Is Tybee Island Worth Visiting from Savannah?
Yes. Tybee Island is one of the easiest and most popular day trips from Savannah.
Located approximately 18 miles east of downtown Savannah, the barrier island offers more than three miles of beaches, fresh seafood, a historic lighthouse, water activities, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
The drive generally takes about 30 minutes using U.S. Highway 80, although traffic can make the trip longer on summer weekends and holidays.
How Do You Get from Savannah to Tybee Island?
Driving is the simplest way to reach Tybee Island.
From Savannah’s Historic District, follow U.S. Highway 80 east toward the coast. The road travels through marshland before entering the island.
Visitors should plan for:
- Heavier traffic during summer weekends
- Paid parking near most beach areas
- Limited parking during holidays and special events
- Additional travel time when returning near sunset
Leaving Savannah early provides more time at the beach and makes finding parking easier.
Private transportation and rideshare services may also be available, but visitors should confirm return transportation before traveling to the island.
Which Tybee Island Beach Should You Visit?
Tybee Island has several beach areas, each offering a different experience.
North Beach
North Beach is located near the Tybee Island Light Station and Fort Screven.
It is generally quieter than South Beach and works well for visitors interested in combining beach time with local history.
Mid Beach
Mid Beach offers a more residential and relaxed atmosphere.
It is a good choice for visitors who want a straightforward beach day away from the busiest commercial area.
South Beach
South Beach is close to the Tybee Pier and Pavilion, restaurants, shops, and many of the island’s most active visitor areas.
It is best for travelers who want easy access to food and entertainment along with time on the sand.
Tybee contains more than three miles of shoreline, making it possible to find both lively and quieter coastal settings.
What Should You Do First on Tybee Island?
Begin the morning at the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum.
The lighthouse is the oldest and tallest in Georgia. Visitors can climb 178 steps for elevated views of the island, Atlantic Ocean, Savannah River, and surrounding coastline.
Arriving early allows you to explore before the afternoon heat and larger crowds arrive.
After visiting the lighthouse, walk or drive to nearby North Beach for a quieter morning by the water.
Where Should You Eat Lunch on Tybee Island?
Tybee Island is known for casual seafood restaurants serving dishes influenced by the Georgia coast and Lowcountry.
Popular menu items throughout the island include:
- Wild Georgia shrimp
- Oysters
- Crab
- Fresh fish
- Seafood sandwiches
- Lowcountry-inspired sides
- Frozen drinks and coastal cocktails
Visitors can choose between waterfront restaurants, neighborhood seafood spots, and casual places near the beach.
During peak season, consider eating slightly before or after the traditional lunch rush.
What Can You Do Besides Visit the Beach?
Tybee Island offers more than sunbathing and swimming.
Depending on the season and weather, visitors can:
- Climb the lighthouse
- Visit the Tybee Island Marine Science Center
- Take a dolphin-watching cruise
- Kayak through tidal creeks and salt marshes
- Fish from the Tybee Pier
- Explore Fort Screven
- Rent bicycles
- Walk the shoreline looking for shells
Kayaking and boat excursions provide opportunities to see coastal wildlife such as dolphins, turtles, and ospreys.
What Is a Good One-Day Tybee Island Itinerary?
A relaxed Tybee Island day trip might look like this:
9:00 a.m. — Visit the Tybee Island Light Station
Climb the lighthouse and explore the surrounding historic area.
10:30 a.m. — Spend the morning at North Beach
Walk along the shore or relax near the lighthouse.
12:30 p.m. — Have a seafood lunch
Choose a locally owned restaurant and try Georgia shrimp or fresh fish.
2:00 p.m. — Explore the island
Visit the marine science center, rent bicycles, or book a dolphin cruise.
4:00 p.m. — Walk South Beach and the pier
Enjoy a final view of the water before returning to Savannah.
6:00 p.m. — Return to Hamilton-Turner Inn
Unwind over wine and hors d’oeuvres or prepare for dinner in the Historic District.
Where Should You Stay When Visiting Savannah and Tybee Island?
Hamilton-Turner Inn provides a historic Savannah home base with convenient access to a coastal day trip.
The inn is located on Lafayette Square in the center of the Historic District. Guests can enjoy Savannah’s restaurants, squares, and architecture on foot, then drive to Tybee Island for a day by the ocean.
After returning, Hamilton-Turner guests can enjoy the innkeeper’s evening reception, late-evening port and cookies, and the atmosphere of an 1873 mansion.
The combination creates two different experiences within one getaway: historic Savannah and the Georgia coast.
FAQ
How far is Tybee Island from downtown Savannah?
Tybee Island is approximately 18 miles from downtown Savannah.
How long does it take to drive from Savannah to Tybee Island?
The drive normally takes around 30 minutes, but traffic can make it longer during busy weekends and holidays.
Is Tybee Island a good day trip?
Yes. Its beaches, lighthouse, restaurants, and coastal activities can easily fill a half-day or full-day trip.
Does Tybee Island have public beaches?
Yes. Tybee Island has more than three miles of beach divided among several distinct areas.
Which Tybee beach is the quietest?
North Beach and Mid Beach are generally quieter than the busier South Beach area.
Do you have to pay to park on Tybee Island?
Most public parking areas on Tybee Island require payment. Rules and rates should be checked before visiting.
Where should you stay to visit both Savannah and Tybee Island?
Hamilton-Turner Inn offers a central Historic District location approximately 18 miles from Tybee Island.
