CAPE ROMAIN LIGHTHOUSES TOUR
Guardians of the Coast
Offered just six times a year, this special tour takes you by boat to remote Lighthouse Island to view two historic lighthouses from 1827 and 1857. Led by a local historian and guided by Coastal Expeditions, the trip includes a wildlife-rich ecotour through Cape Romain’s estuary—with the chance to wade ashore for an up-close look at the lights. It’s a rare, rugged adventure into the heart of the refuge.
$75
4-4.5 hours
(1-hour presentation followed by 3-hour boat tour)
Coastal Expeditions provides the boat service for this special opportunity, under the direction of USFWS.
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 6- mile journey takes you across the estuarine waters of the refuge, a 66,000-acre protected area teeming with shorebirds, dolphins, and other coastal wildlife.
Whether viewing from the boat or up close on the island, this tour offers an exclusive look at a significant maritime landmark. The lights are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the 1827 lighthouse is the oldest of its kind still standing in the United States.
MEETING PLACE
McClellanville Boat Landing
405 Pinckney Street
McClellanville, SC 29458
At the boat landing, please park on the street, off on the shoulder and close to the entrance of the landing. You must park on the street or you will get a ticket.
The pre-trip presentation by historian Tommy Graham is at the McClellanville Town Hall by the Boat Landing.
THINGS TO KNOW
- This tour is tidal dependent and will leave on time.
- You do not have to get off the boat when we get to Lighthouse Island.
- There is not a dock at Lighthouse Island so you will walk through the marsh- which may be muddy and wet- to get to high ground.
Activity Level
This excursion is suitable for most abilities and ages. When we arrive at Lighthouse Island you have the option to stay on the boat with the captain.
We will approach the island and deploy a ramp from the boat and walk through a section of the marsh to get to the island. Please wear waterproof boots or shoes that will stay on your feet (not flip-flops!)
Once you are on the island, it is a short walk to the two lighthouses. When conditions permit, the white and black lighthouse will be unlocked so that you can look inside.
Please note: 99% of the time, conditions are right for us to get off on the island, but if it isn’t safe, we will see the lighthouses by boat only.
What To Pack & Wear
Pack a small backpack with drinking water, sunscreen & insect repellent and snacks!
Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet (muck boots are best, but you old tennis shoes work, too), a hat, long sleeves and long pants. During cooler weather, dress in layers. The insects can be fierce depending on the time of year– long sleeves are your best defense.
Cancellation & Weather Policy
Tickets for this tour are non-refundable unless Coastal Expeditions cancels for weather. You may transfer tickets to someone else to take your spot (just let us know and we’ll make a note for the guide or captain).
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.