Our Boneyard Beach, Bulls Island guide covers practical planning for Boneyard Beach, Bulls Island South Carolina — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.
As independent US travel authorities, we've explored countless coastlines, but few places capture the raw, untamed beauty of the Lowcountry quite like Boneyard Beach, Bulls Island South Carolina. This pristine barrier island, accessible only by ferry, is a true gem within the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge. It’s a place where nature takes center stage, offering a unique and wild coastal experience that will leave an indelible mark on your memory. Our team is here to guide you through everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to this extraordinary destination.
Why Visit Boneyard Beach, Bulls Island
Visiting Boneyard Beach, Bulls Island is an immersion into a landscape unlike any other. The island is renowned for its dramatic "boneyard" of sun-bleached, weathered trees that stand like ghostly sentinels along the shore, a testament to the relentless power of the ocean and time. These ancient oaks and cedars, stripped of their bark and smoothed by salt and sand, create a hauntingly beautiful and incredibly photogenic scene. It's a place that speaks to the soul of nature lovers and photographers alike, offering endless opportunities for contemplation and capturing stunning images.
Beyond the iconic boneyard, Bulls Island boasts a rich and diverse ecosystem. As part of the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge, it's a haven for wildlife, including over 293 bird species, loggerhead sea turtles, alligators, and even bobcats. The island's 6.5 miles of undeveloped coastline and 16 miles of trails invite exploration, from maritime forests to freshwater impoundments teeming with life. We find that the sheer untouched quality of Bulls Island is its greatest draw – a chance to experience the South Carolina coast as it once was, far from the crowds and commercialism.
Who It's Best For
Boneyard Beach, Bulls Island is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, nature-focused escape. It's a paradise for birdwatchers, with hundreds of species making the island their home, especially during migration seasons. Photographers will be captivated by the dramatic scenery of the boneyard and the abundant wildlife. Hikers will appreciate the miles of trails that crisscross the island, offering varying lengths and levels of challenge. Families with older children who appreciate outdoor adventures and can handle a fair amount of walking will also find it rewarding, though younger children might find the extensive walking challenging without a sturdy stroller. It's perfect for those who prioritize conservation, quiet reflection, and a deep connection with the natural world over resort amenities or bustling attractions. If you're looking for a vibrant nightlife or extensive dining options, this isn't your primary destination, but rather a profound day trip from nearby areas like Charleston.
Getting There & Parking
Access to Boneyard Beach, Bulls Island is exclusively by boat, primarily via the Bulls Island Ferry, operated by Coastal Expeditions. This is the most popular and recommended way to reach the island.
How to Get There
The Bulls Island Ferry departs from Garris Landing, located at 498 Bulls Island Road in Awendaw, South Carolina. If you're driving from Charleston, head north on US-17 for approximately 45 minutes. You'll turn right onto See Wee Road (Road 584), then right again onto Bulls Island Road, which leads directly to Garris Landing. We always recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow for parking and check-in.
The ferry ride itself is a scenic 30-minute ecotour through the saltmarsh and tidal creeks of the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge. Naturalists on board often point out local wildlife, including dolphins and various bird species. Reservations for the ferry are required and can be made online through Coastal Expeditions.
As of 2026, the standard adult fare for the Bulls Island Ferry is $55, and for children (ages 3-12) it's $35. Children aged 2 and under are free. Special tours, such as beach drops or sunrise expeditions, may have different pricing. The ferry schedule varies seasonally, with more frequent trips from March through November (Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday) and Saturday-only service during the winter months (December to March).
Boneyard Beach, Bulls Island Parking
Parking for the Bulls Island Ferry is available at Garris Landing. We've found that parking is free, and there's a designated "Bulls Island Ferry" area within the lot. Garris Landing operates during daylight hours, and overnight parking is not permitted, as the gate closes. If you plan to bring a bicycle on the ferry, you'll need to make a reservation for it when booking your ferry ticket.
