20 Reasons to Visit Tybee Island in 2020

With the exception of a few crisp-weather months, Tybee Island offers beach weather year-round. If you’re ever looking for an island escape, you can bet that Tybee is here for a warm welcome anytime.

From bright colors to funky cottage names, Tybee vacation rentals come in all shapes and sizes. Looking for a private pool, oceanfront views, pet-friendly accommodations or a romantic getaway? You’re sure to find one that suits your vacation needs.

Stuff your suitcase with local products and art to keep a little piece of Tybee with you. From locally-made candles and soaps to tasty sauces and seasonings, you can bring home something for your loved ones and yourself. Find one-of-a-kind treasures using our official shopping guide to help you shop 'til you drop.

With a size of approx. 5 miles, Tybee is the perfect location to ditch the car and travel by foot, bicycle or golf cart. Friendly streets offer side lanes for safety and comfort.

With plenty of great restaurants to choose from, foodies can dine on authentic dishes like a Low Country boil, shrimp and grits, fish tacos, homemade ice cream, freshly caught oysters and crab legs to just name a few.

Tybee Island has a variety of charters and tours to choose from with knowledgeable, trained guides that can teach you all about Tybee’s natural habitat and marine life. Whether you’re looking for a dolphin adventure or chartering a private sailboat, there is something for everyone.

You may already know that alcoholic to-go drinks are allowed on Tybee Island, so what better way to explore than sipping on your favorite to-go beverage.

Before you plan your trip to Tybee, be sure to see if any of our annual festivals or events are taking place! Tybee is known for their quirky parades, festivals, concerts and more.

Just a short drive away, historic Savannah offers a variety of activities, tours, restaurants and experiences that are sure to entertain you before heading back to the beach.

New and exciting dining spots have sprouted around Tybee Island. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Savannah Praline Company, where visitors can find their favorite old school candies or indulge in a Dole Whip treat. For tasty lunch options around South Beach, give RIPE Ingredients, Chamacos Tacos and Drift Cafe a try! 

Spring 2020* welcomes the exciting addition to Tybee’s attractions with the opening of the newly-built Tybee Island Marine Science Center. Located on Tybee’s North Beach, the new science center will feature three-floors of exciting activities, informative exhibits and one-of-a-kind views.

*Note: Due to COVID-19, the new Tybee Island Marine Science Center will not be opening until February 2021.

Serving as Tybee’s only performing arts and movie venue, the Tybee Post Theater serves up stellar shows, performances and newly-released movies all yearlong.

If completing a marathon or simply running your first race is on your 2020 bucket list, Tybee Island has unique race events throughout the year. The Tybee Turtle Trot is geared towards all performance levels and always situated amidst our beautiful surroundings.

Sea turtle season is a special time of year for Tybee Island. Loggerhead sea turtles return to our beaches to lay their precious eggs. Those interested can learn more sea turtle season facts here or visit the informative Tybee Island Marine Science Center.

Known as one of the quintessential sights on Tybee Island, the Tybee Island Lighthouse is a historic beacon that you won’t want to miss on your visit. Climb Georgia’s tallest (and oldest) lighthouse for 360-degree views of our island and the Savannah River!

*The lighthouse observation tower is closed from January to early March for renovations.

If you’ve been to Tybee Island, you know that it’s perfectly positioned for stunning sunrises every morning and spectacular sunsets every night. Whichever your preference, make time during your 2020 visit to experience this beauty first-hand.

History buffs and nature lovers should make their way to Fort Pulaski National Monument. With several nature trails surrounding the monument, visitors have plenty of ways to stay active while learning about its unique history.

From comedy improv to painting, the Tybee Arts Association offers a variety of classes for those looking to expand their creative side. If adventure calls your name, try your hand at surfing with Tybee Surf Lessons or a kayaking adventure with Sea Kayak Georgia!

For those looking to keep busy while enjoying the serene surroundings, try fossil hunting with Sundial Charters or an educational outing with Tybee Beach Ecology Trips. Experience the thrill of finding your first shark’s tooth or prehistoric bone fragment!

Since it’s always beach season on Tybee Island, the savings are year-round with lower rates and a slew of discounted island-inspired activities. Check our deals & specials page for any savings for your upcoming visit!