You booked this experience
Make your trip unforgettable

Saltwater Marsh Eco Shelling Tour in Murrells Inlet, SC

21 Reviews 4.62 out of 5 stars Based on 21 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 95% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Myrtle Beach, USA
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 14 (4.63) days in advance.

2 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Explore the vibrant ecosystem of Murrells Inlet on a captivating Saltwater Marsh Eco Tour. This 2-hour cruise offers a unique opportunity for families and nature enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the lush coastal landscape. Led by an onboard marine biologist, guests can observe local wildlife, participate in live demonstrations, and enjoy a shelling adventure on a private beach accessible only by boat. The onboard experience includes interactive touch tanks teeming with marine life such as blue crabs, sea urchins, starfish, oysters and more that you can observe, hold and explore, making it an educational outing for all ages. Perfect for families, seniors, and couples looking to connect with nature and each other.

- 2-hour eco-cruise through the picturesque saltwater marsh
- Expert naturalists guide the tour, sharing insights on local wildlife and history
- Shelling adventure on a secluded beach (~35 mins)
- Family-friendly experience suitable for all ages, with onboard facilities

What's Included

  • Restroom on board

    Meeting Location

    Meeting point

    4123 U.S. 17 Business
    Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, USA

    Show on Google Maps

    Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

    End point

    This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    What To Expect

    Book Online

    Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
    Read more

    Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

    MarshWalk (pass by)

    Cruise past the famous Murrells Inlet MarshWalk, a lively waterfront boardwalk known as the heart of the Inlet and the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina.” This scenic stretch is lined with popular waterfront restaurants and local favorites like Dead Dog Saloon, Drunken Jack's, Wicked Tuna, Creek Ratz, J Peters, The Claw House, Bovines, and Inlet Shipwreck Bar & Grill.Bustling with charter boats, live music, and waterfront energy, the MarshWalk offers a true glimpse into the coastal lifestyle of Murrells Inlet and the greater Myrtle Beach area. Hang out at the Tuna Shack, Inlet Beer Garden or the Mullet Hut and watch fishing boats come and go with the day’s catch, see pelicans and shorebirds along the marsh, and take in sweeping views of the saltwater estuary that makes this area so unique. It’s one of the best places along the Grand Strand to experience fresh seafood, waterfront dining, and Lowcountry charm — all in one unforgettable setting.
    Read more

    Veterans pier (pass by)

    As we leave the MarshWalk, you’ll see the Murrells Inlet Veterans Pier, a public fishing pier built on the historic site of a World War II U.S. Army Air Forces Crash Boat Station (circa 1943–1945). The station supported aerial gunnery training from the nearby Myrtle Beach Army Air Field and was used to locate and recover pilots and aircraft involved in training accidents over the coastal waters and marsh.The facility included a long marsh dock, storage buildings, and a radio shack used to coordinate rescue operations. Local boat captains and volunteers often assisted military personnel in coastal patrol and recovery efforts, making it an important support site along the Grand Strand during the war.After WWII, the military abandoned the station and it transitioned into a public fishing pier. Over time, storm damage, including Hurricane Hugo in 1989, destroyed much of the original structure. The site was later rebuilt and incorporated into the MarshWalk area in the early 2000s.
    Read more

    County Road S-22-600 (pass by)

    As we continue through Murrells Inlet, you’ll pass Oyster Cove, one of the area’s most exclusive waterfront communities. Known for its “million-dollar homes,” this neighborhood features private docks, sweeping marsh views, and direct access to the tidal creeks of the inlet. It offers a glimpse into Lowcountry waterfront living, where boats are as common as cars and every home overlooks the ever-changing salt marsh.
    Read more

    Marlin Quay Marina (pass by)

    Cruise past Marlin Quay Marina, a well-known waterfront marina at the southern end of Garden City Beach. Located along the inlet channel where the waters meet the Atlantic, it’s a popular spot for private boats that want coastal access. From the water, you’ll often see vessels coming and going through the inlet jetties as they head offshore or return from a day on the ocean.
    Read more

    Garden City UFO House (pass by)

    Keep an eye along the shoreline and you might spot one of the area’s most unusual landmarks — the so-called “UFO House” in Garden City. Built in 1976, this round, elevated structure looks like something straight out of a sci-fi movie, which is exactly how it earned its nickname.But this home isn’t just for looks — it was actually designed as a hurricane-resistant structure, engineered to withstand extreme coastal storms with its unique shape and elevated design.Surrounded by traditional beach homes, the UFO House quickly became a local curiosity and has since turned into a must-see landmark along the Grand Strand. It’s even survived major hurricanes with little to no damage, proving that its futuristic design was far ahead of its time.Still owned by the original family and used as a vacation home, they usually are only seen around the holidays. And while we might not see the owners too often, locals like to joke that the only regular residents are George, Jane, Judy, and Elroy.
    Read more

    Garden City Beach

    Join us as we explore the Garden City Point, a private beach only accessible by boat and residents in the private neighborhood. This beautiful beach faces both the inlet and the Atlantic Ocean. The eastern side of the Point is connected to the North Jetty, allowing vessels in and out of the inlet. Here we will have about 35-40 minutes to walk the beach, explore, shell, and wade in the water if you should choose. Feel free to bring a bag to collect your treasures, a towel if you'd prefer to sit and relax on the beach, and anything else you may want. Shoes, bags, and other items may be left on the boat with the captain if you'd prefer not to bring them with you.
    Read more

    35 minutes Admission Ticket Free

    Drunken Jack Island (pass by)

