Tybee Island: Open-Air Historic Tour & Stories with Local Guide

Summary

Tybee Island history tour with open-air ride pirate stories and fort views

You’ll ride an open-air cart across Tybee Island with a local guide who shares unexpected stories — from indigenous fishing spots to pirate legends and Fort Screven’s secrets. Feel sea breezes, laugh at tall tales, and see places only locals know. It’s a day trip that leaves you thinking long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to laugh so much on a history tour, but that’s what happened the first time we rolled out onto Tybee Island’s North Beach in the open-air cart. The wind whipped my hair around and I could actually smell the salt — not just see the ocean. Our guide, Tom (who grew up here), pointed at this little patch of dunes and started telling us about how indigenous people fished these waters six centuries ago. It was weirdly moving, picturing families right where we were sitting, way before pirates or forts or tourists like me ever showed up.

We bumped along past pastel cottages while Tom told us about the English settlers and then — out of nowhere — he started in on pirate stories. He did voices. I snorted into my drink (which fit perfectly in the cupholder, by the way). The sun kept ducking behind clouds and then coming back out again, making everything look different every few minutes. At Fort Screven, he let us hop out for a minute to touch the old stone walls. They felt cold even though it was warm out. There was this moment where nobody said anything — just gulls overhead and some distant laughter from the beach.

I’m not usually into “tours” but this one didn’t feel scripted or stiff at all. Tom knew everyone we passed — he’d wave or shout something I couldn’t quite catch over the wind. When I tried to repeat one of the old pirate names back to him, he laughed so hard he almost missed a turn (don’t worry, he didn’t). If you’re looking for a day trip Tybee Island style that’s more than just pretty views — something with real stories and a bit of local weirdness — this is it. I still think about that silence at Fort Screven sometimes; don’t know why it stuck with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Tybee Island history and lore

• Meet historian and guide
• Explore North beach and Savannah river
• Learn about indigenous island use
• Hear stories of pirates and settlers
• Discover Fort Screven military history
• Enjoy open-air ride with local views

Top questions

How long is the historic tour of Tybee Island?

The exact duration isn’t listed, but it covers North Beach, Savannah River areas, and Fort Screven by open-air cart.

Is this Tybee Island tour suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s for all ages and anyone who enjoys exploring and learning.

Does the day trip include transportation?

Yes, private transportation is provided by open-air golf cart during the tour.

What should I bring on the Tybee Island history tour?

You can bring your favorite beverage (no glass); cupholders are included for convenience.

Are blankets provided if it’s cold?

Yes, blankets are available in winter to keep you cozy during the ride.

Can I bring my service animal on this tour?

Service animals are allowed on this Tybee Island guided tour.

Is there any walking involved at Fort Screven?

You may have a chance to hop out briefly at Fort Screven to explore; most of the tour is by cart.

Are misting fans available if it’s hot?

Hand-held misting fans are provided to help beat the heat during summer tours.

What’s included

Your day includes an open-air golf cart ride around Tybee Island with private transportation led by a local guide. You’ll get blankets in winter if it’s chilly, cupholders for your favorite drink (just skip glass), plus hand-held misting fans when it gets hot—so you’re comfortable no matter what season you visit.