Bio-identical testosterone replacement for Men Near Tybee Island, GA

TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) - It’s the busiest time of the year on our area beaches as people flock to our islands to soak up the sun and cool off in the water.

But on Tybee Island, lifeguards say they were stretched thin as they responded to dozens of calls over the July 4th weekend.

The Tybee Island Fire Department’s Ocean Rescue Team responded to all kinds of calls during the holiday weekend, but most people were calling to be rescued from the water.

This past weekend was a First Alert Weather Day on the coast and lifeguards flew double red flags which meant conditions were so dangerous that swimming was not allowed.

Still, many people did not listen to that warning which resulted in 26 water assists and 12 water rescues.

This was an extremely busy weekend for lifeguards, all while they still need to recruit more to their team.

Tybee Island Fire Chief Justin McMillian said, “it was a little bit overwhelming. We had all hands on deck. All of our guards were working. I think we had 23 guards total on duty, but they were having a little bit of trouble, you know, keeping up with all the folks. Somewhere between that 23 to 30 lifeguards out there is what we want to shoot for.“

Other calls lifeguards responded to over the weekend include Jelly Fish stings and medical emergencies.

They even put in overtime. As they were packing up for the day, they had gotten a call for help and everyone jumped in—both rookies and long-timers.

“On July 4th, we were out on the beach until about 7.30. We had a first rescue at the rock server, the 18th Street Jetty, where it happened to be everybody was leaving the beach at right around that time when we drove by. So thankfully we had a lot of guards there on scene. Rookies jumped in the water, some senior guards jumped in the water, and got some people to safety. They made it back to the shack,” said Lifeguard Supervisor Ben Rahimi Tabar.

Tybee is still actively recruiting lifeguards for the upcoming summer season.

If you or someone you know is interested in trying out, you can still fill out an application.

Georgia's best small towns offer the kind of authentic Southern experiences that simply can’t be found in big city destinations like Atlanta or Augusta (as nice as they are). This is especially true if you’re in need of a quiet, restful place to get away to. From the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Peach State's lovely coastal areas, countless small communities have succeeded in providing visitors with an authentic taste of that famous Old South hospitality. So buckle up and start planning your getaway itinerary with our take on the seven best towns in Georgia for a two-day recharge.

Dahlonega

The site of America's first major gold rush in 1829, Dahlonega is now one of Georgia's most enchanting mountain getaways. The town's Historic Downtown is where you’ll want to spend the bulk of your time. It’s here, in the old town square, that you’ll find the Dahlonega Gold Museum which tells the fascinating tale of one of the nation's oldest and largest gold mining operations. Housed in the 1836 Lumpkin County Courthouse, it’s wise to visit here first for a better understanding of the town’s mining past before heading out to explore the tunnels at the Consolidated Gold Mine (tours are available).

Dahlonega has also made a name for itself as Georgia's wine capital, with eight local wineries producing reputable vintages. The best include Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery, a great place to indulge with a delightful Sunday brunch, and Kaya Vineyard and Winery with its informative tours and tastings. In fact, the best time to visit for a two-day recharge is in May during the Dahlonega Arts & Wine Festival, topping it off with a stay at the centrally located Dahlonega Square Hotel & Villas, located on the town’s historic square.

Blue Ridge

The charming town of Blue Ridge has much to offer those seeking a fun two-day escape. Located in the Chattahoochee National Forest and only a two-hour drive north of Atlanta, it’s home to the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, a heritage railroad that offers scenic 26-mile journeys from the town’s historic depot. These four-hour jaunts follow the Toccoa River through some of North Georgia's most spectacular scenery and include a two-hour layover in the towns of McCaysville and Copperhill, Tennessee.

Downtown Blue Ridge is quite unique as the main drag is split down the middle by the rail line, making it even more fun to wander. There are some great eateries here, too, including Harvest on Main, located near the train station and known for its farm-to-table Southern cuisine. Just a few steps away, the Blue Ridge Inn Bed & Breakfast offers an authentic stay in the Victorian-era former home of the railway tycoon who built the original train line.

Helen

While Helen can be busy, it does offer plenty of opportunities for a fun recharge, especially if that means reconnecting and having fun with the family. This unique Bavarian-themed alpine village wouldn’t look out of place in Germany, right down to its cobblestone streets, timber-framed buildings, and year-round European festivals, including a must-attend Oktoberfest and Christmas Market.

Its location on the Chattahoochee River also helps. Relaxing water-based activities like tubing (check out Helen Tubing and Cool River Tubing) provide unforgettable and relaxing experiences as you gently float downstream. Other town highlights include the thrilling Georgia Mountain Coaster, the scenic Anna Ruby Falls, and the nearby Smithgall Woods State Park, home to some of Georgia's best trout fishing. One of the town’s best places to stay, The Castle Inn, sits directly on the river above a great riverside patio that sells real German beer.

Madison

Known as "Georgia's Antebellum City," Madison boasts some of the best-preserved antebellum architecture in the United States. All told, some 100 pre-Civil War homes grace its pretty tree-lined streets, all of them spared from destruction during Sherman’s March to the Sea. These and other historic buildings make up the 356 contributing buildings of the Madison Historic District, along with Greek Revival, Victorian, and Federal architectural styles dating from the early 1800s to the early 1900s.

