This little strip of land just 18 miles east of Savannah boasts natural charm that few beaches have preserved. As soon as you cross the Lazaretto Creek Bridge leading to Tybee Island, you'll feel your cares slip away and your spirits rise.

Fun on Friday
You have to pass through Savannah to get to Tybee Island, and you may be tempted to succumb to the city's siren call. Resist. You're just a 20-minute ride from the beach.

Head for the shore to swim, surf, or bask in the sun. To be on the safe side, don't swim at dusk. Several species of sharks live off the coast of Tybee. Also, pay close attention to your parking meter. Ticket givers vigorously enforce the law. (I know from experience.) The city maintains two public parking lots where parking costs $7 per day.

Dolphins enchant humans like no other sea creature. For a closeup view, schedule a dolphin tour. Several charter companies offer marshland tours and fishing guide services, but Captain Mike is one of the only outfitters on the island leading dolphin tours. To buy a ticket ($12 adults, $5 ages 12 and under), you walk right up to the office in the white house below the bridge at Lazaretto Creek and ring the bell. The good Captain Mike is not very talkative, but he knows where the dolphins congregate, and he takes you there.

Dust off the sand, dress up a bit, and head to dinner at Georges' of Tybee. This cozy little restaurant resembles a trendy beach cottage with hardwood floors and wood-plank ceilings. Owners George Spriggs and George Jackson (the two Georges, also owners of North Beach Grill) offer what they call "American fusion" cuisine, food that combines Asian, Middle Eastern, French, and Southern influences. Reservations are recommended. For a taste of Tybee's nightlife, head to Doc's Bar or Fannie's on the Beach.

Settle in for the night. Magnolia Place Inn in Savannah (1-800-238-7674) offers a spacious home a block from the beach for $1,800 a week or $400 a day. You can also call the Savannah Area Convention & Visitors Bureau for a list of companies that handle rentals. The Ocean Plaza Beach Resort also has spacious rooms (912-786-7777 or 1-800-215-6370; weekend rates range $115-$180). Book well in advance. Summer is peak season on the island.