Tybee Island is located off of the coast of North Georgia and is just a 20 minute drive from Historic Savannah. Tybee is uniquely situated on the coast between the Savannah River and Tybee Creek, which gives you plenty of opportunities to relax on the beach or get out on the water. Being a short drive to Savannah gives visitors the chance to drive into downtown to enjoy many of the activities that Savannah has to offer. There are hotels located around the downtown and pier area and plenty of private homes and townhouses available for rent on the Island. Here are some of my favorite things to do while vacationing on Tybee Island:
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Things to do:
Tybee Island Light Station
The Tybee Island Light Station is the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Georgia, as well as one of the oldest in the United States. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for an amazing view of the ocean, the Savannah River, and the island. The three Light Keeper’s Cottages are open to the public and display archeological artifacts. The Tybee Island Museum is located in an 1899 Military Battery located across the street from the lighthouse and makes an interesting and educational stop. |
Captains Mike’s Dolphin Tours
Captain Mike’s Dolphin Tour leaves from Lazaretto Creek Marina and lasts approximately 1 ½ hours. The boat trip takes you through the creek toward the Atlantic Ocean and passes Cockspur Lighthouse, Fort Pulaski, and Tybee Lighthouse. During your cruise you are sure to spot bottle-nosed dolphins playing and swimming in the water nearby. |
Fort Pulaski National Monument
Fort Pulaski is located on Cockspur Island between Savannah and Tybee Island. The fort, built in 1829, was primarily used during the Civil War. Take a guided fort tour to learn more about the fort’s history and military importance. There is also an indoor museum and some walking trails throughout the park. Robert Redford’s historical drama “The Conspirator” was filmed here. |
Old Savannah Trolley Tours
The narrated Trolley Tours run 7 days a week around the Historic District of Savannah. On the Historic On/Off Tour, you can hop on and off the Trolley at 15 stops. Trolley stops are located near points of interest, such as the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, City Market, River Street, and the fountain in Forsyth Park. The entire loop takes about 90 minutes with no stops. |
Juliette Gordon Lowe House
The birthplace of Juliette Gordon Lowe, the founder of The Girl Scouts, is one of the most popular places to visit in Savannah. Visitors must purchase a ticket for a guided tour of the home, which lasts about 90 minutes. Tickets sell out quickly during the summer, and can be purchased in advance online. |
Ghost Tours
Savannah is known as one of the most haunted cities in America, so there are plenty of companies that offer both walking and driving ghost tours. Some tours give the opportunity to walk the haunted streets of Savannah at night and make narrated stops at some of Savannah’s historic homes and cemeteries. |