Digging Up Giants: The Megalodon Premium Dig in Myrtle Beach
Two hours, 20 gallons of matrix, and a real shot at prehistoric treasure on the South Carolina coast.
The Atlantic doesn’t whisper its secrets here; it places them in your hands. Under a Carolina sky, the tubs of ocean-floor matrix glisten like wet coffee grounds. Each scoop is a small wager against time—silt and shell fragments sliding through your fingers as you scan for glossy triangles that once cut through prehistoric seas. The rush hits quickly: the first unmistakable serration, the weight of fossilized enamel, the quiet thrill that the past is closer than you think. Welcome to the Megalodon Premium Dig at Myrtle Beach Sharktooth Adventures, a focused, two-hour hunt built for curious travelers and committed collectors alike.
Trail Wisdom
Learn the Look of Enamel
Fossil enamel is dense and usually dark; train your eye for glossy triangles and clean edges instead of random shell shards.
Work Wet for Better Contrast
A quick rinse sharpens edges and color, making serrations and enamel stand out against shell grit.
Sort and Store Finds Fast
Bring small zip bags or a divided container so good pieces don’t get lost back in the matrix.
Pace the Heat
In summer, rotate shade breaks and hydrate every 20–30 minutes to maintain focus and avoid fatigue.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early morning low-tide walk near 2nd Avenue Pier after a storm for bonus beach finds
- •Huntington Beach State Park for coastal wildlife watching after your dig
Wildlife
Brown Pelican, Laughing Gull
Conservation Note
Avoid disturbing dunes and nesting areas on nearby beaches; collect only from provided matrix and pack out all trash.
South Carolina’s coast preserves rich Pliocene and Pleistocene fossil beds, with offshore phosphate-rich layers yielding well-preserved shark teeth.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Comfortable temperatures, Steady digging without crowds
Challenges: Occasional rain showers, Pollen for allergy-prone
Mild days and softer light make spring ideal for long, uninterrupted sifting sessions.
summer
Best for: Family outings, Post-storm beachcombing add-ons
Challenges: High heat and humidity, Afternoon thunderstorms
Start early, hydrate often, and use shade to keep your energy up in peak season.
fall
Best for: Lower crowds, Crisp, clear days
Challenges: Hurricane season surges, Variable wind
Stable weather and comfortable temps create excellent conditions for focused hunting.
winter
Best for: Cool, uncrowded sessions, Great light for photography
Challenges: Chilly mornings, Occasional wind chill
Layer up and enjoy calm, crowd-free digs with sharp visibility in the trays.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Nitrile or Lightweight Work GlovesEssential
Protects hands from shell grit while preserving dexterity for sorting fine material.
Small Zip Bags or VialsEssential
Keeps your best teeth safe and organized as you sift through the matrix.
Wide-Brim Hat and SunscreenEssential
Mitigates sun exposure so you can focus on spotting those glossy edges.
Kneeling Pad or Garden Cushion
Adds comfort during extended sorting sessions next to the sifting tables.
Common Questions
Do I need prior experience to find shark teeth?
No. Staff provide quick ID tips and sifting basics, and the matrix is chosen for high fossil potential.
What can I expect to find during a two-hour dig?
Common finds include smaller shark species (like sand tiger and lemon), ray plates, and shell fragments; rare meg teeth are possible but never guaranteed.
Is the activity suitable for kids?
Yes. The structured, hands-on format works well for children with adult supervision, especially at lower matrix tiers.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes that can get wet or gritty, closed-toe shoes, and a hat. Bring a light layer in cooler months.
Can I keep what I find?
Yes—finds from your purchased matrix are typically yours to keep. If unsure about specific items, ask staff on site.
Do I need to book in advance?
Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. Reserve through Myrtle Beach Sharktooth Adventures’ listing.
What to Pack
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) to stay focused in bright conditions; small zip bags or vials to secure your best finds; refillable water bottle to manage the heat; lightweight gloves to protect hands from shell grit.
Did You Know
Megalodon (Otodus megalodon) lived approximately 23 to 3.6 million years ago, and South Carolina designated the Columbian mammoth as its official state fossil in 2014.
Quick Travel Tips
Book your time slot in advance, especially during school breaks; arrive 10–15 minutes early for setup and quick ID tips; plan shade or breaks during midday heat; pair your dig with a low-tide beach walk for bonus hunting.
Local Flavor
After your dig, refuel at Sea Captain’s House for classic coastal fare with an ocean view, grab a pint at New South Brewing, or sample hushpuppies and a po’boy at Murrells Inlet. Cap the day with a sunset stroll on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: MYR (Myrtle Beach International). Driving: minutes from central Myrtle Beach lodging and the Boardwalk. Cell service: generally strong. Permits: none for this dig; follow staff guidance and local beach rules if you hunt on your own.
Sustainability Note
Stick to the provided matrix rather than digging in dunes or sensitive habitats. Pack out all trash, respect wildlife, and leave beach vegetation undisturbed.