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Tybee Island Beach Attractions

Just a half-hour’s drive southeast of Port Wentworth, Tybee Island is Georgia’s answer to Hilton Head. From historic landmarks like Fort Pulaski and the Tybee Lighthouse Station to Tybee Island’s very own Pier and Pavilion, there are plenty of activities and attractions for you and your family to enjoy year-round on Tybee Island.

More info: Visit Tybee Island

Tybee Island Lighthouse – Built in 1732, this historic lighthouse has guided mariners safely into the Savannah River for more than 275 years. The Tybee Island Light Station is one of America’s most intact lighthouses, boasting all of its historic support buildings on its five-acre site. Rebuilt several times during the past three centuries, the current light station displays its 1916 day mark with 178 stairs and a First Order Fresnel lens (nine feet tall).

Tybee Island Marine Science Center – From marsh treks to turtle talks, to dolphin discovery classrooms, scouting and schoolchildren’s programs, the Tybee Island Marine Science Center comes alive with excitement for visitors of all ages. It’s open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Fort Pulaski National Civil War Monument – Following the War of 1812, the ravaged United States of America needed a new coastal defense system to protect itself from future invasion. Construction of Fort Pulaski began in early 1829

Tybee Island Pier and Pavillion near Port Wentworth Georgia

and was completed in 1845. Daily guided tours, musket firings, and expanded living history programs, including hourly cannon demonstrations, help visitors understand fort life in its early years.

Cockspur Island Lighthouse – Perched on an islet off the southeastern tip of Cockspur Island at the South Channel of the Savannah River, this historic lighthouse has withstood the roar of hurricanes and cannons, and the wrath of time. It is open to the public, for those who can traverse the island’s rugged terrain. An overlook trail offers visitors the best chance to get a closer look at the lighthouse today.

Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion – Forget texts, tweets, and Facebook postings. Meet your friends in person at one of the premier entertainment centers near Port Wentworth, where people enjoy fishing, dancing, musical performances, special events, or simple people watching. On the premises are picnic tables, snack bar, and public restrooms. It’s open daily with free admission.

The pavilion hosts festivals throughout the year, as well as weddings, family reunions, and other social functions.

Historic Tybee Post Theater – Movies with sound began in 1929, and it is believed that the Tybee Post Theater, built in 1930, was one of the first in Georgia to have a sound system. During its heyday, the theater was patronized by Fort Screven’s 500 soldiers and became the highlight of recreational activities at the fort. It was also the scene for children’s dance recitals and musical performances.

The Tybee Historical Society saved the building from demolition by purchasing the property in 2001 and the Friends of Tybee Theater (FOTT) was formed as a support group to plan the rebirth of the theater.