Tybee Island remains a great spot for a vacation or getaway with your family and pet dog. But, are dogs allowed on Tybee Island beach?
Unfortunately, not every member of your precious family will be afforded the luxury of chillin’ at the Island’s beach.
The reason is that Tybee has a strict ‘no-dog-on-the-beach‘ policy. None is allowed on the Island’s beaches for any reason whatsoever.
But, why, seeing as the island has amazing goodies to offer? Well, why don’t we find out the full details here?
Why Does Tybee Have A Strict ‘No-Dog-On-The-Beach‘ Policy?
So, are dogs allowed on Tybee Island beaches? No, they aren’t. At this point, I’m sure you’re a bit disappointed.
You’ve probably spent weeks planning this trip. And all you had been thinking of was running wildly after Fido and sprawling exhaustedly on the beach sand. A shame really!
Because it seems a little odd, doesn’t it? Especially seeing that chunks of the restaurants, hotels, and facilities on the island will readily accommodate dogs.
But, while you may be seething inwardly at this seemingly cruel rule, you’re about to find out in a couple of seconds why the rule is so important.
It’s simply to preserve wildlife. The thing is, the Georgia Coastline is a bang-on regular nesting hub for numerous sea turtles and migratory birds. And we all know how excited dogs can be sometimes when they see birds or other smaller creatures.
Since we really can’t trust that our furry pals will exercise restraint and not destroy these wildlife habitats, the best option is to deny them access to the beach. Sound less harsh now?
Come on now. It’s not all doom and gloom. There’s so much fun you can have on the island. There are dog parks around. Plus, you’re also free to patronize other dog-friendly beaches nearby!
Other Ways To Have Fun With Your Dog
Not being able to spend a day at the Tybee Island beach with your pet dog is disappointing. But, Tybee does make it up to dog owners.
There are numerous other activities you can do with your furry companion. Here are a few pet-friendly activities you may want to take up at Tybee Island.
Take Advantage Of The Dog Parks
A popular alternative for dog owners is using one of the Island’s dog parks.
At Tybee, there are two islands in total – one for dogs below 50lbs and the other for dogs above 50 lbs.
These beautiful dog parks are used by almost every pet owner on the island. So, you can always trust that your dog is going to have lots of other canine pals for company. No beach, no problem.
In addition, both dog parks are properly managed and are in fantastic condition! They’re also fenced. So, your dog can roam around the park without a leash.
Sure it’s no beach. But, you and your dog are almost guaranteed a fun and memorable time in Tybee’s dog parks. Here are a few rules you might want to observe there;
- Clean up after your dog. We advise you to carry a container to collect your dog’s poop
- Keep your dog on a short leash at all times. Preferably, one shorter than 6 feet
- Keep your dog under control at all times
- Your dog must be at least 4 months old. Make sure your female dog isn’t on heat too
- Never use spiked collars
- Dispose of trash in provided receptacles
- Your dog should be licensed and vaccinated
Take Beautiful Morning Strolls
What better way to explore the island than by taking a stroll with your trusted companion? Fortunately, the island is only a few miles wide. So, exploring all of it on a simple stroll is more than possible.
Of course, this may not seem special at first. And you can pretty much have strolls just about anywhere in the world.
However, Tybee has a unique vibe that makes every stroll worth it. Getting to experience the island’s different terrains, while soaking in its beauty with your dog could easily be the highlight of your vacation at Tybee.
Never Go Hungry At Tybee
Tybee Island is home to some really good restaurants. And conveniently, several of them are pet-friendly too. They won’t at all mind your dog tagging along with you.
Of course, the restaurant menu may not exactly be up to your dog’s taste. But, he’s bound to have a great time and feel like a part of the family.
There are roughly 14 of these pet-friendly restaurants in Tybee.
These restaurants include Coco’s Sunset Grille, The Crab Shack, Sundae Cafe at Tybee, Sting Ray’s Seafood, and A-J’s Dockside Restaurant, just to mention a few.
