đźš§ Islands Y Locker Room Updates đźš§

We’re excited to announce that the Women’s Locker Room will reopen on Wednesday, February 12th!

Please note: Our new lockers are on back order and are expected to arrive in April. In the meantime, some of the old lockers will be temporarily placed in the space until the new ones arrive.

Men’s Locker Room Renovations:

  • February 17th: Bathroom and shower areas will be closed. The dry area will remain open until Friday, February 28th.
  • After February 28th: The entire men’s locker room will be closed for renovation.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue improving your Y experience. đź’Ş If you have questions, please check in with our Welcome Center staff.

YMCA Critz Tybee Run Fest Returns This Weekend for Two Days of Fun and Fitness Benefiting Youth Programs at the Y

The annual YMCA Critz Tybee Run Fest kicks off this weekend, January 31 and February 1, bringing runners and families from across the region to Tybee Island for a two-day celebration of health, wellness, and community. Hosted by the YMCA of Coastal Georgia, the event benefits youth programs that serve children and families throughout Coastal Georgia.

Participants can choose to run one race or complete all five to reach a total of 26.2 miles—the equivalent of a full marathon. The weekend promises something for everyone, whether you’re a serious runner or just looking to enjoy a fun, family-friendly event.

Friday: The Taste

The festivities begin on Friday evening with the Mauldin & Jenkins Kid’s Run at 5:30 p.m., followed by the Chamacos Tacos & Surf 5K at 6:00 p.m. Runners will enjoy music by Gary Strickland, delicious food from local vendors, and beverages provided by generous sponsors.

Friday night also offers a special preview of the Savannah Magazine VIP Experience from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., featuring private lounge access, assorted beverages, and grab-and-go snacks.

Saturday: The Test

Saturday morning kicks off bright and early with the Southern Cross Hospitality 10K at 7:00 a.m., followed by the Chu’s Mart Half Marathon at 8:30 a.m., the Keystone Association Managers 2.8-Mile Beach Run at 12:00 p.m., and the West Construction One-Mile Run at 1:00 p.m. Racers can push themselves to new limits, whether tackling one event or completing the entire marathon distance.

Post-race festivities will feature rotating local food vendors, Creature Comforts beer for those eligible to partake, and more music by Gary Strickland. Over 1,200 runners are expected to participate this year, with weather forecasts predicting warmer temperatures than in past years.

VIP ticket holders will enjoy an exclusive Savannah Magazine Saturday VIP Experience from 6:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., which includes bottomless mimosas in a souvenir cup, sweet and savory treats from Byrd Cookie Company, Le Macaron French Pastries, Savannah Bee Company, and more.

Commitment to Sustainability

This year, the YMCA is making an extra effort to keep Tybee Island clean by partnering with Hiccup Earth to replace plastic water cups with sterile, reusable alternatives at aid stations along the course. Additionally, Savannah Distributing will provide post-race beer in recyclable cans, and Curbie Sanitation will supply additional recycling bins.

A Regional Impact

Proceeds from the YMCA Critz Tybee Run Fest support vital youth programs across the entire Coastal Georgia region. These programs help children build confidence, learn valuable skills, and achieve their potential in a supportive environment.

“The YMCA Critz Tybee Run Fest is a powerful example of how our community comes together to support meaningful causes,” said Joel Smoker, CEO of the YMCA of Coastal Georgia. “Every race registration directly contributes to programs that help children across Coastal Georgia build confidence, learn new skills, and reach their full potential. We’re proud to continue this tradition and grateful for the community’s incredible support.”

Register Now

It’s not too late to sign up! Registration is open at TybeeRunFest.com. Participants can register for individual races or sign up for all five events to complete the full marathon.

**UPDATED: Winter Storm Update for YMCA of Coastal Georgia***

***Updated: FRI, JAN 24, 2025*** 5PM

Winter Storm Update for Saturday Operations

Date: Saturday, January 25

On Saturday, all YMCA of Coastal Georgia branches will operate with adjusted hours. Please note the following:

  • Opening Time: All branches will open at 8:30 am, unless their regular opening time is later, in which case they will open on schedule. Closing will be at the regular time.
  • Sports: All sports activities, including games and practices, are cancelled for the day.
  • Services: There will be no Childwatch, group fitness classes, or other scheduled programs available on Saturday.
  • 24-Hour Access: For branches with 24-hour access, this feature should now be fully operational.

As always, your safety is our top priority. Please use caution while traveling, as some roads and bridges may still have icy patches. Stay informed by following guidance from local and regional authorities.

For ongoing updates and details, please bookmark this page.

Thank you for your flexibility and understanding. We look forward to seeing you at the Y!

STRENGTHEN YOUR RESOLVE: Why the YMCA of Coastal Georgia is the Perfect Place to Start 2025

The new year is a time for fresh starts, bold goals, and the resolve to make positive changes. If you’re looking for a place to kick off 2025 with purpose, the YMCA of Coastal Georgia is here for you.

Through January 31, the Y is offering an unbeatable opportunity: join for free with $0 joiner’s fee and your first month on us. But the Y is so much more than just a gym—it’s a community, a resource, and a partner in your journey to better health and well-being.

Your Fitness Goals, Your Way

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or taking your first steps toward fitness, the Y has something for everyone. Our branches are equipped with top-notch facilities, including pools, gymnasiums, and group exercise studios. Plus, our EGYM Smart Fitness system—a cutting-edge personalized workout solution available at seven locations and coming soon to Tybee Island YMCA—takes the guesswork out of fitness.

With intuitive technology that adapts to your goals and progress, EGYM helps you stay on track while building confidence and strength. It’s like having a personal trainer in your pocket!

Building Community Along the Way

When you join the YMCA, you’re not just signing up for a fitness membership—you’re becoming part of a movement. At the Y, workout friends become lifelong friends, and good habits become meaningful routines. You’ll find yourself surrounded by people who are cheering for your success, and you’ll also have opportunities to give back to your community.

Programs like A Place to Dream, which provides beds to children in need, and programs like free swim lessons for underserved communities are just a few examples of how the Y strengthens Coastal Georgia every day. When you join the Y, you’re helping fund initiatives that make our neighborhoods healthier and more connected.

Why Wait?

The new year is already here, and the best time to start is now. Joining the YMCA of Coastal Georgia means you’re investing in yourself and your community. Here’s what you’ll get when you join:

  • State-of-the-art fitness options like EGYM and group exercise classes.
  • Programs for every member of the family, from youth sports to senior wellness.
  • A welcoming, inclusive space where you can work on your goals at your own pace.
  • Access to all YMCA branches across Coastal Georgia.

Join Today

This special offer ends January 31, so don’t let it pass you by! Sign up for free at ymcaofcoastalga.org or stop by any of our branches to get started.

Make 2025 the year you strengthen your resolve, focus on your health, and build stronger connections in your community. At the Y, it’s not just about what you achieve—it’s about who you become and the difference you make.

This is Y. This is where it all begins.