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Formerly known as 'Savannah Beach,' and a local's spot for many years, this barrier island some 18 miles east of Savannah, Georgia is now a popular destination for tourists of all stripes. With its historic lighthouse (the third oldest in the country), museums, and scenic stretches of coastline, Tybee Island is alluringly accessible to anyone wanting to mix culture and coastal living.
Now, as domestic travel slowly opens up following the COVID-19 pandemic, many US travelers are considering summer escapes. For those looking to hit the road and travel domestically, Tybee Island offers many advantages.
The island is just five square miles, and one side of that square is five miles of relatively unspoiled coastline. As a diminutive destination, there are fewer crowds and smaller hotels compared to many other East Coast counterparts, making it easier to follow social distancing.
However, it's not without some risk. If you're wondering if it's safe to travel and stay in hotels, it's important to understand that without a vaccine, there is no firm guarantee. Follow guidelines from organizations such as the CDC and WHO, wear a mask, wash your hands, and maintain social distancing, to minimize risks. Additionally, be sure to check current state travel restrictions before booking as new COVID-19 outbreaks may cause policy changes.
Yet, couples and families could likely maintain their hygiene and social distancing protocols in and around Tybee Island without too much stress, and the hotels listed below all have updated sanitization procedures, which we've listed within each description.
Given the proximity to downtown Savannah, many Tybee Island visitors are as likely to stay in the city and drive out just for the day, so accommodation options are not as extensive as in other popular beach areas. That said, there are some wonderful smaller properties with real character.
The prices are also attractive, with rooms at three-star hotels and bed and breakfasts starting at around $130 per night, rising to just over $200 for four-star accommodations. That offers competitive value compared to Savannah hotels, which can skyrocket during peak seasons. For the best prices, consider visiting in winter when there's still plenty of small-town charm, even if the beaches are more fit for strolling rather than sunbathing.
I've been visiting Savannah and its environs, including Tybee Island, for around a decade and our picks are not only well-priced and located, but are also top-rated by past guests on trusted traveler sites such as TripAdvisor and Booking.com.
To learn about other safe vacation ideas during COVID that are close to home, click on a link below to jump directly to more coverage:These are the best hotels on Tybee Island, sorted by price from low to high.