Bulls Island Beach Drop

Overview

Offered only a few times a month when the tides are right, this trip brings you directly to one of the most pristine beaches in the world for a chance to reconnect with nature. The Bulls Island Beach Drop is one of Charleston’s best outdoor adventures.

The trip begins with a naturalist-led boat tour through the oyster-lined estuary creeks within the 66,000 acres of Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge.

Once the boat arrives at Bulls Island, guests depart onto the beach and will be able to explore the beach at their own pace. A Coastal Expeditions naturalist guide will be available to answer questions about beach finds, wildlife, coastal geology, and the history of Bulls Island.

Beach comb, picnic, swim or just take it all in. This is an excellent tour for families and friends of all ages.

Why We Love It

Cape Romain, home of Bulls Island, serves as habitat to a large population of nesting loggerhead sea turtles, bald eagles, bottlenose dolphins and a staggering 293 species of birds, including rare red knots, several species of terns, ospreys, and a plethora of other shore birds. Seven miles of Bulls Island’s beach are part of the longest stretch of undeveloped coastline on the East Coast and allow for unparalleled beach combing and exploring.

Rates & Information

4 hours
$75 adults | $45 kids 12 & under
Groups of 5 or more: 1 child free (at checkout use code FAMOF5)

Beach Drop | Boat Tour | Dolphins & Wildlife | For Families

Departure Point

GARRIS LANDING
498 BULLS ISLAND ROAD
AWENDAW, SC 29429

Please park in the designated “Bulls Island Ferry” area.

Things to Know

  • Reservations are required for this tour, but booking stays open until 30 minutes before each departure!
  • The boat will leave on time.  Please arrive 20-30 minutes prior to departure to give yourself time to park, gather your things and walk down the pier to the boat. 
  • Public restrooms are located in the parking lot at Garris Landing – there are no facilities on the boat or the beach. 
  • This is a family-friendly expedition that allows you to set your pace once you are on the island.  We will provide a map of the island marked with trails and offer advice on where go.

FAQ’s

Activity Level

Participants will depart directly from the boat onto the beach using a ramp or portable steps. Once on the island, participants can decide how much of the expansive beach they wish to explore.

What To Pack & Wear

Pack plenty of drinking water, sunscreen and other sun protection, insect repellent, bagged lunch/snacks (small coolers are acceptable), and beach towel/picnic blanket if desired.

Wear breathable, comfortable clothing, and shoes that you don’t mind getting wet (Tevas-style shoes are best). Bring a hat and layers for sun protection.

Weather/seasonal considerations:  swimsuit/swim clothes;  extra layer for the boat ride during cooler months; rain gear/windbreaker

Cancellation & Weather Policy

This tour is non-refundable within 72-hours of the tour date.  

Weather (thunderstorms or high winds) may impact this excursion. Cancellations usually occur due to lightning, thunder or high winds and we will make sure to reschedule your group if needed. Our general cancellation policies apply unless our experts determine it is potentially unsafe or unwise to venture out. In the event that we decide to cancel due to weather, we will make every effort to call you at least two hours before your departure and help you reschedule or credit/refund the full cost of your trip.

Guide Safety & Training

All Coastal Expeditions guides hold certifications in first aid, CPR and lifeguarding. Throughout the year, they participate in continuing education and training to ensure that they are proficient paddlers, and all lead guides hold sea kayaking certifications from the American Canoe Association of Level 1 or higher.

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.

Gratuity

Gratuity is not included in your tour price. Our guides go above and beyond to make sure you have a fantastic time out on the water! Average gratuity ranges from 15%–25% of your tour cost based on your experience. It is not required, but always greatly appreciated.

Collecting Shells

Please be respectful of the beach and only take a handful of shells.  This beach is managed for the protection of wildlife and it is a special privilege to be able to take home a memento. This is not a shelling tour.