Things to Do
Tybee Island Beach
Who It's For
ADA Friendly
Children
Couples
Families
First-Time Visitors
Groups
Outdoor
Photography
Romantic
Seniors
Solo Travelers
Location
Tybee Island
Best Time To Visit
Afternoon
Morning
Duration
Full Day
Half Day
Best Seasons
Fall
Spring
Summer
Environment
Outdoor
Type of Experience
Attraction
Beach
Tybee Island Beach is Savannah’s beloved coastal escape: a relaxed barrier-island shoreline where Atlantic waves, wide sandy beaches, historic landmarks, and Lowcountry scenery come together. With more than three miles of public beach, Tybee offers a beach experience for nearly every kind of guest, from lively South Beach afternoons to quiet North Beach walks and sunset views along Back River.
The key to enjoying Tybee is choosing the stretch of shoreline that suits your day. Whether you are traveling with children, planning a romantic getaway, looking for dolphin sightings, or simply want a classic day in the sand, there is a Tybee beach for you.
Why We Recommend It
Tybee Island Beach is the natural centerpiece of any stay on the island. It is approachable, scenic, and wonderfully versatile—easy enough for a casual afternoon, but rich enough to fill an entire vacation.
We recommend exploring more than one beach area during your stay. South Beach offers activity and convenience, North Beach feels quieter and more natural, and Back River Beach is ideal for sunsets and gentler water. Together, they give Tybee its distinctive personality.
History
Tybee Island has long served as Savannah’s beach, welcoming visitors drawn to its Atlantic shoreline, maritime history, and easygoing coastal rhythm. Over time, the island developed into a beloved vacation destination while retaining the character of a real working barrier-island community.
Today, its beaches remain central to the Tybee experience. The shoreline connects visitors not only to swimming and sunbathing, but also to historic Fort Screven, the Tybee Island Lighthouse, the pier, marsh waterways, and the wildlife of Georgia’s coast.
What We Like
We love that Tybee offers choices without feeling overwhelming. You can begin the day watching sunrise on the Atlantic, spend the afternoon near the pier and restaurants, then finish with a sunset at Back River Beach.
The island also rewards a slower pace. Beachcombing, dolphin watching, long walks, and time under an umbrella are all part of the experience. Tybee is at its best when you leave room for an unplanned extra hour by the water.
Things To Know Before You Go
Choose Your Beach Area First
South Beach is the most active and central; North Beach is quieter and close to the lighthouse; Back River Beach is known for calm views and sunsets.
Arrive Early During Peak Season
Parking near the most popular beach access points fills quickly on summer weekends, holidays, and sunny afternoons.
Watch the Beach Conditions
Pay attention to lifeguards, flags, tides, and posted safety information. Conditions can change quickly along the coast.
Bring Sun Protection and Water
Tybee’s sun can be intense, particularly from late spring through early fall. An umbrella, sunscreen, water, and light layers make for a much more comfortable day.
Respect the Dunes and Beach Rules
Use designated access points, keep the beach clean, and avoid walking on protected dunes. Smoking and vaping are prohibited on Tybee beach areas and crossovers.
Plan for a Full Beach Day
A Tybee beach visit pairs beautifully with the pier, lighthouse, Marine Science Center, restaurants, boat tours, or a sunset dinner on Back River.
FAQs
Tybee Island Beach offers the kind of coastal escape that can be as lively or as peaceful as you want it to be. From sunrise walks and family beach days to quiet shelling and sunsets over the Back River, every stretch of shoreline reveals a different side of the island.
Our Tybee Island Vacation Rentals place you close to Tybee’s best beach access points, local restaurants, historic landmarks, and coastal adventures—so your ideal beach day is always within easy reach.
Continue Exploring Savannah
While you're here, check out nearby attractions and our favorite restaurants.