One Of The Cheapest Beach Getaways In The US Is An East Coast Island That Feels Luxurious

If you're planning an island vacation, you might be inclined to look towards a destination like the Caribbean. However, you might not know that you can enjoy a similarly awe-inspiring place in Georgia. Sure, you could catch a nonstop flight from Atlanta to the Caribbean. But why not skip the hassle of international travel and head to Tybee Island, one of the best beach vacation destinations in the U.S.? You'll find this gem less than 30 minutes from Savannah.

With unspoiled Atlantic beaches, like Mid Beach and North Beach, the U.S. island feels exotic and looks expensive. One reviewer on Tripadvisor wrote, "The community has so much charm and character — like Cape Cod meets the Caribbean — and the north end in particular is so peaceful. We can't wait to come back." But don't let this account fool you. A vacation at Tybee Island won't break the bank.

Visitors can find stays at the DeSoto Beach Hotel for under $250 per night. The three-star property overlooks the ocean and provides guests with beach and oceanfront pool access. Likewise, Airbnb has luxurious accommodation options for under $300. Case in point: this guest favorite two-bedroom condo. It features ocean views, two pools, and much more. Prices start at $249 per night. That's only the beginning of the reasonable costs and fun on Tybee Island.

A visit to Tybee Island must include a bike ride for some fun in the sun. TIMS Bikes, Beach & Disc Golf has rentals available for under $20 a day. Tybee Island is uber-bike friendly and has various trails waiting to be explored. You can roam around the city or head to Back River Beach for a scenic ride.

Tybee Island dates back to the 16th century and is home to historic sites, including the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum (pictured). Built in the 1700s, visitors can tour the structure (the oldest of its kind in Georgia). Admission ranges from $10 to $12. Note that this also grants you access to the Tybee Island Museum at nearby Fort Screven, a battery garland from the late 1800s. Visitors can learn about Tybee Island's history. The Tybee Island Light Station & Museum opens Wednesday through Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and offers free 2-hour parking.

Consider checking out the Tybee Island Marine Science Center, another affordable attraction that offers educational, kid-friendly experiences. Admission costs $12, but children four and younger can enter for free. In addition, it provides guided beach walks of North Beach for $20 (the price includes admission to the center). You can make a reservation online. The Tybee Island Marine Science Center opens Wednesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Looking for more cost-effective and exciting things to do on your vacation to Tybee Island? Water sports enthusiasts can book a tour with Sea Kayak Georgia. It offers a three-hour kayak tour to Little Tybee Island, a gorgeous nature preserve off the coast of Tybee Island. Prices range from $55 to $65. Furthermore, you can take a dolphin boat tour on Tybee Island's waters with Captain Derek's Dolphin Adventure (seen in the TikTok above). A daytime and sunset option ranges from $27.95 to $37.95 for adults. Either tour can run for an hour to an hour and a half.

For those who love everything spooky, The Witching Hour Savannah offers a 90-minute Tybee Island ghost tour. The night-time walking excursion starts at the Carbo House, which dates back to the 1930s. Prices range from $15 to $29.95. You can book this tour online.

On Tybee Island, seafood is a must-have dining option. The Crab Shack offers seafood or BBQ platters. The eatery sits on a creek and is considered a Tybee Island staple. According to Tripadvisor, one of the most highly-rated restaurants in the area is Huc-a-Poo's. It serves pizza and other American classics like hot dogs, nachos, and more. Best of all, every item on the menu costs $20 or under.