Tybee Island is a barrier island and city situated 18 miles (29 kilometers) east of Savannah, Georgia. It’s the closest beach resort to Atlanta and connected to the mainland by the Islands Expressway.
The original inhabitants of the island were the Native American Euchee tribe. Tybee is the Euchee word for salt. The area was discovered by Spanish explorers in 1520.
Because of its 3 miles (5 kilometers) of beaches, Tybee Island has been a magnet for tourists since the late 1800s. Today you’ll find a relaxed atmosphere here, something that is celebrated every May during the Beach Bum Parade. Find the quietest beaches at the city’s northernmost and southernmost points. Spot dolphins in the north or go surfing in the south.
Getting around is easy by car, but most parking has a fee. The streets are flat, so renting a bike is a very good alternative. Alternatively, jump on the Tybee Island Beach Shuttle, which runs between the Savannah Visitor Center and Tybee Lighthouse.
In 1763 the Tybee Island Lighthouse was the tallest structure in the U.S. Climb the 178 steps to the top for incredible views of the coastline and the Savannah River. While in the area, stop by the Tybee Museum at Fort Screven to learn about the city’s development from a tribal community into a thriving tourist destination.
Don’t miss a visit to the Tybee Beach Pier and Pavilion, a popular fishing spot that also regularly hosts special events and performances, including the Independence Day fireworks display. Close to the pier, kids will enjoy the activities at Tybee Island Marine and Science Center.
Be sure to enjoy the many restaurants on Tybee Island. At the more than 30 establishments, chefs combine traditional Southern flavors with freshly caught seafood. Take the kids to The Crab Shack to enjoy seafood platters while watching the alligator pond, and to sample Southern classics such as mac and cheese, and pecan pie.
Tybee Island, GA
Where to stay in Tybee Island
Savannah Beach
Savannah Beach is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Tybee Island Marine Science Center and Tybee Island Fishing Pier and Pavilion, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Tybee Island.
Reviewed on 2024/3/25
Reviewed on 2024/3/25
Reviewed on 2024/3/28
Reviewed on 2024/3/26
Reviewed on 2024/3/22
Reviewed on 2023/9/18
Popular places to visit
Tybee Island Beach
If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Tybee Island Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Tybee Island. Wander the seaside in this relaxing area.
North Beach
If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, North Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Tybee Island. Wander the seaside in this relaxing area.
Back River Beach
If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Back River Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Tybee Island. Wander the seaside in this relaxing area.
Tybee Island Light Station and Museum
You can browse the exhibits at Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Tybee Island. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Tybee Island Marine Science Center
Enjoy an outing to Tybee Island Marine Science Center during your stay in Tybee Island. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
Fort Screven
Find out about the history of Tybee Island when you spend time at Fort Screven. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.
Reviews of Tybee Island
5/5 - Excellent
Perfect for a quick family get away
5/5 - Excellent
Looking for seashells was my favorite part
5/5 - Excellent
BEAUTIFUL. Relaxing .
4/5 - Good
Love visiting tybee often. We live out in Effingham county area.
4/5 - Good
Seafood at several local restaurants was excellent, especially at Fannie’s. People we met we extremely friendly and helpful.
5/5 - Excellent
Love the island. Only local restaurants with the exception of Arby's. Majority of shopping had the samething in every shop. Beach was clean. Sherriff's Dept was great, main strip had officers patrolling to keep the few rowdy drunks in line. Felt safe
- Tybee Island Beach
- Tybee Island Fishing Pier and Pavilion
- Back River Beach
- Tybee Island Light Station and Museum
- Tybee Island Marine Science Center
- Tybee Island Memorial Park
- Jaycee Park
- Battery Brumby
- Battery Habersham
- Forsyth Park
- Savannah Convention Center
- Coligny Beach
- Savannah College of Art and Design
- Coligny Plaza
- City Market
- Shelter Cove Harbour
- Harbour Town Golf Links
- Savannah State University