SUNRISE FOR SEA TURTLES
Overview
June 6 & 7, 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 before sunrise and head to Boneyard Beach on Bulls Island, arriving with just enough time to walk the shoreline before the tide washes away the tracks. As you explore the beach alongside our naturalists, you’ll search 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, June 6 & Sunday, June 7
4:30-8 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
Please park in the designated “Bulls Island Ferry” area.
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
The boat ride and safari-style truck get you to and through the island with minimal walking required. Short walks ~1/4 mile each are necessary to get down the pier to the boat, down the beach access trail, and then into the boneyard.
What To Pack & Wear
Drinking water and insect repellent required. Coffee, snacks, and red light flashlight encouraged. Binoculars, camera, and beach blanket optional.
Dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. We recommend long pants and long sleeves for potentially buggy conditions on this wild island.
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.
