Skip the Tourist Traps: A Local’s Guide to the Best Food on Tybee Island

Whether you’re visiting Tybee for a family photo session, a weekend getaway, or just a relaxing beach day, you’ll want to know where to eat. As a local photographer who spends a lot of time on the island, I’ve rounded up my personal favorite food spots—the ones locals love and visitors always remember.

Skip the overhyped tourist traps—this is your guide to real, delicious, Tybee-style dining.

🍳 Sunrise Restaurant See menu

This friendly, no-frills breakfast and brunch spot serves up hearty Southern plates—think fluffy pancakes, shrimp & grits, and buttery biscuits. It’s the perfect start to your day, especially if you're up early for a sunrise walk or photo session.

🥪 Oakie’s Deli & Delights See menu

A newer favorite that’s quickly winning hearts, Oakie’s offers delicious sandwiches, donuts, coffee, and homemade baked goods. It’s a great stop for brunch on the go or a quick bite between beach time and exploring. Oakie's is currently the only place on the island that offers donuts every morning! Friendly staff and cozy, casual vibes make it a standout.

🍔 The Window See menu

This hidden gem serves up the kind of breakfast that keeps you full and happy all day long. Fluffy, buttery biscuits piled high with eggs, cheese, and your choice of meats—plus crave-worthy tater tots and juicy burgers if you're visiting in the afternoon. They even have cinnamon rolls for anyone with a sweet tooth! The Window is small, charming, and full of heart. Definitely a must!

🍽️ Sundae Café See menu

An island classic, Sundae Café is upscale and still wonderfully relaxed. Hidden in a strip mall, it surprises every guest with standout dishes like crab-stuffed grouper, filet mignon, and delicious dessert options. Perfect for date nights or celebrating a special occasion. Reservations highly recommended!

🐟 Salt Island Fish & Beer See menu

This place brings the creativity. Locals love the blue crab poutine, beer cheese hush puppies, and shrimp po' boys. It's laid-back with a modern twist—ideal for lunch or a casual dinner after a day at the beach.

🍣 RAW Ingredients Sushi Bar See menu

Fresh, flavorful sushi on Tybee? Absolutely. RAW offers specialty rolls, sashimi, and sake in a calm, beachy setting. I highly recommend ordering the Ol' Bae Roll. It is my absolute favorite!

🌮 Treylor Park: Beach Party See menu

Funky, fun, and perfect for foodies who like a twist on the classics. Expect creative dishes like chicken biscuit sliders, shrimp & grits tacos, PB&J wings, and other Southern comfort favorites with a playful vibe. The fried Oreos are my favorite sweet option they have! Located one block away from the beach.

🌊 Zunzibar See menu

Quick, bold, and full of flavor—Zunzibar serves giant sandwiches inspired by South African and Mediterranean cuisine. If you are a fellow cheese lover such as myself, I would heavily recommend getting the peri peri cheese dip! Located beachside, it’s the perfect spot for grab-and-go eats or a casual meal with ocean views.

🍕 Huc-A-Poo’s Bites & Booze See menu

A must-stop for giant pizza slices, cold drinks, and a funky, laid-back atmosphere. Covered in local art and full of personality, Huc-A-Poo’s is the kind of place that feels like Tybee. Great for large groups and late-night cravings.

🐠 Bubba Gumbo’s See menu

Located right on the marsh at Lazaretto Creek, Bubba Gumbo’s is a seafood shack with serious flavor. Watch the shrimp boats come in while you enjoy fried shrimp, gumbo, and grilled fish. It’s casual, scenic, and a true island staple.

🦪 Sea Wolf Tybee See menu

For a cozy dinner with cocktails and oysters, Sea Wolf is an excellent choice. The menu is creative and ever-changing, the ambiance is intimate, and the outdoor patio is lovely in the evening. For those who enjoy charcuterie boards, this is your go-to place! A classic favorite for low-key nights out.

🌴 North Beach Bar & Grill See menu

Situated just steps from the lighthouse, this beachy spot serves Caribbean-inspired dishes like jerk chicken, conch fritters, and mahi tacos. Come for the breezy, upbeat vibe—stay for the rum punch.

🍭 Seaside Sweets See menu

A nostalgic little candy shop with big charm! Seaside Sweets serves delicious ice cream, homemade fudge, saltwater taffy, and retro candy that’ll take you straight back to childhood. It’s the perfect stop after dinner or a beach day—don’t miss their peanut butter fudge if you’ve got a sweet tooth like me!

✨ Insider Tips

Tybee is a small island, and things fill up fast during peak seasons. If you’re visiting in summer or on a weekend, try to arrive early, check online for hours, or call ahead. Many of our island businesses are juggling high demand during peak season, so a little patience and kindness can go a long way. :)

No matter where you land, Tybee’s food scene is full of personality, flavor, and a whole lot of Southern charm. These spots offer a warm welcome and a great meal—whether you’re fueling up for a big day or winding down after a sunset session.