Location: Tybee Island
Top Things to do in Tybee Island
What to do and see in Tybee Island, Georgia (GA): The Best Sights & Landmarks
As a beachside retreat, Tybee Island brings together old and new – clapboard cottages and Bermuda- precisely that soft blend of natural marshes and Atlantic shoreline, modest history and seaside playground that makes Tybee a celebrated family vacation destination. At the south end of the island, the pier and pavilion stretches into the Atlantic, tempting people watchers and fishermen intent on capturing the ‘fish story’ catch of the day. And the authentically refurbished lighthouse and five-acre grounds and outbuildings remind us of her role in guiding mariners to the Savannah River for nearly 300 years. It is precisely that soft blend of natural marshes and Atlantic shoreline, modest history and seaside playground that makes Tybee a celebrated family vacation destination.Locals can’t compete with crimson sunsets, wading herons or silky sand dunes; but they roll out dining hospitality, shopping convenience and fun modes of transportation. You’ll find casual waterside restaurants and loftier southern inn-style fare, with fried green tomatoes every bit as popular as delicious servings of fresh fish. You’ll want to join the line-up at The Breakfast Club for mouth-watering omelets and southern grits. Wander to shops and galleries, along the marshes and shoreline in a fun, open air Tybee Cruiser. They’re eco-friendly, electric transportation to liven your tour around the island– but be sure to make a reservation. Just 18 miles and 20 minutes away, Savannah offers a virtual silver platter of Southern heritage, arts, entertainment and exceptional dining. Gather family and friends and plan a lovely day of exploring cobblestone streets, shaded historic squares and parlor-room hospitality! Be sure to include the City Market for a remarkable mix of artist lofts, musical entertainment, boutique shopping and more.
Restaurants in Tybee Island
1. Gallery 80 On Tybee and Framing
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Artisan Gallery and Framing
2. Tybee Island Light Station And Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,564 reviews
The Tybee Island Lighthouse was built in 1773 and is the oldest Lighthouse in Georgia. An entry ticket allows you to see the Lighthouse, the Head Keepers Cottage, the 2nd Assistant Keepers Cottage, the Summer Kitchen and the Tybee Island Museum across the street. The Lighthouse is CLOSED TUESDAYS, Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day, St. Patrick's Day (or the day of the Savannah St. Patrick's Day parade).
Reviewed By trmdwelk - Centreville, United States
Visiting this historic and beautiful lighthouse is well worth your time. Go to the top and enjoy the 360 degree view but also take time to see the video in an outbuilding that tells the story of the light and the families who lived there. But particularly take the time to go across the street to the Span-Am War concrete fortifications that house the museum. Here you'll learn the history of Tybee Island area from prehistory (including some awesome artifacts!) to the modern age. Again, watch the well-done video to help pull it all together. Plan more time than you imagine at first glance
3. Pier
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
4. Fort Pulaski National Monument
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,585 reviews
Fort Pulaski National Monument has one of the best preserved nineteenth century masonry fortifications in the United States. It was also the site of a major artillery duel during the Civil War that saw the first major use of rifled artillery in battle. You can tour the fortress, see living historians bringing the past to life, or watch an artillery demonstration that really immerses visitors with the sights and sounds of conflict. The monument however, is more than just a fort. We have over 5000 acres of pristine saltwater marsh, one of the largest concentrations of marsh along the coast of Georgia. Combine that with miles of trails and you have a great way to get away from our cultural history and surround yourself with the natural beauty of Cockspur Island, the heart of the monument.
Reviewed By ronny256 - Savannah, United States
We bought annual family pass to this park a few years ago and have renewed it every year. Fort is interesting place to visit, especially on holidays when they have cannon firing and ‘soldiers’ parading in 19th century uniforms. These days though, since we went inside the fort quite a few times, most of our visits are to walk the trails, have a picnic in one of the large picnic areas, or run with our dog on the beach. Unlike any other beach in Savannah area this one allows dogs at any time on any day of the year. It used to allow dogs without leash on the beach, but now they are supposed to be leashed due to some complaints. Beach is usually empty though and then we use one of our invisible leashes????.
5. Cockspur lighthouse
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 213 reviews
Reviewed By rick6034 - North Ridgeville, United States
Although the light only stands 46’ tall this piece of History has been standing since 1837. You have to visit Fort Pulaski and hike about a mile on a trail through the mangroves and palms to reach it. I recommend visiting the light at low tide as the base of the tower gets consumed by the high tide. The hike through the mangroves is awesome and when you come to the clearing where you can see the light it’s just stunning. GREAT FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS. You can compose the shot with The Cockspur Light in the forground and Tybee Light Station across the River in the background. I REALLY Enjoyed it and captured some real nice shots. I would say A MUST SEE when in Savannah or on Tybee.
6. Gallery By The Sea
7. Tybee Island Museum - Battery Garland
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 69 reviews
Reviewed By thetravelingbugg - Orlando, United States
We decided to take a day trip out to Tybee Island and came across this museum. We were easily here for more than two hours, reading about the history of Tybee and exploring the inside of the structure. It was great to get to know Tybee Island and Savannah for our short stay, and I’d recommend other travelers check it out.
8. Tybee Pier
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 267 reviews
Reviewed By simva3 - Harlem, United States
My husband and I strolled the main street and pier before dinner. Fishing is popular and I believe no charge. The views of the surrounding islands are beautiful, and there is a large covered area with picnic tables and a few food stands.
9. Tybee Island Marine Science Center
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 506 reviews
We provide year-round programs for island visitors and groups . . . On the beach, in the marsh, on the water, in the classroom, and our Coastal Georgia Gallery. Our mission is to cultivate responsible stewardship of coastal Georgia's natural resources through education, conservation, and research. Island's Visitors: Walks, Talks & Treks and Sea Camp: Coastal Kids Ocean Adventure Corporate-Family-Elderhostel Groups: Authentic Coastal Experience and Floating Classrooms School Groups: Coastal Classroom Girl Scouts: Coastal Badge Program Boy and Cub Scouts: Barrier Island Patch Program and Oceanography Merit Badge Program Our Ocean Outreach program extends our educational reach to public and private events
Reviewed By heatherf856
My son was dying to see a sea turtle so, we brought him here knowing they had a rescue here. The center is small but, packed full of information. This is not an aquarium; the goal is to rehabilitate and release back into the wild. The staff memners were fantastic and answered all of my son's 101 questions so I think he learned a ton of information on sea life and that alone was worth the 5.00 admission fee. Of course, the sea turtle, was the amazing star of the show for us but, the touch tank was my daughter's favorite and I just loved all the baby terrapin.
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