Wild Wonders: Loggerhead Sea Turtles

Your first day at Edisto Beach State Park promises a rich blend of exploration and relaxation, set against the backdrop of the sprawling ACE Basin. Encompassing over 215,000 acres of protected habitat, with 79,000 acres accessible to the public, the ACE Basin stands as one of South Carolina's most significant natural treasures. Its diverse landscape features pine and hardwood uplands, forested wetlands and tidal marshes and creeks, as well as barrier islands and beaches, offering a haven for a wide array of wildlife.

As you venture onto the island, kickstart your adventure with a stop at King's Farm Market. Here, you can stock up on dinner essentials, including delicious prepared pies, casseroles and more. Their selection of frozen prepared foods provides a hassle-free option for your evening meal, while fresh produce, eggs, and homemade bread add a touch of local flavor to your camping experience. 

Marsh Hen Mill also offers a selection of honey, jams and jellies, in addition to its heirloom grits and cornmeal. Grits are a Southern staple and an essential ingredient of shrimp and grits, a South Carolina specialty. 

Once you've settled into your campsite, dive into the heart of the ACE Basin's natural wonders at the Environmental Learning Center. Explore interactive displays that shed light on the basin's sensitive ecosystem and the area's wildlife. Engage with the touch tank, marvel at fossils of prehistoric animals, and virtually embark on a shrimping boat ride to explore the diverse habitats that define the ACE Basin.

As night falls, gather around the campfire to indulge in the timeless pleasure of making s'mores and sharing stories.

Begin your day with a hearty camp breakfast before returning to the Environmental Learning Center to rent a naturalist backpack fully equipped for your day of exploration at Edisto Beach. With identification guides, binoculars and other essentials in hand, set out on the trails winding through Edisto Island's maritime forest.

From the historic Bache Monument Trail to the intriguing Spanish Mount Trail, each path offers glimpses of the island's rich natural and cultural heritage. As you hike or bike through the park, look for wildlife like white-tailed deer, osprey and alligators, as well as the possibility of spotting elusive bobcats.

When you’re done exploring the island by land, be sure to spend some time exploring by sea. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and make your way through some of the tidal marshes and creeks of the ACE Basin. 

After an exciting morning exploring the park, it’s time to head to the beach. It may seem like an odd time of day to start on your tan, but the last lingering hours of sunlight can be the best time of day to enjoy the serenity of this coastal paradise. Keep an eye on the horizon for dolphins popping up amid the rolling ocean swells as you hunt for shells along the shoreline.

As night falls, head back to camp for a cozy dinner under the stars.

Since it's going to be a late night, plan for an easygoing day. Start by taking a relaxing scenic tour with Plot Twist Charters. Their tours range from Dolphin and Sunset excursions to Island Excursions and Eco/Historical tours, with water taxi service included. It's a great way to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding area without overexerting yourself before the night's activities.

In the evening, gear up for a unique experience on a Turtle Night Walk. Loggerhead sea turtles hold a special place in South Carolina's heart and this walk offers a rare opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures nesting in their natural habitat. The walk takes place from 9 – 11 p.m. every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday night in June and July. Advanced registration is required, so be sure to call ahead to reserve your spot.

During the walk, you'll learn about the life cycle of sea turtles, the conservation challenges they face and how you can help protect them. Following a 45-minute presentation, participants embark on a guided nighttime beach walk (approximately 3 miles total) for a chance to witness a nesting loggerhead sea turtle in action. Keep in mind that the appearance of a loggerhead is not guaranteed, but the experience of being on the beach at night and learning about these incredible creatures is invaluable. Please note that any form of photography is prohibited during the walk. 

If you explore the beach at night without a guide, remember to tread lightly and avoid using flashlights or mobile phone lights, as these can disturb nesting turtles. If you encounter a nesting turtle, refrain from interfering and simply observe from a respectful distance. By keeping the beach clean during the day and minimizing disturbances at night, you can contribute to the conservation efforts to protect these remarkable creatures.

After a late night, take it easy and spend the day unwinding at the beach. Whether you prefer lounging on the sand or taking a refreshing dip in the ocean, today is all about relaxation.

For a change of pace, try fishing from the Environmental Learning Center's fishing pier. Cast your line into the waters of Big Bay Creek and enjoy the serene surroundings while waiting for a bite. The pier offers some of the island's best views, providing a perfect backdrop for a peaceful day of angling. You can also surf fish from the shore—or in the salt marsh for flounder, red drum, speckled sea trout and other species.

If you're up for more adventure, consider launching a boat into Big Bay Creek and exploring more of the ACE Basin. The park's boat ramp and courtesy dock, located on the western boundary, provide convenient access to Big Bay Creek.

Want someone else to captain your day? Cruise with the dolphins, tour more of the ACE Basin or end your day on a sunset cruise with Botany Bay Ecotours.