Tybee Island: Jet Ski Rental with Dolphin & Bird Watching
Jet ski Tybee Island waters near Cockspur Lighthouse, spot dolphins
You’ll jump straight into Tybee’s wild side with a 75-minute jet ski ride near Cockspur Lighthouse—salty wind in your face, dolphins popping up alongside you, and local birds circling overhead. With friendly guides giving real safety tips (plus some laughs), you get freedom to ride hard or just cruise and take it all in. It’s the kind of day that sticks with you long after your clothes dry.
1h 15m
Step-by-step itinerary
Jet Ski rental and riding experience
- Arrive at Tybee Island rental location
- Choose single or tandem jet ski option
- Receive safety briefing from crew
- Ride jet ski near Lazaretto Creek
- Explore coastline by Coskspur Island Lighthouse
- Return jet ski to rental base
The Experience
We showed up at Tybee Island still half-asleep, but the sound of jet skis warming up jolted me awake. The crew was already there, sunburned and grinning, handing out life jackets that smelled faintly like the ocean (and maybe last summer). Our guide, Marcus, ran through the safety stuff without making it boring—he joked about “not feeding the dolphins your sunglasses.” I liked him right away. There’s something about being handed control of a Sea-Doo and told to just go—no one hovering over your shoulder—that makes you feel like a kid again.
The water was choppier than I expected. My hands went numb gripping the handles at first, but after a few minutes zipping past Lazaretto Creek, I loosened up. The lighthouse on Cockspur Island looked smaller from out here—almost toy-like against the sky. We slowed down when Marcus waved us over; he’d spotted a pod of dolphins off to our left. They surfaced in quick bursts, gray backs glistening. Someone behind me whooped so loud it startled a flock of white birds overhead (egrets maybe? I’m no bird expert). The smell of salt and engine fuel mixed in the air. It’s weirdly nice.
I tried to race my friend back toward shore but ended up veering into a patch of sea grass instead—Marcus just laughed and yelled something about “taking the scenic route.” By then my shirt was soaked through and my face hurt from smiling so much. Seventy-five minutes went by fast; I honestly lost track of time until we heard them signaling us in with that old cowbell they use. I didn’t expect to care about birdwatching on a jet ski day trip at Tybee Island, but now I get why people mention it.
What’s included
Your 75-minute day trip around Tybee Island includes use of a GTX 130 Sea-Doo Jet Ski with fuel provided, professional safety instruction from local crew before heading out, life jackets for everyone onboard, plus plenty of chances to spot dolphins and local birds as you ride near Cockspur Lighthouse.
Operated by Tybee Island Watersports
Traveler reviews
Top questions
How long is the Tybee Island jet ski rental?
The jet ski rental lasts for 75 minutes on the water.
Do I need experience to rent a jet ski at Tybee Island?
No prior experience is needed; professional safety instruction is included before you start.
Are life jackets provided for the Tybee Island jet ski rental?
Yes, each participant gets a life jacket as part of the rental.
Can two people ride together on one jet ski?
Yes, there is a Tandem Rider option for two people on one jet ski.
Where does the jet ski riding area start?
The riding area is just outside Lazaretto Creek in front of Cockspur Island Lighthouse.
Are there chances to see dolphins during this tour?
Yes, there are opportunities to observe dolphins along with local bird species during your ride.
Is fuel included in the Tybee Island jet ski rental?
Yes, fuel is included in your rental price.
Is this activity suitable for pregnant travelers or those with health issues?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.
Tybee Island: Jet Ski Rental with Dolphin & Bird Watching
1h 15m
from US$ 160 per person
★★★★★★★★★★4.8980 reviews