Top Things to Do
Once you step off the ferry onto Bulls Island, you're entering a wild sanctuary. Our team suggests prioritizing these activities to make the most of your visit:
Things to Do at Boneyard Beach, Bulls Island
- Explore Boneyard Beach: This is, without a doubt, the star attraction. The dramatic landscape of sun-bleached, skeletal trees along the northern end of the beach is truly mesmerizing. Allow ample time to wander, photograph, and simply take in the unique atmosphere. We recommend checking the tide schedule before your visit, as low tide provides the best access to the boneyard.
- Hiking and Wildlife Viewing: Bulls Island offers 16 miles of trails, ranging from sandy roads to maritime forest paths. The Turkey Walk Trail is a popular 2-mile loop that meanders through forests and along dikes separating freshwater impoundments, where you're likely to spot alligators. Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife, including ospreys, bald eagles, and various shorebirds.
- Beachcombing and Shelling: The undeveloped beaches of Bulls Island are fantastic for shelling. Many visitors come specifically to search for unique shells and other natural treasures. Remember to take only a few shells as souvenirs and leave the rest for the habitat.
- Birdwatching: With over 293 species recorded, Bulls Island is a birder's paradise. The impoundments are particularly good spots for observing wading birds and waterfowl.
- Photography: From the stark beauty of the boneyard to the vibrant marshlands and diverse wildlife, Bulls Island offers endless photographic opportunities.
Things to Do in Awendaw
While Bulls Island is the main draw, the mainland town of Awendaw, where Garris Landing is located, also offers some worthwhile experiences that our team enjoys:
- Visit the Center for Birds of Prey: This acclaimed center is one of Awendaw's most beloved destinations, featuring hawks, owls, falcons, vultures, and eagles. Their educational flight demonstrations are truly unforgettable and offer a chance to see these magnificent creatures up close.
- Explore Francis Marion National Forest: Awendaw is nestled on the edge of this vast national forest, offering additional outdoor activities. You can hike trails like the Awendaw Passage, a 7.1-mile stretch of the Palmetto Trail, or the I'On Swamp Interpretive Trail, which winds through historic rice fields and wetlands. These trails are excellent for nature walks and spotting local wildlife, including alligators.
- Sewee Outpost: A local favorite, the Sewee Outpost is a great spot to grab breakfast biscuits and coffee before your ferry trip, or lunch after your return.
- Awendaw Green: If your visit aligns with an event, Awendaw Green hosts local and touring musicians in a relaxed outdoor setting, offering a taste of Lowcountry culture.
Best Time to Visit
Our team consistently recommends visiting Boneyard Beach, Bulls Island during the cooler months of **fall, winter, and early spring** (roughly October through April). During these seasons, the weather is more pleasant for hiking and exploring, and the mosquito population is significantly lower.
- Fall (October-November): Offers comfortable temperatures, beautiful changing marsh colors, and excellent bird migration. The ferry schedule is still quite active.
- Winter (December-February): While ferry service is reduced to Saturdays only, this is arguably the best time for birdwatching, with many migratory species present. The cool, crisp air makes for invigorating hikes.
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures are mild, and new growth brings vibrant greens to the landscape. Bird activity remains high, and loggerhead sea turtles begin nesting on the beaches in early summer.
- Summer (June-September): While still beautiful, summer can be very hot and humid, with a higher presence of biting insects. Ferry schedules are also adapted for summer conditions. If visiting in summer, we advise taking the earliest ferry, bringing plenty of water and insect repellent, and planning for shorter excursions.
Additionally, for experiencing the Boneyard Beach specifically, we strongly advise checking the tide charts. Low tide will maximize your access to the dramatic tree formations.
Where to Stay Nearby
When planning your trip to Boneyard Beach, Bulls Island, you'll find that lodging options are not directly on the island itself, as it's an uninhabited wildlife refuge. Instead, our team recommends looking for accommodations in nearby towns like Awendaw, Mount Pleasant, or Charleston. This allows you to easily access the ferry while enjoying a wider range of amenities.
Boneyard Beach, Bulls Island Lodging
Awendaw itself has limited lodging options, primarily consisting of vacation rentals or smaller, independent stays. For more comprehensive Boneyard Beach, Bulls Island lodging choices, we suggest expanding your search to:
- Mount Pleasant: Located just south of Awendaw, Mount Pleasant offers a variety of hotels, from budget-friendly to more upscale. It's about a 20-30 minute drive to Garris Landing. Options here include the Cambria Hotel Mount Pleasant – Charleston, Hotel Indigo Mount Pleasant by IHG, and the Harborside at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina. Many of these offer amenities like pools, restaurants, and easy access to other Lowcountry attractions.
