Tybee Island is Savannah’s laid-back beach escape — a barrier island where soft sand, calm waves, and colorful sunsets take center stage. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or an extended stay, Tybee packs in an amazing mix of outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters, history, food, and family-friendly fun.

This guide breaks down the top things to do in Tybee Island, organized by category, so travelers can plan the perfect beach trip.

Best Overall Things to Do in Tybee Island

1. Relax on South Beach

Tybee’s most popular beach — wide shoreline, lifeguards in summer, shops, and restaurants nearby. Perfect for families and first-time visitors.

2. Walk the Tybee Pier & Pavilion

The iconic pier is ideal for strolling, ocean views, fishing, and sunset photos. Live events often take place here.

3. Visit the Tybee Island Lighthouse & Museum

Built in 1773 and still standing tall, this is one of America’s oldest and most complete lighthouses. Climb to the top for panoramic views.

4. Explore North Beach

Quiet, scenic, great for photography, and long beach walks. Wildlife sightings are common.

5. Bike Around the Island

Tybee is flat and bike-friendly. Rent a cruiser and explore neighborhoods, beaches, and backroads.

Nature & Wildlife Things to Do

6. Take a Dolphin Watching Tour

The waters around Tybee are known for friendly bottlenose dolphins. Sunset tours are magical.

7. Visit the Tybee Marine Science Center

Hands-on exhibits, touch tanks, turtle conservation, and fun educational experiences for kids.

8. Explore Little Tybee Island (Undeveloped & Pristine)

Accessible only by boat or kayak. A hidden paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers.

9. Go Birdwatching

Tybee Island is part of the Colonial Coast Birding Trail. Expect pelicans, ospreys, herons, and migratory species.

10. Kayak Through the Marshes

Paddle through calm tidal creeks surrounded by marsh grass and wildlife. A peaceful, unforgettable experience.

Scenic Views & Photography Hotspots

11. Sunrise at North Beach

Quiet, colorful, and one of the best sunrise viewpoints in Georgia.

12. Sunset at Back River Beach

Calm water + fiery skies — perfect for couples and photographers.

13. Capture the Tybee Lighthouse at Golden Hour

Amazing symmetry shots, especially from the dunes.

Beaches to Explore

14. Mid Beach

Less crowded, wide open space, great for sunbathing.

15. Back River Beach

Ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and calmer waters.

16. North Beach

Best for scenery, history lovers, and lighthouse views.

17. North Jetty Beach

Near Fort Screven — excellent for fishing and quieter beach walks.

Historic & Cultural Things to Do

18. Tour Fort Screven

Explore historic batteries, military tunnels, and old fort structures.

19. Visit Fort Pulaski National Monument

Just off-island — walking trails, cannons, and Civil War history.

20. Wander the Tybee Beach Ecology Trips (Guided)

Learn about marine life, ecosystems, and the island’s natural environment.

Food & Dining Experiences

21. Fresh Seafood on the Water

Try A-J’s Dockside, Bubba Gumbo’s, or The Crab Shack for local flavor.

22. Ice Cream on the Pier

A perfect treat while sightseeing with the ocean breeze.

23. Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

A local icon with comfort food loved by travelers.

24. Sunset Dinner on Back River

Ocean-view dining that feels like a vacation in a vacation.

Tours & Adventure Things to Do

25. Deep-Sea Fishing Charters

Catch redfish, trout, mackerel, and more with local captains.

26. Jet Ski Rentals

Thrilling fun for adventure lovers.

27. Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Calmer areas like Back River are perfect for beginners.

28. Boat Tours to Little Tybee

A private boat or guided tour offers a true “escape.”

Shopping & Local Spots

29. Shop Tybrisa Street

Souvenirs, local art, beachwear, and coastal boutiques.

30. Visit Local Art Galleries

Find handcrafted jewelry, photography prints, and coastal pieces.

Best Time to Visit Tybee Island

• Spring (March–May): Best weather, fewer crowds.

• Summer (June–August): Peak season, vibrant, lots of events.

• Fall (September–October): Warm water + beautiful sunsets.

• Winter (November–February): Quiet, peaceful, perfect for low-crowd getaways.

How Far Is Tybee Island From Savannah?

Only 20–25 minutes, making it one of the easiest beach day trips in the U.S.

Why Tybee Island Is Worth Visiting

• Relaxed, friendly beach atmosphere

• Beautiful wide beaches

• Wildlife and dolphin tours

• Lighthouse and history

• Easy access from Savannah

• Superb food, sunsets, and local charm