South Carolina , United States of America

Bulls Island Ferry Adventure

Active

(5 reviews)

3h - 4h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Bulls Island Ferry offers a beautiful 30-minute boat ride to explore the stunning Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge. Onboard, naturalists share insights about local wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and over 293 bird species. Once on the island, wander through miles of trails leading to serene beaches and unique sites like Boneyard Beach. This tour is perfect for families and nature enthusiasts eager to connect with South Carolina’s wildlife and ecosystems. Plan for a day of adventure with well-trained guides ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

- Enjoy a scenic ferry ride with naturalists guiding your journey
- Explore miles of trails and beautiful beaches on Bulls Island
- Ideal for families and wildlife lovers of all ages
- Available Tuesday through Saturday from March to November and Saturdays December to March

Available options

Bulls Island Ferry Adventure

What's included

Guide service on boat

Boat ecotour to Bulls Island

Detailed itinerary

Your ferry ride takes you into Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, one of the most ecologically rich stretches of coastline on the Eastern Seaboard. As you cross through saltmarsh and tidal creeks, your guide will point out dolphins, ospreys, and migrating shorebirds that thrive here. The refuge protects barrier islands, saltwater estuaries, and maritime forests, making it a haven for sea turtles and countless bird species. On Bulls Island, you’ll step into this protected wilderness to explore trails, beaches, and the famous Boneyard Beach of weathered oaks and cedars.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Park in the designated "Bulls Island Ferry" area of the parking lot at Garris Landing.

Important notes

Walk to the end of the pier 15 minutes before departure time. The boat leaves on time!

About South Carolina

South Carolina is a southeastern U.S. state known for its historic coastal cities, charming plantations, and scenic beaches. It offers a rich blend of history, natural beauty, and Southern hospitality, making it a diverse and appealing destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Charleston Historic District

The Charleston Historic District is a National Historic Landmark District that showcases the city's rich history and architecture. Visitors can explore cobblestone streets, historic homes, and significant landmarks.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, guided tours available for a fee

Hunting Island State Park

Hunting Island State Park is a beautiful barrier island offering pristine beaches, hiking trails, and a historic lighthouse. It's a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Nature Half day to full day $8 per vehicle for park entry

Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park is home to the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. It offers hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Nature Half day to full day Free entry

Fort Sumter National Monument

Fort Sumter National Monument is a historic site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Visitors can take a ferry to the fort and explore its history through exhibits and ranger-led programs.

Historical Half day $24 for adults, $15 for children (ages 6-12), free for children under 6

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and SkyWheel

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and SkyWheel offer a fun and lively atmosphere with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The SkyWheel provides stunning views of the coastline from its 180-foot-tall Ferris wheel.

Entertainment Half day to full day Free to explore, SkyWheel tickets available for a fee

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shrimp and Grits

A classic Lowcountry dish featuring creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp, often served with bacon and a rich, flavorful sauce.

Main Course Can be made vegetarian or vegan with plant-based alternatives.

She-Crab Soup

A creamy soup made with blue crab meat, crab roe, and a touch of sherry, often served with a side of crispy oyster crackers.

Soup Contains shellfish and dairy.

Charleston Red Rice

A traditional Lowcountry dish made with rice, tomatoes, and the holy trinity of vegetables (onions, bell peppers, and celery), often served as a side dish with seafood or poultry.

Side Dish Vegetarian-friendly, but may contain small amounts of meat or poultry stock.

Hoppin' John

A traditional Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and bacon or ham, often served as a side dish with seafood or poultry.

Side Dish Can be made vegetarian or vegan with plant-based alternatives.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Congaree National Park Kayaking in the ACE Basin Zip-lining at Go Ape Treetop Adventure Beachcombing on Hilton Head Island Spa day in Charleston Wine tasting in the South Carolina Upcountry Exploring the Historic District in Charleston Visiting museums and galleries in Columbia

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is warm but not excessively hot, and the crowds are manageable.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5:00), with daylight saving time observed from March to November.

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some exceptions in certain areas and situations

South Carolina is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs and credit cards
• Research tour operators and taxi services before using them

Getting there

By air

Charleston International Airport • 12 miles from downtown Charleston
Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport • 15 miles from downtown Greenville

By train

Charleston Amtrak Station, Columbia Amtrak Station

By bus

Charleston Bus Station, Columbia Bus Station, Greenville Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

CARTA offers bus services with routes covering major attractions, downtown areas, and residential neighborhoods. Fares are affordable, and day passes are available.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Charleston Five Points, Columbia Historic District, Greenville

Day trips

Hilton Head Island

About 45 miles from Savannah, GA • Half day to full day

Hilton Head Island is a popular beach destination known for its pristine beaches, luxurious resorts, and a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, golfing, and exploring the island's natural beauty.

Savannah, GA

About 105 miles from Charleston, SC • Full day

Savannah is a charming and historic city known for its beautiful architecture, lush parks, and rich history. Visitors can explore the city's historic district, visit museums and galleries, and enjoy a variety of dining and shopping options.

Congaree National Park

About 20 miles from Columbia, SC • Half day to full day

Congaree National Park is home to the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing in this unique and beautiful natural setting.

Festivals

Charleston Wine + Food Festival • Mid-February Spoleto Festival USA • Late May to early June Columbia's South Carolina State Fair • Mid-October to early November

Pro tips

Visit historic sites and attractions in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat and crowds.
Take advantage of free and low-cost attractions, such as beaches, parks, and historic sites, to save money.
Explore the state's diverse culinary scene, from traditional Lowcountry dishes to modern Southern cuisine.
Be mindful of hurricanes and tropical storms from June to November, and monitor weather forecasts and alerts.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious and historic sites, and be a responsible and sustainable traveler.