It may not be well-known, but Tybee Island has been a popular vacation spot since the 1800s. Located in Chatham County, Georgia USA, it’s just 18 miles east of Savannah but feels like a world away from the big city. If you’re interested in long, clean beaches with gentle waters and a small-town feel, this is the ideal place to visit.
This island doesn’t get as many visitors as other beach destinations, so you may have some trouble finding the best places to stay in Tybee Island.
That’s why we’ve created this Tybee Island neighbourhood guide, so you can find the best base possible for your relaxing, idyllic vacation in the sun.
Let’s get started!
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Tybee Island.
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Best Airbnb in Tybee Island – Adorable Beachfront Condo
With one double bed and one bunkbed, this cute condo sleeps four guests and is ideal for families visiting the area. It’s a short walk to the beach and has a private pool on-site, as well as a full kitchen and bathroom for comfortable living.
Best Luxury Airbnb in Tybee Island – The Peach Penthouse
Located in one of the best areas to stay in Tybee Island, this apartment is ideal for families as it has enough space for up to six guests. It covers the second floor of a two-story house, and offers complete privacy just steps from the beach. There’s a private balcony, as well as all the essentials you’ll need for your stay.
Best Hotel in Tybee Island – Beachfront Bed and Breakfast Inn
This B&B is one of the best places to stay in if you want to be close to the beach in comfortable, homey surroundings. It offers cosy rooms with private bathrooms and a fridge, and breakfast is offered every morning. Guests can make use of the bar, shared lounge, and garden on the property.
South Beach
At the very base of the island, South Beach is one of the coolest places to stay in Tybee Island for any type of traveller. It offers great accommodation options, easy access to the beach, popular places to eat and hang out, and lots of opportunities for activities.
North Beach
Located on the uppermost tip of the island, North Beach is probably the most popular area for travellers. It offers easy access to some of the island’s best restaurants, as well as lots of attractions and activities for every member of your family.
Mid Beach
Located in the middle of the island along the coast, Mid Beach is a popular spot for tourists. It’s also a good choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Tybee Beach for kids, as it offers easy access to attractions at both ends of the island.
Tybee Island is a lesser known USA travel destination, and doesn’t technically have neighbourhoods. This island is fairly small – only 8.71 km², with a population of just over 3,000 people. But there are still several popular areas to stay, and that’s what this Tybee Island accommodation guide will focus on.
The first area to consider is around South Beach. This boasts lots of popular restaurants and places to stay, and is a great way to get to know the area. This makes it a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Tybee Island for your first time.
The second popular area is near North Beach, on the other side of the island. This has the most affordable accommodation options, making it our top pick for budget-travelers.
The final area to look at is the Mid Beach area. This is just what it sounds like, located close to the center of the island on the coastal side. Because of its easy proximity to everything, it’s a good choice when you’re trying to work out the best accommodation in Tybee Island for families.
3 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Tybee Island
Whether you’re looking for a hotel, Airbnb, or hostel in Tybee Island, here’s where to find some of the best.
COOLEST Thing to Do in South Beach – Head south to the untapped natural preserve of the seldom-visited Little Tybee Island.
BEST Place to Visit in South Beach – Sting Ray’s Seafood, for some of the best food on the island.
At the very base of the island, South Beach is one of the coolest places to stay in Tybee Island for any type of traveler. It offers great accommodation options, easy beach access, popular places to eat and lots of opportunities for activities. South Beach is also the best area for nightlife in Tybee Island.
Best Airbnb in South Beach – Entire Apartment
Suitable for up to four guests, this apartment is clean, modern and welcoming. You’ll enjoy the sleek, modern amenities, including access to the heated pool. Plus, it’s just steps from the beach and local restaurants.
Best Luxury Airbnb in South Beach – Sandy Shoes Cottage
This Tybee Beach accommodation option is private and fully equipped with everything you’ll need for your stay. Suitable for up to two guests, it’s a 1930s beach cottage that’s been fully restored to modern standards. It’s in a quiet local neighbourhood, but close to local restaurants, shops and the beach.
Best Hotel in South Beach – Hotel Tybee
This hotel in Tybee Island is conveniently located close to the beach, shops and restaurants. Rooms here are spacious and include a balcony, as well as a bar on-site for late-night drinks. You can also use the swimming pool while you’re at the hotel if you don’t feel like taking a dip in the ocean!
Things To See and Do in South Beach
- Have a meal at A-J’s Dockside, Sweet Dreams Bar and Grill, or Fannies on the Beach.
