This Milky Way astrophotograph would not be possible without the Loggerhead Sea turtles. Strangely, it is because of the loggerhead and other endangered sea turtles which come up on the beach to lay their eggs in the summer that we have a Sea Turtle program to help save them. One of the components of the program, is that all lights are to be dimmed or turned off along the beach at night so that the turtles are not afraid to come up and lay their eggs. It is because of this that the area is just dark enough during the summer for astrophotography.
The first pier and pavilion built on Tybee Island was called the Tybrisa Pavilion. 16th Street on Tybee Island which leads to the pier is still referred to as "Tybrisa Street". It was built in 1891 by the Central of Georgia Railroad after the completion of the railroad from Savannah to Tybee Island. It attracted big bands and other entertainment for the hundreds of visitors who came to Tybee Island to escape the scorching heat and cool off in the water and to enjoy the entertainment. In 1967 the Tybrisa Pavilion burned to the ground in a massive fire. It would not be rebuilt until 1996 when the Olympics came to Atlanta and Olympic Sailing came to Savannah.
Today the Tybee Pier is one of the most visible and most visited things on the south beach of Tybee Island. It is a great place for ocean viewing, fishing, and is still a popular spot for dances, musical performances, and special events. The pavilion features a snack bar, picnic tables, public restrooms, and nearby shops, stores, and restaurants.
