Tybee Island Activities Designed For Families: What To Do With Kids

We just returned from a Georgia beach vacation and found so many Tybee Island activities for kids! Visit Tybee graciously hosted us and I’m so excited to share what to do with kids in Tybee Island, Georgia. All opinions are my own.

As Savannah’s closest beach, it’s clear why thousands of tourists flock to Tybee Island every year. It’s part of Georgia’s barrier islands and located only five hours from Atlanta. While the island itself is only several square miles in area, it’s jam-packed with tons of family activities. I’m sharing my favorite things to do with kids on Tybee Island – and it goes beyond the beach too! It’ll be your family’s favorite adventure vacation destination.

The Best Tybee Island Activities For Families With Kids

As much as I love a lazy beach vacation, the kids don’t allow for it. We’re up at sunrise and ready to explore. There are so many Tybee destinations that are great for kids of all ages. There are hands-on learning experiences, historical destinations and old-fashioned fun. With awesome weather almost year round, you can plan your Tybee Island family vacation without any hesitation.

Tybee Island Light Station and Museum

Tybee Island history dates back to the early 1700’s and the Tybee Island Light Station has been guiding mariners safely into the Savannah River for over 285 years. Today, guests can climb the 178 steps to the top and experience a 360º view of the island. The three Light Keeper’s Cottages are home to historical artifacts that showcase what life was like for the Light Keeper’s family.

Kids love the challenge of climbing to the top. If you have little ones, there are plenty of landings to take a break and catch your breath. Surprisingly, my kids took most interest in the cottages, which offer a look into life as a 19th century child.

Captain Mike’s Dolphin Tours

When you create a beach vacation bucket list, 9 out of 10 kids will ask to see dolphins. That other kid? A shark. Kids love animals and they’re naturally curious about their habitats. Go from the Tybee saltwater marshes into the Atlantic with Captain Mike’s Dolphin Tours.

They’re a family-owned local business that offers dolphin tours, deep sea fishing and sunset cruises. The Captains and First Mates follow the shrimp boats to give guests the best possible views of dolphins. They’re also very knowledgable about all local marine life – so it’s the perfect time for kids to ask their questions.

You’ll experience views of the Cockspur Island Lighthouse, famous homes located near the marina and all of the local wildlife (not just dolphins). Kids under 8 are required to wear a life jacket and reservations can be made online.

Fort Pulaski National Monument

Kids may not be able to understand the in-depth history behind Fort Pulaski, but it’s one of our can’t-miss Tybee Island Activities. The Union army used new technology and science that led to the Confederate garrison inside Fort Pulaski to surrender.

Guests can do a self-guided tour or a ranger-led tour that offers some extra insight. Kids can participate in the National Park Service Junior Ranger program and complete the Fort Pulaski Junior Ranger booklet to earn their badge. Some of the highlights that kids enjoy the most include learning about the construction, scavenger hunts designed by age range and seeing how cannons work.

Walk The Tybee Island Pier

Looking for free Tybee Island activities? One of my favorite leisurely thing to do as a family is walk the pier. Located on the South Beach, it offers a great view of the beach and you can rent fishing poles to fish directly off of the pier.

It’s a fantastic view and a great place to people watch, but it’s also a nice post-lunch activity. There are some great family-friendly restaurants on Tybee Island’s South Beach. Fannies On The Beach and Spanky’s Beachside are great casual options after a day on the beach.

Tybee Island Marine Science Center

Get hands-on and learn about some of the marine life that lives around Tybee Island. You discover how sea turtles are rescued, learn about the island’s conservation efforts and explore kid-friendly exhibits. It’s located just off of the Tybee Island Pier and it’s a great indoor escape from the Georgia sun.

They also offer one-hour educator-guided “Walks, Talks and Treks” which offers guests an authentic learning experience that’s beyond the science center.

Tybee Island Marine Science Center, Tybee Island Turtle Rescue, Tybee Island Marine Life

Photo Credit: Tybee Island Marine Science Center

Visit One Of Tybee Island’s Beaches & Little Tybee Island

This list wouldn’t be complete without including the beach. Family beach days are a must for any vacation and Tybee Island beaches offer plenty of fun. The public beaches are divided into North, Mid and South Beach areas. There are plenty of surfers, jet skiers, boat watching, shelling and swimming.

Only accessible by boat, a hidden gem is Little Tybee Island. It’s an uninhabited nature preserve that offers pristine views and plenty of nature – perfect for bird watching! You can access Little Tybee Island by boat, kayaking or jet skiing.

If you want to add some extra adventure to your family’s Tybee Island vacation, consider camping on Little Tybee Island. You can fall asleep beneath the stars after a day of exploring.