When you stay on Hilton Head, you’ll have many opportunities to explore other nearby cities and islands. For example, Tybee is a gorgeous barrier island off the coast of Georgia. With its pristine sandy beaches, exciting outdoor activities, and other unique attractions, it comes as no surprise that this beautiful destination is a bucket list visit for many travelers! During your next vacation, plan an excursion from Hilton Head to Tybee Island! It’s the perfect opportunity for a day trip, which allows for stops at other nearby destinations such as Bluffton and Savannah. Read on to learn more about how to plan the ultimate trip between these two islands. Then, check out our complimentary itinerary for more great local insight on the best things to do around Hilton Head and the surrounding area.
Plan the vacation of your dreams today!
Getting to Tybee Island From Hilton Head Island
Maybe you would like to just pack everything up in the car and hit the road straight to Tybee. Perhaps you’d like to split things up and spend a little time tinkering in other towns and cities along the way. Regardless of how you’d like to get there, you will find a variety of ways to travel.
Road Trip
1 hour and 12 minutes (48.8 mi) via US-80 E
Take a break from lying on the beaches of Hilton Head Island and see what else the Lowcountry has to offer. The short distance between Hilton Head and Tybee makes for the perfect opportunity to embark on a road trip! You might even like to stop in Bluffton, SC, or Savannah, GA, along the way. Both destinations offer a variety of attractions and restaurants that might pique your interest.
Pit Stop in Bluffton
Historic, downtown Bluffton is home to some tasty restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, barbecue, or southern cooking, chances are you will encounter some delicious plates at one of their fine, local eateries. Go shopping for unique knick-knacks or antiques that make for good souvenirs or gifts. Or, just stroll through town in search of unique landmarks and soak in the sights of old swaying oak trees caught up in the wind.
Pit Stop in Savannah
Savannah, GA, is a picturesque Southern city. With its historic architecture, ancient oak trees, and riverside views, this locale makes the perfect pit stop on the way to Tybee Island. Whether you’re interested in the vibrant art scene, exciting eateries, or unique shopping, you’ll find so many different things to pique your interest. You might even like to visit during one of their annual events, such as the Savannah Food and Wine Festival.
Switch up Your Mode of Transportation
Travel to Savannah Via Water Taxi
If you’d rather avoid sitting in the car for too long, consider switching up your mode of transportation. While you can’t catch a public access ferry or boat to Tybee directly from Hilton Head, you can travel to Savannah via ferry or water taxi. There are a handful of options that allow you to set sail and then dock at River Street, where all the fun begins. This is the perfect option for those looking to get out on the water. From Savannah, you can catch a bus or rent a car to travel the rest of the way to Tybee Island on wheels rather than on the water.
The Best Things to Do on Tybee Island
Once you finally make it to Tybee, take a moment to prepare yourself for a day full of fun. Some of our suggestions include:
What to Do
- Spend your days soaking up the sun on Tybee’s stretches of pristine coastline
- Learn about sea turtles at the Tybee Island Marine Science Center
- Climb to the top of the Tybee Light Station for panoramic views
- Explore historic sites throughout Fort Screven
- Visit the historic landmark, Fort Pulaski National Monument
Where to Eat
- Grab a latte and peruse artworks at Tybean Coffee & Art Bar
- Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Sunrise Restaurant
- Indulge in a plate of fresh, local seafood at StingRay’s on Tybee
- CoCo’s Sunset Grille is a great casual spot with vegetarian options
- Seaweed's Sno-Balls and Ice Cream is perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth
- Sit outside at A-J’s Dockside Restaurant and take in the views
Traveling by Boat
Accessing Tybee Island from Hilton Head via public boat or ferry access is not a likely option. Don’t let that deter you from visiting, though! There are a number of ways you can get to Tybee, and while you can’t directly access the island from Hilton Head via public boat access, you could also travel by sea to Savannah and then venture on from there.
Return to Your Private Vacation Home on Hilton Head Island
Traveling from Hilton Head to Tybee Island is one of many exciting day trips you can include in your itinerary! The beautiful beaches, family-friendly attractions, and convenient location make Hilton Head the ideal home base for your Lowcountry getaway. Make the most of your vacation when you choose to stay in a Beach Properties vacation rental! Our homes cater to all of you and your family’s needs. Maybe you would like a large home fit for a multigenerational family. Perhaps you would like to stay in a pet-friendly rental so that you don’t have to worry about boarding your pups. Regardless of which amenities are most important to you, you will discover a wide array of homes and features well-equipped to house you.
Are you ready to plan the trip of a lifetime?