Looking for a place to escape the city bustle and enjoy a relaxing weekend? Tybee Island, a gem nestled near the historic city of Savannah, Georgia, in the Southern United States, is the ideal destination for you. With its long stretches of white sand beaches, historic lighthouse, ancient fort, and countless exciting activities, Tybee Island promises a fulfilling and memorable weekend getaway. Let’s explore this beautiful island and plan your perfect weekend trip!
Tybee Island: A Coastal Gem of Georgia Awaits Your Discovery
Tybee Island, also known as Savannah Beach, is a charming small island town just a 20-minute drive from downtown Savannah. This island boasts stunning beaches along the Atlantic coast, a mild and pleasant year-round climate, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Unlike the hustle and bustle of other famous resorts, Tybee Island offers a simple, rustic beauty where you can truly relax, immerse yourself in nature, and enjoy peaceful moments.
With a rich history and unique culture, Tybee Island is more than just a simple beach resort destination. The island has played an important role in wars and was once home to many indigenous communities. Today, Tybee Island is an attractive tourist destination, drawing visitors with its harmonious blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and diverse recreational activities.
Person enjoying the Atlantic breeze on Tybee Island beach. Photo credit: visitsavannah
Must-Do Activities on Tybee Island
Your weekend getaway on Tybee Island will be incredibly fun and memorable with countless exciting activities to choose from. Here are some must-do suggestions:
Enjoy the Beautiful Beaches
Of course, the essential activity when visiting Tybee Island is swimming and relaxing on the smooth sandy beaches. With 5 miles of coastline, you can easily find an ideal spot to sunbathe, swim, build sandcastles, or simply unwind on a beach chair and gaze at the vast blue ocean. South Beach is the most vibrant area with the Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion, home to many shops, restaurants, and bars. If you’re looking for more tranquility, head to North Beach or Mid Beach, which offer more spacious and secluded areas.
Explore the Tybee Island Light Station
The Tybee Island Light Station is one of the most famous historical attractions on the island. Built in 1736, it is the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Georgia. Climb to the top of the lighthouse and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Tybee Island and the surrounding sea. The museum within the lighthouse grounds is also an ideal place to learn about the rich maritime history of the area.
The Tybee Island Light Station is a historical symbol of the island and a must-visit destination.
Visit Fort Pulaski National Monument
Fort Pulaski National Monument is an impressive military architecture, playing an important role in the American Civil War. The fort was built on Cockspur Island, at the mouth of the Savannah River, and was once considered impregnable. Today, Fort Pulaski is a national historic monument where visitors can explore the fortifications, learn about military history, and admire the beautiful natural scenery around.
Kayaking and Water Activities
If you love water sports, Tybee Island will not disappoint. You can rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) to explore the creeks and marshes around the island, or join eco-tours to spot dolphins and other wildlife. Snorkeling and fishing are also popular and exciting activities on Tybee Island.
Stroll Along Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion
The Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion is an iconic destination on the island, especially in the evening. Strolling along the pier, you can watch the beautiful sunset over the sea, fish, or simply enjoy the fresh sea air. The area around the pier is also home to many restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops, creating a lively entertainment space.
Indulge in Fresh Seafood
There’s nothing better than enjoying fresh seafood on a beach trip. Tybee Island is famous for its excellent seafood restaurants, where you can savor dishes made from shrimp, crab, fish, and other fresh seafood. Try the signature Southern shrimp boil or fresh oysters caught directly from the sea.
Shop for Souvenirs
To preserve beautiful memories of your Tybee Island trip, you can visit the souvenir shops on the island to purchase unique and meaningful gifts. The Historic City Market in Savannah, not far from Tybee Island, is also a great place to find souvenirs and local handicrafts.
Tips for a Wonderful Weekend Getaway on Tybee Island
To make your weekend trip to Tybee Island complete and smooth, keep in mind these little tips:
Best Time to Visit
Tybee Island has a mild climate year-round, so you can visit at any time. However, spring (March – May) and fall (mid-September – November) are often considered the best times to visit. The weather during these seasons is cool, pleasant, not too crowded, and service prices are also more affordable compared to the summer peak season. Summer (June – August) is the peak tourist season on Tybee Island, with hot and humid weather and potentially higher prices. Winter (December – February) is the off-season, the weather can be chilly but still quite pleasant, and you can enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
Choose Your Accommodation
Tybee Island offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury beachfront hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses and self-catering rentals. If you want to enjoy privacy and comfort like home, self-catering rentals are a great option. Beachfront hotels and guesthouses often have beautiful views and full amenities, but prices may be higher. Book your room in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure you have your desired accommodation.
Getting to Tybee Island
The easiest way to get to Tybee Island is to drive from Savannah. The travel time is only about 20 minutes. If you don’t have your own car, you can hire a taxi or use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. Additionally, you can also take a public bus from Savannah to Tybee Island, but the travel time will be longer.
Conclusion
A weekend getaway to Tybee Island is a great opportunity for you to relax, recharge, and explore the beauty of the Georgia coast. With beautiful beaches, fascinating historical sites, and countless fun activities, Tybee Island promises memorable experiences for every traveler. Plan your weekend trip today and discover this coastal gem! Are you ready to enjoy a memorable weekend getaway on Tybee Island?