ST. PHILLIPS ISLAND QUEST
HUNTING ISLAND STATE PARK
Overview
Boat Ecotour + Island Hike
Grades 6–12 & college/continuing education
This 4-hour field trip begins with a boat ride through the salt marshes behind St. Helena Island, where students learn about the estuary’s rich web of life while scanning for dolphins, pelicans, and other coastal wildlife.
Then it’s off to St. Phillips Island—a barrier island that is part of Hunting Island State Park. Students will hike from the dock through maritime forest and salt shrub thickets, learning about native and edible plants, habitat diversity, and the animals that thrive here, from fox squirrels and deer to shorebirds and crabs.
By the time they reach the beach, they’ve walked through a living science lesson—and they’ll carry that experience long after they leave the island.
Why We Love It
St. Phillips feels like stepping back in time.
This island is wild, quiet, and full of life—a perfect place for students to connect with nature in its purest form. We love how the journey unfolds: a boat ride through the salt marsh, a hike through untouched forest, and a beach that stretches on forever. It’s immersive, off-the-grid, and packed with moments that spark curiosity and wonder.
Options & Rates
4 hours
$34/student
(20 student minimum)
This does not include admission to Hunting Island State Park. Please check their website for current rates.
DEPARTURE POINT
Coastal Expeditions at St. Helena Island
1928 Sea Island Parkway
St. Helena Island, SC 29920
THINGS TO KNOW
- Adapted for grades 6-12 with SC Science Curriculum standards
- Customized itineraries for college and continuing education are available
- We can handle large group sizes and have ample motor coach parking
- Two chaperones free; $45/additional adult (space is limited)
Weather
If the forecast looks unsuitable for a fun & safe day, we’ll contact you and reschedule or cancel the field trip.
Guide training and safety
Coastal Expeditions employees are certified in first aid, CPR and life guarding.
Throughout the year, they participate in continuing education programs to become skilled as naturalists, guides and field trip leaders.
Passenger Boat
Coastal Expeditions vessels are custom-built, Coast Guard-certified boats that are designed to be stable and safe. See our fleet.