- Charleston: For those who want to combine their nature excursion with a vibrant city experience, Charleston is an excellent choice. It's about a 45-minute to an hour's drive from downtown Charleston to Garris Landing. Charleston boasts a plethora of world-class hotels, from historic inns in the Charleston Historic District like The Francis Marion Hotel and Emeline, to luxury resorts. Staying in Charleston allows you to enjoy its renowned culinary scene, historic sites, and cultural attractions after a day of island exploration.
- Isle of Palms/Wild Dunes: If a beach resort experience is more your style, consider the Isle of Palms, particularly the Wild Dunes Resort. This is a bit further, but offers direct beach access and resort amenities.
When booking your Boneyard Beach, Bulls Island lodging, we advise considering the drive time to Garris Landing, especially for early morning ferry departures. Many hotels in Mount Pleasant and Charleston are highly rated and offer comfortable stays for all budgets.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
To fully appreciate the unique beauty of Boneyard Beach, Bulls Island, and the surrounding Lowcountry, our team has crafted a sample two-day itinerary:
Day 1: Bulls Island Immersion
- Morning (7:00 AM - 8:30 AM): Travel & Breakfast: Depart from your accommodation in Charleston or Mount Pleasant. Grab a quick, delicious breakfast biscuit and coffee from Sewee Outpost in Awendaw. Aim to arrive at Garris Landing by 8:30 AM.
- Late Morning (9:00 AM - 9:30 AM): Ferry to Bulls Island: Board the 9:00 AM Bulls Island Ferry. Enjoy the scenic 30-minute ride through the saltmarsh, keeping an eye out for dolphins and birds.
- Midday (9:30 AM - 3:30 PM): Explore Bulls Island: Upon arrival, head straight to the famous Boneyard Beach. Spend a couple of hours exploring the dramatic landscape and taking photographs. Afterward, embark on a hike along one of the island's trails, such as the Turkey Walk Trail, to spot alligators and diverse birdlife. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the natural beauty. Remember to bring plenty of water and insect repellent.
- Late Afternoon (3:30 PM - 4:30 PM): Return Ferry & Drive Back: Catch the afternoon ferry back to Garris Landing. Drive back to your accommodation, perhaps stopping for a refreshing drink in Mount Pleasant.
- Evening: Dinner in Charleston: Indulge in Charleston's renowned culinary scene. Explore the Charleston Historic District for dinner at one of its many acclaimed restaurants.
Day 2: Lowcountry Culture & Nature
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Birds of Prey & History: Start your day with a visit to the Center for Birds of Prey in Awendaw to witness their incredible flight demonstrations. Afterward, consider a visit to a historic plantation nearby, such as Magnolia Plantation and Gardens or Middleton Place, both offering beautiful gardens and insights into Lowcountry history.
- Lunch: Local Flavors: Enjoy a casual lunch in Awendaw or Mount Pleasant.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Coastal Exploration or City Charm:
- Option A (Nature): Explore more of the Francis Marion National Forest with a hike on the Awendaw Passage Trail or the I'On Swamp Interpretive Trail.
- Option B (History): Head back towards Charleston to visit Fort Sumter National Monument for a dose of Civil War history, or simply stroll through the charming streets of the historic district.
- Evening: Relax & Reflect: Enjoy a relaxed dinner, perhaps trying a different local eatery in Mount Pleasant or Charleston, reflecting on your wild Lowcountry adventure.
For more ideas on exploring the Palmetto State, check out our guide to the Best Places in South Carolina.
Our Expert Verdict
Our team believes that Boneyard Beach, Bulls Island South Carolina, offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature in one of the most unique coastal environments in the United States. Its dramatic beauty, abundant wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone seeking a true Lowcountry adventure. We’ve found that the planning involved, particularly with the ferry, is well worth the effort for the reward of experiencing this untouched wilderness. It’s a destination that truly embodies the wild heart of South Carolina.
Last updated: 2026-07-08 by the Roam States team.