Explore the wild side of the South Carolina coast with a tour of Bulls Island. Coastal Expeditions takes visitors on an adventure to the remote island, part of the 66,000-acre Cape Romain Wildlife Refuge.
Take a Day Trip to Bulls Island
Cape Romain is home to a large population of nesting loggerhead sea turtles, bald eagles, bottlenose dolphins, and a staggering 293 species of birds. Seven miles of Bulls Island’s beach are part of the longest stretch of undeveloped coastline on the East Coast.
The Ferry
From October through December, ferries run for 3.5-hour, 4-hour, or six-hour trips on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Board the ferry at Garris Landing, 498 Bulls Island Road in Awendaw. During the 30-minute trip to the island, you’ll hear about the environment and examine a touch table of artifacts found on the island. Once on the island, visitors can explore 16 miles of trails and seven miles of sandy beach. This includes freshwater ponds that are home to alligators and Boneyard Beach, a magnificent forest stranded in the surf. Price is $35 for children; $55 for adults.
Beach Drop
Offered only a few times a month when the tides are right, a Beach Drop brings visitors directly to one of the most pristine beaches in the world. The trip begins with a naturalist-led boat tour through the saltmarsh. After departing onto the beach on Bulls Island, guests can explore the beach at their own pace. A naturalist guide accompanies this tour on the island to answer questions about beach finds, wildlife, coastal geology, and the history of Bulls Island. This is an excellent tour for families and friends of all ages. The cost is $45 for kids 12 and under; and $75 for adults. One child gets in free for families of five or more.
Safari Expedition
Two fully-guided excursions are scheduled this fall. On Oct. 28, guides transport visitors to the densest population of American alligators outside of the Everglades. Walk the levees of Jacks Creek to spot dozens of gators and hundreds of birds. The sunset trip back allows participants to watch the sunset and the Hunter’s Moon rising. On Nov. 26, Coastal Expeditions offers the Wildlife Safari & Boneyard Exploration. Visitors are transported to the Observation Tower overlooking Jacks Creek for panoramic views before heading to the freshwater habitat, then to search Boneyard Beach at low tide. This trip is $85 for adults.
What to Know
Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet, layered clothing that is quick-dry, and a hat. Swimsuits are optional. Also, bring plenty of drinking water, sunscreen, insect repellent, a bagged lunch, and snacks. Though not required, a gratuity is appreciated.
Who’s ready for an adventure?