Tybee Island offers the perfect weekend escape with its laid-back charm and endless activities. This small Georgia barrier island combines beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and outdoor adventures all within easy reach. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or exploration, Tybee delivers big vibes without requiring complicated planning. Here are eight essential experiences that will make your weekend getaway absolutely unforgettable.
1. Start One Morning at South Beach’s Tybee Pier & Pavilion
Nothing beats watching the sunrise paint the Atlantic Ocean in brilliant colors from this iconic oceanfront landmark. The long public pier stretches far into the water, offering spectacular views and prime people-watching opportunities.
Located right at the end of Tybrisa Street, this Chatham County facility serves as the island’s social hub. Early morning visitors often spot dolphins playing in the waves while joggers and walkers enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
The large pavilion provides shade and seating when you need a break from the sun’s rays.
2. Climb the Tybee Island Light Station & Museum
Standing tall as Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse, this historic beacon has guided ships safely to shore since the 1700s. The climb to the top rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the island and surrounding waters.
Museum exhibits scattered across the historic grounds tell fascinating stories of maritime history and island life. Each building offers unique glimpses into how lighthouse keepers and their families lived and worked.
Check the official website for current operating hours and purchase tickets on-site for this must-see attraction.
3. Beach and Learn at North Beach and the Marine Science Center
Combine beach fun with educational discovery at this unique pairing of natural beauty and scientific learning. The Tybee Island Marine Science Center sits perfectly positioned right beside North Beach’s pristine sands.
Interactive exhibits and touch tanks let visitors get up close with local marine life while learning about coastal ecosystems. After exploring the center, step directly onto the beach for swimming, sunbathing, or beachcombing.
Park in the city’s North Beach lot and pay conveniently through the Park TYB app or at the kiosk since there’s no private parking available.
4. Catch Sunset on the Back River at Fisherman’s Walk Pier
Escape the crowds and discover this hidden gem where calm Back River waters create perfect sunset reflections. Unlike the bustling ocean pier, this peaceful spot offers tranquil fishing and photography opportunities.
As one of Tybee’s three public fishing piers, it attracts both serious anglers and casual visitors seeking serenity. The pier’s location provides stunning views of salt marshes and wildlife that call this protected waterway home.
Bring a camera and arrive early to claim the best viewing spots for nature’s nightly light show painting the sky in brilliant oranges and pinks.
5. Dolphin-Watch from Lazaretto Creek
Captain Mike’s Dolphin Tours and other licensed operators launch exciting boat trips from Lazaretto Creek Marina, where playful dolphins frequently appear. These intelligent marine mammals often swim alongside boats, delighting passengers with their acrobatic displays.
Professional guides share fascinating facts about dolphin behavior and local marine ecosystems during the journey. The creek’s protected waters provide ideal conditions for spotting these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Book weekend sunset tours well in advance since they fill up quickly, especially during peak season when demand is highest.
6. Know and Follow the Beach Rules
Tybee takes beach preservation seriously with strictly enforced regulations designed to protect this natural treasure. Smoking and vaping are completely banned on beaches, piers, crosswalks, and ocean areas, with violations resulting in costly citations.
Dogs, glass containers, and open fires are also prohibited to ensure everyone’s safety and environmental protection. These rules help maintain the island’s pristine beauty for future generations to enjoy.
Always check posted signs for the most current regulations and respect these guidelines to avoid fines while helping preserve Tybee’s natural charm.
7. Plan Parking Before You Roll
Smart visitors plan their parking strategy before arriving on this pay-to-park island where enforcement runs from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. As of August 2024, hourly rates cost $4.00 through kiosks or the convenient Park TYB app.
The city no longer accepts coins, so bring a card or use contactless payment methods for hassle-free transactions. Multiple parking areas serve different beach access points and attractions throughout the island.
Check the official city and Main Street websites for current rates, special passes, and detailed parking information before your visit.
8. Paddle or Boat to Little Tybee for Wild, Empty Beaches
Adventure awaits on this undeveloped barrier island accessible only by water, where pristine wilderness beaches stretch for miles without a single building in sight. Kayakers and paddleboarders launch from Back River on calm days for this unforgettable journey.
The protected island remains completely natural, requiring visitors to pack in everything they need and pack out all trash. Guided tours help nervous paddlers navigate safely while experienced adventurers can explore independently.
This untouched paradise offers the ultimate escape from crowds and modern life’s distractions.
9. Add a history detour to Fort Pulaski on your way in/out
Fort Pulaski stands as one of America’s most fascinating Civil War landmarks. Built in the 1840s, this massive brick fortress once seemed impossible to destroy until Union forces proved otherwise in 1862.
Walking through the fort feels like stepping back in time. The thick walls still show battle scars from cannonballs, and you can explore dark tunnels where soldiers once lived.
Rangers share amazing stories about the fort’s role in history. Plan about two hours for your visit, and bring a flashlight to see the underground areas better.
10. See a show at Tybee Post Theater
Tybee Post Theater brings big-city entertainment to this small island community. The cozy venue hosts everything from live music concerts to comedy shows and theatrical performances throughout the year.
Local artists often share the stage with touring acts, creating a unique blend of talent. The intimate setting means every seat offers a great view of the action.
Check their schedule before your trip since shows vary by season. Tickets usually cost less than mainland venues, making it an affordable evening of quality entertainment with true island character.
11. Fish the public piers with a Georgia license
Tybee’s fishing piers offer some of the best saltwater angling on the Georgia coast. You’ll need a valid Georgia saltwater fishing license, which you can buy online or at local tackle shops.
The piers extend far into the Atlantic, putting you right where the fish are biting. Red drum, whiting, and flounder are common catches depending on the season.
Bring your own gear or rent equipment from nearby shops. Early morning and late afternoon typically produce the best results, plus you’ll enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
12. Walk the North Beach Birding Trail
North Beach Birding Trail showcases Tybee’s incredible wildlife diversity in a peaceful setting. This easy walking path winds through different coastal habitats where dozens of bird species make their homes.
Bring binoculars to spot pelicans, herons, and colorful songbirds throughout the year. Spring and fall migrations bring even more variety as birds travel along the Atlantic flyway.
The trail includes helpful signs identifying common species and their behaviors. Early morning offers the best bird activity, and the gentle sounds of waves nearby make this walk extra relaxing.
