Looking for a charming coastal destination with a laid-back vibe and plenty of things to do? Tybee Island, Georgia, is the perfect seaside escape. Just 20 minutes from Savannah, this barrier island offers sandy beaches, outdoor adventures, fresh seafood, and Southern hospitality. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic weekend, a family beach vacation, or a solo getaway, Tybee Island aims to please.
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Top Beaches on Tybee Island
Tybee Island is known for its beautiful beaches, each offering a unique experience:
- North Beach: Ideal for watching cargo ships roll in and for a quieter coastal vibe.
- South Beach: The most popular beach, home to the Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion, with nearby restaurants and shopping.
- Mid Beach: Nestled between North and South Beach, perfect for a more relaxed, less crowded day.
- Back River Beach: A hidden gem with calm waters, perfect for dolphin sightings and sunset views.
Tybee’s expansive beaches are family-friendly and offer plenty of space to spread out. There are public restrooms and changing facilities at key access points, making your beach day even more enjoyable. Surfing, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and kayak rentals are also available from local outfitters.
The quintessential southern city of Savannah is less than 30 minutes away. For the best things to see and do there, check out this post.
Best Restaurants on Tybee Island
Tybee has an impressive dining scene with everything from casual eats to elegant dishes:
- Bubba Gumbo’s: Located on Lazaretto Creek, this hidden gem (Bubba Gumbo’s) serves excellent gumbo, crab cakes, peel-and-eat shrimp, hushpuppies, and shrimp & grits. It might be our favorite eatery on Tybee Island, and definitely one of the best places with great vibes.
- The Deck Tybee: Oceanfront dining with standout dishes like peach BBQ ribs and chicken & waffles.
- Sea Wolf Tybee: Perfect for gourmet takeout, including poke bowls and specialty hot dogs.
- The Original Crab Shack: A Tybee classic with fresh seafood, gator sightings, and simply delicious frozen mudslides.
- Sundae Café: Southern cuisine in an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere. Try the Pecan Chicken or Pork Chop.
- A-J’s Dockside: Sunset views and a casual vibe make this an excellent stop for crab legs and seafood baskets. Don’t sleep on the Hot Artichoke and Spinach dip
- Breakfast Club: A beloved spot for waffles, eggs, and hearty breakfast dishes.
- Zunzibar: Known for flavorful bowls and wraps, plus a fun, tropical atmosphere. Try the award-winning Conquistador sandwich — it’s life-changing.
For more restaurants within a 20-30 minute drive, here are 20+ Savannah, Georgia, options.
Nightlife on Tybee Island
- Doc’s Bar: A local dive bar with live music and a lively crowd.
- Wet Willie’s: Known for colorful frozen cocktails and beachfront views
Outdoor Adventures & Nature Experiences
Love the outdoors? Tybee is packed with nature-based activities:
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Explore the marshes and tidal creeks with a guided eco-tour.
- Jet Skiing & Parasailing: For thrill-seekers, enjoy a rush on the water or a bird’s-eye view of the island.
- Bird Watching: Tybee is a haven for birdwatchers. Keep an eye out for oystercatchers, pelicans, herons, and other coastal birds.
- Fishing: Try your luck from Lazaretto Creek Pier, Fisherman’s Walk, or book a deep-sea fishing charter.
Be sure to visit the Tybee Island Marine Science Center for interactive exhibits and guided beach walks where you can learn about sea turtles, marine life, and the local ecosystem.
Historic Attractions
- Tybee Island Lighthouse & Museum: Climb 178 steps to the top of this 145-ft-tall landmark for stunning panoramic views. The Tybee Island Lighthouse is fully functional and one of Georgia’s most photographed landmarks.
- Fort Screven: Explore this 19th-century military battery near the lighthouse.
- Fort Pulaski National Monument: Located just off the island, this well-preserved Civil War-era fort offers guided tours, hiking trails, and a cute little gift shop. Be sure to climb to the top for the ultimate vantage point and breathtaking views.
Shopping & Events
Tybee offers fun, casual shopping throughout the island:
- The Shops at Tybee Oaks: Eclectic boutiques in a shady grove of live oaks and picturesque cottages. Don’t miss the Tybean Coffee Bar, a great place to stay caffeinated and grab a bite.
- Seaside Sisters & Latitude 32: Great for souvenirs, Tybee’s best coastal gifts, and fun beachy finds. Best-selling author Mary Kay Andrews often does book signings here.
- Tybee Art Gallery: This treasure trove features a collective of 25+ artists and makers showcasing their wares of jewelry, pottery, and more.
Tybee also hosts several exciting festivals throughout the year, including:
- Tybee Island Pirate Fest: A swashbuckling celebration with parades, live music, and costumes.
- Tybee Wine Festival: Taste wines from around the world in a scenic setting.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re lounging on the beach, enjoying fresh seafood, or exploring historic landmarks, Tybee Island is a perfect coastal getaway. This Georgia beach town offers the ideal blend of relaxation, adventure, and charm.
Plan your visit soon—you’ll quickly see why Tybee is one of the best beach destinations in the South.
Read more of our other beach posts at:
Best Things to Do at Fernandina Beach