Book Your Return Ride
Return trips are not automatic—book your pickup time with the marina and set an alarm so you don’t miss the boat.
Little Tybee Beach Day: Savannah’s Quiet Escape to the Barrier Islands
4 tickets minimum • Beach combing • Most Popular!
Continue ReadingThe river loosens its grip on the city as the boat noses past spartina marsh and oyster-studded banks, turning its bow to the open sound. Savannah shrinks to a shimmer behind you. Dolphins ride the pressure wave like old friends, surfacing just long enough to grin before slipping away. The tide breathes in and out, tugging at the hull, and the salt air sharpens your senses as the world simplifies to wind, water, and the long, clean arc of sand on the horizon. You’re headed for Little Tybee—Savannah’s secret refuge—on a 45-minute crossing that feels like a reset button.
Duration5–10 hours including boat transfers
Trail Wisdom
Trail Wisdom
Time Your Swim with the Tide
Georgia’s tidal currents run strong; plan swimming and wading during slack or lower-energy periods and avoid inlet mouths.
Shade Is Non-Negotiable
There’s little natural shade—bring a lightweight beach canopy or umbrella and reapply reef-safe sunscreen.
Pack Out Everything
Little Tybee has no bins; carry a small trash bag to pack out all waste and leave the beach pristine.
Local Knowledge
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- Back-barrier tidal pools on the south end for birdwatching at low tide
- Shell-rich sandbars exposed on mid-to-low tides along the north spit
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphins, American oystercatchers
Conservation Note
The island is a Georgia Department of Natural Resources Natural Area—stay off dunes, avoid roped nesting zones, and pack out all trash.
Little Tybee lies within the Gullah-Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor; nearby Fort Pulaski guarded the Savannah River during the Civil War.
Seasonal Guide
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for:Migratory birdwatching, Mild beach days
Challenges:Variable winds, Chilly water early season
Expect pleasant temperatures and active wildlife. Layers help with breezy crossings and cool mornings.
summer
Best for:Warm-water swims, Long daylight hours
Challenges:Intense sun, Afternoon thunderstorms, Biting insects at dusk
Bring serious sun protection and plenty of water; start early and aim for shade during mid-day heat.
fall
Best for:Fewer crowds, Balanced temps
Challenges:Tropical weather watch, Shortening daylight
Often the sweet spot—warm water lingers, wildlife is active, and the sun angle is gentler.
winter
Best for:Solitude, Crisp photography
Challenges:Cool air and water, Wind chill on the boat
Dress warm for the crossing. Clear air and low sun make for standout beach walks and birdlife.
Photographer's Notes
Photographer's Notes
Shoot early and late when the light softens—use a polarizer to cut glare off wet sand and tidal creeks. Go long (200–400mm) for birds working the wrack line, and keep a wide lens handy for dune lines and passing squalls. On the boat, bump shutter speed to freeze dolphins under bright sun and choppy water.
What to Bring
What to Bring
Collapsible Beach Shade
EssentialPortable shade keeps you cool and protected on an island with minimal natural cover.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
EssentialStrong coastal sun and reflective sand require frequent reapplication to prevent burns.
Soft-Sided Cooler with Ice Packs
EssentialThere are no concessions—bring cold water and snacks to stay energized all day.
Water Shoes or Sandals
Protect your feet when wading over shells and in tidal creeks where oysters may be present.
Common Questions
Common Questions
What to Pack
What to Pack
1) 2 liters of water per person—no potable water on the island. 2) Sun protection (hat, SPF 30+, sunglasses)—the coastal sun reflects off sand and water. 3) Compact shade—an umbrella or canopy keeps you cool for a full-day stay. 4) Dry bag—protect phones, keys, and camera gear during the ride and on the beach.
Did You Know
Did You Know
Despite its name, Little Tybee Island is larger than neighboring Tybee Island and remains entirely undeveloped as a state-managed natural area.
Quick Travel Tips
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive 20 minutes early to load gear efficiently; Check tide tables—plan shelling around low tide; Bring cash/card for post-trip food on Tybee or at The Wyld; Bug spray helps at dusk around marsh edges.
Local Flavor
Local Flavor
Post-boat, head to The Wyld Dock Bar near the marsh for local shrimp and a cold drink. On Tybee, grab coffee at Tybean Art & Coffee Bar or a casual seafood plate at The Crab Shack. Back in Savannah, end with a stroll through the live oaks of Forsyth Park before dinner in the Starland District.
Logistics Snapshot
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airportSavannah
Hilton Head International (SAV). DepartureBull River Marina. Drive time: ~20 minutes from downtown Savannah, ~10 minutes from Tybee Island. Cell service: Spotty to limited on the island; better on the water and near town. Permits: None for day use; book both outbound and return boat rides. No facilities on the island.
Sustainability Note
Sustainability Note
Little Tybee is a state natural area and vital habitat for nesting shorebirds and sea turtles—pack out all trash, keep 100 feet from posted nesting zones, and avoid trampling dunes and vegetation.
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