Episode 193: Chasing the Sun to Tybee Island GA with Mayor Brian West
When cooler weather hits, many families put away the swimsuits—but what if you packed them for a little extra sunshine instead? In this episode, Rob kicks off our Chasing the Sun series with a trip to Tybee Island, Georgia, a laid-back beach town just minutes from Savannah. Known for wide sandy beaches, small-town charm, and family-run restaurants, Tybee is the perfect place to escape the cold.
Joining us is Mayor Brian West, who shares insider tips on:
- Why Tybee feels worlds away from bigger beach destinations
- Family-friendly activities like lighthouse climbs, dolphin tours, kayaking, and surfing lessons
- Seasonal highlights including Pirates Fest, the Christmas parade, and the springtime Beach Bum Parade (a massive island-wide water fight!)
- Local restaurants that make Tybee a food lover’s paradise—think fresh-off-the-dock seafood, pizza joints with live music, and creative coastal dining
- Where to stay, from 1950s-style family hotels to unique vacation rentals
Whether you’ve got little ones, adventurous teens, or just need a slower coastal pace, Tybee has something for everyone.
📖 Don’t forget: Rob’s upcoming book The Family Vacationer: A Parent’s Guide to Meaningful Travel releases this December. Packed with stories and strategies, it’s your guide to making every trip more intentional and rewarding.
👉 Resources & Links:
- Visit Tybee – Tourism site with events, lodging, and planning info
- City of Tybee – Local updates and community events
- Follow The Family Vacationer on Instagram
The Family Vacationer
The Family Vacationer is a weekly podcast helping families travel smarter, spend better, and create lasting memories together. Hosted by Rob and Traci, the show features expert interviews, real-life stories, and practical tips for planning meaningful, family-first adventures. From hidden gems to budget hacks, it's a must-listen for parents who want stress-free, joy-filled travel.
Meet the Hosts
Growing up, Rob Jones mainly traveled to Florida for vacation. Those family trips to Orlando and the Gulf Coast are cherished memories that influence him to this day. His entire professional career has involved travel. From working in the music business to event marketing, Rob has traveled to 46 states and five countries. Rob has been married to his wife, Traci, for 16 years and they love to travel with their three children: Ruthie, Nash, and Chase.
Traci's been shaking up the Dawson County School System for four years now, injecting it with her unique brand of energy and enthusiasm. When she's not molding young minds, you'll find her co-conspiring with her sister at Seasonal Events and Design—because who doesn't love a good party?
She's a self-proclaimed beach aficionado, never meeting a sandy shore she didn't instantly click with. And let's not forget her partner-in-crime for the past eighteen years, Rob, who's been keeping up with her antics and their three beautiful troublemakers—Ruthie, Chase, and Nash. Together, they're a whirlwind of chaos, laughter, and love.
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