DOMINICK HOUSE EXPEDITION
Overview
Join us on an active 3-day/2-night trip for an in-depth look at the varied habitats within Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge.
Expert guides lead you through the weekend, creating a Lowcountry experience that is unmatched in service and knowledge. You’ll see the best birding spots, track bobcats and deer, explore the beach at sunrise, and hike alongside alligator-laden ponds. You’ll learn the history of the island back to the Native Americans and to the present. This is an immersion in local history, geology, biology, and marine science. You’ll spend most of each day in the field, returning to the house for group meals and a good night’s rest! Participants should be able to walk several miles each day at an easy to moderate pace.
Daily excursions include:
Sunrise at Boneyard Beach
Sunset boat cruise around the island when conditions allow
Birding at freshwater impoundments
Exploring pristine wilderness beach
Extended hikes to see historical sites or significant wildlife
Why We Love It
It’s a special privilege to stay in a U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service field house on a 5000-acre barrier island. The extended stay on the island allows us to explore to areas that are hard to get to on a day trip and fully immerse in a Lowcountry education.
Led by Coastal Expeditions’ top guides, this is one not to miss.
Rates & Details
$695 | 3 days/2 nights
Includes accommodations, meals, boat transportation and guide service
Birding | Dolphins & Wildlife | Island Exploration | Local History | Multi-day Expedition
MEETING PLACE
Garris Landing
498 Bull Island Road
Awendaw, SC 29429
THINGS TO KNOW
- A detailed packing list and information about the trip is provided once you make your reservation.
- This trip books out quickly a year in advance. If you want to get an email before dates are released, sign up here.
Activity Level
We are almost always on the go between meals! Every day, you will walk several miles at a comfortable pace. Our longer hikes will typically range from 5-7 miles. Boat rides and safari-style rides through the island will also be on the itinerary.
All activities are optional and we will go over the itinerary each morning.
What To Pack & Wear
A packing list will be provided once you make a reservation.
Accommodations & Meals
Accommodations are in the Dominick House, a 1920’s manor house located in the heart of the island. This 6 bedroom/4 bathroom house provides a comfortable place to stay in Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge. It has heating and A/C, a full kitchen, dining room and comfortable living space.
Please keep in mind that this trip is in high demand and we have a full house with limited rooms. We cannot guarantee that you will have your own private bedroom or bathroom. We will take all the information provided to us at booking into account to accommodate everyone as best we can!
Meals are a hearty mix of southern and coastal-inspired meals that include trailside picnics, big southern breakfasts, and fresh, local seafood.
Cancellation & Weather Policy
There is a 50% non-refundable deposit due at the time of booking. If you need to cancel your reservation, you will not receive a refund for your deposit under any circumstances. You must cancel your reservation at least 30 days in advance to avoid being charged the final 50% of your payment. Please understand that this policy is in place due to the high demand and planning required for a specialty overnight outing.
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.
Tour Availability
This tour books quickly, up to one year in advance. We recommend that you sign up for a reminder before bookings open each year.
