Scan the tidal flats for dorsal fins, then step onto a sandbar that only appears at low tide. This two-hour boat tour from Palmetto Bay Marina pairs dolphin sightings with a short, shore-side exploration of Disappearing Island.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A low, salt-scented wind lifts off the intracoastal as the captain eases the bow away from Palmetto Bay Marina. The boat slips through tidal channels ringed by marsh grass; gulls argue over the wake and the first dorsal fins slice the flat water like punctuation marks. This two-hour excursion centers on the Atlantic bottlenose dolphin, whose curiosity often brings pods within easy viewing distance, and a 30-minute landing at a “disappearing” sandbar exposed at low tide where sand dollars and starfish lie strewn like small, fragile fossils.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to step down 1–2 feet, wade short distances and stand on a moving boat for up to two hours.
Wildlife
History
Hilton Head’s coastal channels and sandbars have long supported Gullah-Geechee communities and were strategic waterways during the Civil War, with Mitchelville established as one of the first self-governed freedmen towns.
Conservation
Tidal flats are sensitive; avoid collecting live shells or sand dollars, pack out trash, and follow captain guidance to minimize disturbance to wildlife and habitats.
Reserve your spot on the Hilton Head Dolphin Tour with Stop at Disappearing Island today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive 15 minutes early
Check in at the Lowcountry Watersports flag at Palmetto Bay Marina and complete waivers ahead of time to save time.
Wear water shoes
You may need to wade about 10–15 feet in shallow water to reach the sandbar; closed-toe water shoes protect feet and improve footing.
Sun protection is critical
Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses—the exposed sandbar offers almost no shade during the stop.
Motion-sickness prep
If you get seasick, take preventative medication an hour before departure; boats run in open water and wakes can be bumpy.
Water shoes
Protects feet while wading and walking on the sandbar’s uneven shells and rocks.
Sunscreen & wide-brim hat
Shallow water and reflection off sand increase UV exposure—apply liberally.
summer
Binoculars
Helps spot distant dolphin activity and observe shorebirds without disturbing them.
Light windbreaker
Sea breezes can be cool, especially in early morning or late season departures.
spring