Waterfront day trips
10L Beach Bag
Keep day-trip items together near the shore; do not assume submersion protection.
Fly & Drive guide
Fly into SAV, drive to Tybee Island
47 min drive27 milesNo entry permit
Trip snapshot
Arrival airport- SAV
Airport drive- 47 min · estimate
Suggested stay- 2–4 days
Reservation demand- Lower · check current rules
Vehicle notes- Compact cars are ideal for navigating tight island streets and limited parking spots; check rental rules regarding beach driving, which is strictly prohibited.
Your route
SAV
Savannah Hilton Head International Airport
Tybee Island
About 47 min · 27 mi by car, no stops. Estimate only.
Your arrival plan
Step 1Flights to SAV
Compare fares into Savannah Hilton Head International Airport.
Find flights
Step 2Standard car at SAV
Pick up at the airport and drive straight to Tybee Island. Compare rental companies in one search. Est. from $45/day · typical rate.
Compare rentals
Step 2SUV at SAV
Select an SUV, pickup location and dates on Airport Rentals. Est. from $55/day · typical rate.
Compare SUVs
Before you goStore extra bags
Early arrival or late flight home? Drop luggage nearby and keep the car light for the park.
Find storage
03 · First night near Tybee Island
Sleep close after the drive so day one starts in the park.
Before you land
Reservations
Digital Parking Permits and Maritime History Reservations
Tybee Island requires paid parking throughout the entire island, managed via physical kiosks or a mobile app. While general beach access is open, specific historical tours or lighthouse climbs may have capacity limits; check the official Tybee Island Light Station website for current entry protocols and potential closures.
Official reservation infoBest time to fly in
April – June, September – October
Your route
Day 1 · Maritime Landmarks
Tybee Island Light Station → Tybee Museum at Battery Garland
Day 2 · Estuary and Marsh Ecology
Salt Marsh Kayaking → Tybee Island Marine Science Center
Day 3 · Atlantic Breezes and Piers
Tybee Island Pier and Pavilion → Back River Fishing Pier
Viator
Tours & experiences near Tybee Island
Explore guided activities around Tybee Island. Check the meeting point, dates and availability on Viator before booking.
Open tour listings separatelyCurated Trip Essentials
Five picks for Tybee Island
Water on walking days
2L Hydration Pack
Carry drinking water on longer walks; refill before leaving services.
Town & sightseeing days
11.5L Travel Sling Bag
Keep small day-trip belongings together without a bike-mounted bag.
Travel documents & cards
Crossbody Card Holder
Keep cards close on sightseeing days; check dimensions for what you want to carry.
Wildlife & night viewing
Hawknite 1 4K Night Vision Binoculars
52MP photo · 1,200m range · full color at night. Check park rules before using lights at night.
$299.99 USD · store price
Shop at WILDGUARDEROptional picks, not a complete packing or safety list. Photos from the ROCKBROS and WILDGUARDER stores. Prices as of 2026-10-19 / 2026-10-20; price, stock and shipping may change.
Quick answers
What is the closest airport to Tybee Island?
Savannah Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) is the nearest commercial airport we route from.
How long is the drive from SAV to Tybee Island?
Roughly 47 min (about 27 miles) by car, without stops. Times are estimates.
Do I need a reservation to visit Tybee Island?
Tybee Island requires paid parking throughout the entire island, managed via physical kiosks or a mobile app. While general beach access is open, specific historical tours or lighthouse climbs may have capacity limits; check the official Tybee Island Light Station website for current entry protocols and potential closures.
Keep planning
Full guideStays, 3-day plan and route map for Tybee Island
