Feel the warm Georgia sun on your skin. The salty air is thick with the scent of sea and sand. Welcome to Tybee Beach a place where history whispers on the wind.
Tybee Beach isn’t just a stretch of sand. It’s a living testament to centuries of stories. From Native Americans who called this land home for thousands of years to Spanish explorers who claimed it as Los Bajos. Tybee’s history is rich and varied.
Imagine pirates using the island’s hidden waterways as their escape routes. Picture them seeking refuge from those who hunted them. They used the island’s fresh water and plentiful game for survival.
The strategic location at the mouth of the Savannah River made Tybee the perfect spot for a lighthouse. First built in 1736 it was the tallest structure in America at the time. It has been rebuilt multiple times due to beach erosion. The current lighthouse stands as a proud beacon a testament to Tybee’s enduring presence.
The Civil War left its mark on Tybee too. Union forces set up siege batteries. They successfully bombarded Fort Pulaski a major turning point in coastal warfare. The use of rifled cannons rendered masonry forts obsolete. Today Tybee commemorates this pivotal moment.
After the war Tybee became a popular summer escape. Savannah residents sought the healing saltwater air. Steamships and later the railroad brought waves of tourists. The Tybrisa Pavilion a bustling hub hosted big band acts. Bing Crosby and Tommy Dorsey performed there.
The island’s development continued. By 1940 four hotels stood proudly. The first Days Inn hotel opened in 1970. Even today Tybee Beach continues to thrive.
But Tybee Beach harbors secrets. On February 5 1958 a B-47 Stratojet accidentally dropped a nuclear bomb. While the bomb itself is said to have been inert the incident remains a source of fascination and concern. The lost weapon was never recovered sparking ongoing debate.
Today Tybee Beach is a vibrant destination. It offers five miles of beautiful beaches. It features a fascinating history. From sun-drenched days to starlit nights Tybee Beach offers an unforgettable experience. Enjoy your time on this unique island.