Fall Bucket List: Day On Bulls Island

The cooler days of September are perfect for visiting Bulls Island. Only accessible by boat, the 30-minute ferry ride provides far more than transportation. Even long-time locals will enjoy Coastal Expedition’s ecotour. Ask their knowledgable naturalists about local Native American tribes, archeological digs and wildlife. And, be sure to look over the table of natural specimens, which includes an alligator skill and turtle ribs.

Traveling along the Cape Romain saltwater estuary, there’s a good chance you’ll see dolphins, bald eagles and loggerhead sea turtles. My husband and I spotted roseate spoonbills – striking flamingo-pink birds. Native to South Florida, they’ve made a home here along the Charleston coastline.

Once on the island, use the map they’ve given you to head out on a self-guided tour. Walk down Alligator Alley where you’re sure to encounter its namesake. Collect shells along 7 miles of unspoiled shoreline. Stop and stay awhile at Boneyard Beach, where trees eerily emerge from the surf. Their sculptural beauty has become an iconic subject for photographers.

If there’s time, stop by the viewing platform to watch the Black Skimmers feeding. All these areas are connected by 16 miles of well-groomed trails. I recommend comfy sandals or sneakers over skimpy flip flops. 

Things to bring: a light-weight cooler with lunch and plenty of water, binoculars, camera, sunglasses, bug spray, a towel and sunscreen. Restrooms, a picnic area and a storm shelter are near the drop-off dock.

Purchase tickets online at Coastal expeditions.com and meet the ferry at Garris Landing which is located at 498 Bulls Island Road in Awendaw. It departs and returns twice daily. To see everything in at a comfortable pace, I recommend staying a full day.

Upcoming Event: Bulls Island Paddle+Hike on Sunday, Sept. 23. This trip made it onto Outside Magazine’s worldwide “Top 30 Trips to Take” in 2015.