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What to Do on Your Weekend Getaway to Tybee Island

By: Allison Ulsh

If you're looking for an easy, relaxing, fun weekend getaway, look no further than Tybee Island. At just over three miles, this little island packs a powerful punch with an abundance of delicious restaurants, exciting activities, great shopping and beautiful beaches.

While Tybee could undoubtedly keep you entertained for longer than a few days, here are a few must-do activities for your weekend vacation on Tybee Island.
 

beach crossover

Learn and Explore at the Marine Science Center

You will not be disappointed with a trip to the fascinating Tybee Island Marine Science Center. This state-of-the-art facility features several galleries filled with various live animals (some you can even touch and hold!), an interactive exhibit of Gray's Reef and an underground area with large tanks housing sea turtles in rehabilitation. If you want to dig deeper, sign up for one of the center's guided activities through their Walks, Talks and Treks series.

Climb to the Top of the Lighthouse

Did you know that Tybee's lighthouse is the oldest and tallest in the state of Georgia and is one of the most intact lighthouses in America? When you visit the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, you can climb all 178 steps to see the best view of the entire island, peruse the gift shop and explore the museum to learn about the fascinating history of this landmark that has been guiding mariners for more than 270 years.

Cruise the Island on a Bike

Tybee is exceptionally bike-friendly, so one of the best ways to explore the island is with the wind in your hair on the back of a bicycle. And there's no need to haul your own bike either. There are plenty of bike rentals on the island, including TIMS Bikes, Beach and Disc Golf. TIMS offers adult, youth, trikes, tandem and pull-along bikes, so there is something for every family member – and they'll even deliver them directly to you. More than just bikes, however, Tim's also offers a variety of other rentals to make your vacation as easy and fun as possible, including beach chairs, umbrellas, carts and games.  

Shop for Souvenirs

If you want a souvenir to remember your weekend trip, you'll find just what you're looking for at The Shoppes at 1207. This collection of locally-owned shops features a wide variety of one-of-a-kind jewelry, apparel, home furnishings, gourmet foods, artwork, photography and much more from local artisans and craftsmen.

Enjoy Delicious Seafood with a Beautiful View

The Crab Shack is a Tybee Island legend for a reason. While the show's star is the fresh and delicious seafood, the experience keeps people coming back again and again. Dine alfresco under the majestic oak trees while enjoying the views of the marsh waterways. Next, head down to the alligator enclosure, where you can feed the baby gators special alligator food. Before you leave, check out the fascinating exotic birds exhibit and stop by the gift shop to stock up on Crab Shack gear, including t-shirts, hats and homemade sauces and spices.

Hit the Beach

Thanks to Tybee's mild climate, the beach can be on your vacation to-do list any time of the year. During the warmer spring and summer months, there are plenty of water activities to take advantage of at the beach, including swimming, surfing and kayaking. When the water is a bit chillier in the fall and winter months, enjoy the beach with leisurely walks, bike rides or beach games.

The salty air, beautiful views and great food and activities make Tybee the perfect spot for an easy weekend vacation. Escape to our idyllic little island anytime you need a quick reset and recharge – and we know you'll keep coming back to experience all the magic Tybee has to offer!

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