Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Boat rides take 20 to 30 minutes each way. Pack water, sun protection, and water shoes for the beach landing.
Getting there
How to reach the departure docks.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boat: Take a guided eco-tour or private charter from Bowens Island or the Folly Beach Boat Landing. | 2-3 hours for a full round-trip tour | $50-$70 per adult | Includes scenic transit through tidal creeks and usually 45-60 minutes of beach exploration time. |
| Car: Drive from downtown Charleston to the tour departure points in Folly Beach or Bowens Island. | 20-30 minutes from downtown Charleston | Free or included parking at most operators | Check your specific operator's confirmation email for the exact launch address. |
| Tour: Book a guided kayaking or stand-up paddleboard tour with local outfitters. | 3 hours | $60-$80 | A more adventurous, active option that requires moderate physical fitness and basic paddling skills. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
March through October offers the best weather. This is also when dolphin activity in the tidal creeks peaks.
What to bring
Your ticks are saved in this browser only.
You must complete a digital waiver before boarding the boat.
Operators email this link after you book your tickets.
How the day runs
A simple schedule for a morning excursion.
Take an early boat trip to beat the afternoon heat.
- Arrive at the dock
Get there 20 minutes early for check-in and the safety briefing.
- Depart Folly Beach
Cruise through the salt marsh and watch for dolphins.
- Land on Morris Island
Step off the boat into shallow water or sand.
- Search for fossils
Walk the shoreline to find shark teeth and photograph the lighthouse.
- Board the boat
Head back through the estuary toward Folly Beach.
- Return to dock
Finish the tour and head into town for lunch.
What to pack
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses with a strap. You need at least two reusable water bottles per person. There is no shade or water on the island.
Wear shoes that can get wet. You often have to walk through shallow water during the beach landing. Bring a small bag for collecting shark teeth and fossils.
Easiest way to do it
Folly Beach Eco Boat Excursion and Morris Island Drop Off
2 h 30 min 5.0 (65)
- Cooler full of ice
- Licensed Captain and Eco Guide
- Ample parking
- Restroom facilities at departing location
From$69per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Are there bathrooms on Morris Island or the tour boats?
No. Use the restrooms at the dock before you depart. The boats and the island lack facilities.
Can you drive to Morris Island?
No. The island is completely surrounded by water. You can only reach it via boat, kayak, or paddleboard.
Is Morris Island open to the public?
Yes, the island itself is free public land. However, you must pay for a boat tour or private transport to get there.