Beyond the Beach: Exploring Tybee Island Through Its Murals
Tybee Island isn’t just a beach lover’s dream—it’s also a vibrant canvas of public art. All across this charming barrier island, you’ll find colorful murals that reflect the local spirit, wildlife, and whimsy of this coastal community. From the lively scenes on Tybrisa Street to hidden gems in neighborhoods off the tourist track, Tybee's murals offer a joyful visual journey you won't want to miss.
๐ The Main Event: Tybrisa Street Mural
Right in the heart of the island on Tybrisa Street, you’ll find a 165-foot mural that encapsulates everything Tybee holds dear—vibrant sunsets, graceful herons, sea turtles, pelicans, Cockspur Lighthouse, and even the beloved Tybee Post Theater.
Created by local artist Sky Benson and unveiled in 2024, this mural feels like a love letter to the island. Painted live on-site, the project brought the community together—locals dropped by to chat, share memories, and contribute ideas, making it a mural built not just with paint, but with heart.
๐ฆ Quirky Coastal Vibes at RNR Event Center
New! RNR Event Center on Hwy 80 boasts a just competed mural by x. Painted on the front of the building, it’s packed with bright colors, coastal critters, and funky character—perfect for a photo op before digging into some shrimp and grits.
๐บ Jones Avenue Café Splash
A mural brightening a cozy café along Jones Avenue features waves, flowers, and warm coastal energy. It’s a quieter street than Tybrisa, but this piece draws the eye and offers a peaceful vibe away from the crowds.
๐ข Tybee Turtle Trail – Public Art, Island Style
While technically not murals, the painted turtle statues scattered around the island are too fun to ignore. Created by local artists, each one has a distinct name and theme—“Captain Jack,” “He Ain’t Heavy,” “Turtle Vision”—and you can spot them at City Hall, The Crab Shack, Tybee Gym, and other locations. It’s a family-friendly scavenger hunt waiting to happen!
Learn more: tybeeislandmainstreet.org
๐๏ธ Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Art in the Neighborhoods
๐ฟ 1. Irritable Pelican Gallery & Pelican’s Palette
Just off the main drag, this gallery is a creative oasis full of rotating murals, painted ceramics, and workshops where you can make your own masterpiece. One of the island’s best-kept secrets.
“Tucked away just off the beaten path, Tybee’s best kept secret is the Irritable Pelican.”
— Local Visitor
๐๏ธ 2. Back River Area & Byer Street
Wander through the Back River neighborhood, and you might stumble upon hand-painted signs, fence panels with beach scenes, or artistic driftwood arrangements along walkways to the sand. These aren't tourist attractions—just spontaneous beauty in everyday spaces.
๐ Where to Find Tybee’s Murals
| Location |
Description |
| Tybrisa Street |
Large-scale mural by Sky Benson; Tybee’s main mural centerpiece |
| RNR Event Space |
Playful mural with local beach scenes |
| Jones Avenue |
Café-front mural with bright floral and wave themes |
| Back River Neighborhood |
Surprise art on fences, buildings, and boardwalks |
| Irritable Pelican Gallery |
Gallery murals + community art experiences |
| Turtle Trail (Various Locations) |
Painted turtle statues are placed across the island |
๐ธ Photo Tips
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The best time to visit Is Early morning or during the golden hour for soft lighting and fewer crowds.
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What to bring: A wide-angle lens or a phone in panorama mode.
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How to get around: A beach cruiser bike or a Golf Cart is perfect for mural-hopping!
๐งก Why It Matters
These murals do more than decorate walls. They showcase what Tybee values—its natural beauty, its history, and its people. Whether large-scale or hidden in plain sight, every brushstroke tells a story. So next time you're on Tybee, take the slow road, wander side streets, and let art surprise you.
Published on Wednesday, July 2, 2025