Hunting Fossils on the Tides: A Shark-Tooth Expedition on Charleston’s Intracoastal
A private 4-hour hunt for ancient shark teeth and tidal quiet along Charleston’s Intracoastal Waterway.
Dawn leans over Shem Creek like a conspirator, sliding silver light across the water as shrimp boats creak awake in their slips. The marsh breathes out pluff mud and salt. Pelicans glide in single-file and a dolphin’s dorsal splits the creek, then vanishes as if winking—yes, you’re in the right place. The boat noses from the dock and the Intracoastal Waterway opens its long, quiet corridor, where the tide is always moving the story forward.
Trail Wisdom
Aim for low tide
Teeth reveal themselves when sandbars are exposed; the lower the tide, the more ground you can cover.
Wear true water shoes
Sandbars can be shelly and slick—closed-toe water shoes with grip protect your feet and help on slippery landings.
Scan for triangles
Instead of hunting for ‘teeth,’ train your eye for dark, triangular shapes with a glossy sheen to spot fossils faster.
Respect wildlife buffers
Stay well away from bird nesting areas and keep at least 50 yards from dolphins to comply with local guidelines.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Shem Creek Boardwalk at sunrise for quiet dolphin and wading bird activity
- •Patriots Point pier for wide views of the Ravenel Bridge and harbor light
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphins, Ospreys and brown pelicans
Conservation Note
Avoid live shell collection and respect posted closures for seabird nesting areas; give dolphins space in accordance with the Marine Mammal Protection Act.
Shem Creek has served as a working waterfront for centuries, supporting shrimping fleets and maritime trade that shaped Mount Pleasant and Charleston.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild temperatures, Lower humidity
Challenges: Blustery winds, Variable tides
A sweet spot for comfortable days on the water and productive sandbar hunts; carry a light layer for breezy mornings.
summer
Best for: Warm water wading, Long daylight
Challenges: High heat and humidity, Afternoon thunderstorms
Start early to avoid the heat, hydrate often, and watch the forecast for pop-up storms after lunch.
fall
Best for: Stable weather, Clear light for photography
Challenges: Occasional tropical systems, Shortening daylight
Crisp mornings, lively wildlife, and reliable low tides make fall an excellent time to search.
winter
Best for: Quiet waterways, Exceptional visibility on bars
Challenges: Cold north winds, Chill on open water
Dress in windproof layers; the stark light and empty sandbars can be rewarding for careful hunters.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-toe water shoesEssential
Protects feet from shells and provides traction on slick sandbars and boat ramps.
Polarized sunglasses with strapEssential
Cuts glare to help spot dark shapes in shallow water while keeping eyewear secure.
Mesh bag or compact sifter
Makes it easy to rinse shell hash and separate teeth without losing small finds.
UPF long-sleeve and brimmed hatEssential
Shields skin from intense coastal sun when reflection off the water doubles exposure.
Common Questions
What ages can participate?
This private outing is suitable for most ages; children must be accompanied by an adult and closely supervised during sandbar landings.
Do I need any special permits to keep shark teeth?
Surface collecting of fossil shark teeth on exposed sandbars is generally allowed in South Carolina, but digging or collecting from state waters may require permits. Always follow current SC regulations and avoid any cultural artifacts.
When is the best time of day to find teeth?
Around low tide, when the sandbars are most exposed and fresh material is revealed by receding water.
Will I get seasick?
Trips run in the Intracoastal Waterway and tidal creeks, which are protected and typically calm with minimal swell.
Are there restrooms during the tour?
There are no facilities on sandbars; use the restroom before departure at Shem Creek and plan accordingly.
Can we approach dolphins or birds for photos?
No. Maintain safe distances, never feed wildlife, and avoid bird nesting zones; telephoto lenses provide close shots without disturbance.
What to Pack
Water shoes for traction and protection; UPF shirt and brimmed hat for all-day sun; Mesh bag/sifter to secure small finds; Refillable water bottle and salty snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
Did You Know
Charleston’s rivers and harbor expose Miocene fossil layers, making the region one of the East Coast’s most reliable places to find fossil shark teeth—including occasional megalodon teeth—from sediments dating 3–23 million years old.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive 15–20 minutes early at Shem Creek Boat Ramp—parking fills quickly; Plan around the tide chart for maximum sandbar time; In summer, book morning departures to avoid heat and thunderstorms; Pack a dry bag for phones, keys, and a small first-aid kit.
Local Flavor
After the water, wander the Shem Creek boardwalk and grab peel-and-eat shrimp at The Wreck of the Richard & Charlene, sunset cocktails at Saltwater Cowboys, or she-crab soup at Tavern & Table. For a local pint, swing by Westbrook Brewing or Ghost Monkey Brewery in Mount Pleasant.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Charleston International (CHS), ~20–25 minutes by car. Launch: Shem Creek Marina Boat Ramp, Mount Pleasant. Drive time from downtown Charleston: ~15 minutes. Cell service: Generally good, with brief dead spots near undeveloped marsh. Permits: None needed for the tour; follow South Carolina rules for fossil collecting (surface finds only).
Sustainability Note
Sandbars are living edges of the estuary—pack out all trash, avoid live shells and nesting sites, and maintain at least 50 yards from dolphins. Wake awareness protects marsh banks and oyster beds that stabilize this coast.