Folly Beach Eco Boat Excursion & Morris Island Drop-Off — Dolphin Watching Near Charleston
Cruise tidal creeks, watch for dolphins, and spend an hour exploring Morris Island’s shell-strewn beach and historic lighthouse. This 2–3 hour eco-boat excursion out of Folly Beach pairs natural history with easy island time — ideal for families and first-time coastal explorers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early and check in
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before departure to sign waivers and use restroom facilities at the Crosby’s parking lot office.
Sun protection is essential
Bring sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and sunglasses — the salt spray amplifies sun exposure on the water.
Prepare for motion
If you get seasick, take preventive medication before boarding; the ride crosses open water and tidal creeks that can be choppy.
Respect nesting wildlife
Keep distance from shorebirds and avoid disturbing dunes or marked nesting areas during breeding season.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Explore the quieter north spit of Morris Island for concentrated shell deposits.
- •Watch the marsh creeks on the return for fiddler crabs and low-tide flats where wading birds feed.
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphin
- •Great blue heron
Conservation Note
Barrier islands are dynamic and fragile — stick to beaches above the wrack line, avoid dunes, and carry out any trash to protect nesting birds and fragile habitats.
Morris Island’s current iron lighthouse dates to the late 19th century and long guided traffic into Charleston Harbor; the island itself has been reshaped repeatedly by storms and tides.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the bow of the skiff for dolphin activity
- • Morris Island shoreline facing the lighthouse
- • Along the marsh channels for wading-bird close-ups
What to Bring
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)Essential
Protects against strong reflected UV on open water and pale sand.
Refillable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated is important during sun exposure and while walking on the beach.
Motion-sickness medicine
Helpful if you’re prone to seasickness on choppy estuary or open-water stretches.
Waterproof sandals or reef shoesEssential
Easy to dry, good traction on wet shells and soft sand when you explore Morris Island.
Common Questions
How long do we stay on Morris Island?
You’ll typically have about one hour ashore to explore, shell hunt, and view the lighthouse before reboarding.
Can I access the Morris Island Lighthouse?
No — the lighthouse is on federal property and not open for public access, but it’s visible from the beach and makes a great photo backdrop.
Are restrooms available?
Yes — restrooms are at the departure location; there are no facilities on Morris Island itself during the visit.
Are children allowed?
Yes — the excursion is family-friendly; infants must sit on an adult’s lap and strollers can be accommodated until boarding.
What wildlife will we likely see?
Expect bottlenose dolphins, pelicans, and shorebirds like herons and terns along the estuary and island shorelines.
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure; trips may be canceled for bad weather or insufficient passengers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Folly Beach, South Carolina
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light activity — must be able to step on/off a low skiff and walk on uneven, sandy beach for about an hour.
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