When you think of Georgia, you might picture Atlanta's city life, or maybe the antebellum countryside of Savannah, one of the Peach State's oldest cities. You'd rarely think of sparkling beaches, a sandy coastline, and budget-friendly resort-like amenities. However, just about a 30-minute drive from Savannah, Tybee Island offers the perfect blend of luxurious island living and cozy southern hospitality -- and it was named the second best beach town on the East Coast by locals, according to Travel
& Leisure.
Nicknamed "Georgia's Playground," this 5.2-mile island is a refreshing escape from the heat and hustle without feeling like a commercialized beach destination. With its stretch of shoreline, mouthwatering waterfront dining options, and the constant lull of waves crashing in the background, Tybee feels like a place you stumble upon and never want to leave. Here, you can start your morning with a beachside sunrise, spend the afternoon kayaking through salt marshes, and end the day with a plate of fresh-caught shrimp as the sky is painted in pink and gold.
Try to travel here between May and October to witness sea turtle nesting season, when loggerheads return to the island's protected beaches to lay their eggs under the stars. Whether you're taking a Southeast road trip from Georgia to the Carolinas or planning a weekend getaway, Tybee proves that Georgia does beaches just as well as biscuits.
Read more: Research Says You Should Skip These Dangerous Beaches When Visiting Florida
Where Turtles Nest And Locals Feast
Tybee Island is a slice of paradise that comes with many surprises for nature lovers and foodies alike. In mid-spring to early-fall, the island is an important sanctuary for loggerhead turtles, and local conservation efforts are strong. Visitors are often educated about "lights out" policies and protecting nests, meaning beachfront lights and cellphones should be avoided after 10 p.m. This is because they can cause turtles to become disoriented.
During this time, if you need illumination, you can only use red flashlights on the beach. It's a reminder that you're stepping into nature's space, not the other way around. If you're lucky, you might even catch a hatchling release, making your visit unforgettable. After a morning of wildlife exploration, head into town for some casual coastal dining.
Local favorites like The Original Crab Shack and The Deck Beachbar & Kitchen serve fresh, finger-licking good seafood and scenic ocean views. Think Lowcountry boils, fried shrimp baskets, and oysters on the half shell. It's the kind of food that tastes better after a day in the sun, made even better by live music and a stunning sunset. Dining here isn't about Michelin stars, it's about flavor, community, and generous portions.
Affordable Luxury With Coastal Access
What makes Tybee Island especially appealing is how affordable it is without sacrificing natural beauty. Accommodations range from budget-friendly motels and historic inns to charming beach rentals perfect for groups or families. Places like Hotel Tybee, with its oceanfront rooms and retro island vibe, or Georgianne Inn & Suites, a cozy historic property just steps from the sand, offer comfort without the luxury price tag. Prices for both can be less than $200 a night.
You won't find five-star resorts, but that's sort of the whole point. Tybee keeps things simple, and that simplicity is part of its appeal. A long weekend here won't break the bank, especially with so many free or low-cost activities: Strolls on the beach, sunset-watching, dolphin tours, or biking around the island.
The Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is less than an hour away, making it one of the most accessible coastal escapes in the South. It's a quick trip that feels like a world away, perfect for a reset without a long commute. Bonus: Tybee's proximity to Savannah means you can enjoy a beach retreat and a historic city break all in one trip. This island offers an authentic, wallet-friendly getaway that's full of heart. Want to learn more about inland Georgia? Check out the state's leafy, walkable Atlanta suburb, blending vibrant urban energy with historic small-town charm.
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Read the original article on Islands.
