About
One Georgia landmark that should be at the top of your to-do list is visiting the Tybee Island Light Station & Museum!
Recently refurbished, this iconic lighthouse has been guiding mariners into the Savannah River for over 285 years.
Originally ordered by General James Oglethorpe in 1732, the first structure was completed in 1736. However, storms and erosion eroded the structure, necessitating multiple reconstructions. The current lighthouse was completed in 1867 and incorporates the original 60 feet of the 1773 tower, making it a blend of old and new.
The lighthouse is one of the most intact historic light stations in the United States, with all its original support buildings still standing on its three-acre site. Its 145-foot height offers extraordinary views of Tybee Island, while the First Order Fresnel Lens is a modern marvel.
The adjacent museum, in the Battery Garland, offers a glimpse into the military history of Fort Screven. The garrison played a key role during the Spanish-American War and both World Wars. The exhibits detail the lighthouse's evolution, the fort's significance, and the community's history.
Just a short drive from the Savannah Historic District, it makes planning a fun-filled itinerary easy-peasy. Visit for the views and see how man's ingenuity works in harmony with nature to ensure safe passage for ships and their crews.
Tybee Island Light Station & Museum: Fun Facts & Cool Features
The lighthouse is Georgia's oldest and tallest coastal beacon, standing at an impressive 145 feet. Its 178 steps lead to breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean. After working up an appetite climbing the stairs, nearby restaurants like Pier 16 and Treylor Park Beach Party will quench your thirst and satisfy your hunger.
The First Order Fresnel Lens, installed in 1867, is a marvel of engineering. This lens, which is still in use today, magnifies light to guide ships safely. It's a testament to its enduring design and functionality.
The museum in Battery Garland is a treasure trove of history. It's housed in a fortification built during the Spanish-American War and features exhibits on Fort Screven's role in military history. The museum also delves into the lighthouse's storied past, from its early days as a daymark to its automation in 1972.
Visiting the Tybee Island Light Station & Museum is a must for history buffs and casual visitors alike. It's a chance to connect with the past while enjoying the present, making it a highlight of any Savannah vacation.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions from downtown Savannah to Tybee Island Light Station & Museum:
- Follow I-16 E to exit 167A Martin Luther King Junior Boulevard.
- Turn left onto Martin Luther King Jr Blvd.
- Turn right onto W Bay St.
- Merge onto US-80 E/Islands Expy.
- Keep left at the fork and merge onto US-80 E/Islands Expy.
- Turn left onto N Campbell Ave.
- Turn left onto Van Horne Ave.
- Turn right at the 1st cross street onto Meddin Dr.
- Address: 30 Meddin Dr, Tybee Island, GA 31328.
Local Tips
- Backpacks of any kind are not permitted.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the 178-step climb to the top.
- Parking is free with ticket purchase, but there is a 2-hour limit.
- You may bring water, but please note that other food and drinks are not permitted on-site.
- The lighthouse may close during adverse conditions; plan accordingly.
