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How to Have an Affordable Vacation on Tybee Island

Sandy beaches, salty air, fresh seafood and fun activities make a fabulous beach vacation. And on Tybee Island, you can enjoy all of these things and much more while staying within your budget.

A woman standing on the beach watching the sunset.

Here are five tips on how to afford an incredible getaway to Tybee without breaking the bank.

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couple walking along the shore

@emmasmith_photography

Check Out All Five Beaches

COST: FREE

PLAN FOR THE EXTRAS

Tybee Island Light Station & Museum: Adults $14 | Seniors and children ages 6–17 $12 | Ages 5 and under free

Tybee Island Marine Science Center: Adults $15 | Children ages 5–12 and seniors $12 | Ages 4 and under free

Need Some Beach Gear?

Beach chairs start at $9 per day, while umbrellas range from $20–$30 per day. Find rentals from Tybee Island Bike Rentals, TIMS Bikes and Beach Gear or Burke’s Beach Rentals, which also offers an umbrella-and-two-chair setup for $50 per day.

Did you know that Tybee Island has five beaches? The island is home to more than three miles of beautiful beaches and each has a unique personality.

  • North Beach includes Tybee's portion of Highway 80 down to 2nd Avenue. This large beach boasts many historical attractions, like Fort Pulaski and the Tybee Lighthouse, several shops, the Tybee Island Marine Science Center, and plenty of delicious food.
  • Next up is Tybee's Mid Beach. Nestled between the quiet attractions of North Beach and the exciting action of South Beach, Mid Beach runs from Highway 80 to just south of Lovell Avenue. Here you'll find plenty of beachfront lodging, great restaurants, and of course, lots of sandy beaches.
  • On the southern tip of Tybee Island lies South Beach. If you're looking for a party, this is where you'll find it. Considered the downtown district of the island, South Beach is home to the iconic Tybrisa Street, as well as tons of shops, restaurants, bars and attractions for the entire family.
  • The Back River Beach is often referred to as Tybee's "secret beach" because it is tucked away at the end of Highway 80 on the outskirts of a quiet neighborhood. This beach is great for those looking to escape the crowds of the more popular North, Mid and South beaches. You're likely to spot dolphins playing in the surf and catch a gorgeous sunset.
  • Last but not least is Little Tybee Island, an uninhabited nature preserve accessible only by boat. Rent a kayak, jet ski or boat and spend a day exploring this beautiful hidden treasure. You won't regret it!  
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A guided group tour exploring the interior of Fort Pulaski.

Tour Fort Pulaski’s storied grounds.

Visit Fort Pulaski

COST OF ADMISSION

Standard Pass: $10 | Annual Pass: $35

Step into history at Fort Pulaski. During the Civil War, this impressive fort was ranked one of the "most spectacular harbor defense structures" in the country. In 1924, the regiment was declared a national monument and has since been restored to its condition in its heyday. In addition to the fort itself, Fort Pulaski features several nature trails, cannon-firing demonstrations, and beaches for visitors to explore. Even better, it is dog-friendly, so your pups can explore too. 

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A crowd watches a live band perform under colorful stage lights inside the Tybee Post Theater.

Live music fills the Tybee Post Theater.

Catch a Show at the Tybee Post Theater

COST OF ADMISSION

Concerts: $20+ | Movies: Adults $11 | Children 17 & under $6

Initially constructed in 1930 as a movie house for soldiers stationed at Fort Screven, the historic Tybee Post Theater was restored and reborn in 2015 as a performing arts venue. The theater offers various entertainment options, including film screenings, concerts, comedy shows, theatrical performances, lectures and the annual Tybee Post Music Festival. There's always something fun happening at the Tybee Post Theater, so be sure to catch a show on your next trip!

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A group of five women riding bikes.

Explore Fort Screven by bike.

EXPLORE THE ISLAND BY BIKE, CART OR TURTLE?

GETTING AROUND

Bike Rentals: Beach cruisers $22–$25/day | E-bikes $49.50/day
Golf Cart Rentals: Starting at $49
Tybee Turtle Transit: $3/ride

If you like biking, Tybee is the escape for you. There are endless sidewalks, bike paths, trails, and beaches for you to explore on two wheels. If you don't want to travel with your own bike, there are bike rental options on the island that will even deliver for free. Tybee Island Bike Rentals offers beach cruisers and e-bikes with free delivery and pickup, while TIMS Bikes, Beach Gear & Disc Golf offers adult and kids' bikes, adult trikes, tandem bikes, pull-behind baby strollers, and much more.

Prefer four wheels? Coast to Coast Beach Rentals offers golf cart rentals, while Tybee Turtle Transit provides on-call rides around the island.

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People dolphin watching on a boat.

Spot playful dolphins off the coast of Tybee Island for an unforgettable wildlife experience!

Take Advantage of Our Deals and Specials

THE BEST PRICE? LESS.

When planning your trip, check out our Deals and Specials page, where you'll find tons of special offers from our Visit Tybee partners. Discover a variety of great deals, including discounts on lodging, experience packages and more. Be sure to check back often to take advantage of all the savings!

Tybee Island doesn't disappoint with beauty, serenity, lifelong memories or affordability. So, what are you waiting for? There's a stretch of sand with your name on it. We'll meet you on the beach!

Plan Your Visit