Tybee Island Marine Science Center - blue concrete building
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Tybee Island Marine Science Center

4.6
·1k reviews·Tybee Island, United States

Discover local marine life, from sea turtles to touch tanks, at this educational center dedicated to coastal conservation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow
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Tybee Island Marine Science Center - blue concrete building

Tybee Island Marine Science Center

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover local marine life, from sea turtles to touch tanks, at this educational center dedicated to coastal conservation.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"A cute and fun spot, totally worth the stop with awesome exhibits and sweet staff!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Family Membership Deal

A family membership is a steal at $50/year for four kids! Great value for frequent visitors.

🚗 Parking is Shared

Parking is shared with North Beach. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak times.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Touch Tank

Interactive Touch Tank

Ground floor

Get hands-on with local marine life like hermit crabs and starfish. A guaranteed hit with kids!

Ossie the Sea Turtle

Ossie the Sea Turtle

Main exhibit hall

Meet Ossie, the resident sea turtle, a majestic creature that captivates visitors of all ages.

Right Whale Exhibit

Right Whale Exhibit

Second floor

Learn about the critically endangered North Atlantic Right Whale and conservation efforts.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Heat & Crowds

Tybee Island Marine Science Center is a fantastic indoor escape, especially on hot or rainy days. Arrive early, particularly if visiting with kids, as it can get busy. Consider booking a private tour for a more personalized experience, especially for groups.

Support Marine Conservation

Your admission fee directly supports vital marine conservation efforts. This center is a small but impactful organization dedicated to educating the public about coastal Georgia's marine life and ecosystems. It's a great way to learn and contribute.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Crowd
Low
When
Rainy afternoons
Why
Perfect indoor escape
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer weekends
Why
Peak season, expect crowds
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dangerous current on the south end of Tybee island ga #beach #beachvibes #danger #drowned #lostatsea #tybeeisland #alangibbs #traveltiktok #travel #adventure #sandbar #water #atlanticocean #savannah
@alangibbs
28.5K likes • 885.5K views

🎯 Family Membership Deal

A family membership is a steal at $50/year for four kids! Great value for frequent visitors. Instagram

🚗 Parking is Shared

Parking is shared with North Beach. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak times. Reddit

As Georgia Girl it’s insane I have never been to Tybee Island, this is your sign to book that spontaneous beach trip with your bestie and go on an adventure you will never forget! We booked all our fun excursions in Tybee & Savannah using @Tripadvisor | Travel Planning ! WE HAD A BLAST! #fyp #foryoupage#Tripadvisorpartner
@thisisnotchristy
27.6K likes • 391.2K views
Tybee Island Marine Science Center 🐢 My son is a total nature boy, so he absolutely loves going to places where he can see animals & learn! @tybeemarinesciencecenter is a MUST visit if you’re in Savannah or Tybee Island. It’s located in the North Beach area of Tybee making it a short 25 drive from downtown! Be sure to check out the link in my bio to learn about all of the cool activities they...
exploresavannahgeorgia
774 likes • 17K views

🤝 Private Tours Available

Book a private tour for an engaging, personalized experience, especially for school groups. Reddit

🌊 Educational Programs

The center offers fantastic educational programs and beach treks for all ages. TikTok

🐋 The Right Whale to save! Have you visited the Right Whale exhibit at the Tybee Island Marine Science Center? #tybeeisland #tybeemainstreet #rightwhaletosave #rightwhale
mainstreettybee
242 likes • 5.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Family Membership Deal

A family membership is a steal at $50/year for four kids! Great value for frequent visitors. Instagram

🚗 Parking is Shared

Parking is shared with North Beach. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak times. Reddit

🤝 Private Tours Available

Book a private tour for an engaging, personalized experience, especially for school groups. Reddit

🌊 Educational Programs

The center offers fantastic educational programs and beach treks for all ages. TikTok

🎧 Listen to the Podcast

Check out the podcast episode featuring the Executive Director for deeper insights. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally find the Tybee Island Marine Science Center to be a charming and educational spot, especially for families. While some note its smaller size and suggest admission could offer more, the interactive exhibits, particularly the touch tank and the sea turtle, are consistently praised. The center's conservation mission and the engaging nature of its educational programs are also highlighted as significant positives.

"Although this center is on the small side, I enjoyed visiting it. There are three levels of the building to explore, with lots of live animals to observe, and in some cases, even touch. The animals actually seemed to engage with you as you got close to the glass."

