Old Coast Adventure Company offers hands-on outdoor experiences on Tybee Island, GA, that combine scenic coastal exploration with practical guidance. Whether paddling salt marshes or hiking forest paths, these adventures provide clear, actionable preparation tips to make your visit both memorable and safe.
Adventure Tips
Hydrate Early and Often
Carry at least 2 liters of water during spring or fall outings, and more in summer. Coastal humidity and sun can dehydrate quickly.
Footwear for Mixed Terrain
Use waterproof trail shoes or durable sandals with grip to handle wet marsh paths and sandy soil effectively.
Time Your Trip Around Tides
Check local tide charts before paddling or exploring tidal mudflats to ensure safe, accessible water levels and trail conditions.
Sun Protection Is Non-Negotiable
Use sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and bring sunglasses—coastal sun can penetrate cloud cover and reflect off water surfaces.
Unforgettable Guided Outdoor Adventures with Old Coast Adventure Company on Tybee Island, GA
Old Coast Adventure Company offers more than just tours; it delivers immersive outdoor experiences that connect you directly with Tybee Island’s wild edges. These guided excursions give you a front-row seat to coastal forests, marshlands, and tidal creeks that push and pull with the Atlantic’s rhythm. Expect trails ranging from easy strolls on sandy paths to hikes over irregular terrain with modest elevation changes, usually within 3 to 5 miles round trip. Under the canopy of live oaks and palmettos, the forest breathes alongside you, while salt marshes dare you to explore their watery veins on kayak or paddleboard.
Each adventure is built around respect for the environment’s pace—reeds sway, birds call, and the ocean’s current nudges your passage. These elements are not obstacles but companions that challenge and inspire, asking for your attention and care.
Practical details matter here. Wear sturdy yet breathable footwear that can handle damp soil and sandy stretches. Hydration is critical; water bottles or hydration packs are a must on sunny days when the sun heats the coastal plains. The best time to go is either spring or fall, when the humidity drops and wildlife activity peaks. Early morning or late afternoon excursions can also offer cooler temperatures and dappled light perfect for clear visibility and quiet moments.
Guides from Old Coast are seasoned professionals who balance narration with safety, helping you read the landscape—identifying local flora and fauna, interpreting tidal patterns, and advising when to step carefully around sensitive salt marshes. They equip you with not only the where and how but also the why: understanding this ecosystem sharpens your sense of adventure and stewardship.
In summary, a guided trip with Old Coast Adventure Company is practical and powerful. It is an invitation to engage with a coastline that is fiercely itself—shaped by wind, tide, and time—and to do so well-prepared, aware, and present.
Nearby Trips
Adventures near Savannah
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long are the guided hikes and paddle trips?
Most guided excursions with Old Coast Adventure Company last between 3 to 5 hours, covering 3 to 5 miles depending on the route and activity type. Paddling trips focus on tidal creeks and marsh channels, while hikes explore forested areas and coastal paths.
Are these tours suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The company offers options suited for casual hikers and paddlers. Guides tailor the experience to participants’ skill levels, ensuring a safe and engaging adventure regardless of experience.
What wildlife might I see on a Tybee Island adventure?
Expect to encounter wading birds like herons and egrets, playful bottlenose dolphins offshore, and small mammals such as raccoons. Seasonal migrations can bring diverse waterfowl, especially in spring and fall.
Do I need my own gear for kayaking or paddleboarding?
No, Old Coast Adventure Company provides all necessary gear, including boats, paddles, and safety equipment. Participants just need to wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
When is the best time of day for these activities?
Early mornings and late afternoons are preferred for cooler temperatures and gentler lighting, which also heightens wildlife activity and offers calm waters for paddling.
Are there areas off the beaten path worth exploring nearby?
Yes, the backwaters and less trafficked tidal channels offer quiet spots where wildlife thrives. Guided tours often include access to hidden marsh edges not easily reached solo.
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Trail Shoes
Protects feet from wet terrain and provides traction on slippery paths.
Hydration Pack or Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated in coastal heat and humidity.
Lightweight Sun Hat
Provides shade during open trail segments and paddling excursions.
Insect Repellent
Helps ward off mosquitoes and ticks active during warm months.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- "Campground Beach Marsh Trails — a quieter stretch with high bird density"
- "Backriver Tidal Creeks — accessible by kayak, less visited than main waterways"
Wildlife
- "Bottlenose dolphins often swim just beyond the surf line"
- "Seasonal visits by migratory shorebirds like sandpipers and plovers"
- "Marsh rabbits and fiddler crabs animate salt flats"
History
"Tybee Island carries a rich coastal history dating back to colonial times, with landmarks like the Tybee Island Light Station revealing maritime heritage and the island’s defense role in U.S. history."