Tybee Island: The Perfect Day Trip from Savannah

Savannah is a city best explored on foot, but sometimes you need to feel sand between your toes. Tybee Island — just 18 miles east of downtown Savannah — is the answer. A 30-minute drive takes you from cobblestone streets and Spanish moss to a classic Georgia barrier island with beaches, a historic lighthouse, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere that's distinctly its own.

Here's everything you need to know to plan the perfect Tybee Island day trip from Savannah.

By car: The most convenient option. Take US-80 East from Savannah — it's a straight shot to the island. Parking is available at several lots near the beach (paid in summer). Arrive early on summer weekends to secure a spot.

By rideshare: Uber and Lyft operate between Savannah and Tybee Island. Expect to pay $25-40 each way depending on demand.

By bike: The Tybee Island Bike Path runs along US-80 for much of the route. It's a scenic ride, but at 18 miles each way, it's best for serious cyclists.

The Tybee Island Light Station is one of the oldest and tallest lighthouses in the Southeast, standing 154 feet tall. The lighthouse has been guiding ships since 1736 — though the current structure dates to 1867. Climb the 178 steps to the top for panoramic views of the Georgia coast, the Savannah River, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Hours: Wednesday–Monday, 9 AM–5:30 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM). Closed Tuesday. Admission: Adults $10, children $8.

Tybee has three main beach areas:

• North Beach — Quieter, near the lighthouse. Good for families and those who want a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Mid-Beach — The main public beach area with lifeguards, restrooms, and beach rentals.
• South Beach — The most developed area, closest to the main commercial strip with restaurants and shops.

The water is warm from late May through September. The beach is wide and sandy, with gentle waves that are good for swimming.

The Marine Science Center on the North Beach is a small but excellent attraction, especially for families with children. Interactive exhibits cover the marine ecosystems of the Georgia coast, and the center offers beach walks and turtle tours during nesting season.

Several outfitters on Tybee offer kayak and paddleboard rentals and guided tours through the salt marshes surrounding the island. The marsh ecosystem is beautiful and teeming with wildlife — herons, egrets, dolphins, and sea turtles are commonly spotted.

Tybee Island has a solid lineup of seafood restaurants, from casual beachside shacks to sit-down spots with water views.

AJ's Dockside — A classic Tybee institution on the Back River. Casual, fun, and reliably good seafood.

The Crab Shack — A sprawling outdoor restaurant on Chimney Creek with a festive atmosphere and a menu built around local seafood. The "Low Country Boil" is a must.

Fannie's on the Beach — Right on the oceanfront, Fannie's is a great spot for a casual lunch with a beach view.

Spring (March–May): The best time to visit. Temperatures are pleasant (65-80°F), crowds are manageable, and the island is at its most beautiful.

Summer (June–August): Peak season. The beach is warm and lively, but crowds are heavy and parking can be challenging. Arrive early.

Fall (September–November): Another excellent window. Temperatures remain warm enough for swimming through September, and crowds thin out significantly after Labor Day.

Winter (December–February): Quiet and peaceful. Too cold for swimming, but beautiful for walking the beach. Many restaurants have reduced hours.

Bring cash for parking. Some parking lots are cash-only.

Pack sunscreen. The Georgia sun is intense, especially on the water.

Arrive early in summer. Parking fills up by mid-morning on summer weekends.

Check the tide schedule. Low tide exposes more beach and makes for better shelling and exploring.

Stay for sunset. The sunsets over the marsh on the Back River side of the island are spectacular.

The best way to experience both Savannah and Tybee Island is to base yourself in Savannah's Historic District and make Tybee a day trip. You get the best of both worlds — the history and culture of Savannah, plus a beach day when you need a break from the cobblestones.

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Tybee Island is one of those places that surprises visitors who expect a generic beach town. It has genuine character, great food, and a relaxed pace that makes it the perfect complement to a Savannah trip.