For most people, thoughts of vast expanses of beach and gorgeous weather conjure up images of a relaxing vacation.
Tybee Island, Georgia is exactly that type of location.
Vacations to Tybee Island should always include plenty of beach time. But save timer the enjoyable experiences at many Tybee Island attractions. Fortunately, Tybee Island, Georgia has a variety of options available for everyone’s different tastes and interests.
Tybee Island is a mere 20 miles east of Savannah, Georgia.
Due to the proximity to Savannah and its location at the mouth of the Savannah River, locals refer to it as “Savannah’s Beach.” Savannah’s Beach boasts over five miles of clean, sandy territory, perfect for sunbathing and beach recreation.
Savannah’s Beach also provides wonderfully convenient access to the Atlantic Ocean. Fishing and boating are two very popular activities. Visitors to Savannah’s Beach could spend their time renting kayaks and canoes, or chartered boat tours and trips. These boat trips leave from various locations on Savannah’s Beach. They promise hours of nature tours, dolphin viewing, bird watching, and general sightseeing of the area.
Tybee Island attractions also include those of historical significance such as the Tybee Lighthouse. Built in 1867, the new lighthouse replaced a series of older lighthouses. Storms, confederate troops, or encroaching waters destroyed the previous lighthouses. Standing 150 feet tall, the lighthouse is open and available to the visitors of Savannah’s Beach.
Tybee Island attractions boast a museum with historical information about the area.
Tybee Island’s rich history includes a name that was likely given by Native American Euchee Indians. Spanish, French, and British explorers laid claims on the Island. For years, pirates made regular visits. Stories tell of pirates using Savannah’s Beach as a safe place to hide their treasure. So, keep your eye out for booty!
Tybee also played an important part in the American Civil War. In 1862, Fort Pulaski of Tybee Island went down in history as the location of the first battle including “rifled cannons.” These rifles destroyed Fort Pulaski. After the battle forts changed their means of protection for the remainder of the war. Fort Screven, an area where troops trained and stood guard during the Spanish American War, World War I, and World War II, was active until 1947 when the fort was closed and sold to the Town of Tybee. Now, these forts are available for visitors of Savannah’s Beach to tour. The Tybee Island Museum is actually housed in the former gun batter Garland, which used to store hundreds of pounds of gun powder and projectiles. Now, it serves as yet another one of the intriguing Tybee Island attractions.
The vast variety of restaurants on Tybee will keep any visitor happy and well-fed.
Seafood specials are predominant throughout many of the coastal locations, but all types of food are readily available. In the evening hours, enjoy live music at many eateries. Local musicians set a relaxed and low-key atmosphere for anyone visiting who’s looking for a temporary escape from everyday life. There are also several different types of accommodations on Savannah’s Beach, ranging from hotels and motels to bed and breakfasts and condominiums available for rent.
On any vacation to Tybee Island, attractions will keep you occupied. The weather and atmosphere will keep you coming back long after your first visit.