A sunny vacation spot with a southern charm of its own

The giant lighthouse on Tybee Island [Kathryn Kates photos]

For generations Tybee Island, also known as Savannah’s Beach, in Georgia has served as a favourite vacation spot for Jewish families from Savannah and beyond. 

Less than 29 kilometres from the heart of historic Savannah, Tybee Island offers vacationers palm trees, Atlantic Ocean breezes and sunset views reminiscent of the Caribbean, eccentric yet quaint boutiques and shops similar to those found in the Keys, with a southern charm all of its own.

Boasting eight kilometres of sandy beach, there is plenty to do and see both on land and water. You can walk, drive or see the island by renting a bike, moped or island hopper/golf cart, a favourite modes of transportation for the 3,000 locals and visitors who call Tybee Island their holiday home away from home.  Actress Sandra Bullock has a home on the island, and singer John Mellencamp lived in a palatial home steps from the beach, now occupied by his ex-wife.

John Mellancamp's home on Tybee Island.

Not only can you rent a bike from Tim’s Bike & Beach Gear, and have it delivered free, but the company offers tours of the island, a wonderful way to explore where cars and scooters can’t go. For families travelling, “kiddie cars” for bikes are also on offer.  Tybee’s Turtle Island Transit, is the island’s answer to a taxi cab company.  Schedule a pick up and for $3 you’ve got a ride!

While checking out the sites on land be sure to visit Tybee Light Station and Museum, built in 1773. It is Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse. Energetic tourist can climb the 178-steps for a great view of the island and the beach. Other spots to see are the Tybee Marine Science Center, home to the Coastal Georgia Gallery and Fort Pulaski National Monument on neighbouring Cockspur Island where you can learn about the Civil War.  

For shopaholics, there are so many unique places to feed your habit including Seaside Sisters, where you can pick up a novel or two by popular Georgia author Mary Kay Andrews. Set in Georgia, her novels make for perfect beach reading when in her beloved state.

Of course, the warmth of Savannah’s beach will beckon you to its shores either for a swim, or fishing at Tybee Island Pier & Pavilion. Originally built in the early 1900s, the original pier was destroyed in a massive fire and rebuilt in 1996. It quickly became the popular attraction it is today.  

You can’t really come to Tybee Island and not board a boat of some kind. Off the beaten track is the larger uninhabited island, ironically called Little Tybee Island. The experienced captains at Sundial Charters will navigate the marshy waters where bigger vessels can’t manoeuvre. Catch this charter at Fisherman’s Walk on the island’s Back River.

Another must while on Tybee Island is to see dolphins in their natural habitat. Captain Mike’s Dolphin Adventure offers just that and more including deep sea fishing excursions and picturesque sunset cruises. Visitors to the island can indulge in a luxurious personalized, private sailing experience aboard the Whitman Yacht with your very own captain. The yacht will take you around Tybee through Savannah’s tidal waterways and salt-march ecosystem, around the barrier islands and along Savannah’s waterfront.

Other fun ways to enjoy Tybee Island include treating yourself to a massage on the beach or at your vacation rental from Massage & Pilates on Tybee Island – A Coastal Fitness and Wellness Company.  

You can take private yoga lessons at sunrise on the beach from Aikya Yoga, or escape to luxury at the Heavenly Spa at the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa on Hutchinson Island, a 20-minute drive from Tybee Island.  

You can stay at bed and breakfasts such as the Beachview B&B on the southern tip of the island or you may prefer to rent a home. There are a number of rental companies that offer cottages and homes at various price points.  

Oceanfront Cottage Rentals rents some of the most luxurious holiday homes on the island including three and four storey properties with up to six bedrooms, beach views and some even have their very own hot tub or pool and an elevator.

Savannah chef Murray Gottlieb offers local and destination kosher catering.  To order, contact him at: www.kosherfoodsavannah.com.

For more information online about Tybee Island:  Visit  www.visittybee.com or call 1-877-344-3361.