What the Locals wish you knew

Plus Josh’s Favorites

Tybee locals are a tight-knit, laid-back bunch. We love slow mornings, salt air, and good conversation. If you’re visiting, you’re part of our home for a little while, and we want you to feel welcome and in the know.

Embrace Tybee Time. Tybee Time is when you slow down and move at your own pace. During the busy seasons us locals are working hard; double shifts for days and days. But when we aren’t working you better believe we are on Tybee Time. Relax and have fun while your here!
Protect the Island. Locals care deeply about this island’s environment, the dunes, and keeping Tybee from becoming trashed. Littering is the cardinal sin of Tybee and we take it seriously.
Stay Off the Dunes. They protect the whole island. Climbing on them hurts the natural structure. When you’ve lived through multiple hurricanes you understand how important they are. I know they’ve directly saved my house a couple of times.
Be Careful Around Oysters. Oysters, usually found in marsh mud and on rocks in less popular beach areas, can cut you if stepped on with bare feet.
The Traffic Can Get Crazy. In the heart of summer, especially weekends, your best bet is get out and about early in the day. We are a small island, so by the time 1 PM rolls around the parking lots are pretty full and it’s more difficult to make a quick trip to the other side of the island.
Speed Limits: Strictly enforced, Tybee cops are known for it.
Respect the Ocean. And I’m not talking litter here; I mean the power of the ocean. Speaking as someone who legitimately got ship wrecked on a deserted island because I was being ignorant, you should pay attention to the warning signs, weather, and tide charts if you plan to go out on the water without a guide.
Everywhere has a Different Vibe, Find Yours. To make your vacation the best, pick out some spots that match you and your family’s style. Huc-A-Poos can get pretty lively after sunset, its a good time! Mid Beach stays chill and mostly quiet all year round. The South End of the island is more active than the North End. Explore and find the vibe that fits you!
Embrace the Local…Everything. Tybee has no chains. Even our grocery store is independent. And we like it that way! It makes us unique and able to express that. When I moved here in 2015 there was a Subway and an Arbys. Both are now permanently closed because all of the local restaurants are so good!
It Gets Hot Here. It gets really hot and humid in the summer. Stay hydrated, bring water.
We Want You to Make Great Memories on Tybee. Every single time a friend has visited me here, all of the locals I know suddenly turn into tour guides. And I myself have shifted into the tour guide role for others. There’s something about being a local that makes us all want to show you why the island is special. That’s a big part of the reason I became a photographer; I love this island and want to have people remember the good times they had here (Contact Me to get some great photos you’ll look back on and smile).

🌟 Josh’s Favorites

These aren’t sponsored, trendy, or crowd pleasing picks. This is honestly just my favorite stuff.

Sundae Cafe for Dinner – Best food on the island, hands down. Worth the reservation.
Seaside Sweets – I’m addicted to their malts.
Sunrise Cafe for Breakfast – It’s not fancy, but it’s reliable and cozy.
RAW Ingredients – Great sushi. I've been going since the day they opened.
Back River Beach at Sunset – Best place to go unwind.