If you’re dreaming of a weekend that’s all about sunshine and fun, Tybee Island is the perfect place for you.
This tiny Georgia island may be small, but it packs in way more than just a spot to lay your towel.
From dolphin-spotting boat rides to secret sunset beaches and cozy beach nooks perfect for naps, this Tybee Island itinerary offers surprises at every turn.
So grab your flip-flops and get ready for an unforgettable weekend.
1. Captain Derek’s Dolphin Adventure
Captain Derek’s Dolphin Adventure is one of Tybee Island’s most popular boat tours, taking off from Lazaretto Creek Marina and cruising near Little Tybee.
You’ll hop onto a boat with open-air seating and a friendly crew, ready to help you spot wild Atlantic bottlenose dolphins splashing just a few feet away.
The tours last about 1.5 hours and often include fun facts about the island’s history, views of the Cockspur Lighthouse, and a look at Fort Pulaski from the water.
If you’re lucky, you might also see stingrays, pelicans, and the occasional sea turtle too.
2. Tybee Island Light
Once you’re back on land, it’s time to climb your way into history at the Tybee Island Light.
Standing 145 feet tall, this black-and-white beauty is Georgia’s tallest and oldest lighthouse, with 178 steps leading up to incredible views of the Atlantic.
Originally built in 1736, the lighthouse features a historic First Order Fresnel lens.
You’ll also get to explore the Keeper’s Cottage and learn what it was like to live there before Wi-Fi, AC, and pizza delivery were a thing.
3. North Beach
Right across the street from the lighthouse, North Beach is the go-to spot for kicking back with snacks and sandy toes.
This beach is less crowded than the south end, with soft dunes, calm waves, and plenty of space to lay out your towel without worrying about flying frisbees.
You can watch big ships glide through the Savannah River channel or search for shells and shark teeth along the shore (pro tip: check near the jetties).
There’s also lots of parking, clean restrooms, and the North Beach Bar & Grill just steps away for fish tacos or frozen drinks.
4. Fort Screven
A short stroll from your beach towel takes you to Fort Screven, a coastal army post dating back to the Spanish-American War.
You can wander through massive concrete batteries, peek into creepy old bunkers, and even spot a few rusty cannons that once guarded the island.
The coolest part? Battery Garland now houses the Tybee Island Museum, packed with vintage swimsuits, Civil War uniforms and more.
It’s both a history lesson and a discovery adventure, and a must if you’ve got even one curious bone in your body.
5. Tybee Island Marine Science Center
When you’re ready to trade cannons for critters, the Tybee Island Marine Science Center is just down the road and worth checking out.
This small but super fun center is filled with touch tanks, rescued sea turtles, baby alligators, and all kinds of local sea life you can learn about up close.
You can join a beach walk led by a marine biologist to dig for ghost crabs, spot dolphin fins, and maybe hold a live horseshoe crab (don’t worry, they’re harmless).
It’s the kind of place that makes you want to protect every grain of sand and every squishy sea creature in the ocean.
6. Mid Beach
After all that exploring, Mid Beach is the perfect spot to slow things down and relax with the waves.
It’s quieter than South Beach but still gives you easy beach access, plus plenty of space to lounge under an umbrella and catch a tan.
This peaceful stretch is where locals take sunset walks, far from loud bars and big crowds, with nothing but soft sand to enjoy.
Plus, it’s close to some cute beach rentals and little boardwalks, meaning you can walk from your porch to the sand in under a minute!
7. South Beach & Tybee Pier
Mid Beach is where you take a nap, South Beach is the party.
This is Tybee’s hotspot, bustling with beachgoers, street performers, and the iconic Tybee Pier stretching out like a catwalk for fishing rods and flip-flops.
You can rent a bike, grab a scoop from Seaweed’s Sno-Balls & Ice Cream, or people-watch on the beach as live music drifts over from nearby bars.
The pier itself is the main star and is great for snapping photos, taking a stroll, or casting a line if you’re feeling lucky (fishing license required).
8. Back River Beach
But if you want a real break from the crowds, Back River Beach is where to find it.
Tucked away at the very far end of the island, this hidden spot faces the calm river, with gentle water and soft breezes setting the perfect mood.
It’s the best place on Tybee for spotting dolphins, casting a line off the small pier, or catching a sunset that’s guaranteed to be breathtaking.
This is Tybee at its most peaceful — simple, quiet, and just what you need to recharge.
9. Little Tybee Island
For one last adventure, head to Little Tybee Island — it’s just next door, but feels worlds away.
This uninhabited barrier island is only accessible by water, which means no crowds, no cars, and nothing but salt marshes, dunes, and wild beach vibes.
You can get there by boat or kayak, but with shifting and tricky tides, taking a boat is usually the safer bet.
It’s a dream spot for bird watchers, shell collectors, and anyone who loves exploring tidal creeks to spot herons, horseshoe crabs, and maybe even dolphins.
Just remember: there are no bathrooms, trash cans, or food stands so pack what you need and leave nothing behind but footprints.
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