Tybee Island | Savannah

Information

Landmark: Tybee Island
City: Savannah
Country: USA Georgia
Continent: North America

Tybee Island, Savannah, USA Georgia, North America

Tybee Island is a barrier island located east of Savannah, Georgia, USA. It serves as a coastal destination with a lighthouse and beaches.

Visual Characteristics

The island features sandy beaches with a light brown hue. The coastline is characterized by dunes and maritime forest vegetation, primarily consisting of live oaks and palmetto trees. The Tybee Island Light Station is a white, cylindrical tower with a black lantern room and a red roof, standing approximately 178 feet tall.

Location & Access Logistics

Tybee Island is situated 18 miles east of Savannah's historic district. Access is primarily via U.S. Highway 80, which connects directly to the island. Parking is available in designated lots and along some streets, with fees often applicable. Public transportation options are limited; the Chatham Area Transit (CAT) bus system operates route 10, which serves Tybee Island from Savannah.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Tybee Island Light Station was first established in 1736, with the current structure dating from 1862. It is the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Georgia. Ecologically, Tybee Island is a sandy barrier island formed by coastal processes and sediment deposition over millennia.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can ascend the Tybee Island Light Station for panoramic views. Beach access is available for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. Kayaking and paddleboarding are possible in the calmer waters of the sound side. Birdwatching is a common activity in the island's marsh areas.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at public beach access points and within the town. Shade is provided by natural vegetation and some public shelters. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally consistent across the island. Food vendors and restaurants are located within the town center and along Butler Avenue.

Best Time to Visit

For beach activities, the months of April through October offer warmer temperatures. The best time of day for photography of the lighthouse is typically late afternoon, when the sun is lower in the sky. High tide is generally preferred for water sports.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests that the island is haunted by the ghost of a former lighthouse keeper. Historically, Tybee Island served as a quarantine station for ships arriving in Savannah during the 18th and 19th centuries.