Create Beautiful Memories On Sea
What could be better than relaxing on a beach and staring at the beautiful sea? Being on the sea!
While dogs are prohibited from stepping foot on the island’s beaches, they aren’t restricted from cruising with you on the waters.
There are several pet-friendly sea cruises you can book for a great time with your dog. Tybee’s sea tours and cruises are to-die-for! We guarantee you and your dog would love the experience.
Of course, suppose you prefer some solitude, you can use the island’s kayak and paddle boarding rental services. That way, you can enjoy some personal bonding time with your dog at sea.
Tybee’s Parades And Outdoor Events
Despite being a relatively small place, there’s always a lot to see and discover on Tybee Island. This is especially true in the face of the island’s many parades and outdoor events held throughout the year.
Fortunately, so long as they stay with owners and are put on a short leash at all times, dogs are happily welcome to most of these parades and outdoor events.
So, if you guys happen to be on Tybee Island during one of such parades and events, prepare to be in for a treat.
There are numerous activities and sights to behold during these parades. While your dog may not have a single clue about what is going on, he will most certainly love it.
When taking your dog out to such events, you should make sure he’s on his best behavior as big crowds and noises easily get dogs riled up.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations On Tybee Island
No pet owner is oblivious to the stress and frustration that comes with finding pet-friendly accommodation for a trip or vacation. However, you would be glad to know that that is hardly ever the case with Tybee Island.
Tybee Island offers several accommodation options that will gladly take in your pet companion. Some of such accommodations available on Tybee Island include The Island Pharmacia, Good Vibrations, Tybee Oasis, Gulf Reef, and Ocean Song.
All of these options don’t charge pet fees. You’re also allowed up to two pets. What’s more, you’ll be pleased to know that their pet policies cover dogs of all sizes.
For those looking for a more homey vibe, you might want to check out the Tybee Island Bed & Breakfast. Talk about a home away from home!
Also, Mermaid Cottages, Dr’s Order, Salt & Light Beach House, as well as Condo Banana, are all worth checking out.
Remember, though, that while certain accommodations in Tybee Island are officially pet-friendly, you might still want to give them a heads-up about the coming of our furry pal when booking.
That way, they’re adequately prepared to give your dog the best experience possible.
Nearby Pet-Friendly Beaches
For those hell-bent on having that perfect beach day with their dog, there may still be hope for you despite Tybee’s no-dog-on-beach policy.
You would simply have to go to nearby pet-friendly beaches. This may be a little tricky and time-consuming. Still, some of these beaches may be well worth your time and deliver similar experiences to Tybee’s.
Of course, the first best alternative for you would be Little Tybee Island. Despite its name, it’s twice as large as Tybee.
As you’ve probably guessed by now, Little Tybee is not very far from Tybee Island. So, you can access it by any mode of water transportation you prefer.
This is where the island’s several kayak rentals and charter services come in handy. At Little Tybee, you’re free to let loose your dog and allow him to freely roam around. subject, of course, to keeping him under control and cleaning up after him.
The most notable downsides to Little Tybee beaches are that they cost more to use. Plus, they lack a lot of visitors compared to Tybee Island.
However, if you’re a pet owner and value your silence and privacy, you should love it over there. Other nearby pet-friendly beaches include Burkes Beach, Fish Haul Beach Park, Coligny Beach Park, and more on Hilton Head Island.
Final Thoughts
So, are dogs allowed on Tybee Island beach? Sadly, dogs aren’t welcomed at the beach of Tybee Island. However, they’re welcomed at just about every other part of the island.
That can be good enough to have a great and memorable trip with your dog. For those looking to bond with their furry companion over a trip to Tybee Island, there’s no need to fret about not being able to send them.
Spending a day at the beach is only one of the several activities at Tybee Island. Dare to explore and try out some great alternatives or discover hidden gems on the island.