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On the ride to the island, you will probably see bottlenose dolphins and pelicans. Birders can expect to view a fantastic assortment of the 293 bird species found in Cape Romain. You can move around the ferry to examine the collection of specimens on the “touch table.” There are 16 miles of roads and trails around the island, plus seven miles of beach. Watch closely for the path from the beach back to the dock. I passed it on my second visit, missing the ferry, and I still haven’t lived it down (25 years and counting!) A favorite spot is breathtaking Boneyard Beach. The dead trees are silent sculptures in the surf. At low tide, pools created around their trunks hold a treasure-trove of shells. My description 25 years ago is still accurate today: “Boneyard Beach is, without a doubt, the most fabulous stretch of beach on the east coast.” Boneyard is the perfect picnic spot as you watch waves roll over sun-bleached oaks. This 3-mile stretch of beach at the northeast corner results from the surf that steadily moves sand away from this end of the island. Captain Crolley describes the skeletonized

forest: “Cured by the salt and bleached by the sun; Boneyard Beach is a sight to behold.”

Start ’em Young

Captain Crolley believes children need to be educated about local ecosystems, bringing STEM lesson plans to life. After-school sessions aren’t dull, book- based classes. Children learn the basics of sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. They learn to paddle, tow another paddler, and create a float plan by reading tide tables and weather reports. During paddles, leaders have students identify birds, hunt shark teeth, and discuss local history and life in the estuary. You can be confident that you are traveling on Coast Guard-certified vessels with a licensed captain. Safety is de rigueur on all excursions—guides are trained in first aid, CPR and lifeguarding. If you don’t want to share this special place, you can charter Coastal Expeditions for a private trip. Tour Boats

The Mango

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N o v / D e c

2021