UPCOMING 2024 DATES
October 16 – 9am-3pm
October 30 – 9am-3pm
November 17 – 10:30am-4:30pm
November 30 – 9am-3pm
December 15 – 10:30am-4:30pm
The Bulls Island Paddle and Hike are one of the best ways to explore Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge.
For centuries, the waters that we now call Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge have been paddled by self-powered vessels. As early as the 1500’s, the Sewee Native American tribe hunted and fished this vast saltwater estuary and the emergent islands. Since that time, it has remained virtually unchanged by man and is protected from development as crucial wildlife habitat.
The adventure begins with a guided kayak tour through the Class 1 Wilderness of Cape Romain. This tour is timed with the outgoing tide to assist us on our paddle.
We’ll make landfall on the north end of Bulls Island, pull our kayaks to high ground and set off for a hike through the Boneyard Beach and into the interior of the island. Along the way, your guides will share history about the refuge, spot birds, identify native plants and give you a deeper understanding of the ecosystem of a barrier island.
Finally, after a thorough day of paddling and hiking, we will enjoy a nice boat cruise back to Garris Landing through the salt marsh aboard the Bulls Island Ferry. As you relax onboard, you’ll be able to reflect upon the waters you paddled and the lands that you walked– the same waters and lands that the Sewee explored.
You can book the Bulls Island Paddle and Hike as a private tour for groups of 10 or more. Just give us a call at (843)884-7684.
Guide tip: Stop at the Sewee Outpost in Awendaw, South Carolina before your adventure to get what you need for a picnic lunch! Grab a homemade biscuit from the back of the store before you go.
Things to Know
INCLUDES
Gear (Sit-in sea kayak, PFD, paddle, etc.), pre-paddle prep/instruction, guide, boat transportation and tax.
TOUR DURATION
6 hours (includes instruction, prep, island picnic and on-water time)
WEATHER ALERT
If it is too windy the day of the tour, the itinerary will change to a more protected location nearby. If you have questions about this, please call before you book.
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Participants will kayak on a guided expedition that has been timed with the tides for an enjoyable trip. This is an intermediate level tour for anyone with a moderate level of fitness.
WHAT TO WEAR
Shoes that will stay on your feet, a hat, and synthetic clothing (it will dry faster than cotton). During cooler weather, dress in layers. Mosquitoes can be bad on Bulls Island, so long sleeves/pants are recommended.
WHAT TO BRING
Drinking water, sunscreen, insect repellent, bagged lunch and snacks.
WEATHER
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.
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 cancel prior to 72-hours or you will not be eligible for a refund for the tour.
SIMILAR TOURS
We only offer this tour in the Fall & Spring due to the weather conditions. If you are looking for a similar tour in the summertime:
Awendaw Creek Paddle+Hike | Kiawah River Paddle+Hike