Hunting Island Beach Drop

EXPERIENCE BOTH LAND & SEA

Hunting Island consists of more than the iconic beaches and forested trails– vast expanses of estuary that lie behind the island are also protected by the State Park system. The Hunting Island Beach Drop tour gives you an opportunity to experience these estuaries and beaches in one trip.

BOOK THE CRUISE

THE HUNTING ISLAND BEACH DROP IS BOTH FUN & EDUCATIONAL

This surf and turf opportunity lets you learn about the salt marsh estuary and the rapidly changing barrier island ecosystem. The naturalist onboard will teach you about the ecosystems that surround Hunting Island and help you identify a variety of wildlife.

Hunting Island Beach Drop scene

WILDLIFE & STUNNING VIEWS

We typically see wildlife like bottlenose dolphins, shorebirds, osprey, bald eagles, and even the occasional shark cruising the shoreline.

Once on the beach you may see the nests of loggerhead sea turtles, horseshoe crabs, and a variety of shells that occupy the boneyard beach on Hunting Island.

GATHER A GROUP AND COME ON!

This 4 hour adventure is a great outing for all ages and is the perfect introduction to the beauty of the Lowcountry. Get a group of friends and family together to experience all that Hunting Island has to offer.

SEE UPCOMING DATES & BOOK

Hunting Island Beach Drop details

TOUR INFO

Adults: $45
Children 3-12: $25
Children 2 & under: Free

4 hours

WHERE TO MEET

ST. HELENA BASECAMP
1928 Sea Island Parkway
St. Helena Island, SC

From Hunting Island State Park, turn right and drive 5.9 miles. Coastal Expeditions will be on the left.

THINGS TO KNOW

Bring drinking water, sunscreen, and binoculars if you have them! A beach towel and small cooler are also welcome.

Dress for the weather and wear a hat and sunglasses. A light windbreaker or raincoat is encouraged, even on warm days.

LOOKING OUT FOR WILDLIFE

On Coastal Expeditions tours, we are careful not to do any thing that interferes with a wild animal’s natural behavior. On our boat tours, we follow practices that are taught to us by the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network to ensure that we never cause Atlantic bottlenose dolphins or other any other wildlife stress.

Once on the beach we educate the group on the best ways to let shorebirds rest and nest so they can continue on in their migration journey or successfully raise the next generation.

“Captain Henry Brandt offers a boat tour that cruises through the area’s Native American, Spanish, and French history; union occupation…all interspersed with musings on the estuary ecosystems and the fecund marvels of pluff mud.”

-SOUTHERN LIVING

Frequently Asked Questions

On the Hunting Island Beach Drop we regularly see bottlenose dolphins, eastern brown pelicans, bald eagles, ospreys, herons, egrets, roseate spoonbills, wood storks, shorebirds and a variety of shells.

We love dogs, but please leave yours at home unless it is a medical service dog. Please call with any questions at (843) 929-2047.

Yes! This is an exciting tour for kids because we see a lot of wildlife during the time we are on the boat and beach. This is a good choice for intergenerational family outings, too! If you’re looking to skip the lines and the bugs while also enjoying a boat ride, this is the trip for you.

Motor vessel Gannet is a US Coast Guard-certified passenger carrying vessel with a master captain at the helm. This boat holds more than 28 people comfortably and has a sun shade that covers the boat. Designed specifically for beach drops, this boat has a ramp that allows people to enter and exit comfortably onto the shoreline.

You’ll need to cancel 48 hours prior or you will not be eligible for a refund for the tour.

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 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!

No, admission into Hunting Island State Park is not included. Please check with the park for the current rates. Park passes will be available for purchase at check-in. If you’re a member of Friends of Hunting Island or an Annual Pass holder please show proof of membership at check-in.