Anon Ymous

"Stopped here on a whim. To be honest, it was nothing that spectacular. Not much in terms of exhibitions or turtles. At $15 bucks x 4 ppl, sort of felt there should have been more in terms to the experience. Don't feel like this was a good value. But, I guess we support a good cause and state tourism."

M J Fisher

"This is a fun place to take kids, get out of the heat and learn something too. Of course the kids love the area where they can interact with the hermit crabs. Fairly small but kids can spend a lot of time there."

Tired Dad Makin' Stuff

What People Like

Interactive touch tank
Ossie the sea turtle
Educational programs

What People Dislike

Small size
Perceived value for cost

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Tybee Island Marine Science Center is located on the north end of Tybee Island, about a 25-minute drive from downtown Savannah. Parking is shared with North Beach, so it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season. InstagramReddit

Yes, parking is available, but it is shared with North Beach. It can fill up quickly, so plan to arrive early, particularly on weekends and during the summer. Reddit

While public transportation options directly to the center might be limited, you can reach Tybee Island via bus from Savannah. Once on the island, consider local trolleys or ride-sharing services if available, though walking or biking might be feasible depending on your accommodation's location. TikTok

The center is designed with accessibility in mind, offering multiple levels to explore. Specific accessibility details can be confirmed by contacting the center directly, but it aims to be welcoming to all visitors. Instagram

From Savannah, take US-80 E towards Tybee Island. Continue on US-80 E, which becomes Tybrisa Street. Turn left onto Butler Avenue, then right onto North Beach Road. The center will be on your right. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary, but reviews suggest it might be around $15 per person. It's always best to check their official website or call ahead for the most current pricing information. Some visitors felt the value was a bit low for the experience. Reddit

Yes, a family membership is available for $50 per year, which is considered a great deal for families with multiple children. Look for potential discounts for seniors, military, or local residents on their official channels. Instagram

Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Tybee Island Marine Science Center website or their social media pages for the most up-to-date hours of operation before your visit. TikTok

While advance ticket purchase might not always be necessary for general admission, it's a good idea to check their website. For special programs or private tours, advance booking is usually required. TikTok

Yes, it's a relatively small center, making it ideal for a quick morning or afternoon visit, especially if you're looking for an indoor activity to escape the heat or rain. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore exhibits featuring live marine animals, including Ossie the sea turtle and various fish. There's an interactive touch tank where you can handle creatures like hermit crabs and starfish, and an exhibit on the North Atlantic Right Whale. Instagram+3

Absolutely! The touch tank is a major highlight, allowing visitors to get hands-on with marine life. The animals often seem to engage with visitors as they approach the glass. InstagramReddit

You can see a variety of local marine life, including sea turtles (like Ossie!), various fish, sharks, and invertebrates such as hermit crabs and starfish. They also have exhibits on marine mammals like the Right Whale. Instagram+1

Yes, the center is known for its educational programs, including beach and marsh treks, and private tours that are highly praised for their engaging content and knowledgeable guides. TikTokReddit

It's highly recommended for kids! They love the touch tank and seeing the animals up close. The educational aspect is also a big plus, making it a fun and informative outing. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The center itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant. However, there are shaded areas, like a pergola, where visitors can enjoy snacks or packed lunches. You'll find numerous dining options on Tybee Island nearby. Instagram

While not explicitly stated, it's common for educational centers to allow visitors to bring their own snacks and drinks to consume in designated areas. It's best to confirm their policy upon arrival or check their website. Instagram

The North Beach area and the rest of Tybee Island offer a variety of casual seafood restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops. You can easily find places to eat before or after your visit. TikTok

Yes, there are shaded areas, including a pergola, that can be used for resting and eating. This is a great spot to enjoy a packed lunch after exploring the exhibits. Instagram

While not explicitly mentioned for food, the center is a popular spot for group visits and educational programs, suggesting they can accommodate special events. Inquire directly about birthday party packages. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture close-ups of the marine life in the exhibits and touch tank, especially Ossie the sea turtle. The Right Whale exhibit also offers unique photographic potential. The building itself, with its panoramic ocean views, is also photogenic. InstagramReddit

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside the center. However, flash photography might be restricted to protect the animals, so be mindful of signage and guidelines. TikTok

Ossie the sea turtle is a definite star for photos, as is the interactive touch tank. The new Right Whale exhibit also provides a compelling subject for educational and impactful imagery. Reddit

Since much of the experience is indoors, the time of day is less critical for lighting within the exhibits. However, visiting during less crowded times (weekday mornings) will allow for unobstructed shots. Instagram

It's always polite to ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, including staff and volunteers, especially if they are featured prominently in your shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Tybee Island Marine Science Center is a fantastic destination for families. The interactive touch tank is a huge hit, allowing kids to get hands-on with local marine life like hermit crabs and starfish. Reddit Seeing Ossie the sea turtle up close is another highlight that will captivate young minds. The center's educational programs and exhibits are designed to be engaging and informative, making learning fun. Instagram

Consider purchasing a family membership for great value if you plan on visiting multiple times. Arriving early is key to avoid crowds and ensure easier parking, as the lot is shared with North Beach. InstagramReddit The center is also a perfect indoor activity for a hot or rainy day, providing a welcome break from the beach while still offering a coastal experience.

