An Original NewMar NewAire

Update: Oh Savannah (& Tybee Island) -- 3/9/19

Our last stop before turning homeward is Tybee Island just east of Savannah, GA. While we've been to Savannah a couple times before, this was our first visit to Tybee.



We stayed at the Rivers End Campground, which is a lovely, well-kept park situated at the north end of the small island, just a stone's throw from the beaches and the historic Mulryne lighthouse.

As this was our first trip to Tybee, we really didn't know what to expect. The island turned out to be much more developed than we had anticipated; more so than Jekyll or even Hilton Head. That shouldn't be surprising, given the Island's proximity to historic Savannah, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. (Below is a shot of Emmet Park in Savannah's historic riverfront district.)



Tybee Island Tips

Bring your bicycles! Tybee Island is pay-to-park everywhere. I mean everywhere! If it's public and you can park on it, you have to pay: $2 per hour. Fortunately the island is also very bike-able, and so are Tybee's expansive beaches, so bring the bikes and plan to use those.



Speaking of beaches, Tybee's are huge and clean and amazing, full of shells and wildlife, and within easy walking (or biking) distance of the island's only campground. No pets allowed on the beaches anytime - strictly enforced - but there are two dog parks (big and little dogs) located adjacent to the campground.

For eats, try Sting Ray's on the main drag downtown; it's located in a repurposed auto repair facility. Another fun place is the Crab Shack, situated just off the highway as you enter the island (drive, don't bike); after eating you can feed the alligators or just enjoy viewing all the oddball decor. The local American Legion Hall does $10 dinners on Thursday nights - Tuesdays belong to the Shriners Club; both are within easy walking distance of your campsite - get there early. Last but not least, there's the local IGA on the main drag which has just about everything you might need if you want to restock your camper.

We Love Savannah

Savannah's historic district is less than a 30 minute drive from Tybee. If you've never been there, plan on spending a whole day.



My recommendation for newbies is to spring for a day pass on the Old Town Trolley Tour, a hop-on-hop-off service that originates on the edge of the historic district (parking included). We started by riding the whole circuit once, deciding what we wanted to see and do, then began hopping-off-on to our hearts' content.

In addition to the many museums, galleries, and historic sites, Savannah must-sees include the River Street waterfront district (shopping, restaurants, boat rides, etc), the many city squares (parks), the amazing historic homes and churches, and the Colonial Park Cemetery. Evening ghost tours are also available for those seeking light entertainment in the dark.

As to food, there's Tubby's Seafood and the Cotton Exchange Tavern, equally good, both on the riverfront. For goofy souvenirs or just a laugh, don't miss the Five & Dime General Store just down River Street.

Note that you can save a few bucks if you purchase your trolley/tour tickets from the campground office. And keep one of those freebie tourist maps handy; you'll need it.



Click here to find out more about Rivers End Campground.

Click here to find out more about Savannah Trolley Tours.



TomAndPeg