How to Spend a Day in Tybee Island

Tybee Island is located only 20 minutes (18 miles) east of Savannah, Georgia. Tybee is a barrier island and has 5 miles of public beaches. Many vacationers not only come to the coastal town of Tybee Island for the long, pristine beaches and tranquil waves but also for the peaceful, quaint neighborhood community.

Tybee Island Light Station & Museum

Located on the northern part of the island is the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum. The lighthouse is the tallest and oldest in Georgia. It was originally built in 1736 but after a storms and a fire, the lighthouse has been rebuilt four times. The current standing lighthouse has been a first order station since 1916. Today, visitors can climb the 178 steps to the top of the light station. At the top, you’ll find incredible views of island below.

We were able to learn about the historical significance of the lighthouse as well as the role it played in the Civil War. Along with the lighthouse, visitors can see the Headkeeper’s cottage, the 2nd assistant keeper’s cottage, and the summer kitchen. Across the street is the museum, which is housed in one of the batteries that was part of the old Fort Screven military post.

Tybee Post Theater

Also located in the Fort Screven district is the Tybee Post Theater. Live music, comedy shows, performances, as well as movies take place at the venue.

Back River Brewing

We stopped in the local brewery, Back River Brewing, for a beverage early in the afternoon.

The North Beach has shops, lodging, restaurants, and more. We stopped at the beach entrance to enjoy seaside views.

The Deck Beach Bar & Kitchen

On a beautiful spring day, what could be more perfect than lunch on the deck of the only oceanfront restaurant on the island? On our day trip to Tybee Island, we enjoyed dining al fresco at The Deck Beach Bar and Kitchen. We enjoyed their blue cheese cobb salad and fish tacos.

South Beach

On the southern tip of the island is the South Beach neighborhood. This area not only has shops, bars, and restaurants, but also the iconic Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion. On the large pier, you might find people fishing, enjoying a walk, or just admiring the ocean views and salty breeze. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a to-go cocktail from local spots like Wet Willie’s. On this particular warm, sunny afternoon, a frozen daiquari from Wet Willie’s was the perfect treat to share!

Fort Pulaski National Monument

The Fort Pulaski National Monument is located on Cockspur Island, between Tybee Island and Savannah, Georgia. This remarkable piece of military architecture was built to guard Savannah, which was a booming port city during that time. The historic fort has been preserved so visitors can learn about it’s construction as well as it’s role in the Civil War. Today, the fort is managed and protected by the National Park Service.

With over 5,000 acres of park, Fort Pulaski was declared a national monument in 1924. Once inside the grounds, visitors can enjoy trails, picnic areas, as well as the outdoor exhibit. Additionally, there’s a visitor’s center with an indoor museum as well as a short film that gives the history of Fort Pulaski. Visitors can also take part in guided tours that are offered.

Cockspur Island Lighthouse

The Cockspur Island Lighthouse is located in the south channel of the Savannah River and is the smallest lighthouse in Georgia. From a distance, the lighthouse scan can be seen from Fort Pulaski. For a closer view, you would have to take a boat tour to see the structure in detail. Although the lighthouse is deactivated, the National Park Service is dedicated to it’s preservation.

For another beach town day trip, Hilton Head Island in South Carolina is just a little over an hour from Tybee Island.

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