Cape Romain Lighthouses Tour Book Now

2024 Dates – Bookable Now!

We recommend that you book early for this trip!  It is only offered 6 times a year and tends to sell out quickly.

March 17th – Sewee Center 11:30am / Boat Tour 1pm-4pm

March 31st – Sewee Center 9am / Boat Tour 10:30am-1:30pm

April 14th – Sewee Center 10am / Boat Tour 11:30am-2:30pm

October 13th – Sewee Center 1pm / Boat Tour 2:30pm-5:30pm

November 10th -Sewee Center 10:30am / Boat Tour 12pm-3:30pm

December 8th – Sewee Center 9:30am / Boat Tour 11am-2:30pm


Six times each year, Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge offers a tour to Lighthouse Island where you can view two historic lights built in 1827 and 1857, respectively.

The Sewee Visitor and Environmental Education Center (5821 Hwy 17, Awendaw, SC 29429) hosts a presentation on the history of the two lighthouses before the boat tour.

After the presentation, the outdoor adventure begins! Participants will meet at the Robert E. Ashley boat landing and board the Coastal Expeditions Ferry to travel to Lighthouse Island.

Winding 6 miles offshore through the estuary to the island is part of the adventure. Skilled naturalists will provide interpretation of the flora and fauna that surround the boat en route to the destination. Expect to see bottlenose dolphins, American oystercatchers, bald eagles, ospreys, pelicans, and a myriad of other species on this adventure.

When conditions allow, you’ll have the option of exploring Lighthouse Island to see the lighthouses up close! This portion of the trip is a true wilderness adventure, prepare to stomp through the marsh to get onto the island if the crew deems the conditions to be safe. This stretch of coastline often experiences high winds which could produce conditions that will not allow passengers to safely depart onto the island. The captain and crew will let you know if this is the case.

Whether viewing from the boat or up close on the island, this tour offers an exclusive look at a significant maritime landmark. The lights are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the 1827 lighthouse is the oldest of its kind still standing in the United States.

This is an incredible outdoor adventure that combines a fun-filled boat eco-tour with the history of the lighthouses. Book your ticket today and embark on this special expedition!

Things to Know

ACTIVITY LEVEL
This excursion is suitable for most abilities and ages.  Getting off on the island is optional (you can stay on the boat for this portion of the trip).  There isn’t a dock, so you will have to walk through the marsh to get to the island.  Please wear waterproof boots or shoes that will stay on your feet (not flip-flops!)

TOUR DURATION
3 hour boat tour

WHAT TO WEAR
Hat, comfortable clothes (watch the weather and dress accordingly), we recommend dressing in layers to protect from the bugs in warmer weather and protect from wind and cold in cooler weather.  Wear waterproof boots or shoes with a heel strap (not flip flops). Your feet will get wet if you get off the boat!

WHAT TO BRING
Drinking water, sunscreen, insect repellent

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 72 hours prior or you will not be eligible for a refund for the tour.

You Could Say This Tour Is...

Adventurous, Birding, Dolphins & Wildlife

Cape Romain Lighthouses Tour

Explore. Chat. Visit. And come on back, y’all.
@coastalexpeditions

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Offering Kayaks and Paddleboards

Take in the stunning beauty of local creeks and waters from one of our kayaks or SUPs. Walk-ups are welcome or call / text to book and we’ll be ready when you are. All gear and instruction provided.

Call or text 843.884.7684 to book.

Outpost Location

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Check out our St. Phillips Island & Beaufort tours.

Rent a Kayak or Paddleboard Click to Book via Text

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Offering Kayaks and Paddleboards

Take in the stunning beauty of local creeks and waters from one of our kayaks or SUPs. Walk-ups are welcome or call / text to book and we’ll be ready when you are. All gear and instruction provided.

Call or text 843.884.7684 to book.

Outpost Location

Need A Guide?

If you really want to get a feel for the local history, identify the native wildlife, and get to special places, you'll need someone experienced to show you the way. We'll get you there.

Check out our Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant tours.

Rent a Kayak or Paddleboard Click to Book via Text

Isle of Palms Rentals

Offering Kayaks and Paddleboards

Take in the stunning beauty of local creeks and waters from one of our kayaks or SUPs. Walk-ups are welcome or call / text to book and we’ll be ready when you are. All gear and instruction provided.

Call or text 843.884.7684 to book.

Outpost Location

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Check out our Isle of Palms tours.

Rent a Kayak or Paddleboard Click to Book via Text