Barrier Island Eco Tours Trips

Scheduled Trips

"A special thanks to Shane Ziegler of Barrier Island Eco Tours, Isle of Palms, for sharing his invaluable insights and
vast knowledge about the Lowcountry, its wildlife and ecosystem. And the tours are fabulous!"
-Mary Alice Monroe, Author of
The Beach House

We offer naturalist guided boat excursions to Capers Island State Heritage Preserve, one of the last undeveloped barrier islands. Our fleet consists of: the Callinectes, a 40 passenger covered pontoon; the Sayana, a 22 passenger covered pontoon; the Marsh Mama, a 26 foot, 16 passenger Carolina Skiff; and the Cut Mullet, a 23 foot, 6 passenger bay style boat. All of our boats are available for private, customized charters as well.

Take a look at the boats we have available.


Capers Island Wildlife Exploration

Boneyard Beach$38 Adults | $28 Children under 12 | 2 and under free

Venture to Capers Island, one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier islands. We will cruise through winding tidal creeks to find diverse wildlife living in this salt marsh environment. Common sightings include bottlenose dolphin, osprey, pelicans, bald eagles, herons, egrets, and more. Along the way we'll employ various nets and habitat traps for an up-close look at some of the rarely seen marine creatures that thrive below the surface. As you arrive on Capers, you will have about an hour and a half to explore its pristine "Bone-yard Beach" and interior freshwater ponds. Capers provides excellent opportunities for shelling and bird watching.

Offered year round Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 9am-12:30pm.
Also offered on Fridays 9am-12:30pm from Memorial to Labor Day.


Dolphin Discovery Sunset

Dolphin Discovery$34 Adults | $24 Children 12 and under | 2 and under free

Join our naturalist on a search and discovery mission for the fascinating bottlenose dolphin and loggerhead sea turtle. Bottlenose dolphins are a common resident of our salt marshes and inlets behind the barrier islands. As you observe the dolphins feeding, playing, or simply cruising around in their native environment you will learn all about their social behavior, feeding habits, and much more. Also learn about the life history of threatened loggerhead sea turtle which we often catch sight of during the summer months. You will also have about 1 hour to get off the boat and explore Capers Island's "Bone-yard Beach".

Offered year-round Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday.
Times vary depending on sunset. Please call (843) 886-5000 for times and reservations.
Offered Sunday-Friday 6-8:30pm | Memorial through Labor Day.




Blue Crabbing Excursion

Blue Crabbing$40 Adults | $30 Children 12 and under | 2 years and under free

Learn to catch crabs the old fashioned way, with a hand line and chicken neck.

We will venture by boat to an excellent crabbing spot, teach you about the intriguing life history of the blue crab, and then catch, cook, clean and consume these tasty crustaceans. Our crab boil takes place on the beach of Capers Island. A fantastic trip for the family. This may very well be the freshest seafood you will ever eat!

Offered Tuesday - Friday 1:30-5pm
Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Available for private charter May - December upon request.
Please call 843-886-5000 for details and reservations.


Creek Fishing Trip

Creek Fishing$90 Adults | $80 Children 12 and under

Our experienced captain will take you to a few of his hot spots back in the salt marsh. This is fun-fishing at its best, with light tackle and plenty of action.

Catches include redfish, trout, flounder, shark, rays, ladyfish, and more. Fresh bait, license, and all tackle provided.

Offered year-round upon request.

Please call 843-886-5000 for details and reservations.
Offered Monday - Friday 8-11:30am, 1-4:30pm and 5-8:30pm Memorial Day through Labor Day.


Marine Biology Day Camp

Marine Biology CampChildren Ages 5-12 | $50 includes lunch

Hey kids! Here is a chance to have fun while learning about marine biology.

We will take you to Capers Island where you will see, touch, and learn about the interesting creatures that live along our shores.

You will have a chance to throw a cast net, crab, explore the salt marsh, spend time observing bottlenose dolphins and catch animals to put in our touch-tank.

Offered Wednesdays 9:00-1:00pm
Memorial Day through Labor Day


All Inclusive Island Fun

Island Fun$90 Adults | $80 Children 12 and under | 2 years and under free

This excursion takes you through winding salt marsh creeks abundant with wildlife, to the more remote end of Capers Island. Take a naturalist guided walk to the majestic bone-yard beach. Equipment and instruction will be available for kayaking, crabbing and fishing. Swim, crab, fish, kayak, beach comb or find your own secluded spot.

Lunch and water provided. Small coolers welcome.

Available upon request.
Please call 843-886-5000 for details and reservations.