best strategy to secure a spot, especially during peak season. Reddit Alternatively, consider utilizing the island's shuttle services or renting bicycles to navigate between beach access points.

Adventures and Activities on Tybee

Beyond lounging on the sand, Tybee Island offers a range of exciting activities. For a unique perspective, consider a dolphin watching tour. Several charter companies offer excursions where you can spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Instagram+1

Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding, with rental services available for exploring the island's waterways. For those interested in history and iconic landmarks, climbing the Tybee Island Light Station is a must. The panoramic views from the top are unforgettable. Instagram The Tybee Island Marine Science Center also provides an educational and engaging experience, especially for families. Instagram

Many visitors also enjoy exploring the island by renting bicycles. This allows for a leisurely pace to discover hidden gems, local shops, and different beach access points. Instagram Planning your excursions in advance, perhaps using resources like TripAdvisor, can help ensure you make the most of your island adventures. TikTok

Culinary Delights of Tybee Island

Tybee Island's food scene is a delightful mix of casual beachside eateries and renowned seafood establishments. The Crab Shack is a legendary spot, famous for its lively atmosphere and generous portions of fresh seafood, often served in buckets. TikTokInstagram It's a quintessential Tybee dining experience that many visitors rave about. TikTok

For a more relaxed lunch with a view, The Deck is a popular choice, offering delicious food and refreshing drinks, including their signature spicy mango margarita. Instagram If you're looking for a morning pick-me-up or a light breakfast, Tybean Coffee is a local favorite, serving up coffee and pastries. Instagram+1 Don't forget to indulge in some sweet treats; Beach Bites is a go-to for ice cream. Instagram

When exploring dining options, keep an eye out for places that highlight fresh, local seafood, as this is a specialty of the region. Whether you're seeking a casual bite or a memorable seafood feast, Tybee Island offers plenty of delicious choices to satisfy your palate.

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