Planning a beach vacation with kids can feel like a balancing act, searching for a destination that’s both fun and family-friendly while still offering parents the chance to relax. Luckily, Tybee Island, Georgia, checks all the boxes. Just 20 minutes from downtown Savannah, Tybee is a laid-back coastal community where families can build sandcastles, explore nature, and create lasting memories together.
For guests staying with Southern Belle Vacation Rentals, Tybee offers endless opportunities to keep kids entertained, engaged, and happy. Whether your family loves the beach, wildlife, or hands-on learning, here are some of the top activities for a kid-friendly trip to Tybee Island.
Is Tybee Island Kid-Friendly?
The short answer: yes! Tybee is known for its safe, welcoming atmosphere and variety of activities for all ages. With calm beaches, accessible attractions, and plenty of casual dining options, it’s a favorite destination for families. Parents can feel at ease knowing there are spots perfect for toddlers, school-aged kids, and even teens looking for a little adventure.
Best Beaches for Families
Not all beaches are the same when you’re traveling with kids. Here are the most family-friendly spots on Tybee:
North Beach: Located near the Tybee Island Lighthouse, North Beach is quieter and less crowded, with calmer waters ideal for younger children. Parking and restrooms are nearby, making it a practical choice for families.
South Beach: The most popular area, South Beach is close to the pier and pavilion, where kids can grab ice cream, watch street performers, or enjoy a stroll after swimming.
Mid Beach: A great “in-between” option, Mid Beach is less busy than South Beach but still has easy access to rentals and food.
Tip: Bring a wagon or stroller with large wheels to carry beach gear across the sand more easily.
Hands-On Learning at the Tybee Island Marine Science Center
If your kids love animals, don’t miss the Tybee Island Marine Science Center. This interactive facility lets children learn about local marine life through touch tanks, exhibits, and guided programs. From sea turtles to horseshoe crabs, the center makes ocean science fun and accessible for all ages.
It’s also a great way to take a break from the sun while still enjoying an educational, kid-friendly outing.
Dolphin Tours: A Family Favorite
Few things excite kids more than spotting dolphins in the wild, and Tybee offers multiple dolphin-watching tours that depart from the island or nearby Savannah. These boat rides are usually around an hour long, perfect for shorter attention spans, and provide guaranteed smiles as dolphins leap alongside the boat. Many tours also pass by historic landmarks like Fort Pulaski or the Cockspur Island Lighthouse, making it a scenic trip for adults too.
Climb to the Top of Tybee Island Lighthouse
The Tybee Island Lighthouse and Museum is one of the oldest and tallest lighthouses in America, and climbing its 178 steps is an adventure in itself. Kids love the challenge of reaching the top, where panoramic views of the island and ocean await. The adjacent museum gives families a glimpse into the history of Tybee and its role in Georgia’s maritime past.
Tip: Bring water and plan this activity earlier in the day, especially during summer months, when the stairs can get hot.
Explore on Two Wheels
Renting bikes is one of the easiest and most fun ways for families to see the island. Tybee’s flat terrain and relaxed pace make biking accessible for all ages. Tandem bikes, child seats, and even surreys (multi-person bikes with canopies) are available for rent, so the whole family can ride together. Pedal through quiet neighborhoods, stop at local shops, and enjoy the island at a slower pace.
Where to Eat with Kids on Tybee
Vacation dining doesn’t have to be stressful. Tybee is full of family-friendly restaurants where kids can enjoy casual meals while parents savor fresh seafood. Favorites include:
The Crab Shack: Famous for its Lowcountry boil, this spot has outdoor seating, a laid-back vibe, and even an alligator lagoon to entertain the kids.
A-J’s Dockside Restaurant: Perfect for sunset dinners with a view, offering a mix of seafood and kid-friendly options.
The Sugar Shack: A go-to for ice cream and sweet treats after a long day at the beach.
Tips for Families Visiting Tybee
Bring Sun Protection: Shade tents, hats, and sunscreen are musts for little ones.
Pack Snacks & Water: Keep kids fueled and hydrated between activities.
Plan Around Naps: Morning outings work best for young children, and afternoons are ideal for relaxed beach time or indoor breaks.
Use Beach Wagons: They’re lifesavers for carrying toys, towels, and snacks.
Why Tybee Is Perfect for a Family Vacation
Tybee Island offers just the right balance of activity and relaxation for families. Kids can spend hours splashing in the surf or building sandcastles, while parents appreciate the island’s easy pace and convenient amenities. Add in unique experiences like dolphin tours, bike rides, and lighthouse climbs, and you have all the ingredients for a trip your family will talk about for years to come.
When you stay with Southern Belle Vacation Rentals, you’ll have a comfortable home base with space for the whole family, just minutes from the beach and all of Tybee’s kid-friendly attractions. From sandy toes to dolphin sightings, Tybee Island is a family adventure waiting to happen.