Adults $65/Kids 12 & under $35

Escape from the mainland to this hidden getaway!

Departing from our campus on St Helena Island, the boat tour to St. Phillips Island is a naturalist-led ecotour through the estuaries behind our barrier islands to the St. Phillips Island dock. Once we reach the island, an interpretive tram ride will take you through the old growth maritime forest to the picnic area conveniently located near the beach.

You’ll have time to beach comb, hike interior trails, or simply relax on the beach with  a picnic.  After your ramblings on this pristine barrier island, the tram will take you back to the dock for the return trip to the mainland.

For nearly 40 years, St. Phillips Island was a beach retreat for conservationist Ted Turner and his family.  During that time, trails were thoughtfully carved through the maritime forest and habitats for species like fox squirrels, loggerhead sea turtles and indigo snakes were restored. With ancients dunes and a mature forest dominated by Spanish moss-draped live oaks, Southern magnolia and saw palmetto, St. Phillips Island is a nature lover’s paradise, providing critical habitat for alligators, sea turtles, bobcats and a myriad of seasonal and resident bird species, including bald eagles, roseate spoonbills and painted buntings. In 2017, Hunting Island State Park acquired St. Phillips Island.

Want to know more? Frequently Asked Questions

Love the sound of this adventure but want to stay on the boat? Try this dolphin-watching tour on the Harbor River.

WHAT TO WEAR
St. Phillips Island is a remote barrier island, so dress for hiking.  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 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 repellent.  Don’t bring anything that is difficult to carry or that takes up excess space. Please bring a form of payment with you on the day of your tour.

ACTIVITY LEVEL
Once you reach the island, you’ll board a tram and ride 3.5 miles to the beach.  From there, you can explore the shoreline or head into the interior island trails.  You’ll need to be able to walk 1/4 mile from the tram to the seashore. The captain and mate can help you plan a route that fits your expectations and time on the island.

PARK ADMISSION
Admission to Hunting Island State Park is not included in your tour price. Please check their website for current rates.

DOG POLICY
We love dogs, but they are not permitted on the public ferry service.

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

St. Phillips Island and Hunting Island are part of the South Carolina State Park Service. Read more here

Adventurous, Birding, Dolphins & Wildlife

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