Tybee Island Beach & Pier

Tybee Island Beaches: Georgia's Atlantic Coast

Tybee Island's 3 miles of Atlantic Ocean beaches represent Savannah's premier coastal recreation destination. Wide, sandy shores with gentle waves create ideal environment for swimming, sunbathing, beach games, and water sports. The beaches combine natural coastal beauty with family-friendly amenities, making Tybee accessible and enjoyable for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Distinct Beach Areas

Tybee's beaches offer varied atmospheres and experiences:

• South Beach: Main beach area with pier, pavilion, restaurants, shops, and most amenities; busiest section with lively atmosphere
• Mid Beach: Quieter residential stretch between 14th and 18th Streets; popular with families seeking less crowded conditions
• North Beach: Near lighthouse and Fort Screven; less developed with more natural setting and smaller crowds
• Back River Beach: Protected calm water beach on island's west side; ideal for small children and kayaking

The Iconic Tybee Pier

The Tybee Pier extends 1,000 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, serving as the island's most recognizable landmark:

• Fishing Access: Popular spot for pier fishing targeting seasonal species
• Ocean Views: Unobstructed panoramic views of Atlantic Ocean and coastline
• Photography Location: Ideal vantage point for sunrise, sunset, and beach photography
• Evening Strolls: Romantic walks over ocean with cooling sea breezes
• Wildlife Viewing: Spot dolphins, pelicans, and other marine life from pier
• Fishing Amenities: Bait shop, fishing supplies, and rod rentals available
• Year-Round Access: Open 24 hours daily for fishing and walking

Swimming & Ocean Conditions

Tybee's beaches offer generally safe swimming conditions:

• Gentle Waves: Typically calm to moderate Atlantic surf suitable for swimmers of varying abilities
• Sandy Bottom: Gradual slope into ocean with sandy bottom free of rocks
• Lifeguard Protection: Seasonal lifeguards (Memorial Day - Labor Day) stationed at main beaches
• Rip Current Awareness: Occasional rip currents; follow lifeguard instructions and warning flags
• Water Temperature: Summer water temps 75-85°F; cooler spring and fall
• Marine Life: Generally safe; occasional jellyfish presence in summer

Beach Recreation & Activities

Tybee's wide beaches accommodate diverse recreational activities:

• Swimming & Bodyboarding: Main beach activities in Atlantic surf
• Beach Volleyball: Courts available at South Beach and other locations
• Sandcastle Building: Perfect sand consistency for elaborate creations
• Frisbee & Ball Games: Ample space for active beach games
• Beach Combing: Search for shells, sand dollars, and coastal treasures
• Sunbathing & Reading: Classic beach relaxation activities
• Beach Walking: Miles of shoreline for morning or evening walks

Water Sports & Rentals

Various water sport opportunities enhance the beach experience:

• Kayaking: Explore coastal waters, marshes, and tidal creeks
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding: SUP rentals and instruction available
• Surfing: Small wave surfing and bodyboarding when conditions allow
• Jet Skiing: Motorized watercraft rentals for thrill-seekers
• Parasailing: Aerial views of coastline towed behind boats
• Banana Boat Rides: Group water activities for families
• Beach Equipment Rentals: Chairs, umbrellas, boogie boards available

Beach Services & Amenities

Tybee provides comprehensive beach amenities ensuring comfortable visits:

• Public Restrooms: Clean facilities at main beach areas
• Outdoor Showers: Rinse stations for removing sand and salt
• Pavilion: South Beach pavilion with covered seating areas
• Beach Wheelchair: Free use available at beach patrol stations
• Lifeguard Stations: Seasonal staffing with emergency response capability
• Picnic Areas: Shaded spots for beach dining
• Beach Patrol: Staff monitoring safety and enforcing regulations

Family-Friendly Beach Destination

Tybee excels as family beach with features appealing to children:

• Gentle Surf: Generally calm waves safe for children's swimming
• Lifeguard Protection: Parental peace of mind with supervised areas
• Shallow Areas: Gradual depth increase accommodates young swimmers
• Beach Playground: Play structures near main beach area
• Nearby Amenities: Restaurants, shops, and services within walking distance
• Educational Opportunities: Marine Science Center and nature programs

Fishing from Pier & Beach

Tybee offers diverse fishing opportunities:

• Pier Fishing: 1,000-foot pier providing deep water access; daily and weekly passes available
• Surf Fishing: Beach fishing for species like whiting, pompano, redfish
• Seasonal Species: Target varies by season; summer brings Spanish mackerel, fall has redfish
• Bait & Tackle: On-site shops providing equipment and local fishing knowledge
• Rod Rentals: Equipment available for visitors without fishing gear
• License Requirements: Georgia saltwater fishing license required (check regulations)

Coastal Wildlife & Marine Life

Beach visitors frequently encounter coastal wildlife:

• Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins: Commonly spotted swimming offshore and feeding
• Brown Pelicans: Diving for fish close to shore
• Shorebirds: Sandpipers, plovers, and gulls feeding along water's edge
• Sea Turtles: Loggerheads nest on Tybee (May-October); protected nesting sites
• Ghost Crabs: Evening visitors scurrying across sand and into burrows
• Shells & Sand Dollars: Collectable treasures washing ashore

Beachside Dining Options

Numerous restaurants within walking distance of the beach:

• Casual Seafood: Fresh catch served in laid-back beach settings
• Beach Bars: Tropical drinks and light fare with ocean views
• Quick Service: Pizza, burgers, and grab-and-go options
• Outdoor Seating: Dine with sea breezes and beach atmosphere
• Ice Cream Shops: Perfect beach day treats
• Breakfast Spots: Fuel up before beach day

Seasonal Beach Considerations

Each season offers distinct beach experiences:

• Summer (June-August): Peak season with warmest water, most crowded, full amenities and lifeguards
• Spring (March-May): Comfortable temperatures, warming water, smaller crowds, ideal conditions
• Fall (September-November): Warm lingering water, fewer visitors, pleasant weather, excellent value
• Winter (December-February): Cool air, cold water, empty beaches, perfect for peaceful walks

Beach Safety Guidelines

Ensure safe beach experience by following guidelines:

• Swim Near Lifeguards: Stay in guarded areas during lifeguard hours
• Heed Warning Flags: Color-coded flags indicate water conditions and hazards
• Rip Current Safety: If caught in rip current, swim parallel to shore to escape
• Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen regularly; Georgia sun intense even on cloudy days
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water; heat and sun cause rapid dehydration
• Wildlife Respect: Observe wildlife from distance; don't disturb nesting areas
• Weather Awareness: Seek shelter during lightning; monitor forecasts

Beach Day Before Theatre Evening

Tybee Beach makes perfect day trip before evening theatre in Savannah. Spend morning and afternoon soaking up sun and surf, depart Tybee by 4-5 PM, return to Savannah to shower and change, then attend New Oak Theatre performance. The combination creates balanced day—invigorating outdoor activity complemented by evening cultural sophistication. The sea air and physical activity enhance appreciation for theatrical artistry.