📚 Students and Educators

The Tybee Island Marine Science Center is an excellent resource for students and educators. The center offers robust educational programs, including guided beach and marsh treks, that provide hands-on learning experiences about coastal ecosystems. TikTokReddit Educators can find valuable content and inspiration for their own lesson plans, and students are treated as 'little scientists' with their questions thoroughly answered. Reddit

Booking a private tour can offer a tailored experience for school groups, ensuring that the content is relevant and engaging for the specific age range. The center's commitment to marine conservation and education makes it a worthwhile visit for anyone interested in environmental science and the unique biodiversity of the Georgia coast. Instagram

🌊 Eco-Conscious Travelers

For travelers passionate about marine conservation, the Tybee Island Marine Science Center offers a direct way to support important work. Your admission fee contributes to their efforts in educating the public and protecting coastal wildlife. TikTokInstagram The Right Whale exhibit highlights critical conservation issues, providing insight into the challenges faced by endangered species and the ongoing efforts to save them. Instagram+1

Engaging with the exhibits and participating in educational programs can deepen your understanding of local marine ecosystems and the impact of human activities. The center's mission is to foster a sense of responsibility towards the ocean, making it a meaningful stop for those who care about environmental preservation. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Marine Life

The Tybee Island Marine Science Center is dedicated to educating visitors about the diverse marine life found along the Georgia coast. Exhibits focus on local species, highlighting their importance in the ecosystem. You can get up close with creatures in the interactive touch tank, where hands-on experiences with animals like hermit crabs and starfish are a major draw for children and adults alike. InstagramReddit

One of the most beloved residents is Ossie the sea turtle, a majestic creature that visitors often describe as captivating. The center also features a significant exhibit on the North Atlantic Right Whale, a critically endangered species. This exhibit aims to raise awareness about the threats these whales face and the ongoing conservation efforts to protect them. Instagram+1

Beyond the exhibits, the center offers educational programs such as beach and marsh treks. These guided excursions provide a deeper understanding of coastal habitats and the creatures that inhabit them, making the learning experience immersive and memorable. TikTok

Conservation and Education Focus

The core mission of the Tybee Island Marine Science Center is to foster environmental stewardship through education. By showcasing local marine ecosystems and the challenges they face, the center inspires visitors to become advocates for conservation. Your admission fee directly contributes to these vital efforts, supporting research, rehabilitation, and public awareness campaigns. TikTokInstagram

The center is a valuable resource for both locals and tourists, offering a chance to connect with nature and learn about the delicate balance of marine life. They emphasize the importance of understanding and protecting these environments for future generations. The Right Whale exhibit is a prime example of their commitment to highlighting conservation issues. Instagram+1

Many visitors, including school groups and families, praise the center's educational impact. Guides are often commended for their expertise and ability to engage audiences, treating everyone, especially children, as budding scientists. This hands-on approach to learning makes the center a significant asset to coastal Georgia's educational landscape. InstagramReddit

Planning Your Visit: Tips from Visitors

When planning your trip to the Tybee Island Marine Science Center, arriving early is a common recommendation, especially if you're visiting with children. Parking can be a challenge as it's shared with North Beach, so an early start can help secure a spot. Reddit The center is a great option for a rainy day or to escape the summer heat, offering an indoor, educational alternative to the beach. Instagram

For families, consider the family membership, which offers excellent value at $50 per year for four children. This makes repeat visits more affordable and encourages ongoing engagement with marine science. Instagram If you're visiting with a group, such as a scout troop, booking a private tour is highly recommended. Guides like James have been singled out for their exceptional ability to connect with children and provide in-depth, engaging information. Reddit

While the center is on the smaller side, reviews suggest it offers a good balance of education and entertainment. Some visitors have noted that the admission price might feel a bit high for the size of the exhibits, but many agree that supporting the conservation mission is worthwhile. Reddit Don't forget to check out their podcast for an even deeper dive into their work. Instagram

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