Explore Georgia: Tybee Island Tips No One Tells You About

Ever wonder how can you maximize your visit to Tybee Island? We have gathered the best insider tips so you can plan a dream trip to one of the most unique places you'll ever visit.

BEST PLACE TO LAY DOWN YOUR TOWEL

Park near the Tybee Beach Beach and Pavilion (Tybrisa St, Tybee Island, GA 31328) use the bridge in front of the Tybee Island Marine Center turn right and walk towards the rock formation close to the sand dunes. This portion of the beach has a smoother sand, lots of shallow areas that are perfect for little kids to bathe safely, is less crowded, and because it's close to the sand dunes you will see a large variety of seaside birds.

BEST PLACE TO AVOID THE SUN

Grab a chair and go under the beach pier. The temperature drops at least 10 degrees and the sound of the ocean hitting the pillars will put you in a deep relaxation. 

MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS

As you reach US-80 towards Tybee Island you'll inevitably come across a detour that leads to Fort Pulaski National Monument. If you are visiting Tybee Island for the first time DO NOT miss this gem. This historic monument preserves Fort Pulaski, where in 1862 during the American Civil War, the Union Army successfully tested rifled cannon in combat, the success of which rendered brick fortifications obsolete. Fort Pulaski also plays an important role on the Underground Railroad for slaves searching for freedom.

OFF THE BEATEN PATH HIKING TRAILS NO ONE TELLS YOU ABOUT

Cockspur Island Lighthouse trail, behind Fort Pulaski Fort. The National Park Service is dedicated to the preservation of this historic marker. Due to ongoing preservation efforts, the lighthouse and lighthouse island are closed to the public. However, an overlook trail offers visitors the best chance to get a closer look at the lighthouse today.

The Lighthouse Trail is an out and back trail measuring 1.7 mile and takes about 45 minutes to walk. 

Begin at the Visitor Center and walk along the north side of the fort. Follow the signs for the trail and cross the historic dike. From the trail head there are lovely views of the marsh along the north channel.

Follow the trail as it winds along the east side of the island. There are benches along the way to use. Make sure to keep your eyes open for cabbage palms, red cedars, and even the small spiney back spider. 

Towards the end of the trail you will cross as small bridge. From here there is a great view of the lighthouse on one side and the damaged walls of Fort Pulaski on the other. The trail will end with a close view of the Cockspur Island Lighthouse. 

Built in 1856, the light marked the entrance of the south channel of the river, and was an eyewitness to the battle for the fort in 1862. Other areas of interest seen from here include Tybee Island, Lazaretto Creek, and Hilton Head Island. Return to the Visitor Center via the way you came.

FUN AFFORDABLE DOLPHIN EXPERIENCE YOU WILL NEVER REGRET

Captain Mike's Dolphin Adventure offer a very informative yet funny and unique coastal view of the island plus a dolphin guarantee. The tour departs daily from Lazaretto Creek Marina, heading toward the Atlantic ocean, passing by shrimp boats and boat docks that portray the charm of an old fishing village. The boat passes by the Cockspur lighthouse (built in 1856), offering a view of historic Fort Pulaski. Approaching the North Beach of Tybee, the tour provides a scenic view of the Tybee Lighthouse. The tour will last approximately one to one and half hours (depending on where the dolphins are playing).Tour rates are $15.00 for adults, $8.00 for children (3 to 12), and $1 for infants (2 and under).  

ADULT SLUSHIES TO DIE FOR

Wet Willie's, near the Tybee Pier, is a fun, funky place providing the World's Greatest Daiquiris with premium liquors and great food, including breakfast & a kid's menu. They have 20 daiquiri machines offering a range of different flavors, a kaleidoscope of colors, and an opportunity for customers to experiment swirling their favorite flavors together for their own signature daiquiri. Non-alcohol and sugar-fee daiquiris also available. Try the "Willie Dazed and Confused" a daiquiri made with strawberry lemonade, grenadine and vodka. 

BEST CHEAP BEACH BITES WHEN YOU ARE ON A BUDGET

Jimmy's Beach Bites (8 Tybrisa St, Tybee Island, GA 31328) is a itty bitty hole in the wall walk up stand that is just a few steps away from the Tybee Island Pavilion. They offer soft serve ice cream and a variety of quick bites such as pull pork sandwiches, redneck nachos, $4 Nathan's chili dogs and Fanta pineapple! 

Another local favorite is Lighthouse Pizza. Not only they offer pizzas, calzones, wings and salads but has a huge selection of local and craft beer. Parking is available on Tybrisa st. and in the South Beach Parking lot. 

PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS

Do not under any circumstance miss a sunset on Tybee Island. Check your weather app to see what time the sun sets. You will be able to capture incredible  golden hour pictures and the most beautiful pink sunsets that will make you the envy on Instagram.