Join our seasoned naturalists for a hike along uninhabited beach front for an unmatched fossil hunting experience. Departing from our dock on Bowens Island, you will cruise by boat through pristine marshland. Along the way, your trained guide discusses local ecosystems, wildlife, and of course, paleontology. Learn about South Carolina fossil history, distribution, and what you can expect to find on this unforgettable fossil hunting adventure. Next, embark on a 4-6 mile round trip hike to a remote location where you are guaranteed to find prehistoric fossils from millions of years ago. Your guide will provide tips & tricks on spotting fossils, assist with fossil identification and help sort them for your personal collection. Potential fossil finds include shark teeth from species like megalodon, mako, great white, and tiger shark. You may also come across an assortment of vertebrate fossils from marine mammals, sea turtles, marine fish and Ice Age megafauna like tapir, sloth, llama, bison, horse, saber-toothed cats, mammoth, and mastodon. Your guide will assist with fossil identification and help sort them for your personal collection. Our Fossil Hunting Tour is offered 1-2 times weekly, if not more, year round.
Price
$85/adult 13 and older
$55/child 12 and under
Duration
4-4.5 Hours
Requirements
- 4 person minimum for the trip to go out.
- Participants will need to be able to walk 1-3 hours/multiple miles on the beach.
Vessel
Carolina Skiff or Sea Hunt Bay Boat
Please bring
- Water, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, shoes that can get sandy and a phone or camera.
Departs
The dock at 1871 Bowens Island Road, Charleston, SC
Tip
Bring a book bag to carry personal belongings such as drinks & snacks. A bag for fossils and shells is also recommended.
Wear shoes that are comfortable for walking 4+ miles on the beach and prepare children accordingly. The walk is long, but worth it!
Rules
Digging of any kind, with or without tools, is prohibited. Morris Island is a natural, public island. The beach dunes are protected for environmental & historic reasons. Fossil & shell material can be gathered only when visible.
Pet policy
Dogs/pets are not allowed on guided group tours. Please notify us if you will be brining a service dog or would like to book a private tour.
To obtain group rates and military discounts, please call us at 843-795-0330.