Local Gems Tybee Island's Hidden Treasures

But as charming as Tybee’s public beaches and colorful cottages are, there’s a whole lot more hidden just beneath the surface, if you know where to look. This isn’t just another tourist trap dotted with tiki bars and predictable photo ops. Tybee is a mix of natural beauty, history, and a quirky community that marches steadfastly to its own funky beat. It’s got the kind of vibe that makes you want to trade your shoes for flip-flops and maybe your 9-to-5 for a simpler life altogether.

What truly sets Tybee apart, though, is how well it keeps its best-kept secrets. Sure, the Parker River ferry takes plenty of visitors by the Tybee Lighthouse or North Beach every summer. But talk to any local, and they’ll clue you into the tucked-away spots and unexpected treasures that make their island feel like home. From hidden historical sites and quiet nature trails to locally loved restaurants and vibrant art, Tybee Island has layers just waiting to be uncovered. Consider this your guide to some of those hidden gems, the ones that’ll make your visit unforgettable and have you wondering why you didn’t come sooner.

A Stroll Through Tybee’s History

For an island so small, Tybee has seen its fair share of drama. Start with the Tybee Island Light Station & Museum, one of the oldest and most well-preserved lighthouses in the Southeast. It’s not just a relic; it’s a storyteller. Climb the 178 steps to the top, and you get a panoramic view that sweeps across the Atlantic and marshlands, giving you a sense of the island’s strategic importance over the centuries.

Then, take a walk through Fort Screven, a military installation dating back to the Spanish-American War. While parts of it are now private property, the preserved Battery Garland Museum reveals fascinating insights into the island’s role during times of tension and war. Ghost hunters, take note, rumor has it, the fort’s history is a little restless.

If you want a truly off-the-beaten-path history stop, seek out Cockspur Island Lighthouse, a little beacon that’s stood guard on an islet at the mouth of the Savannah River since the 1800s. Accessible only by boat or kayak, it offers adventurers a unique glimpse of Georgia’s nautical past.

Secret Beaches and Serene Spots

Think you’ve seen all of Tybee’s beaches? Think again. Undoubtedly, South Beach gets the most attention, it’s bustling with visitors, volleyball games, and ice cream stands. But for solitude, head to Back River Beach, at the island’s southern tip. It’s where locals quietly retreat to watch the sunset, do a little crabbing, or cast a fishing line into the calm waters of the Back River.

Another under-the-radar gem? Little Tybee Island. This uninhabited barrier island, located just a quick paddle across Tybee Creek, offers miles of untouched shoreline and hiking trails. Accessible only by kayak, paddleboard, or boat, it’s the perfect escape for anyone craving nature at its purest. You’ll likely spot dolphin pods, white egrets, and maybe even a sea turtle nesting site if you’re lucky. Just bring plenty of water, you won’t find any amenities here (and that’s kind of the point).

Culinary Delights: Where Locals Dine

Tourist spots tend to dominate visitors’ lists, but the real flavor of Tybee is found in its lesser-known eateries and quirky watering holes. The Crab Shack is an iconic staple, sure, but more intrepid foodies will love discovering places like Sundae Café, a former convenience store turned cozy dining gem. Don’t be fooled by its unassuming exterior, the food here is nothing short of gourmet. Their shrimp and grits might change how you feel about breakfast foods forever.

For casual, toes-in-the-sand dining, relive the old-school charm of A-J’s Dockside. Keep it simple with peel-and-eat shrimp and a frosty drink while you watch the boats float lazily down the river. And if you’re up for a late-night snack, Tybean Art & Coffee Bar serves up not just excellent caffeine but genuinely great vibes, tucked inside a colorful little complex of shops and galleries.

Art and Soul: Tybee’s Creative Scene

If you thought Tybee was purely a beach bum’s playground, think again, this island also knows how to nurture creativity. The Tybee Post Theater, a restored 1930s cinema, has become the heart of the island’s arts scene, hosting everything from live music to indie film screenings. Check their calendar and stop in for something unexpected.

Beyond the theater, the streets themselves are alive with local art. From colorful murals splashed across small shops to handmade jewelry sold at the Tybee Arts Association galleries, there’s an undeniable sense of self-expression here. Keep an eye out for the annual Tybee Arts Festival, where local painters, sculptors, and crafters showcase their work, blending southern flair with coastal inspiration.

Eco-Adventures: Exploring Tybee’s Wild Side

Tybee’s natural beauty isn’t confined to its beaches. Go kayaking through the marshes and tidal creeks where you’ll weave through tall grasses alive with the buzz of crickets and the occasional splash of a playful dolphin. Several outfitters on the island, like North Island Kayak Rentals, offer guided tours that bring you up close to the area’s diverse wildlife.

Feeling more adventurous? Try a stand-up paddle boarding session as you explore inlets that larger boats can’t access. Or book a dolphin tour with a local charter, you’re guaranteed to encounter these friendly creatures as they glide alongside your boat’s wake like it’s their personal playground.

For birdwatchers or anyone with a good pair of binoculars, the Tybee National Wildlife Refuge is a can’t-miss. It’s a sanctuary for migratory birds like sandpipers and painted buntings, as well as other fascinating coastal species. And don’t forget to bring your camera, a heron taking off from the water makes for an Instagram shot that’ll make your friends jealous.

Treasure Awaits

Tybee Island isn’t just a daytrip from Savannah or a quick pit stop on a coastal road trip, it’s an experience all its own. Its blend of quiet natural hideaways, soulful art, rich history, and vibrant local culture has a way of sticking with you long after you’ve dusted the last bits of sand off your feet. Whether you’re scaling the lighthouse, paddling across a serene waterway, or savoring a shrimp taco with the locals, you’ll find that Tybee’s treasures are well worth uncovering.

The one caveat? You might want to keep this guide between us. After all, part of Tybee’s magic is knowing there’s always more to explore, just for those intrepid enough to seek it out.