SUMMER SCHEDULE (JUNE-SEPT):
Specialized schedule based on tides & summer conditions to maximize your experience on the island. Excursions are 5.5 hours from start to finish.

Click the Book Here button to see available dates & times.

Step onto the ferry and into the wild!

The adventure begins as you board the ferry and head to Bulls Island.  As we wind through the oyster-lined creeks that take us to Bulls Island, the captain and mate share their knowledge and passion about the refuge, the wildlife and the regional history.

During this 30-minute ecotour is not uncommon for us to see bottlenose dolphins, loggerhead sea turtles, bald eagles and some of the 293 bird species that live in Cape Romain. While on board, you’ll be able to move around to take in the pristine views and examine the touch table filled with artifacts we’ve found on the island.

Once on the island, you’ll be on your own to explore the 16 miles of trails and seven miles of sandy beach.  The crew will prepare you with a map and some trail suggestions.

HIGHLIGHTS:
• Walk by the freshwater ponds to see American Alligators sunning on the banks
• Explore Boneyard Beach at the northern end of the island
• Birdwatch at one of the observation platforms to see some of the 293 species that are found in the refuge
• Beach comb along the 7-mile shoreline and see marine life like horseshoe crabs, sea whip coral, sand dollars and much more
• Hike the inland trails like Turkey Walk Trail to take in the diversity of a maritime forest, dominated by palmettos and live oaks

The jewel of the island is the magnificent Boneyard Beach.  Located at the north end of the island, Boneyard Beach is a forest stranded in the surf.  This majestic area is reason enough to go to Bulls Island and many visitors go directly to the beach to witness this beautiful sight.

Want to know more?  Frequently Asked Questions

Booking ahead for the Fall? See the Fall Schedule below.

SPRING SCHEDULE (MARCH-MAY) & FALL SCHEDULE (OCT-DEC):
For Spring & Fall, there is a 3.5-hour option, 4-hour option, or 6-hour option every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
9am – 12:30pm (3.5 hours)
9am – 3pm (6 hours)
12:30pm – 4:30pm (4 hours)

If you select the 9 am start time, the end time is at 12:30 pm or 3 pm. You do not need to designate the end time when booking. Be prepared for the duration of your choosing. Ask your crew if you have any questions on the day of your trip.

If you select the 12:30 pm start time, the end time is at 4:30 pm.

WHAT TO WEAR
Bulls Island is a 5,000-acre remote barrier island, so dress for hiking; long pants and long sleeves are recommended.  Dress in layers and wear a hat for sun protection.  Once you get to the beach, you can ditch your shoes and dip your toes (or swim) in the Atlantic, but you’ll want closed-toe walking shoes while you are hiking the roads and trails of the island.

WHAT TO BRING
Small backpack with plenty of drinking water, lunch, sunblock, insect repellant.

ACTIVITY LEVEL
Following a 30-minute eco tour to the island, participants explore the island by foot. There are 16 miles of trails and over 7 miles of beaches.  The captain and mate can help you plan a route that fits your expectations and time on the island. 

FAMILIES OF 5 OR MORE: 1 CHILD FREE
Use code “FAM5” at checkout to apply discount

BICYCLES & WHEELED TRANSPORT
If you’d like to bring a bike, you must make a reservation for it or you will have to leave it at the landing.  Call or text (843)884-7684 to reserve.  Space is limited. There are no bikes to rent on the island, you must bring your own. Read this first if you’ve never brought a bike to Bulls.

If you have a physical limitation that requires a wheelchair, please call our office before you book so that we can be prepared.  Check out the FAQs for additional information.

DOG POLICY
Pets are not permitted on Bulls Island.  Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge is managed for the protection of habitat and wildlife species.  Bringing pets into this environment risks disturbance of nests, feeding and breeding, and it could introduce parasites to the island. Pets are illegal anywhere in the refuge.

WEATHER
Weather 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.

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!

NEED TO CANCEL?
You’ll need to call at least 48-hours ahead or you will not be eligible for a refund for the tour.

Best Seller, Adventurous, Birding, Dolphins & Wildlife, Young Kid Friendly

If you want to experience a true slice of the Lowcountry, then I highly recommend this trip! My sister and I visited yesterday with my niece (11) and nephew (9) and it was a huge hit! This is the first time we have taken this trip....but it won't be our last. Will and Nick from Coastal Expeditions shared lots of great info about the island, wildlife we could expect to see, and their habitat. It was informative, entertaining and fun! The kids had a blast exploring the beach looking for shells and we saw dolphins, blue crabs, birds and lots of other wildlife. We will definitely take bikes on our next visit. It's a great way to see a little more of the island. Bring plenty of water, food and snacks...and hit the trails for a trip you will not soon forget!
Amy

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