Did you know that just outside of Savannah, Georgia you can find a tranquil island with unspoiled sandy beaches, wooden piers and colorful fishing boats? This is Tybee Island, a popular seaside playground and escape from the city.
When you’re staying in one of the great vacation rentals Savannah has to offer, you can take a 20 minute drive out of the city and visit this gorgeous spot. While Savannah is already a pretty laid back city, Tybee Island is even more peaceful and relaxing.
What’s there to do on this unique barrier island? Here are some ideas of what to see and do while you’re on Tybee Island:
Relax On The Beach
Tybee Island is known for its beaches – covered in soft white sand and warmed by the Georgia sunshine. There are several great beaches to explore on the island – each with its own unique vibe.
For example, you can check out Savannah River Beach, with calm waters and very gentle waves. North Beach is also another great spot, where you can sit and watch the cargo ships come in and out of Savannah. It’s not uncommon to see dolphins in this area, frolicking close to the shore. Back River Beach is also a beautiful place to relax, with a lovely sandy shoreline perfect for swimming, strolling and sunbathing.
Go Paddle Boarding Or Kayaking
One of the best ways to explore the coastline of Tybee Island is to rent a paddle board or a kayak. You’ll be able to paddle your way through the waterways and see each hidden cove and beach.
Keep your eyes peeled and you might see dolphins swimming and egrets flying through this beautiful landscape. This is a truly relaxing and beautiful way to explore the landscape and see more of Tybee Island.
Climb The Lighthouse
The Tybee Island Light Station is home to the oldest and tallest lighthouse in the state of Georgia. It was commissioned in 1732 by James Oglethorpe, the governor and founder of Savannah.
This tower has a unique and interesting history, which you can learn about at the Tybee Island Lighthouse Museum. At one point in 1861, Confederate troops burned down the wooden stairs and 40 feet of the lighthouse tower in order to prevent the Union troops from using the tower to for guiding their ships into port.
The exhibits at the museum showcase the history of the Euchee tribe, Fort Screven and Tybee’s “Golden Era.” You can also visit the many beautiful surrounding historic buildings in the area – it’s like stepping back in time.
Check Out the Shops at Tybee Oaks
Looking to pick up a unique souvenir of your time in Georgia? Take a wander through the lovely Shops at Tybee Oaks and you’ll find adorable boutiques selling everything from jewellery to aromatherapy soaps to clothing and so much more.
You’ll even find great little gourmet stores selling all sorts of treats like hot sauce, spices, cookies and Savannah pralines. When you want a break from all that shopping, you can take a rest at Tybean, a fav local coffee shop with excellent banana nut muffins.
Learn About Sea Life at the Tybee Island Marine Science Center
The Tybee Island Marine Science Center is a fantastic place to learn all about the wildlife and natural habitat of coastal Georgia. You can see all sorts of fascinating exhibits, including loggerhead turtle hatchlings, baby alligators, diamondback terrapins, horseshoe crabs and so much more.
If you’re brave, you can even stick your fingers in the Touch Tank and see what the live marine invertebrates feel like. The marine center has a team of experienced marine science educators who also deliver mini-programs throughout the day.
Dine At The Crab Shack
This favorite local dining spot is a quintessential Tybee Island experience. You’ll sit under a giant oak tree with a view of the harbor, feasting on juicy crab, mussels, shrimp, corn, potato, crawfish and sausage.
Roll up your sleeves and bring your appetite, you’ll be licking your fingers as you peel, crack and enjoy all of these delectable treasures from the sea. The catch at The Crab Shack is incredibly fresh and the views make it even more special.
Watch A Show At Tybee Post Theater
After you have dinner at the Crab Shack, make the night even more special by heading out to Tybee Post Theater. The actors in these local productions are truly talented and the 1930s theatre is beautiful.
The theatre was originally constructed as a movie house for the soldiers who were stationed at the Army Base. It was closed in the 1960s and remained closed for 50 years, until it was reborn in September 2015.
Go Explore Tybee Island!
Only a 20-minute drive from Savannah and packed with natural beauty, great beaches and excellent attractions, Tybee Island is worth a visit. Take a day trip and explore!
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