Savannah and the Georgia Coast

Savannah and Tybee Island sit atop the 100 miles of Georgia coastline that stretches from South Carolina to Florida. Often referred to as the Low Country, this area of flat landscape and meandering creeks is framed by peninsulas and coves of moss-laden live oaks.

The Low Country is home to many species of migrating birds. During the winter months, thousands of mallards, pintails, teal and as many as 10 other species of ducks migrate into the area, joining resident wood ducks on the coastal refuges. In the spring and fall, transient songbirds stop briefly on their journeys to and from Northern nesting grounds.

The Golden Isles are barrier islands between the Atlantic Ocean and the mainland. They are an integral part of a continuous chain of similar islands and beaches stretching from Maine to Texas that protects the coast from storms.

Behind the barrier islands lie Georgia’s salt marshes, which provide organic material that moves into the sea to become a vital link in the maritime food chain. These marshes are home to countless marine organisms, including shrimp, crabs and oysters. Eco-based tourism is a burgeoning market drawing millions to the coast following state birding trails. More than 300 species of birds have been spotted along the Georgia coast.

Tybee Island

Drive 20 minutes east of Savannah, through a few miles of wide sky and salt marshes. This is where you'll find Tybee Island, Savannah’s beach. Perhaps one of the most laid-back location on the southeastern coast, Tybee is a nature lover’s paradise.

On this uniquely charmed island, nature lovers mingle with families seeking fun! Pirate raids are regular happenings. There are parties of epic proportions and silent beach sunrises. And everyone, from townie to tourist, watches out for the sea turtles.

There are miles of beach; forts and museums and a great old lighthouse; endangered birds and other animal species; kayaks and bikes to rent (along with all kinds of hotels, motels and cottages, too).

Days are as active, or lazy, as mood demands. Local galleries, shops and restaurants offer changes of pace and taste. And, of course, historic Savannah's nearby.

This is the beautiful barrier island that ancient Indians named “salt” (“duh bee” in the old Euchee tongue)—and a place you'll wish that you, too, had discovered long ago.

Tybee's location in the Southern coast made Tybee an important fortification during many of America's wars. Tybee's Fort Screven was a site used during the Spanish-American War. Just west of the island on U.S. Highway 80 is Fort Pulaski, a colossal brick edifice that played a vital role in the Civil War. The Tybee Lighthouse is Georgia's oldest and tallest lighthouse towering over the coastline at 154 feet.

Today sand, sea and salty breezes give Tybee a charm all her own. Combined with a dash of history, fresh local cuisine, an array of outdoor adventures and friendly natives, there’s a guaranteed draw to Tybee Island.

Tybee Island offers an assortment of activities for nature bound explorers; visitors can choose from boat cruises and fishing trips to kayaking, bike riding and bird watching through the surrounding Low Country. Tybee Marine Science Center offers beach walks and touch tanks to help us better understand the creatures of the sea. On warm days, dolphins can be seen playing from the shore or by guided tour, much to the delight of kids of all ages.

After exploring the sites, make time to sample our famous Lowcountry cuisine. Fresh bounties from the sea are prepared to perfection by many eclectic restaurants located on Tybee. Local restaurants serve up delicious meals featuring Caribbean flare and American favorites along with fresh local seafood like crab, oysters, shrimp and fish.

Tybee Island features a wide variety of lodging accommodations. Whether you are coming for the weekend, spending a couple of weeks or celebrating a special occasion, Tybee has deluxe hotel accommodations, quaint sea-side cottages and charming B&B’s perfect for you and your budget.

Tybee Island is the perfect place to have a family vacation. With an island full of attractions and a short 20 minute drive to historic Savannah, Tybee offers the perfect choices for everyone in your family.