The Tybee Island area is really designed for families. There are cheap and easy places to get food and treat, even right on the beach. The beach stays shallow as it goes into the ocean and there's really not much big waves if you have little kids. However, this is also a little unexciting for bigger kids. Parking can be difficult, you really just have to find a place on the street if the lots are full (which they usually are).
Me and my DH went to Savannah on our honeymoon and went to Tybee Island. Since we were newlyweds, we really enjoyed the fact the beaches were pretty much deserted. We only saw one or two more families there besides us. There is nothing commercial about it, though. There is a restaurant there as you are driving into the Island that was very good. I can't remember the name, but it was about the only commercial thing there :)
What a beautiful beach! It seems liek it is almost undeveloped, no high-rises, beautifl sand, dolphin sightings from the water. It is simply a great place to visit! Loved that the meters to pay at the beach are debit-friendly, and you can pay by the housr. Lots of little shops that sell swimwear, pictures, souvenirs all within walking distance. Uncluttered and perfect.
Our family travels to Savannah atleast twice a year, to visit the in laws! And everyone knows we will spend a day on the beach, no matter the time of year. There is a park 1 block off of the beach with a covered pavillion, plus a playground and basketball courts. My sister in law took us there on December 26, with the hope that my children would not spend hours at the beach. Much to her dismay, my 2, 4, and 6 yr old, were capable of playing in the ocean for 2 hours and I learned to never travel without bathing suits.
Back when my husband and I were dating, we rented a condo near the beach for a week in December. It was just beautiful--of course it was too cold for swimming, but we went on many walks, flew a kite or two, and just enjoyed being beach bums during the off season. And it's so close to Savannah, you get to enjoy two vacation spots at once.
We have been to tybee island many times and love it. We stay at a hotel on the beach so it is esay to carry all of our stuff. The marine science canter is wonderful. We did an early morning activity and learned about all kinds of marine life. I would recomend the science center and the marsh walks. Lots of stuff to look at and touch.
It's gotten more expensive but it's a wonderful day trip from Savannah - beach, sun, food - eat at Spanky's or take a walk on the Boardwalk down on the south end. I am from Savannah and I take my kids there every time we come back. Because the weather is generally mild it's still a fun trip in the winter.