This past Saturday, October 12th, the Edisto Chamber of Commerce hosted its third annual Turtle Tide Art Auction, alongside the lively Edisto Fall Festival. The storm clouds from earlier in the week had parted, leaving behind a perfect sunny day with cool breezes—ideal conditions for a festival filled with music, art, and a dash of competitive bidding.
The Turtle Tide Art Auction has quickly become a beloved tradition, and this year it shattered expectations yet again, raising a whopping $97,400, surpassing last year’s total by $400. The auction coincided with the Edisto Fall Festival, which buzzed with vibrant vendors, live performances by Edisto Gumbo, and an undeniable sense of community spirit.
Since its inception, the Turtle Tide Art Project has captivated Edisto, bringing together community businesses, local artists, non-profits, and visitors while also providing an educational component around sea turtle conservation. Each turtle sculpture—beautifully crafted and painted by talented artists—was sponsored at $1,500. The entire auction proceeds benefited the non-profits linked to each unique turtle, making every bid count toward a good cause.
The auction kicked off at 2:30pm, with Peter Beck, a local business owner, returning as the enthusiastic auctioneer. Chamber Director Chelsea Harrison and volunteer Amy Stephens introduced each turtle, along with the sponsor and artist, followed by representatives from the benefiting non-profits, who shared their missions and the impact of the donations.
Bidding was fierce! The first turtle, “Edisto’s Mr. Rick,” set the stage, selling for $7,100. But the showstopper of the day was “Hephzibah,” a stunningly realistic turtle created by local artists Susalee Lamb and Ginger Sanders. The first bid came in at an impressive $10,000, and after a thrilling bidding war, “Hephzi” fetched a record-breaking $16,000—the highest bid for any turtle in the event’s history!
“Hephzi” fetched a record-breaking $16,000—the highest bid for any turtle in the event’s history!
The excitement didn’t stop there. Throughout the afternoon, turtles were auctioned off for amounts ranging between $8,000 and $11,000. The final turtle, “Sea-Note,” sold for $8,000, bringing the total to $96,300—just shy of last year’s mark. But in a heartwarming twist, a first-time visitor to Edisto named Vince May, moved by the energy of the auction, made a last-minute donation that pushed the total to $97,400, setting a new record.
The success of this year’s auction is a testament to the generosity of Edisto’s community, the dedication of volunteers, and the creativity of the artists involved. It was truly a day to remember, filled with art, philanthropy, and the undeniable power of people coming together for a good cause.
Thank you to everyone who made the 2024 Turtle Tide Art Auction an unforgettable success! We look forward to next year’s event and hope to keep the tide of generosity flowing.
Project Sponsors:
In total the day was a success! $97,400 was raised across ten local non-profits. Here’s more information on all the turtles and how much they raised:
Edisto’s Mr. Rick pictured with artist Ginger Graham Varner with winning bidders, Sue & Chris Shepherd. Edisto’s Mr. Rick was sponsored by The Waters Edge Café in Wyndham Ocean Ridge resort and went to benefit the Edisto Island Historic Preservation Society.
Winning bidders, Mary & Carlisle Holler, with Fern. Fern was sponsored by Edisto Bike Rentals, painted by Caroline Eynon, and went to benefit the Young Naturalists.
Winning bidder Mary Miller with her turtle, Hephzibah, alongside artists Ginger Sanders and Susalee Lamb. Hephzibah was sponsored by the Edisto Art Guild went to benefit the Edisto Art Guild.
#WhoYouWhit Benefit sponsors, Elisabeth and Carter Nelson, and winning bidders Janet & Paul Oakley with their new turtle Nigel. Nigel was painted by artist Elysia C. Yelton to benefit the #WhoYouWhit Benefit.
Ecco with her new parents, Vance & Lisa Miller, and artist Tom McElroy. Ecco was sponsored by The “COWPENS” neighborhood and went to benefit the Lowcountry Food Bank.
Nubz with new owners Tripp and Tina Rice, and artist Elysia C. Yelton. Nubz was also sponsored by AOPI Orthotics & Prosthetics, Inc.(Tripp and Tina Rice) to benefit the Edisto Island Preservation Alliance.
Winning bidder Kenny Austin with his new turtle Ridley. Ridley was sponsored by Internal Medicine of Edisto, painted by Melissa Rinaldi of Go Coastal Studio, and went to benefit the Edisto Island Community Clinic.
ELCee with her new family Ned & Elizabeth Maner and son, turtle tide volunteer Cubby Huffines, artist Sarah Wannamaker along with FRESPACE member Mick Royston. ELCee was sponsored by FRESPACE who is also the beneficiary.
Edisto’s Miss Caretta with her new owner Tammy Sigman and artist Gerry McElroy. Miss Caretta was sponsored by Andy Cook CPA to benefit Edisto Island Youth Recreation.
Sea-Note with her artist Kimberly Walters, new owner Peter Zvejnieks, Enterprise Bank CEO Don Snipes and Branch Manager Amy Stephens, with local bank employees. Sea-Note was sponsored by the Enterprise Bank of SC and goes to benefit the Edisto Island Open Land Trust.
If you’re planning a family trip to Edisto, we have plenty of fun, kid-friendly activities that kids of all ages will enjoy! While there are the must-dos, like Edisto Beach and the State Park, we have created a list that includes some other favorites that you may not know about. We’ve also made sure to note which activities are indoors and outdoors because even in paradise we can have bad weather. Read more to plan out your next kid-friendly vacation to Edisto – lifelong memories included! And, if you’re wondering what events are happening on Edisto during your visit, check out our event calendar.
