Folly Beach Fossil Hunting: Barrier Island Boat Drop-Off Excursion
Ride a short boat run past Morris Island Lighthouse and be deposited on a barrier island where surf and tide expose shark teeth, ray plates, and fossilized bones. This guided drop-off combines local knowledge, USCG-certified skippers, and hands-on fossil hunting on one of the Lowcountry's most productive shores.
The Experience
Before You Go
Check the tide chart
Low tide exposes more sandbars and fossil-rich pockets—ask the guide for the best windows before booking.
Wear reef-friendly shoes
Lightweight boots or sturdy sandals protect feet from shells and give traction on wet sand and shell beds.
Bring sun protection
The barrier island offers little shade—hat, sunscreen, and a UV shirt will keep the afternoon comfortable.
Handle finds gently and legally
Collect loose fossils but leave archaeological artifacts and fragile in situ specimens; local rules protect certain areas and wildlife.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Morris Island shoreline west of the lighthouse—less trafficked and rich after storms
- •Salt-marsh viewpoints on the river side for tide and bird activity between searches
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphins patrolling the inlet
- •Marsh and shorebirds such as willets and piping plovers
Conservation Note
Barrier islands are dynamic and ecologically sensitive—keep to low-impact collecting, avoid disturbing nesting birds, and pack out all trash to protect habitat.
The shoreline preserves Pleistocene and Miocene deposits; Morris Island Lighthouse is a post-Civil War landmark that marks decades of coastal change.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the boat looking back at Morris Island Lighthouse
- • Along the drift line where fossil concentrations gather
- • On the dunes overlooking the surf and marsh
What to Bring
Sturdy sandals or water shoesEssential
Protects feet from sharp shells and provides traction on wet sand.
Wide-brim hat & sunscreenEssential
Crucial protection under the exposed sun of the barrier island.
Light daypack
Holds your finds, snacks, and layers without getting in the way during beach walking.
Nitrile gloves or small hand rake
Makes sifting and handling fragile fossils cleaner and safer for the specimen.
Common Questions
How long is the boat ride to the island?
Plan on approximately 20–30 minutes each way, depending on tides and sea conditions.
What types of fossils will I likely find?
Common finds include shark teeth (both modern and fossilized), ray plates, shell fragments, and occasional fish bone—larger vertebrae are less common but possible.
Is this activity suitable for children?
The excursion is labeled easy physically, but it involves hours of walking on sand and boat transfers—it's not recommended for very young children or those unable to walk on uneven terrain.
Are life jackets provided?
Yes—adult and child life jackets are provided and the vessel is run by a USCG-certified master captain.
Can I bring my dog?
Service animals are allowed, but pets may not be ideal due to sand, heat, and wildlife sensitivity—check with the operator first.
What is the cancellation policy for bad weather?
Trips are cancellable for a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, and operators will cancel for bad weather or insufficient travelers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–5 hours
Location
Folly Beach, South Carolina
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light fitness—comfortable walking on uneven sand for several hours and stepping on/off a small boat.
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