The most popular state park in South Carolina, Hunting Beach State Park, which is located on Hunting Island, draws more than a million visitors each year. There are many things to do on the island, including fishing, boating, biking, birding, hiking, and more. There are several trails to explore, and it’s one of the best places to collect seashells in South Carolina.

Best Places to Collect Seashells in South Carolina
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Hunting Island Loop is an easy 9.5-mile trail that takes an average of two hours, and 46 minutes to complete if you’re only hiking. If you’re also looking for shells, you’ll want to allow more time, and the best time for this activity is at low tide.
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This trail is open year-round and takes you along most of the eastern coastline of the island, and fall is said to be one of the best times during the year to find shells.
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You can find a variety of types of shells here …
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… as well as sharks’ teeth.
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There are so many other beautiful sights to take in as you explore and look for shells, starting with different types of wildlife. Red knots are just one type of bird you may see on the island.
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These flocks feed on horseshoe crab eggs when crabs come onshore to spawn.
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Hunting Island is also an ideal home for the painted bunting bird, which lives in maritime hammocks.
Don Faulkner/Flickr
You’ll also enjoy seeing the Hunting Island Lighthouse, which was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970. It’s been open in the past for tours but is currently closed due to a need for repairs.
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You may want to time your hike so that you can catch the sunrise, but there is plenty of beauty to enjoy regardless of what time you go.
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And be sure to get a Nature Guide from the South Carolina State Parks store if you’d like help identifying shells, wildlife, or plants you encounter during your adventure!
South Carolina State Parks

Visit the Hunting Beach State Park page on the South Carolina Parks website for more information. Have you ever hiked the Hunting Island Loop trail or been to the island otherwise? Did you see any wildlife or collect any shells? Let us know about your experience in the comments below!

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Hunting Island, South Carolina 29920, USA