    Sail by Drunken Jack Island, a quiet and undeveloped barrier island surrounded by winding tidal creeks and salt marsh. According to local legend, the island takes its name from a pirate known as Drunken Jack, who was reportedly left behind by his crew after a night of celebration. The story goes that they intended to return for him, but days turned into weeks and weeks into months. When they finally made it back, all that remained was a weathered campsite marked by scattered bones and empty rum bottles — a haunting tale that has become part of Murrells Inlet folklore.
    Read more

    Huntington Beach State Park (pass by)

    As we continue towards the jetties, you’ll pass Huntington Beach State Park, one of South Carolina’s most important protected coastal preserves. This undeveloped stretch of shoreline features wide, natural beaches, dunes, and maritime forests that remain largely untouched by development, offering a rare glimpse of the Grand Strand as it once was.The park is part of a vital coastal ecosystem that supports a wide variety of wildlife, including shorebirds, sea turtles during nesting season, and frequent dolphin activity just offshore. Its estuaries and salt marshes are also part of the larger Murrells Inlet watershed, one of the most biologically rich tidal systems on the East Coast.Huntington Beach State Park is widely recognized for its conservation efforts and natural beauty, making it a standout landmark along the South Carolina coast and a key example of preserved Lowcountry habitat.
    Read more
    Show 7 more stops

    Additional Info

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 80 travelers

    Frequently Asked Questions (9)

    Q: Will I get seasick on Saltwater Marsh Eco Shelling Tour in Murrells Inlet, SC?

    A: If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy. Read more Feb 2023

    Cancellation Policy

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

    Still have questions?

    We're here to help.
    Activity code: C-5652925P9

    Traveler Photos

    Reviews

    4.62
    21 reviews

    Average 4.62 out of 5 stars based on 21 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

    5 stars
    14
    4 stars
    6
    3 stars
    1
    2 stars
    0
    1 star
    0
    Don't miss out!
    On average, this is booked 14 (4.63) days in advance.

    Similar Tours & Activities

    Ocean Sunset Dolphin & Sealife Cruise in Murrells Inlet

    Sail into the vibrant Murrells Inlet sunset on a 75-minute Dolphin & Sealife Cruise. Enjoy a scenic ride as you search for playful Atlantic bottlenose …More

    Sail into the vibrant Murrells Inlet sunset on a 75-minute Dolphin & Sealife Cruise. Enjoy a scenic ride as you search for playful Atlantic bottlenose...

    1 hour 15 minutes Free Cancellation
    4.2 (66)
    from
    $38

    Private Surf Lessons in North Myrtle Beach

    One on one, group lessons, and coaching. Lifelong native, local surfer. With a Personalized touch. We make sure every student gets personal instruction and guarantee …More

    One on one, group lessons, and coaching. Lifelong native, local surfer. With a Personalized touch. We make sure every student gets personal instruction and guarantee...

    1 hour Free Cancellation
    5.0 (3)
    from
    $75

    Family Friendly Take A Kid Fishing Adventure in Murrells Inlet

    A perfect day out for families, the 4.5-hour “Take a Kid Fishing” trip invites young anglers to experience the thrill of deep sea fishing off …More

    A perfect day out for families, the 4.5-hour “Take a Kid Fishing” trip invites young anglers to experience the thrill of deep sea fishing off...

    4 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
    4.8 (6)
    from
    $59

    Survivor Games

    This is a one of a kind experience where you and your tribe will tackle exciting team challenges that test your mind, body, and problem …More

    5.0 (6)

    Survivor Games

    5.0 (6)

    This is a one of a kind experience where you and your tribe will tackle exciting team challenges that test your mind, body, and problem...

    2 hours Free Cancellation
    5.0 (6)
    from
    $65

    Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

    Polynesian Fire Luau and Dinner Show Ticket in Myrtle Beach

    Polynesian Fire Luau is one of the hottest shows in Myrtle Beach. The entertainment event features performers from different Polynesian Isles, just for the Luau. …More

    Likely to Sell Out
    Likely to Sell Out

    Polynesian Fire Luau is one of the hottest shows in Myrtle Beach. The entertainment event features performers from different Polynesian Isles, just for the Luau....

    2 hours Free Cancellation
    4.7 (2,544)
    from
    $67

    Mid-Day Deep Sea Fishing in Myrtle Beach

    Set sail on a 5-hour fishing adventure aboard a spacious vessel equipped with two decks and a full-service galley. This mid-day fishing trip is ideal …More

    Likely to Sell Out
    Likely to Sell Out

    Set sail on a 5-hour fishing adventure aboard a spacious vessel equipped with two decks and a full-service galley. This mid-day fishing trip is ideal...

    5 hours
    4.4 (25)
    from
    $45

    Ocean Sunset Dolphin & Sealife Cruise in Murrells Inlet

    Sail into the vibrant Murrells Inlet sunset on a 75-minute Dolphin & Sealife Cruise. Enjoy a scenic ride as you search for playful Atlantic bottlenose …More

    Sail into the vibrant Murrells Inlet sunset on a 75-minute Dolphin & Sealife Cruise. Enjoy a scenic ride as you search for playful Atlantic bottlenose...

    1 hour 15 minutes Free Cancellation
    4.2 (66)
    from
    $38

    Award Winning Las Vegas-Style Magic Show! Charles Bach Wonders!

    Experience Myrtle Beach's biggest award-winning Las Vegas-style magic and illusion show! Winner of Best Live Entertainment, Best Magician, and multiple Best of the Beach awards, …More

    Likely to Sell Out
    Likely to Sell Out

    Experience Myrtle Beach's biggest award-winning Las Vegas-style magic and illusion show! Winner of Best Live Entertainment, Best Magician, and multiple Best of the Beach awards,...

    1 hour 30 minutes Free Cancellation
    4.8 (636)
    from
    $42

    What's Included

    Activity name

    • Restroom on board

    Additional Info

    Activity name

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 80 travelers

    Report Product Issue

    Activity name