A Journey Through Time and Nature

Departing from McClellanville, Coastal Expeditions’ Cape Romain Lighthouses Tour is an adventure that blends history, wildlife, and scenic beauty. The journey takes you across the estuarine waters of the refuge, a 66,000-acre protected area teeming with shorebirds, dolphins, and other coastal wildlife. As you make your way to Lighthouse Island, expert naturalists provide engaging insights into the region’s history and ecology, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.

The Lighthouses: Guardians of the Coast

The first lighthouse, built in 1827, was an impressive feat for its time, standing at 85 feet. The whale oil wick lamp could only be seen from 9 to 14 nautical miles aways, making this lighthouse ineffective. It is one of only a few lighthouses of its kind left in the United States.

As maritime traffic increased, a taller and more powerful beacon was needed, leading to the construction of the 1857 lighthouse, which soars to 150 feet. This lighthouse could be seen from 19 nautical miles away. Though no longer active, these structures remain enduring symbols of resilience, having withstood countless storms and the changing tides of history.

During the Civil War, which began just a few years after the second lighthouse was built, the lens and lantern room were purposefully dismantled to prevent the Union troops from using the lighthouse.  Following the war, the lighthouse was re-lit. 

In the fall of 1886, a 7.3 magnitude earthquake in Charleston shook the lighthouses for nearly two minutes, but they did not suffer structural damage. 

An Exclusive Experience

Due to the remote nature of the refuge, Lighthouse Island is only accessible by boat, making this tour a unique and limited opportunity. This tour is offered under the direction of Cape Romain NWR management, with Coastal Expeditions providing boat service to the island.  Offered only 6 times a year, less than 300 people see these lighthouses up close annually!

Coastal Expeditions’ expert guides ensure that visitors gain a deep appreciation of both the lighthouses and the surrounding natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a one-of-a-kind Lowcountry adventure, this tour offers an experience unlike any other.

Plan Your Trip

After a presentation at the McClellanville Town Hall by the lighthouse historian Tommy Graham, step aboard the boat to see the lighthouses in person. The boat tour  lasts approximately three hours, offering ample time to soak in the sights, snap photos, and connect with the stories of the past. On the island, the lighthouses are unlocked, giving special access inside the lighthouses to see how they were constructed.

Book Your Lighthouse Adventure Today

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the beauty of Cape Romain. Visit Coastal Expeditions’ website to reserve your spot on this extraordinary tour and witness a piece of South Carolina’s maritime legacy before your very eyes.