With mild weather, low humidity and fewer crowds, winter makes an awesome season to visit Tybee Island. Leave the snow behind and hit the sand where you can soak in the sun and that fabulous Southern hospitality.
During January, average high temperatures hit the high 50s, while lows hang around the mid-40s. That makes it ideal for pulling on a light sweater to partake in your favorite outdoor activities.
Run Tybee Island
The Critz Tybee Run Fest is a weekend-long event set Jan. 31-Feb. 1. There’s a total of five races including a kiddie run, 5K, 10K and half-marathon of 13.1 miles. Run just one or all of them. For those who run all the events, it adds up to the 26.2 marathon distance. Southern Belle Vacation Rentals, with its wide array of condos and beach houses, is a partner in the event. Book online or call 912-289-0130.
Beachwalk
The smaller crowds during the winter mean you can enjoy the beach in near seclusion. It’s a much more intimate experience on the island. Take a long walk, pick up seashells, sit on the beach with a good book and catch a gorgeous sunset. There are four main beaches on Tybee: Back River Beach, South Beach, Mid Beach, and North Beach. You can also take a kayak or charter to Little Tybee Island.
Fishing in Tybee Island
Fish don’t stop biting just because the seasons change. Charters hit the wrecks in the winter to put anglers on sheepshead, black drum, black sea bass, and sea bream. With a little light tackle, fiddler crabs for bait and a tight drag, you’re in for the fight of your life when you hook one of these bad boys. At least that’s how Capt. Jimmy Armel of American Fishing Charters describes it. There are several fishing charters on Tybee, so book an offshore or inshore trip. Inshore trips also net sheepshead, as well as trout and black drum.
Hike Tybee Island
Nature and history lovers will also enjoy a hike along the trails at Fort Pulaski National Monument. The North Pier Trail takes visitors through scenic woods and past remnants of Fort Pulaski’s original construction village. The Lighthouse Overlook Trail offers the island’s best views of the historic Cockspur Island Light-house. Be on the lookout for wildlife, including birds like the red-tailed hawk and brown pelicans, the eastern box turtle and American alligators. You may also catch sight of dolphins frolicking in the river.
Of course, with the pleasant weather, you can also bike, kayak or paddleboard during your stay.
Take advantage of off-season rates to make it an even sweeter time of year to visit.
