Where?

Tybee Island, Georgia, US.

Why now?

Seen the newly released foodie thrill-fest The Menu yet? While
stars Ralph Fiennes and Anya Taylor-Joy serve up knockout
performances, it was the film’s spectacular Georgia location that
did it for us. Hello, Tybee Island. Located just a 27-minute drive
from the sun-drenched streets of Savannah, the easy-going town has long served as a
staycation spot for Georgia residents, but recently it has seen a
new generation of savvy travellers move in.

Located at the state’s easternmost point, the town has a
full-time population of just 3,091, but, despite its diminutive
size, has appeared in a roster of silver-screen hits (more on that
later), and is home to a thriving, close-knit community.

Tybee Island Light Station, left, and island sand
dunes.

Stroll along Tybrisa Street, home to a huge variety of artisans
and makers, to stock up on souvenirs including jewellery, pottery,
paintings and speciality foods, making regular ice-cream stops
along the way. Want more retail therapy? While away a whole
afternoon at The Shoppes at 1207, on Highway 80, which is
jam-packed with indie stores owned and managed by Georgia
locals.

The main drawcard, though, is the slew of stellar eateries
dotted along the town’s coastline. We’ve adventured through sandy
coves and danced along weather-beaten boardwalks to bring you the
spots not to miss, from family-run seafood joints to laid-back
beach hangouts and no-frills cafés. Plus, the essential swimming
cossie to pack and our favourite place to stay while in town.

Don’t miss

A wander around the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum is
worth making time for. Clamber the 178 steps to the top of
Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse to drink in sweeping ocean
views.

Where to stay?

Truth be told, this destination isn’t exactly awash in hip
boutique hotels. We suggest making Tybee’s North Beach Oasis your base. Close to
the lighthouse, the bright, two-bedroom apartment comes with all
mod cons, a balcony, use of a pool and is a stone’s throw from the
beach.

Beach visitors, left, and an expansive beach on the
island.

Where to go for dinner?

Sundae
Café is our favourite place for a proper feast. From the
outside, chalkboard menus and LED lights give it a somewhat
diner-like appearance, but step inside and you’ll discover wooden
banquette-style seating and a convivial atmosphere that make for a
fun hangout. For something low-key on a dusky evening, try The Original Crab
Shack to scoff shrimp and oysters under twinkling lights.

And for a drink…

A beach bar and grill set between the lighthouse and the beach,
North Beach Bar and Grill combines the best of
Georgian hospitality with a rustic vibe. Pitch up early to make the
most of sipping cocktails and grazing on dishes such as asparagus
and crab salad; it’s only open until 8pm weekdays and 10pm on
Fridays and Saturdays. Night owls looking for a sophisticated
set-up will enjoy Pier 16, a space known for its stellar mojitos,
frozen daiquiris and margaritas – and a selection of sharing plates
to fill up on, too.

Clapboard architecture offers Southern charm, left, and an
island speciality – seafood.

Who to take with you?

That friend who always has a bucket-load of brilliant film
suggestions. They’ll delight in the number of iconic movies in
which Tybee Island has appeared. The Menu is only the latest in a
long list that includes 2019’s Peanut Butter Falcon, 2018’s The
Beach House and Ben Affleck’s 2016-released Live by Night.

Essentials to pack

Baywatch fans will recognise Tybee Island as the backdrop to
some of Zac Efron and The Rock’s legendary action scenes from the
2017 film. Sound like you? Dress the part and run along the beach
(or simply soak up some rays) in this red Marysia scalloped-edge cross-back swimsuit.

How to get there

There are no direct flights from the UK to Tybee Island. We
suggest flying with British Airways from London Gatwick to Savannah
International Airport, from where it’s just a 25-minute drive to
the centre of town.