North Jetty (Tybee Island)

North Jetty (Tybee Island) is a multi-use wind and water spot centered around the lighthouse area where the Savannah River meets the Atlantic. For kitesurfing, it’s known for year-round sessions with flat-to-choppy water and small waves, while also requiring careful attention to current strength near the inlet and the jetty structure. Wind direction is a key factor: the best wind is from the east quadrant (NE, E) and from NW, and riding is discouraged whenever winds have a South component. For kitesurfers, the practical guidance is consistent: launch and land as far from the jetty as possible to reduce the risk of being pushed into rocks, and watch tide timing because strong tidal currents can build during mid-tide flow. The main hazards repeatedly cited include rocks/jetty hazards, sharks, and rip currents/strong currents. There are also informal local expectations about spacing and side-use around the jetty, and a general restriction on kiting near the Tybee Pier (South End). Surfing at North Jetty is described as exposed and only sporadically rideable. Winter is typically the best period, and waves are most likely when you get the right combination of swell and offshore-ish wind, with swell best from the northeast. Even when waves appear, sources describe the quality as poor to average and the break as inconsistent, with rides tending to be short/punchy and often occurring close to the jetty. Water quality is generally described as clean, and water temperature varies widely through the year (winter near about 10–15°C and summer around 27–30°C). Wetsuit use is seasonal: wetsuits are needed from November to April, while shorter gear can be sufficient during summer months when water warms. Overall, it’s primarily a kitesurfing destination with a winter-leaning surf component and strong emphasis on safe launch/ride spacing due to currents and jetty hazards.