Other highlights that make this a must-visit destination include Heritage Hall, built in 1811 and now a museum (tours are available); the elegant Georgian-period Bonar Hall, constructed in 1839 by a cotton magnate,; and the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center, housed in an 1895 Romanesque Revival schoolhouse with exhibits and performances year-round. Top off your relaxing retreat with a stay at the 4-star James Madison Inn, just a short stroll from the town’s architectural wonders.

St. Marys

Georgia's second-oldest town, St. Marys is an ideal spot for a two-day coastal recharge. Located close to Cumberland Island National Seashore and just 45-minutes north of Jacksonville, FL, this charming town was established in 1787, with several original structures from this period still surviving in its Historic District. It’s a delightful place for a stroll, with oak-lined streets, attractive Victorian-era homes, and the picturesque St. Marys Waterfront Park perfect for a sit-down as you enjoy the views over St. Marys River.

Hop aboard the Cumberland Island Ferry which departs from the downtown dock to Georgia's largest barrier island where wild horses roam among ruins of Carnegie mansions. And bring your swimsuit, as the island’s beaches stretch for some 17 miles along the Atlantic. Once back in town, retreat to the charming Riverview Hotel. Located directly opposite the ferry dock, this 1916 hotel features a wraparound veranda overlooking the St. Marys River and a top-notch restaurant known for its fresh local seafood.

Tybee Island

Just 20 minutes east of historic Savannah, Tybee Island has a laid-back beach town vibe that makes it perfect for a relaxing two-day break. Boasting five miles of public beaches, families will want to hang out at the kid-friendly South Beach near the pier, while the quieter North Beach is favored by locals and adults seeking something a little quieter. The Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, built in 1736, is Georgia's oldest and tallest lighthouse. If you can manage the steep stair climb, the views are simply to die for.

Built in 1891, Tybee Pier and Pavilion hosts festivals throughout the year and provides excellent fishing, while the Tybee Island Marine Science Center is fun to visit for its beach walks, marsh treks, and interactive exhibits about Georgia's coastal ecosystem. If you want to get out on the water, the island's back rivers and salt marshes are fun to explore by kayak, and there’s a good chance you’ll spot dolphins. As for accommodations, shoot for Hotel Tybee, in operation since 1889 and the island's only oceanfront hotel with easy beach access.

Thomasville

Known as the "Winter Resort of the South" during the Victorian-era, Thomasville’s 19th-century grandeur is still very evident in its well-preserved downtown. Must-sees include The Big Oak, a huge tree dating from around 1680 with a span of 165 feet in limb spread, while brick-paved streets lead to April’s annual Rose Show & Festival, held downtown since 1922. This unique celebration of the town’s designation as Georgia's Rose City features displays of over 1,500 blooms in the Thomasville Rose Garden.

You’ll also enjoy a visit to Pebble Hill Plantation, a 3,000-acre estate turned museum. Take a tour of the 1930s main house with its vast Audubon print collection, original Tiffany lamps, and period furnishings. The Thomasville History Center complex includes several historic buildings, while the quirky Lapham-Patterson House, built in 1885 with virtually no right angles, showcases Victorian architectural eccentricity. For a restful stay, the quaint Thomasville Bed and Breakfast is within walking distance of the and other Thomasville attractions.

The Final Word

If you’re looking for somewhere to unwind and relax in the South, these seven Georgian towns are ideal candidates. From Dahlonega's gold rush heritage and wine country sophistication to Tybee Island's barefoot beach culture, they’re each guaranteed to provide the kind of slow travel experience we all need now and then. Plan your next 48-hour escape with our list of the seven best towns in Georgia for a two-day recharge.

TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) - The clock is ticking for Tybee Island’s only school to find a new home before its lease is up in 2029.

Staff and board members at Tybee Island Maritime Academy have tried to find a new home for the school for years without luck.

A recent decision during last Thursday’s Tybee Island city council meeting could be a step in the right direction. This resolution passed by city council means the city can now start to look at funding options for a plan for Memorial Park that includes TIMA.

The resolution states the city manager will communicate with the Tybee Island Maritime Academy, The Savannah-Chatham County Public School System, the Tybee Island YMCA and additional entities as necessary, all to explore the possibility of creating a shared use school and community facility in Memorial Park.

Many buildings in Memorial Park, including the island’s fire station, are old and in dire need of a renovation. This plan would also include moving the fire station elsewhere.

Tybee is surrounded by water and doesn’t have the space for new buildings. According to Tuesday’s resolution by Tybee Island Councilman Tony Ploughe, these limited options may deter families with children to settle on the Island.

“We wanted to give our city manager the go-ahead to start looking at options for how we would come up with the money for this project and who our partners would be ...so that when we do have the plan for the park, we’ll be a step ahead and we’ll be able to get things rolling,” said Mayor Brian West.

The city hired a consulting group that is working on a proposal for Memorial Park. Mayor West says they’re hoping to get the results from that study as soon as July.

