SUNRISE FOR SEA TURTLES
Overview
July 4th 2026
Experience a Morning in the Life of the Turtle Team
Join us for a special fundraising expedition that takes you behind the scenes of sea turtle conservation in Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge. This early-morning adventure begins in the dark—just like the dedicated turtle team’s daily routine.
We’ll depart by boat from the mainland and head to the beach on Bulls Island as the sun breaches the horizon. Arriving with just enough light to walk the shoreline before the tide washes away fresh tracks, you’ll explore the beach alongside our naturalists, searching for crawls, false crawls, and freshly laid nests. Learn how the turtle team identifies and marks nests, and get a firsthand look at the critical work that protects thousands of loggerhead sea turtles each nesting season.
This is more than just a beach walk—it’s a rare opportunity to witness the quiet magic of sunrise on a wild barrier island, while supporting vital conservation efforts. Proceeds directly benefit the Sea Turtle Program in Cape Romain through the Coastal Expeditions Foundation.
Space is limited. All ages welcome with early riser spirit.
Why We Love It
This is a truly special opportunity to be on a nesting island beach before dawn– all while supporting conservation in your own backyard. You’ll walk the shoreline and learn how the Sea Turtle Patrol protects this vital nesting ground.
Rates & Tour Date
$125
Saturday, July 4th
5-8:30 a.m.
100% of your ticket will be donated to Coastal Expeditions Foundation conservation programs for sea turtles, seabirds and environmental education in Cape Romain NWR
MEETING PLACE
Garris Landing
498 Bull Island Road
Awendaw, SC 29429
THINGS TO KNOW
- The boat will leave on time. Please arrive 15-30 minutes prior to departure to give yourself time to park, gather your things and walk down the pier to the boat.
- This is a family-friendly expedition.
Activity Level
Participants will depart directly from the boat onto the beach using a ramp or portable steps. Once on the island, guests can decide how much of the expansive beach they wish to explore.
What To Pack & Wear
Drinking water and insect repellent required. Coffee, snacks, and red light flashlight encouraged. Binoculars, camera, and beach blanket optional.
Comfortable beach shoes and weather-appropriate attire
Guide Safety & Training
All Coastal Expeditions guides hold certifications in first aid, CPR and lifeguarding. As year-round leaders of day camps and school field trips, our staff is well-trained to keep safety at the forefront. Children wear PFDs while they are on each daily expedition.
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.
Cancellation & Weather Policy
This is a fundraiser and tickets are non-refundable.
If we have to cancel for weather, we will reschedule or issue passes for the Bulls Island Ferry to be used at your convenience.
