Lighthouse and history fans visiting Savannah will want to check out Tybee Island Light Station. The historic lighthouse, located on Tybee Island, just south of Savannah, is Georgia’s oldest and tallest light tower. It’s also one of the country’s few, colonial-era lighthouses that is still standing.
History buffs will find a wealth of their favorite topic around every corner in Savannah. Visitors come from all over to see such attractions as the Davenport House, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Bonaventure Cemetery, Fort Pulaski, and so much more.
In fact, McMillan Inn’s location in Savannah’s downtown historic district surrounds you with some of the city’s best historic attractions – and puts the rest within easy reach! Even Tybee Island and it’s historic lighthouse are just an easy, 30 minute drive from our Savannah bed and breakfast.
General James Oglethorpe ordered construction of the first Tybee Island Light in 1736; a 90-foot tall daymark made of brick and cedar. Since then, it has had many different shapes and sizes. The current tower, completed in 1867, rises to a height of 154 feet. A rare, First Order Fresnel lens helps to spread the tower’s light, safely guiding mariners to the mouth of the Savannah River for over 150 years.
Exploring Tybee Island Light Station
The Tybee Island Lighthouse can be found at 30 Meddin Avenue, on Tybee Island, GA. As mentioned above, this is a pleasant, 30 minute drive from our inn in downtown Savannah.
Visitors to the iconic landmark may feel as if they’ve journeyed back in time. The site encompasses not only the lighthouse but also several historic support buildings. These include three separate keeper cottages and the 1812 Summer Kitchen.
Of course, the big attraction is the 154 foot, black and white light tower, which you can climb. Those willing and able to mount the 178 steps to the top are rewarded with stunning, panoramic views of the island, Savannah, and the Atlantic.
The nearby Tybee Museum, located at Battery Garland, a 3-minute walk away, is also well worth your time. The historic gun battery and coastal fort houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits detailing the lighthouse’s history. Interactive displays and artifacts provide a comprehensive understanding of the lighthouse’s role in coastal navigation and defense.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a maritime aficionado, Tybee Island Lighthouse offers a captivating glimpse into the past. Its enduring presence stands as a testament to the island’s rich history and the vital role of lighthouses in coastal navigation. A visit to this historic site promises not only education and wonder but also unforgettable views and memories.
Visit the lighthouse website for hours and more information. You can also find the historic coastal lighthouse on Facebook.