In short
- Free parking lasts for 2 hours with ticket purchase.
- The dedicated lot is only for active lighthouse visitors.
- Use the public pay lot across the street for beach time.
In this article
Finding parking near North Beach can be tough. Fortunately, the Tybee Island Light Station provides a dedicated lot for visitors. You can park for free while you climb the tower and explore the museum grounds, but strict time limits apply.
Does Tybee Island Lighthouse have free parking?
Yes, visitors receive two hours of free parking with their paid admission.
When you purchase your tickets on-site, parking in the dedicated lighthouse lot is included. This covers enough time to complete the 178-step climb and view the museum at Battery Garland. The lot is located at 30 Meddin Dr, right outside the main entrance.
How long can I park at the lighthouse?
You can leave your vehicle in the lot for a maximum of two hours.
The two-hour limit ensures that parking spaces remain available for new visitors arriving throughout the day. If your car remains in the lot after your tour, you risk being ticketed or towed. The museum grounds are closed on Tuesdays, and parking is not available then.
Where do I park to go to North Beach after the lighthouse?
You must move your car to the public pay lot across the street.
The lighthouse lot is strictly for active visitors. If you want to spend the rest of the day at North Beach, drive across the street. You will need to pay the standard metered parking rates for the public lot.
What if I already parked somewhere else on the island?
You can take the Tybee Turtle Transit to reach the lighthouse without losing your spot.
If you have a prime parking spot near your rental, you do not need to drive. The Tybee Turtle Transit is a local golf cart shuttle. It costs $3 per person per ride and will drop you off near the lighthouse entrance.
Do I need a car to visit the lighthouse?
No, several Savannah tour operators offer half-day trips that include transportation.
If you are staying in downtown Savannah without a rental vehicle, you can book a guided excursion. These tours usually last four to five hours and cost between $50 and $70 per person. They provide shuttle transport and dedicated time to explore the lighthouse.
How far is the drive from Savannah?
Driving to the lighthouse takes about 30 minutes from downtown Savannah.
You will take US-80 East directly onto Tybee Island. Once on the island, follow the signs toward North Beach and turn onto Meddin Drive. The lighthouse parking lot will be clearly marked.
Questions travellers ask
How much does it cost to go to the Tybee Island Lighthouse?
General admission is $14 for adults and $12 for seniors, military, and youths (6-17). Children 5 and under enter for free with a ticketed adult. This fee includes your two hours of parking.
Where do you park for the Tybee Island Lighthouse?
You park in the dedicated lighthouse lot located at 30 Meddin Dr. It is free for two hours while you visit the site. Afterward, you must relocate your car to the public lot.
Do you need to buy Tybee Lighthouse tickets in advance?
No, you cannot buy tickets online in advance. All admission passes must be purchased on-site when you arrive.
