Tybee Island Lighthouse & Museum

Tybee Island Lighthouse: Georgia's Coastal Icon

The Tybee Island Lighthouse stands as Georgia's most recognizable coastal landmark and the state's oldest and tallest lighthouse. Originally constructed in 1773, the current tower dates to 1867 following Civil War destruction. Rising 154 feet above sea level, the lighthouse has guided mariners safely past Tybee Roads—the entrance to the Savannah River—for over 250 years. Today it serves as beloved historic site welcoming visitors to climb its 178 steps for spectacular coastal views.

The 178-Step Climb

Climbing the lighthouse provides both physical challenge and increasing rewards:

• 178 Iron Steps: Spiral staircase winding upward through nine levels
• Progressive Views: Windows at intervals offering glimpses of expanding vistas
• Observation Deck: 360-degree panoramic views from 154-foot elevation
• Coastal Panorama: Atlantic Ocean, Savannah River entrance, barrier islands, marshlands
• Photography Opportunity: Unobstructed views ideal for photography
• Physical Requirement: Moderate fitness required; narrow spiral stairs
• Weather Exposure: Top deck open-air platform subject to wind

Historic Lighthouse Evolution

The Tybee Lighthouse has undergone several reconstructions reflecting coastal Georgia history:

• 1736: Original beacon established by James Oglethorpe
• 1773: First substantial lighthouse tower constructed
• 1861: Confederate forces destroyed tower to prevent Union navigation aid
• 1867: Current tower completed following Civil War
• 1916: Painted with distinctive black and white daymark
• 1964: Automated operation replaced resident lighthouse keepers
• 1999: Opened to public climbing following restoration

The Museum Complex

Beyond the lighthouse tower, the site includes several historic structures forming comprehensive museum:

• Head Keeper's Cottage (1881): Restored residence with period furnishings and maritime exhibits
• Assistant Keeper's Cottage: Additional historic dwelling showcasing keeper family life
• Summer Kitchen: Detached kitchen building typical of coastal architecture
• Fuel Storage Building: Original structure housing lighthouse operation equipment
• Battery Garland: 1898 coastal defense gun battery with military history exhibits

Maritime & Military History Exhibits

Museum exhibitions chronicle lighthouse operation and coastal military history:

• Lighthouse Technology: Evolution of lighting systems from oil lamps to modern beacons
• Keeper Family Life: Daily routines and challenges of lighthouse keeping
• Maritime Navigation: Charts, instruments, and navigation history
• Civil War Impact: Lighthouse destruction and coastal warfare
• Coastal Defense: Battery Garland and Fort Screven military history
• Shipwrecks: Local maritime disasters and rescue operations

Still-Operating Navigation Beacon

The Tybee Lighthouse remains active navigation aid maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard. Its automated beacon continues guiding vessels into the Savannah River, maintaining the lighthouse's original purpose while serving as historic site. This dual function as working lighthouse and public attraction makes Tybee unique among Georgia's historic lighthouses.

Photography & Scenic Views

The lighthouse complex offers exceptional photography opportunities:

• Iconic Tower: Classic lighthouse architecture with distinctive daymark
• Coastal Landscapes: Marsh, ocean, and barrier island vistas
• Sunrise & Sunset: Dramatic lighting on tower and surrounding landscape
• Historic Buildings: Keeper's cottages and military structures
• Elevated Perspectives: Unique aerial-like views from observation deck

Educational Programs & Events

The Tybee Island Light Station offers educational programming:

• Guided Tours: Docent-led tours providing historical context and stories
• School Programs: Curriculum-aligned field trips for students
• Special Events: Annual lighthouse celebrations and commemorations
• Children's Activities: Junior Keeper programs and scavenger hunts
• Lectures & Presentations: Maritime history and lighthouse preservation topics

Fort Screven Historic District

The lighthouse sits within Fort Screven, a decommissioned U.S. Army post (1897-1947) that protected Savannah River entrance. The fort includes Battery Garland museum, historic officers' quarters, and remnant coastal fortifications. This military heritage adds another historical layer to the lighthouse site.

Planning Your Lighthouse Visit

To maximize your lighthouse experience:

• Physical Preparation: 178 steps require moderate fitness; take breaks as needed
• Arrive Early: Beat crowds and heat, especially in summer months
• Allow Time: Budget 1-2 hours for complete site exploration
• Weather Awareness: Observation deck exposed to wind; dress accordingly
• Photography Equipment: Bring camera for spectacular views
• Explore Grounds: Don't miss historic cottages and Battery Garland museum

Accessibility & Limitations

Important accessibility information for visitors:

• No Elevator: Tower accessible only via 178-step spiral staircase
• Narrow Stairs: Single-file traffic; may require passing on landings
• Not Wheelchair Accessible: Tower climb not possible for wheelchair users
• Ground-Level Alternative: Museum buildings and grounds wheelchair accessible
• Physical Requirement: Visitors with mobility limitations should assess personal capabilities

Combining Lighthouse with Tybee Beach

The lighthouse pairs perfectly with Tybee beach activities. Visit the lighthouse morning when temperatures are cooler for climbing, then spend afternoon at nearby North Beach or South Beach. The combination creates comprehensive Tybee Island experience showcasing both historic significance and recreational appeal.

Pairing Lighthouse Visit with Theatre Evening

The lighthouse makes excellent component of Savannah day trip before evening theatre. Drive to Tybee morning, climb the lighthouse, explore North Beach, enjoy seafood lunch, then return to Savannah afternoon to prepare for New Oak Theatre performance. The physical activity and sea air provide invigorating contrast to evening cultural sophistication.