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How to Have a Tybee Island Staycation

Most of us are familiar with the phrase "home is where the heart is." Yet, this expression is often used when referencing visiting family after an extended time, feeling eager to return home while on vacation, or when mom's recipe doesn't taste the same unless she prepares it. So, why not try something different by stepping outside your front door and taking in what already lies before you? A relaxing staycation on Tybee Island. 

tybrisa street tybee island
It's easy to miss the world around you, but it's never too late to step out and enjoy it. Let's explore how to embrace the comfort of home.
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A red and white RV camper parked at a campground next to a wooden picnic table.

Set up camp at River's End Campground & RV Park.

Go Glamping in Your Backyard or With River's End Campground

Skip the traditional hotel stay and opt for a night under the stars in your own backyard! Rent a vintage camper (or use the one that hasn't left the garage in years), set up a stylish bell tent, blow up the air mattresses or create a cozy DIY setup with string lights, plush oversized pillows and a stocked cooler of local fare and drinks.

Of course, you could always book a stay at River's End Campground & RV Park for a nature-filled escape. Their campsite is absolutely beautiful. Bring your own RV, rent one of their charming cabins or set up a tent in the cool coastal night air. Spend the day exploring the island, then unwind by the fire pit with s’mores and local craft beer. With a pool, bike rentals and easy access to the beach, it's the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. And for you nature naysayers, fear not! A laundry room, restrooms, office, gift shop, vending room and more are on site just in case "roughing it" is a no-go.

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Father and son paddleboarding

Reconnect on the water.

Unplugged Tybee Island? Challenge, Accepted!

In a world dominated by technology, please try to keep an open mind. For one day, ditch the technology and embrace "Tybee Time." No emails, no blue screens—just pure, uninterrupted time to soak in Tybee Island's natural beauty. Rent a bike with TIMS Bikes, Beach Gear & Disc Golf or Tybee Island Bike Rentals; paddleboard through the calm, scenic back marshes with East Coast Paddleboarding. Become an aquatic tooth fairy with Tybee Shark Teeth Tours on the beach or better yet, bring a journal to capture every relaxing moment. You'd be amazed at what inspires you. Tap into your surroundings and let it resonate that this is your home. At the end of the day, reward yourself with a sunset cocktail at Fannie's on the Beach and grab a front-row seat on the sand as the sun sets on the perfect day.

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A spacious living room with bright colored furniture and a fireplace

Cantaloupe Cottage circa 1957 - Mermaid Cottages

Staycation Like a Visitor

Rediscover Tybee like a first-time visitor! Book a colorful and charming beach cottage through Mermaid Cottages, Tybee Beach Vacation Rentals, Oceanfront Cottages, Tybee Vacation Rentals, Tybee Joy Vacation Rentals or one of several island vacation gurus. Start your morning with a bold and rich espresso pick-me from Tybean Coffee Bar then grab an epic brunch at The Breakfast Club (their pecan waffles will melt in your mouth!). Take a dolphin tour with Captain Derek, learn and explore with Tybee Island Marine Science Center and frolic among Tybee's quirky shops like Seaside Sisters, Kelly & Co. and The Irritable Pelican Gallery & Pelican's Palette for unique souvenirs, skincare, art and more.

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Sting Ray's Seafood

Mouthwatering dishes are in store at Sting Ray's Seafood.

Catch & Cook Your Own Coastal Feast

Take a "dock to dish" approach by booking a fishing charter and catching your own seafood! Many local restaurants, as we're sure you know, like Sting Ray's, will cook your fresh catch for you. If fishing isn't your forte, visit the Tybee Island Farmers Market on Mondays from 4-7 p.m. for fresh produce, fruit, veggies, sauces and more to cook and enjoy at your beach rental.

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Little Tybee Island Sunset

@kimielynn

Book Your Own Private Sandbar Escape

If seclusion is what your heart seeks, take a chartered boat or link up with Sea Kayak to Little Tybee Island, an uninhabited barrier island just minutes from Tybee. Pack a hammock, a tent, a gourmet picnic and your favorite beach read for a remote getaway. Enjoy dolphin sightings, explore picturesque driftwood-covered shores and feel like you've escaped to your own private paradise. 

A friendly local reminder: tides change drastically every six hours. Remain mindful and venture out with one of the island's chartered boats.

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Bike riding with a cold drink in the handle basket.

@theadventuresofsuze

Bar Hop by Bike

Turn your Tybee Island staycation into an island-wide bar crawl with a two-wheeled twist! Rent a bike and visit a few of the best beachside watering holes, like The Deck, Zunzibar, Wet Willies, Rock House, Sea Wolf Tybee and North Beach Bar & Grill. Order tropical drinks and shareable bites, listen to live music and toast to your stress-free getaway. And when the buzz hits, utilize that kickstand and stay awhile.

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Women on the beach practicing yoga.

Peace begins with Tybee Wellness Retreats.

Find Serenity With Tybee Wellness Retreat

Self-care is so important and what better backdrop could you ask for than Tybee Island for a season of renewal? Beach yoga, meditation, massages, sound baths, art workshops - Tybee Wellness Retreats has you covered from head to soul.

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A small group on a golf cart tour with a lighthouse in the background.

Enjoy the historic ride with Tybee Tour Company.

Brush Up on Your Tybee History

Take a studious approach to your Tybee Island staycation by diving into the island's rich past with a self-guided history tour. Learn and cruise the island's historic highlights with Tybee Tour Company's Historic Tybee Golf Cart Tour. Get your steps in! Climb the 178 steps to the top of the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, then explore the past groundskeepers' family quarters, and walk through the underground tunnels of Fort Pulaski National Monument—a great option for those rainy beach days.

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A large crowd of people on the beach.
Host the First Annual Tybee Island Olympics

Ok, so it's not really the Olympics, but you and your besties could definitely enjoy a day of beachside games! Set up a friendly competition with sandcastle-building contests that would make SCAD proud. Serve like it's nobody's business during beach volleyball; surf the swells like a pro, paddle race, and we can't forget everyone's favorite no matter the occasion - a gold old game of cornhole. End the day with celebratory drinks because hey, you're all winners!

So what do you think? Did anything spark your interest? We'd love to know your favorites and your suggestions for making this Tybee Island staycation one for the books. See ya on the beach!

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