Tybee Island is making traffic changes and adding lifeguards after several busy days this spring.

Welcome to Tybee Island sign, with the sun behind it

Tybee Island has seen traffic on par with peak summer days in recent weeks.

Credit: Tybee Island Police Department

As more Georgians get vaccinated against COVID-19, they’re heading to the beach in record numbers.

Two weeks ago, about 13,000 visited Tybee Island on a Saturday. And last week saw three days of at least 10,000 cars, which is considered peak traffic.

City manager Shawn Gillen said it’s likely a combination of nice weather, a growing population, and more COVID vaccines.

“So, we’re seeing numbers we haven’t seen before, and so we’re just trying to take every step we can to help keep the public safe,” he said. 

The island is instituting traffic controls to keep cars moving this weekend, something Gillen said they’ll likely continue heading into summer. They’re also adding lifeguards, who typically aren’t on duty until May.

Gillen said the traffic changes are similar to the steps the city has long taken on busy days like the Fourth of July.

Beachgoers can also expect to heavier than normal traffic on U.S. Highway 80, the sole road to Tybee Island.

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