- Throw in a line at the Back River Fishing Pier.
- Spend some time in Tybrisa Street, often called the Downtown of Tybee Island, where the locals love to shop and dine.
- Learn about the waters around the island at the Tybee Island Marine Science Center.
- Have an alcoholic slushie at Wet Willie’s, a drink in the sunset at CoCo’s Sunset Grill, or watch sports with your drink at Tybee Time.
- Wander along Tybee Beach Pier take in the scenery.
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Learn More Now!2. North Beach – Where to Stay in The Tybee Island on a Budget
COOLEST Thing to Do in North Beach – Go bird watching on the North Beach Birding Trail.
BEST Place to Visit in North Beach – Visit the historical Fort Screven and learn more about the history of the island.
Located on the uppermost tip of the island, North Beach is the most popular area for travelers. It offers easy access to some of the island’s best restaurants, as well as lots of attractions and activities for every member of your family. It also has a wide variety of accommodation options, which is what makes it a great choice if you’re traveling on a budget.
Best Airbnb in North Beach – Sunny Daze Bungalow
This lovely bungalow is in the best area of Tybee Island if you want to be close to everything. It has a full bathroom and kitchen as well as a fully fenced yard with a pond, where you can sit and relax at the end of a long day. It’s also surrounded by local shops and restaurants, and is within walking distance of the beach.
Best Luxury Airbnb in North Beach – Fins watch
The perfect couples’ retreat, this apartment is just steps from the beach and offers amazing views. It’s newly remodelled and overlooks the pool and the waterfront. It sleeps two guests and offers free parking and access to the pool and laundry facilities.
Best Hotel in North Beach – DeSoto Beach Vacation Properties
Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Tybee Island for one night or a longer stay, this is a good choice. It offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, kitchens, and patios. The hotel also has a swimming pool and free parking available.
Things To See and Do in North Beach
- Hire a bike and explore the island on your own power.
- Visit the light station to see Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse.
- Explore the ocean in a kayak on your own or on a tour.
- Grab a meal or a snack at the Sugar Shack, Quarter, or North Beach Bar and Grill.
- Take the kids to enjoy the athletic facilities and sports at Jaycee Park.
- Go surfing off Tybee Beach Point.
3. Mid Beach – Best Neighborhood in Tybee Island for Families
COOLEST Thing to Do in Mid Beach – Relax on the beach and take in the atmosphere.
BEST Place to Visit in Mid Beach – Head to Tybee Island Memorial Park for tennis, basketball, or a picnic.
Located in the middle of the island along the coast, Mid Beach is a popular spot for travelers. It’s also a good choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Tybee Beach with kids, as it offers easy access to attractions on both ends of the island. If you want a relaxing holiday with lots of opportunities for activities and experiences, this is the best place to come.
Best Airbnb in Mid Beach – Condo Banana
This condo is brightly coloured and cheerful, and offers all the comforts of home. It sleeps four guests and is dog-friendly, and amenities include free Wifi and a laundry room. It’s also less than a block from the beach and local shops, and a short walk from the famous lighthouse.
Best Hotel in Mid Beach – DeSoto Beach Hotel
With local attractions close by, this hotel is in the best area in Tybee Island if you want a relaxing visit. The hotel offers a continental breakfast every morning and has an outdoor pool on-site. Rooms with ocean views and a balcony can be requested if you want the full package.
Best Luxury Airbnb in Mid Beach – Beach Retreat
This condo is one of the coolest places to stay in Tybee Island. It’s just 100 yards from the beach and suitable for up to two guests with one bedroom. It has an open living plan kitchen and living area, and a sunroom with a tiki bar. The condo is just across the road from Memorial Park, so you’ll never run out of things to do.
Beach Retreat is one of our favourites in Tybee Island but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things To See and Do in Mid Beach
- Grab a meal at local spots like the Sundae Café, the Deck Beach Bar and Kitchen, or the Crab Shack.
- Check out a show at the Tybee Post Theater.
- Make sure you watch the sunrise and sunsets on the beach.
- Head over to Cockspur Island between Tybee Island and Savannah to see Fort Pulaski, a key spot during the American Civil War.
- Take a tour to see dolphins off the island.
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Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in Tybee Island
Tybee Island may be small, but it packs quite a punch. When you visit the island, you’ll find yourself sitting back, relaxing, and succumbing to the laid-back coastal vibe. Just make sure you base yourself in one of Tybee Island’s best neighbourhoods to make your stay extra special!
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