Tybee Island Lighthouse: A Timeless Beacon Every Traveler Should Experience
There are places along America’s coastline that feel less like destinations and more like stories waiting to be stepped into. Tybee Island Lighthouse is one of them. For travelers who seek more than beaches and restaurants—for those who want connection, history, beauty, and a sense of place—this iconic lighthouse stands tall not just against the Atlantic horizon, but in the memories of everyone who visits.
As a travel advisor who has helped countless clients discover meaningful coastal getaways, I can confidently say that Tybee Island Lighthouse isn’t simply a landmark. It is an experience anchored in heritage, resilience, and breathtaking coastal charm. Whether you’re a lighthouse enthusiast, a history lover, or simply someone craving a unique adventure, Tybee belongs on your travel list.
In this article, I’ll walk you through its remarkable story, what you can expect during your visit, and why this beacon remains one of Georgia’s most treasured destinations.
A Lighthouse with a History That Refuses to Fade
Tybee Island Lighthouse holds one of the most compelling histories of any lighthouse in America. Its story begins in 1732, when General James Oglethorpe, then-governor of the colony, ordered its construction. At that time, the Georgia coast was rugged and wild, and mariners needed guidance to navigate its shifting shoals and unpredictable waters.
But like many structures built near the ocean, this lighthouse’s early years were shaped by both nature’s power and human resilience.
- The first light station was completed in 1736—without a light—serving as a navigational marker.
- A devastating storm washed it away just five years later.
- The second tower, built in 1742, didn’t fare much better as the coastline continued to erode beneath it.
It wasn’t until 1773 that the lighthouse took on the form we recognize today. Even then, its survival was not guaranteed. Fires, wars, storms, and shifting sands repeatedly threatened its existence, but its keepers—and the surrounding community—refused to let it disappear.
Its most notable reconstruction came after the Civil War, when the top half of the tower was destroyed. The lower portion survived, allowing a new, fully fireproof upper tower to be added. That addition still stands today.
Tybee Lighthouse is, in many ways, a monument to persistence. And that’s part of what makes visiting it so powerful.
What to Expect When You Visit Tybee Island Lighthouse Today
Standing at 145 feet, Tybee Lighthouse is the tallest and most intact historic lighthouse in Georgia. But numbers alone don’t prepare you for the experience of climbing its spiral staircase or looking out across the Atlantic from the observation deck.
To reach the top, you’ll climb 178 steps—a manageable ascent thanks to rest platforms every 25 steps, each featuring windows that frame coastal views like a series of natural postcards. These pauses allow visitors to take in the scenery, breathe, and appreciate the work lighthouse keepers once endured daily.
Surrounding the lighthouse are historic lightkeeper cottages, each restored with incredible attention to detail. These structures offer a glimpse into what life looked like before GPS, automation, and modern marine navigation. The summer kitchen, dating back to 1812, displays fascinating archaeological finds that deepen your connection to the island’s past.
Just across the street, the Tybee Island Museum expands that experience with exhibits on the Euchee tribe, Fort Screven, and Tybee’s golden era. Together, the lighthouse and museum create a journey through centuries of coastal history—one that feels immersive, authentic, and refreshingly unrushed.
Planning the Perfect Day at Tybee Lighthouse
Because the lighthouse and catwalk can close during severe weather, choosing a clear day is essential. Sunny skies promise better visibility, better views, and a better overall experience—especially if you’re planning photography or hoping to soak in those sweeping ocean panoramas.
Before you leave the site, consider stopping into the gift shop. Visitors can take home traditional souvenirs like shirts, hats, and keepsakes, but there’s also a more meaningful option: engraved bricks that become part of the walkway leading to the lighthouse. It’s a beautiful way to commemorate your visit and leave your mark on a place that has stood firm for nearly 300 years.
Your time at Tybee doesn’t have to end there, of course. With wide beaches, fresh seafood, incredible sunsets, and Savannah just a short drive away, the island is a perfect anchor point for a rejuvenating getaway.
Why Tybee Island Belongs on Your Travel List
What makes Tybee Lighthouse extraordinary isn’t just the architecture or the view. It’s the feeling of stepping into a living story. It's one of the rare places where history, nature, culture, and community intersect so seamlessly that you can’t help but slow down and savor the moment.
As travelers increasingly seek meaningful, memorable experiences—not just vacations—Tybee delivers in a way few destinations can. It offers reflection, adventure, beauty, and a quiet reminder that some places endure because they matter.
If your travels are leading you toward the Southeast—or if you're simply looking for a coastal escape with soul—this lighthouse is calling.
Ready to Experience Tybee Island for Yourself?
Contact me today to start planning your next adventure! Whether you’re dreaming of climbing lighthouse steps, exploring Savannah’s coastal heritage, or discovering hidden gems across the region, I handle every detail so you can focus on the joy of travel.
And if you're not ready to plan just yet, you’re warmly invited to join my Live It List Club —where you’ll receive travel tips, destination inspiration, and exclusive content delivered straight to your inbox. Your next unforgettable journey begins with a single spark of curiosity. Let’s ignite it together.
- Updated in December 2025 -