The attractions in Tybee Island make it one of Georgia’s most beloved beach destinations! Just 20 minutes from Savannah, this laid-back coastal barrier island is packed with fun things to do.
As Savannah’s beach, Tybee’s got plenty of options, whether you love soaking up history, spotting dolphins, or just lounging in the sand. For these reasons and more it’s one of the 6 best small towns for retirement on the coast of Georgia.
1. Tybee Island Light Station & Museum
You can’t miss the Tybee Island Lighthouse – it’s the tallest and oldest in Georgia, sitting right where the Savannah River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Sure, climbing those 178 steps is a workout, but trust me – the view is worth every step!
The lighthouse keeper’s cottages are now full of cool exhibits about the island’s rich history, from the time of the Euchee tribe to now. The Tybee Island Museum is one of the must-see Tybee Island attractions!
Stay up to date on everything happening in coastal Georgia from Savannah to St. Mary’s. We’re talking new restaurants, hidden gem boutiques perfect for treasure hunting, and events that’ll have you feeling like a local in no time. Join the DCG family here!
2. Fort Pulaski National Monument
History comes alive at Fort Pulaski National Monument. This incredibly well-preserved Civil War fortress tells the story of the Union Army’s siege.
Even if you’re not into history, the nature trails around the fort are a great place to spot a bald eagle and explore tidal creeks – Fort Pulaski is dog-friendly, too, so I always recommend it to first-time visitors.
When you’re ready to plan your trip you’ll want to start here with the Complete Guide to Tybee Island.
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3. North Beach
Want to escape the crowds? North Beach is your spot! Right by the lighthouse, it’s more relaxed than South Beach, where the crowds tend to go.
You can hunt for shells, watch massive container ships glide by, and just relax. There are tons of great places to stay nearby, too.
Our favorite hotels and vacation rentals near North Beach:
- Tybee Inn – A bed & breakfast with 1, 2, and 3 bed options, just a short walk to the beach
- Screened Inn c1925 – This private vacation rental sleeps 7 and has beach access
- Nautical Watch – This AirBnB is absolutely gorgeous and sleeps 10!
- Bliss on Bay – This beachfront condo sleeps 6 and has a pool!
4. South Beach & Tybee Beach Pier
The south end of the island is where all the action happens! The Tybee Pier and Pavilion is basically party central, with everything from fishing to bar-crawling. They have lots of special events here at the Tybee Island Pier throughout the year!
Grab a snack at one of the nearby Tybee Island restaurants or the snack bar and take it down to the beach, or hit the shops right there on Tybrisa Street.
Our favorite hotels and vacation rentals near South Beach:
- Hotel Tybee – This beachfront hotel has 2 outdoor pools and 1 and 2 bed options
- Tybee Skies – An oceanfront home with 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, a pool, and a rooftop deck!
- Ocean View – This private home features a large balcony patio and sleeps 8
- Atlantis Inn – This quirky motel has 1, 2, and 3 bed options is just a quick walk to South Beach
5. Tybee Island Marine Science Center
Kids (and kids at heart) will love getting up close with sea creatures here! You can actually touch horseshoe crabs, learn all about loggerhead sea turtles, and see baby alligators. The staff here is amazing at making marine science super fun.
6. Little Tybee Island
Here’s a fun fact – Little Tybee is actually bigger than Tybee! It’s completely untouched and wild, which makes it perfect for adventure.
Rent a kayak or jet ski, or join a tour to check out the gorgeous marshlands and explore this uninhabited nature preserve. Little Tybee is one of the best spots for Georgia Beach Camping.
Insider Tip: If you’re thinking of visiting little Tybee Isand, there is tons of information you should know first. Be sure to check out our full article about Little Tybee Island!
7. Back River Beach
Looking for the best sunset spot on the island? Back River Beach is where it’s at! The water’s usually super calm, making it perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding, and it’s way more relaxed than the main beaches.
This is a spot for the locals, so don’t tell anyone!
Insider Tip: Check out all of the best beaches on the Georgia coast!
8. Tybee Post Theater
This cute historic theater has been totally spruced up and now hosts everything from movies to live music. It’s perfect for those rare rainy days or when you need a break from the sun.
9. Water Adventures
When it comes to attractions in Tybee Island, getting out on the water is a must! You can take a dolphin tour (this one leaves from Savannah), cruise on a tiki boat (how fun is that?), or zip around on jet skis.
10. Biking Around
Tybee is super bike-friendly – it’s flat and has great bike trails everywhere. Take a fun historical bike tour to learn all the local stories, or just rent some bikes and explore on your own. Everything’s just a quick ride away!
11. Ghost Tours
After dark, the spooky side of Tybee comes out! The ghost tours are a blast – you’ll walk around the historic district hearing wild local legends.
12. Amazing Seafood
You’ve got to eat at The Crab Shack – it’s a Tybee must-do! But honestly, there are so many great places to get fresh seafood all over the island.
Insider Tip: If you’re coming for the food, be sure to check out our article on the best restaurants on Tybee Island!
13. Golf Cart Tours
Want a fun way to see everything? Hop on a golf cart tour! It’s perfect if you’re new to Tybee and want to get the lay of the land while hearing cool local stories.
14. Fishing
Whether you’re a pro or just want to try your luck off the pier, Tybee’s got great fishing spots everywhere. You can rent gear or take a charter boat out for the full experience.
15. Shopping
From quirky beach shops to gorgeous local art galleries, you’ll find plenty of unique treasures to take home. Hit up Tybrisa Street and Tybee Oaks for the best shopping.
Whether you’re driving over from Savannah for the day or settling in for a week of beach time, the attractions in Tybee Island never disappoint!
Currently planning a trip? Here are some helpful resources:
- Find the best hotel options here.
- Book the cheapest flight here.
- Find tons of tours and activities here.
- Book your rental car here.
Don’t miss these other articles about Tybee Island and Savannah!
- Tybee Island Campground Guide
- Where to Get the Best Breakfast on Tybee Island
- The Best Time to Visit Savannah, Ga
- Your Guide to the Best Beaches near Savannah Georgia
- Downtown Savannah’s Free DOT Bus System
- 17 Best Free Things to Do in Savannah, Georgia
- 5 Reasons to Not Miss the Tybee Beach Bum Parade
- Tybee 15 Must Visit Barrier Islands Off the Coast of Georgia
- Tybee is one of the Best Spots for Georgia Beach Camping.
- See how the Tybee beaches measure up in Georgia Beaches Ranked by a Local
- Giving Back: Voluntourism on the Georgia Coast
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