Is there a bathroom on the boat?

A portable camp-style toilet is available for emergencies, but guests are advised to use facilities before departure.

Is alcohol allowed on the tour?

Yes, guests of legal drinking age may bring alcohol if in non-glass containers. Please drink responsibly.

What type of boat is used for this tour?

The boat is an open-air center console with a T-top for partial shade, popular for Charleston’s waters.

How long should I plan to stay on the island?

Allow at least 4 hours to fully enjoy the island’s walking and exploration time after arrival.

Are children allowed on the tour?

There is no specified age limit, but guests should ensure children can safely manage the short walk.

What should I bring with me?

Bring sunglasses, towel, non-spray sunscreen, sun-protective clothing, camera, and any personal snacks or drinks.

Explore Capers Island’s Boneyard Beach: Driftwood Wonders & Untouched Barrier Island Escape

Just north of Isle of Palms, South Carolina, Capers Island offers a rare glimpse into an undisturbed barrier island ecosystem where natural artistry is on full display. This exclusive boat tour transports adventurers to Boneyard Beach, famed for its striking driftwood formations—massive skeletons of ancient live oaks and pines bleached and twisted by wind and tides. The experience begins with a scenic boat ride through the calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway, arriving at Capers after a brief 10-20 minute trek into the heart of the island. Here, visitors are invited to explore for hours, soaking in sweeping salt marsh views, tidal creeks, and untouched maritime forest.

Capers Island stands apart within the Charleston area for its pristine condition, largely protected by a designated no-wake zone that limits boat traffic and preserves its delicate shorelines. The driftwood formations at Boneyard Beach create a haunting, otherworldly landscape, often catching photographers and nature lovers by surprise. This shoreline, scattered with fallen tree trunks and gnarly limbs, holds stories of centuries of natural change shaped by coastal winds and waves.

Beyond the visual splendor, the island offers a quiet sanctuary for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Ospreys, egrets, and herons patrol the skies, while eastern box turtles and fiddler crabs move amidst the underbrush and tidal flats. The historical context of this barrier island hints at early colonial use and indigenous habitation, though today it remains mainly untouched, a rare coastal wilderness close to Charleston's urban buzz.

The tour experience is designed for comfort and safety, including life jackets, bottled water, and a cooler with ice, making the outing ideal for a half-day escape lasting 4-6 hours. Bring sun-protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen (specifically not spray type), plus your camera to capture the eerie beauty of the driftwood “graveyard.” Though alcohol is permitted if in appropriate containers, the operator stresses responsible enjoyment given the strong southern sun and heat.

Capers Island/Boneyard Beach Tour highlights a lesser-known but truly unique part of the South Carolina coast. It’s a standout for adventurers seeking raw, serene coastal landscapes edged with fascinating natural sculptures, and wanting to step off the beaten path while staying close to Charleston. This tour blends outdoor recreation with a contemplative encounter with coastal ecology that leaves visitors inspired and refreshed.

About Salty Bum Charters, LLC

Salty Bum Charters, LLC operates from Johns Island, South Carolina, offering private boat charters that showcase the Lowcountry's barrier islands and Charleston Harbor. The company specializes in guided excursions to Morris Island, Kiawah Island and Sandy Point, Charleston Harbor, sunset cruises, and Capers Island with Boneyard Beach. Each trip focuses on local history, wildlife viewing, shoreline exploration, and leisurely beach access by boat.

Crews prioritize safety, local knowledge, and personalized experiences for small groups and families. Vessels navigate short distances from Charleston Harbor to nearby islands, providing opportunities to see dolphins, seabirds, historic sites, and shoreline artifacts exposed by erosion. Saltwater conditions and tidal access determine landing opportunities, and captains adjust routes accordingly to maximize guest experience while following local regulations.

Salty Bum Charters coordinates private tours suitable for first-time visitors and repeat guests seeking a scenic, educational outing. The Charleston Harbor Tour visits the Battery, Rainbow Row, Ravenel Bridge, Fort Sumter, and USS Yorktown landmarks. The Morris Island Tour highlights the island’s lighthouse remnants and exposed artifacts, while the Kiawah Island/Sandy Point Tour includes Penny Creek scenery and potential dolphin sightings. The Capers Island/Boneyard Beach Tour recommends allowing at least four hours for a full visit.

Booking information, safety briefings, and trip durations are provided at reservation. The operator's focus on guided, private experiences, local itineraries, and adherence to maritime guidelines supports trust and repeat business. Reservations are required for most trips; guests receive pre-trip details including meeting location, safety equipment, weather contingencies, and tide guidance provided before departure.