SUNRISE FOR SEA TURTLES
Overview
July 27, 2025
Experience a Morning in the Life of the Turtle Team
Join us for a special fundraising expedition that takes you behind the scenes of sea turtle conservation in Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge. This early-morning adventure begins in the dark—just like the dedicated turtle team’s daily routine.
We’ll depart by boat from the mainland before sunrise and head to Boneyard Beach on Bulls Island, arriving with just enough time to walk the shoreline before the tide washes away the tracks. As you explore the beach alongside our naturalists, you’ll search for crawls, false crawls, and freshly laid nests. Learn how the turtle team identifies and marks nests, and get a firsthand look at the critical work that protects thousands of loggerhead sea turtles each nesting season.
This is more than just a beach walk—it’s a rare opportunity to witness the quiet magic of sunrise on a wild barrier island, while supporting vital conservation efforts. Proceeds directly benefit the Sea Turtle Program in Cape Romain through the Coastal Expeditions Foundation.
Space is limited. All ages welcome with early riser spirit.
Why We Love It
This is a truly special opportunity to be on a nesting island beach before dawn– all while supporting conservation in your own backyard.
Capt. Chris Crolley and a Coastal Expeditions Foundation sea turtle team intern will be leading this expedition.
Rates & Tour Date
$125
Sunday, July 27
5-8:30 a.m.
100% of your ticket will be donated to Coastal Expeditions Foundation conservation programs for sea turtles, seabirds and environmental education in Cape Romain NWR
MEETING PLACE
Garris Landing
498 Bull Island Road
Awendaw, SC 29429
Please park in the designated “Bulls Island Ferry” area.
THINGS TO KNOW
- The boat will leave on time. Please arrive 15-30 minutes prior to departure to give yourself time to park, gather your things and walk down the pier to the boat.
- This is a family-friendly expedition.
Activity Level
Participants will take the ferry to Bulls Island and then load onto a truck and trailer to ride safari-style through the island. Once we get to the oceanside of Bulls Island, there is a short walk to the beach. Once there, you may choose to walk with Capt. Chris or set your own pace.
What To Pack & Wear
Dress for the weather and wear a hat and shoes you don’t mind getting wet (sports sandals are a great option)
In a small bag or backpack, bring plenty of water, sunscreen, insect repellent and snacks.
Guide Safety & Training
All Coastal Expeditions guides hold certifications in first aid, CPR and lifeguarding. As year-round leaders of day camps and school field trips, our staff is well-trained to keep safety at the forefront. Children wear PFDs while they are on each daily expedition.
Our captains hold 100-ton master captain licenses from the USCG. Coastal Expeditions boats are custom-built vessels that receive yearly inspections from the U.S. Coast Guard.
Cancellation & Weather Policy
This is a fundraiser and tickets are non-refundable.
If we have to cancel for weather, we will reschedule or issue passes for the Bulls Island Ferry to be used at your convenience.
