Planning a trip to Tybee Island and looking for a way to combine a little history with a lot of fun? The Pub Cart Crawl offered by Tybee Tour Company might just be the quirky, laid-back experience you’re seeking. This 2-hour tour takes you on a mobile journey through some of the island’s most legendary and lesser-known watering holes, all while learning about Tybee’s colorful past and resort days.
Two aspects really stand out: first, the chance to explore Tybee’s bar scene on a open-air golf cart, which adds a playful and intimate vibe; second, the inclusion of local legends and folklore that make the stops feel like stories shared among friends. One potential consideration? You’ll need to bring your own drinks, as alcohol isn’t included in the ticket price, and you’ll be responsible for your own libations.
This tour is ideal for adults who enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere with a mix of history, humor, and local flavor. It’s perfect for groups of friends, couples, or anyone curious about Tybee’s drinking culture—and who don’t mind a bit of walking and riding in a lively cart.
This experience made our article of We Rank Tybee Island’s 15 Top Tours & Things To Do.
Key Points
- Unique mobile tour: Discover Tybee’s bars and history on a fun open-air golf cart.
- Authentic stops: Visit legendary locals’ favorites and hidden gems.
- Learn while you drink: Dive into stories about Tybee’s resort era, folklore, and bar lore.
- Flexible and social: Includes drinking games, making it ideal for groups.
- Affordable: At $30, it offers a lively experience without breaking the bank.
- Self-serve drinks: You purchase your own alcohol, adding a personal touch.
If you’re after a playful way to get to know Tybee Island’s drinking scene, this tour offers a lively, informative, and thoroughly enjoyable experience. It’s not a typical bar crawl—think of it more as a rolling celebration of Tybee’s cultural quirks, hosted on a breezy golf cart that whisks you from one local favorite to another.
The price point of $30 per person makes it a solid value, especially considering the tour’s interactive nature and the chance to learn stories behind iconic spots. It’s not a guided bar-hopping spree with drinks included—rather, you’ll buy your own drinks at the stops. But that actually allows a bit of flexibility: you can choose your favorite beverages and pace yourself.
👉 See our pick of the We Rank Tybee Island’s 15 Top Tours & Things To Do
Why We Like This Tour
We love the informal, intimate atmosphere created by the open-air cart. There’s something about riding through a small island community while soaking up local tales that makes the experience feel authentic and relaxed—no stuffy tour bus here.
Plus, the tour’s focus on Tybee’s resort history and folklore adds a layer of storytelling that elevates the experience beyond just drinking. You’ll hear about the funky past of spots like Spanky’s Beachside and Doc’s Bar, which have played a role in Tybee’s social fabric for generations.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Tybee Island.
Considerations
Keep in mind that alcohol isn’t included, so you’ll need to bring money for drinks. Also, the tour is about 2 hours long, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a lively pace and some light walking or riding. It’s also geared toward those 21 and over, so it’s not suitable for families or minors.
Who Should Do This?
This experience is best suited for adults who enjoy a laid-back social outing with a touch of local history. It’s great for groups of friends, couples, or even solo travelers keen on meeting new people while exploring a relaxed part of the island.
The Itinerary in Detail
Stop 1: Spanky’s Beachside
Here, you’ll get a glimpse into the beach resort’s evolution, from its heyday to its funky past. Spanky’s is an iconic image of Tybee’s resort days and has even made history at the congressional level. The 15-minute stop gives you just enough time to soak in the vibe while hearing about its rise and fall.
Stop 2: Doc’s Bar Tybee Island
This place is a true local staple—an OG Tybee pub from the 1940s. Known for live music and back-room gambling, Doc’s embodies the island’s rough-and-tumble charm. It’s a spot where locals have gathered for decades, and the stories you hear here might make you feel like you’ve stepped into a movie scene.
Stop 3: Huc-A-Poos Bites and Booze
A world-renowned pub, Huc-A-Poos is a must-visit. The tour highlights its reputation, and you’ll understand why it’s a favorite among both visitors and locals. Expect a lively atmosphere, hearty drinks, and stories of its legendary status in Tybee’s bar scene.
Stop 4: North Beach
This is an off-the-beaten-path local beach bar oasis. Known primarily among locals, this stop offers a chance to experience a more relaxed, authentic side of Tybee. Rum floaters are a highlight here, which makes it a perfect spot for a slow sip while hearing tales of island life.
