Is the Tybee Island Light Station worth visiting?

Absolutely. Its combination of history, panoramic views, and beautifully preserved museum campus makes it one of coastal Georgia’s premier attractions.

How many stairs are in the lighthouse?

Visitors climb 178 stairs to reach the top of the lighthouse.

How much time should I spend here?

Plan for approximately two to three hours to climb the lighthouse and explore the museum grounds.

Is the lighthouse family friendly?

Yes. Families with children frequently visit, although parents should be aware of the lengthy staircase inside the tower.

Is there an admission fee?

Yes. The Tybee Island Light Station & Museum charges admission, which includes access to the lighthouse and museum campus.

Things to Do

Tybee Island Light Station & Museum

Q: Can you see Savannah from the top?

On clear days, visitors enjoy sweeping views of Tybee Island, the Atlantic Ocean, the Savannah River, and portions of the Savannah skyline.

Who It's For

Children

Couples

Families

First-Time Visitors

Groups

History Buffs

Outdoor

Photography

Romantic

Seniors

Solo Travelers

Location

Tybee Island

Best Time To Visit

Afternoon

Morning

Duration

1-2 Hours

Best Seasons

Year Round

Environment

Outdoor

Type of Experience

Attraction

Historic Site

Museum

Standing watch over the Georgia coast for nearly three centuries, the Tybee Island Light Station & Museum is one of the most recognizable landmarks on Tybee Island and one of the oldest continually operating lighthouse sites in the United States. Visitors who climb its 178 steps are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Tybee Island, the Atlantic Ocean, the Savannah River, and the surrounding marshes.
The lighthouse complex includes more than just the tower itself. Historic keeper’s cottages, military exhibits, and museum buildings tell the story of Tybee’s maritime history while offering one of the area’s most rewarding cultural experiences. Whether you’re visiting for the incredible views, local history, or family-friendly activities, the Light Station is one of Tybee Island’s must-see attractions.

Why We Recommend It

The Tybee Island Light Station combines history, architecture, and spectacular scenery into one experience. While many visitors come for the climb, the surrounding museum complex often becomes an unexpected highlight, offering insight into coastal Georgia’s maritime history and the island’s military significance.

We recommend visiting earlier in the day before heading to the beach. It provides an excellent overview of Tybee Island while giving guests one of the best viewpoints anywhere along the Georgia coast.

History

The original Tybee lighthouse dates back to 1736, making it one of America’s earliest navigational aids. Although the first structures were destroyed or rebuilt over the centuries, the current lighthouse was completed in 1867 following the Civil War and continues to guide ships entering the Savannah River today.

The surrounding museum campus preserves historic keeper’s residences, support buildings, and exhibits documenting the lighthouse’s evolution alongside Savannah’s growth as one of the nation’s busiest ports. Today, the site remains one of Georgia’s most significant maritime landmarks.

What We Like

What makes the Light Station special is that it offers much more than incredible views. The museum campus encourages visitors to slow down and appreciate Tybee’s history, while the climb itself creates a memorable experience for nearly every guest.

We especially appreciate that it appeals to every generation. Families enjoy the adventure of climbing the tower, photographers love the sweeping coastal scenery, and history enthusiasts can easily spend several hours exploring the preserved buildings and exhibits.

Things To Know Before You Go

Arrive Early

Morning visits usually offer cooler temperatures, better lighting, and fewer visitors climbing the tower.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You’ll climb 178 stairs to reach the observation deck, so comfortable footwear is highly recommended.

Bring Your Camera

The observation deck offers some of the best panoramic views anywhere on Tybee Island.

Allow Time for the Museum

Many visitors focus on the lighthouse itself, but the museum buildings and keeper’s cottages are well worth exploring.

Check the Weather

Clear days provide outstanding views of the Atlantic Ocean, Savannah River, and surrounding marshes.

Plan Your Beach Visit Afterwards

The Light Station pairs perfectly with a relaxing afternoon at nearby North Beach.

FAQs

No visit to Tybee Island feels complete without climbing one of America’s most historic lighthouses. From breathtaking coastal views to fascinating maritime history, the Tybee Island Light Station offers an experience that perfectly complements a relaxing beach getaway.

Our Tybee Island Vacation Rentals place you just minutes from the Light Station, North Beach, the Tybee Pier, and many of the island’s most popular restaurants and attractions, making it easy to experience everything Georgia’s favorite beach town has to offer.

Continue Exploring Savannah

While you're here, check out nearby attractions and our favorite restaurants.