Exploring can be the backbone of a Skimmer trip or simply the icing on the cake. Forays into the area’s endless maze of small creeks, islands and marshes allow guests to experience the essence of the Carolina coast. There is great beauty in the quiet expanses of the salt marsh, any visit here is sure to be memorable. 
 

Aside from simply enjoying the landscape, one of the main reasons for poking around in the marsh is the search for small mammals. Although river otters and raccoons are common, mink are by far the most obvious predators. I like to call these handsome little rascals “ salt marsh bears,” for they are truly the top carnivore on the scene. Blue crabs and fish make up most of their diet, but Clapper Rails and other birds must always beware of these stealthy little hunters. Their good looks and curious nature make them great quarry for nature lovers.  
 

The vast unspoiled area surrounding Hilton Head provides other excellent exploring opportunities. One of the most noteworthy is the chance to investigate Native American village sites dating back to prehistory. Shell middens (quite common in the area) contain not only the remains of past meals but also a remarkable number of pottery shards. These revealing artifacts range from some of the oldest known in North America to those showing Spanish influence. 
 

Shelling and beach combing are popular activities. Prepare to travel some distance though. Areas that provide the best shelling also provide the best ‘off the beaten the path’ experience-it is possible to stand on stretches of beach where one feels alone on the earth. Large cockles, knobbed and channeled whelks, olive shells, jingle shells and sand dollars are commonly found. 
 

Fossil hunting is also an option but don’t expect to find Tyrannosaurus. The local fare consists mainly of sharks teeth, horse and skate teeth, turtle shell, and odd bits of bone. Treasured tooth fragments ranging from megaldon to mastodon may round out the haul. Great fun for kids.