Copyright 2025 WTOC. All rights reserved.

TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) -A proposed change to Tybee Island’s main road is causing a stir. The Georgia Department of Transportation is once again seeking input from residents about a possible plan to bring major changes to Highway 80 from the Lazzaretto Creek to Tybrisa Street.

Under this proposal Highway 80 would be reduced to one lane in each direction, starting at the Lazaretto Creek bridge to Tybrisa Street, adding a two way left turn lane.

“We’re not even touching the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the problems that this is going to create,” said Mack Kitchens, who lives on the island.

Kitchens is against this proposed change and is trying to show GDOT that he isn’t alone, he created a petition against the proposed plan that’s already gathered nearly 800 signatures.

“I’m thinking safety concerns. More bikes and really more accidents...where the GDOT seems to think that this will address safety concerns and slow traffic down. This is going to bring traffic to a stop,” Kitchens said.

Tybee Island Mayor Brian West says the city isn’t giving GDOT a stance on the proposal, instead sharing how residents feel. He also says the biggest concern when it comes to 80 is safety.

“I completely get that we’re likely going to slow traffic down and that’s going to be a problem. You know, we wanna be able to get to where we wanna go. But from the state of Georgia’s point of view, that’s just a safety improvement,” West said.

Kitchens also believes that traffic slowdown could cause bigger headaches and concerns down the line.

“There are comments that I saw in the petition...of people in Savannah that are worried about whether they’ll be able to get to work on time...These businesses sustain our water, our sewer, our income for the island itself,” Kitchens said.

GDOT has said this project is meant to improve driver and pedestrian safety, reduce speed, improve traffic flow and improve emergency response times.

Georgia Representative Jesse Petrea says he’s in communication with GDOT about the strong response he’s getting from folks.

“Right now I’m trying to make sure that GDOT knows that there’s a lot of response from Tybee that is not supportive of this measure and opposed to this measure. And I want to make sure they still have an opportunity to be fully heard,” Petrea said.

WTOC first reached out to GDOT in early June for comment on the proposed project and were sent documents detailing the proposed improvements, as well as a statement that reads

We reached out again this week, and were sent a similar statement

WTOC asked GDOT why we could not speak with them on camera or over the phone about this proposal and residents’ concern and have not heard back.

In May, some Tybee Island property owners received a letter from the Georgia Dept. of Transportation (GDOT) regarding additional research, field surveys and investigation to determine the feasibility of proposed changes to State Road 26/U.S. Highway 80 East, the only way onto and off of the island.

The proposed project, much to the displeasure and reluctance of Tybee residents and business owners, would substantially alter the road by reducing the two lanes of travel on SR-26 to one lane in each direction from Lazaretto Creek to Tybrisa Street. The project would also construct a two-way left turn lane and a dedicated two-way bicycle lane, as well as upgrade traffic signals and pedestrian facilities along the route. All parking along SR-26 would be changed to reverse-angle parking and relocated to the beach (east) side of the road.

The letter from GDOT said the purpose of the survey was to gather the information necessary to design the referenced project and will include the identification of streams, wetlands and open waters.

In March 2024, GDOT sought input from residents about the proposed changes and presented its findings in September 2024. Residents' reactions were mixed then and remain so as GDOT takes a step forward in assessing the project's feasibility. At an open house in March of this year, 71% of the 612 people who responded in person, online and via mailed-in comments opposed the plan of reducing lanes.

Despite objections, GDOT remained confident that the project would be successful, according to previous reporting by the Savannah Morning News.

Mack Kitchens, a Tybee Island native who ran for mayor in 2023, said that he and everyone he has spoken with are staunchly against the proposed plan, and there’s a number of concerns that he and others have regarding the proposal―among them, increased traffic congestion with the reduced number of lanes, the ability to turn around when necessary, and visitors and residents taking alternate routes through neighborhoods to avoid large events.

“I don’t think it was thought out well enough,” Kitchens said. “This problem has existed forever, and as people keep trying to fix it, this will just create worse problems. It may be well-intended, but it doesn’t even look workable to people who have lived here for a long time.”

Although GDOT has plans to have another open house, date to be determined, Kitchens said he feels like getting public input is “smoke and mirrors.”

“[Them] saying [they] want public input doesn’t necessarily mean that they will take it whether it’s 'yes, we want it' or 'no, we don’t,'” Kitchens said. “Field studies already cost money, and it seems to me that they’ve already derived a plan.”

He hopes people will begin speaking out and letting their opinions be known on the proposed project.

For safety reasons during certain events, such as April's Orange Crush Festival, the city of Tybee Island reduces traffic lanes from two to one on each side.

GDOT's proposal is intended to accommodate more modes of transportation―pedestrians, drivers, cyclists and other vehicles. The benefits of the the changes, according to GDOT, should be reduced frequency and severity of crashes, reduced delays and improved safety and emergency response times.

More information and the project presentation from last year can be found at us-80-tybee-safety-improvements-0019699-gdot.hub.arcgis.com.

Destini Ambus is the general assignment reporter for the Savannah Morning News, covering the municipalities, and community and cultural programs. You can reach her at DAmbus@gannett.com