HUNTING ISLAND BEACH DROP
Overview
Boat Ecotour + Beach Drop
Escape the crowds. Discover the wild side of Hunting Island.
Leave the traffic behind and hop on a boat from our St. Helena outpost for a scenic cruise to Hunting Island State Park. This isn’t your average beach day—it’s a chance to experience one of South Carolina’s most beautiful barrier islands the way it was meant to be: by water.
As you cruise the calm waters of the Lowcountry, keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins, ospreys, bald eagles, and wading birds along the shoreline. If you’re lucky, you might spot a shark or two gliding through the shallows.
Once we land, you’ll have time to explore a stretch of beach known for its natural beauty and quiet charm. Hunt for shells, walk among the driftwood of the island’s iconic boneyard beach, and look for signs of nesting loggerhead sea turtles and horseshoe crabs.
Bring your beach bag, a picnic, and your sense of wonder. This is a perfect outing for families, photographers, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature—far from the crowded beaches and noisy parking lots.
Why We Love It
Boat, beach…and easy parking? What’s not to love.
Details & Rates
MEETING PLACE
Coastal Expeditions at St. Helena Island
1928 Sea Island Parkway
St. Helena Island, SC 29920
From Hunting Island State Park, turn right and drive 5.9 miles. Coastal Expeditions will be on the left.
LOOKING OUT FOR WILDLIFE
On Coastal Expeditions tours, we are careful not to do any thing that interferes with a wild animal’s natural behavior. On our dolphin tours, we follow practices that are taught to us by the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network to ensure that we never cause Atlantic bottlenose dolphins or other any other wildlife stress.
Dolphins are curious and gregarious by nature, and when they appear near the boat, we cut off the engines and enjoy their presence.
Protect South Carolina’s Wild Beaches
When you step onto places like Hunting Island, you’re not just visiting a beach—you’re entering a living, breathing ecosystem where every footprint can make a difference.
From March to October, shorebirds nest in the sand and it is important that we do not disturb them or flush them from their nests.
ST. HELENA ISLAND TOURS
Activity Level
After the boat cruise, you can set your own adventure. Walk the beach, swim, or enjoy a picnic on one of the Lowcountry’s most beautiful beaches.
At the beach, you will walk down a ramp from the boat directly onto the sand.
What To Pack & Wear
Bring drinking water, sunscreen, and binoculars if you have them! A beach towel and small cooler are also welcome.
Dress for the weather and wear a hat and sunglasses. A light windbreaker or raincoat is encouraged, even on warm days.
Cancellation & Weather Policy
You’ll need to cancel prior to 48-hours or you will not be eligible for a refund for the tour.
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.
“One of the Best Things to Do in Beaufort, South Carolina.”
-Southern Living