Stop 5: The Quarter Sports Bar & Grill
When the bars close, locals head here—so it’s where the true after-hours socializing happens. With pool tables, dart leagues, and a lively crowd, it’s a no-frills, authentic Tybee watering hole. Expect a lively, no-pretenses atmosphere that’s perfect for winding down.
Stop 6: TS Chu Department Store
This final stop offers a blend of local nostalgia and small-town charm. As you stroll past Izlar Ave, the stories of Mr. Izlar—the pied piper of children—add a folksy touch. This is the kind of place where locals shop, and you get a sense of Tybee’s everyday life.
What to Expect
Throughout the tour, you’ll experience a mix of history, humor, and local color, all on a mobile, open-air cart. The stops are relatively short—around 15 to 30 minutes—giving you enough time to enjoy a drink, hear a story, and hop back on.
The tour’s group size is capped at 25, which helps keep the experience intimate and friendly. It’s a good balance of social energy without feeling crowded.
The Drinking and Games
One of the adjectives used to describe this tour is “laughter,” and that’s no accident. The tour includes drinking games to loosen up the group and make the whole experience more engaging. Remember, though, alcohol isn’t included, so you’ll need to purchase your own drinks at each stop—an opportunity to try some local favorites or your personal go-to.
Practical Details
Starting at 8:00 pm from Spanky’s Beachside, this tour fits well into an evening plan, especially after a day of sightseeing or beach lounging. The 2-hour duration makes it easy to fit into a relaxed schedule, and the mobile ticket makes for easy access.
It’s also designed to be accessible—service animals are allowed, and it’s near public transportation, making it convenient for most travelers. Just remember to bring water for hydration, as it’s not provided.
Is this Tour Worth the Price?
At $30, the Pub Cart Crawl offers good value for an entertaining and informative night out. Compared to typical bar crawls, this experience combines a sense of community, storytelling, and local flavor in a relaxed setting. Although you pay for your own drinks, the tour’s stops are carefully chosen to showcase some of the island’s most iconic and beloved watering holes, making each purchase worthwhile.
You’re not just getting a party; you’re getting a curated look at Tybee’s drinking traditions, lore, and history—all wrapped in a fun, social package. Plus, the included stories make it more than just a drinking session; it’s a way to understand a slice of local culture.
Final Thoughts
The Pub Cart Crawl of Tybee Island offers a lighthearted, engaging way to explore the island’s bar scene while learning about its past. It’s especially suited for adults who enjoy socializing, storytelling, and a touch of adventure in their evenings. If you’re after a lively, memorable night that combines history, humor, and local charm, this tour is a genuine hit.
The experience’s strengths lie in its casual atmosphere, interesting stops, and interactive elements like drinking games. It’s a great way for friends or couples to spend an evening, especially if you’re curious to see a different side of Tybee beyond the beaches and tourist spots.
While it does require you to buy your own drinks, this gives you the freedom to choose your favorites and pace yourself. And with the stories and local lore, you’re bound to come away with more than just a buzz—you’ll have stories to tell too.
Who Should Consider This?
Anyone looking for a fun, social, and slightly quirky night out on Tybee Island. Perfect for those interested in local culture and history, but who also want to keep it casual and relaxed. It’s also a good pick for travelers who appreciate a small group experience over large, impersonal tours.
Pub Cart Crawl of Tybee Island, Drink like a Local
FAQs
Is alcohol included in the tour price?
No, alcohol is not included. You’ll need to buy your own drinks at each stop.
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 8:00 pm and ending back at the meeting point.
What should I bring?
Bring some cash or card to purchase drinks, and consider bringing water for hydration. Comfortable shoes are recommended since there’s some walking involved.
Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, this tour is strictly for guests 21 and over.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance, and you’ll get a full refund if you cancel within that window.
Where does the tour start?
It starts at Spanky’s Beachside, 1605 Strand Ave, Tybee Island.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The data doesn’t specify, but it’s near public transportation and likely accessible; confirm directly with the provider if needed.
This Pub Cart Crawl offers a lively, informal way to get to know Tybee Island’s drinking spots and stories. Whether you’re a local curious to see familiar haunts or a visitor looking for a fun night out, it’s worth considering for an authentic, relaxed experience.
