If you’re the type of traveler who loves the great outdoors and you happen to be vacationing in both Tybee Island and Savannah, you might find yourself searching for “outdoor activities near me” to make the most of your trip. Fortunately, there are several wonderful trails and opportunities to connect with nature all around you! Whether you choose to take a peaceful stroll on the nature trails surrounding Fort Pulaski, explore local marine life at the Marine Science Center, or go kayaking out to Little Tybee, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures to be had. So, embrace your wild side and check out our list of the top outdoor activities!
Fort Pulaski Nature Trails
Although Fort Pulaski National Monument is primarily known for its historical significance, the nature trails that surround it offer some incredible opportunities for hiking and sightseeing. Situated on Cockspur Island, there are several trails for visitors to choose from depending on their preferences. The North Pier Trail takes you through a lush wooded environment and leads you past the remnants of Fort Pulaski’s original construction village. Despite being only 1 mile out and back, this short and easy hike has plenty of highlights, including Battery Hambright and the historic north pier.
For those looking for stunning views of the Cockspur Island Lighthouse, the Lighthouse Overlook Trail is an excellent option. This 1.7-mile trail winds through the unique environments of the lowcountry, including maritime forest and marshlands. This trail not only offers an opportunity to admire the 1800’s era lighthouse, but it also allows visitors to get a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems that thrive on Cockspur Island. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a novice, these trails are sure to be an unforgettable addition to your trip to Fort Pulaski National Monument.
Outdoor Activities Near Me: Tybee Beach Ecology Trips
Grab your beach shoes and head to the shorelines with Tybee Beach Ecology Trips! Make your trip more than just a trip to the beach. Make it a valuable experience discovering the animals and habitats of Georgia’s beaches and barrier islands. Led by scientist/biologist Dr. Joe Richardson, a professor of Marine Sciences, the excursion will take you around the beach to the best places to find sea critters. According to Dr. Joe, low tide is the best time to find coastal creatures in the North Tybee jetties. You may interact with blue crabs, stone crabs, starfish, and maybe even an octopus!
Head Out To Little Tybee
Just south of Tybee Island lies an uninhabited nature preserve that is only accessible by boat called Little Tybee! While it may not be the first place visitors think of, it’s a true hidden gem. Despite the name, Little Tybee is actually twice the size of Tybee Island and well worth the trip with its coastal salt marshes, pristine beaches, tropical forest, and tons of wildlife. You’ll have to head across the Back River to reach Little Tybee, which can only be done by boat. No boat? No problem! Rent your gear from North Island Surf & Kayak or East Coast Paddleboarding to venture across the river.
Outdoor Activities Near Me: Tybee Marine Science Center
Pack a beach bag for an adventure and visit the Tybee Marine Science Center. While not technically outdoors, it’s where learning about the outdoors and wildlife becomes a hands-on experience! Since opening its doors in 1988, the marine center has educated over 80,000 school-aged children through its Coastal Classroom programs. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the Tybee shoreline and get up close and personal with its inhabitants! In the spring of 2021, the Tybee Marine Science Center opened a new, innovative facility on the northern end of Tybee. Overlooking the ocean, this new location features permanent residents as well as new additions.
Wildlife Center of Savannah
Tucked away between historic downtown Savannah and Tybee Island is Oatland Island Wildlife Center, a natural sanctuary filled with amazing animals. Down the moss-draped, winding road, a massive welcome center built in the 18th century greets guests upon arrival. Despite only being 10 minutes from downtown Savannah, you’ll forget all about the hustle and bustle of the city. The wildlife facility sits on 175 acres of land and houses 150 animals from 50 different species. From the “Wolf Wilderness” to the “Birds of Prey” exhibit, visitors can use the 2-mile loop trails to experience many natural habitats along the way.
Captain Mike’s Dolphin Tours
Sit back and enjoy the natural beauty of the area while watching the dolphins play with Captain Mike’s Dolphin Tours! The boat will take you out toward the Atlantic Ocean – passing shrimp boats, the Cockspur Lighthouse, Fort Pulaski, and Tybee’s north beach. It’s a perfect opportunity to watch bottle-nose dolphins and other sea creatures play in their natural habitat! The dolphin and sightseeing tour is often described by visitors as the high point of their trip to the coastal area, so it’s a must!
Funky & Wild Vacation Rentals
Sitting on the dock of the bay, watching the tide roll away at All Decked Out! This 4 bedroom, 2,300 square foot vacation home is reminiscent of a laid-back fish camp, but with all the perks of staying in an updated beach house on Tybee Island!
Take a vacation fit for a rock star! Free Bird is a super cool 7 bedroom, 5 bathroom home with over 3,000 square feet of living space, with plenty of space for the kids, ideal for the next generation of little rock stars, and features a large (32′ X 16′) private pool with multiple outdoor living spaces.
Chimney Pot Cottage is a relaxing retreat for guests visiting Tybee Island! This charming cottage has a private dock and screened-in porch overlooking the quiet creek and marsh grass.
Interested in other vacation home options? Browse through our amazing collection of vacation homes!
