Do you love adding lighthouses to your list of things to see when you are on vacation? If you answered yes, then you are going to love the lighthouse on Tybee Island! The highlight of this area is obviously the lighthouse. However, the museum across the street is a must-see too.

History of the Tybee Island Lighthouse

The history of the Tybee Island lighthouse dates all the way back to 1732. That is the day General James Oglethorpe, the governor at the time, ordered the lighthouse to be constructed. This lighthouse sits on three acres of land. It is the one of the few lighthouses to still have all the historic support buildings in place to this day.

The first light station was constructed in 1736. It did not have a light, but it was useful anyway. That first light station only lasted for five years before a storm swept it away. A second light station was erected in 1742. Unfortunately, the ocean kept creeping closer and closer to the light station, so it needed to be demolished and rebuilt. The most recent lighthouse was constructed by 1773.

Today’s Tybee Island Lighthouse

The latest lighthouse stands at one hundred forty-five feet. Candles were lit inside in 1791 and the light was only out after the top half was destroyed during the Civil War. Since the lower section of the lighthouse was still intact, it was decided to rebuild the top. The new section is completely fireproof and still stands proud today.

The climb to the top of the lighthouse will require you to walk up 178 steps. The good news is that there is a resting platform at the end of every 25 steps. There is even a window at each resting platform, so you can enjoy the views as you take a little breather!

There are three light keeper’s cottages around the Tybee Island lighthouse, as well as a summer kitchen from 1812. Inside the kitchen, you will have the chance to look at many archaeological discoveries.

The Tybee Island Museum is filled with all sorts of exhibits. One exhibit covers the history of Fort Screven, while others tackle the Euchee tribe and Tybee’s golden era.

When to visit 

I recommend seeing the Tybee Island lighthouse on days when the weather is nice. The reason for this is they will close the lighthouse and catwalk when the weather is bad.

There is a little shop where you can purchase items to commemorate your visit of the Tybee Island lighthouse. If you love to take souvenirs home with you, there are plenty of hats, shirts, sweatshirts, and other items to choose from. However, if you don’t love the clutter back home, you can always purchase an engraved brick to line the walkways leading to the lighthouse.

Are you ready to check out the Tybee Island Lighthouse and Museum? There are so many other things to do around Tybee Island, so get ready to plan an amazing vacation there! Simply click here to set up a time to chat that is convenient for you. Afterwards, I will do all the work for you, so all you need to do is show up and have fun on your vacation in Savannah, Georgia.

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