Dunes Inn & Suites

In a beach town like Tybee Island, old-school motel-style lodging is ubiquitous. The Dunes Inn & Suites isn't exactly remarkable in this respect -- it's a two-story motel with exterior hallways and the pool in the center -- but things are generally clean and well-kept here, and it makes for a pleasant enough place to rest within a short walk of the beach. The front desk area is nicely decorated and the reception area is bright and beachy -- there's a miniature lighthouse on the desk and a mural of a beach scene the wall. Don't expect anywhere to really hang out and take in the scene -- there aren't any common areas beyond the few simple tables where guests can eat breakfast in the lobby. Guests here are predominantly families and couples. Keep in mind that there are no elevators to reach the second floor, only outside staircases, and those with mobility issues will want to check ahead. 

The Dunes Inn & Suites is located right off of the main drag on Tybee Island, along with most of the area’s other hotels, restaurants, and shops, including souvenir stores that are right next door. It's a convenient location, as the beach is within a five-minute walk. The shore closest to the hotel is lovely and is next to Tybee Island Pavillion, which that sells ice cream and drinks and has a long wooden pier. Tybee Island Light Station and Museum is less than a 10-minute drive down the road and Tybee National Wildlife Refuge is about a 15-minute drive away. Downtown Savannah is a 30-minute drive from the hotel and Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is a 45-minute drive away.

The 54 rooms at the Dunes Inn & Suites are split between the main building and the Dunes Annex. Decor is dated, with floral bed coverings and upholstery alongside tired furniture that's a bit worn in some places. That aside, rooms are spacious and have bright-colored accent walls, plus attractive wood-laminate flooring. All include free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffeemakers, and suites come with kitchenettes, which include dishwashers and small ovens and stoves, along with dishware and utensils. A couple of the units have their own hot tubs. Basic bathrooms have speckled granite countertops, shower/tub combos, hairdryers, and toiletries. There can be some noise issues between rooms due to thin walls and floors.

This budget property serves a free continental breakfast, though offerings are fairly limited and include yogurt, cereal, pastries, and coffee. The hotel has an outdoor pool with a narrow deck and a few lounge chairs. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel and parking is free as well. Pets are allowed with deposit.