Outdoor Activities –
Serpentarium: The Edisto Island Serpentarium was first opened to the public in July of 1999 by brothers Ted and Heyward Clamp. This modern indoor facility and landscaped outdoor gardens are home to a wide variety of reptiles that are native to the southeastern United States. Instead of your usual reptile displays behind glass, the reptiles are viewed by visitors who can look over low-walled enclosures to observe the snakes climbing in trees, lounging in streams, or basking on stumps or logs exactly as they would be if encountered in the wild! Be sure to take your kiddos to discover the alligators, snakes, turtles, lizards, and even more exciting reptiles to see.
Source: Edisto Island Serpentarium on FacebookSource: Edisto Island Serpentarium on Facebook
Edisto Beach & Edisto Beach State Park: Edisto Beach is one of the few beaches left that is not commercially developed and offers a family-friendly stay that your children are sure to enjoy. A beach day on Edisto is one you’ll always remember, and most likely make again! But we offer more than just the beach here. Don’t forget to explore Edisto Beach State Park, full of hiking and biking trails that anyone can use, Botany Bay, and more! In June and July the state park is offering Sea Turtle Night Walks for families with children ages 11 and up. You can check out more information about it on our website linked here.
You can also rent bikes, kayaks, and even more for everyone in your family from several local businesses. Most offer children-sized bikes and pull carts so everyone can enjoy a day on the trails! Keep reading on to learn more about all the fun activities that kids (and adults!) can enjoy while visiting Edisto.
Source: galaxed on FlickrSource: Coal Goalemis on UnsplashSource: Mick Haupt on Unsplash
Jason’s Lake (at Botany Bay): Within the Botany Bay Wildlife Management Area is the perfect spot for kids to fish. Jason’s Lake is full of saltwater fish and provides a great chance to enjoy fishing, kayaking, or just sitting on the bank enjoying the views. Jason’s Lake is open for adult/youth fishing Friday, Saturday, and Sunday only, and is strictly catch and release. Saltwater fish. Children 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and adults cannot fish without a child fishing with them. Anyone 16 and above must have a South Carolina saltwater fishing license, and you can fish on the pond side only; not the marsh side. While you’re there be sure to check out the rest of Botany Bay, which features spectacular views of the beach, walking trails, and so much more.
Local Parks: If your family wants to have some quality time outdoors, consider one of the several town parks Edisto has to offer. Bay Creek Park has a fishing and crabbing dock, open space for picnics, an interpretive center, public restrooms, and a weekly market on Wednesdays that features local vendors and crafts. Read about the other parks in Edisto by visiting the Town’s website! If you don’t mind driving a few miles, Roxbury Park is another wonderful area to explore. You can fish (catch and release only!) and experience eight distinctively unique habitats that attract and support an amazing variety of wildlife!
Edisto Rocks: Try to find the many painted rocks that are hidden around Edisto! A fun activity that your kids will enjoy is discovering the cute hidden rocks that locals have lovingly placed around different areas of the island and beach. Join their Facebook group to post when you find one and join in on some community fun.
King’s Market: An Edisto favorite and must-stop destination is King’s Market, located on Highway 174 coming onto the island. This family-owned produce stand offers some of the best local vegetables, fruit, homemade pies, cakes, casseroles, and even more delicious goodies to enjoy on your next trip. In their market, you’ll also find local products from the area to purchase! During the summer months, you can take your kids to pick their own strawberries, a fun and yummy family memory for all to enjoy.
Source: King’s MarketSource: King’s Market
Dolphin Charters: We’re lucky to have several local businesses that offer fishing charters, kayak tours, shelling excursions, and a fan favorite – dolphin tours! Edisto Boat Tours offers an ACE Basin, Dolphin, and Sunset River Tours that allow visitors to enjoy a scenic two-hour cruise. You can book a tour with them through Edisto Watersports & Tackle, which offers other tours as well, such as fishing charters, Otter Island tours, and kayak tours. To view a complete list of businesses that offer these types of tours, visit our directory. Hoping to just catch some fish and enjoy the ocean views? We have you covered – check out options for fishing charters here.
Charleston Fossil Adventures: Discover pre-historic Edisto with a fossil hunting tour! Charleston Fossil Adventures has been running tours for six years, guaranteeing a safe experience for all ages and abilities while also educating tour-goers on South Carolina’s vast prehistory. While they offer a few different tour options (one even via kayaks) in and around Charleston, we encourage you to check out their Edisto Beach Adventure that meets at the State Park. You can view all of their tour options here. Happy (fossil) hunting!
Source: Charleston Fossil Adventures on FacebookSource: Charleston Fossil Adventures on Facebook
Indoor Activities –
Environmental Learning Center: While you’re on Edisto Island, be sure to take your family to the Environmental Learning Center! Located within the State Park, the Center offers programs for youth and adults, so the entire family is sure to have fun and learn more about South Carolina’s natural and cultural resources. They also offer hands-on interactive exhibits, a touch tank, and a movie theater. Be sure to check out the hiking trails, which are easy for anyone to access, and visit the Bache Monument, a 4,000-year-old shell midden, that’s on the trail system. The Center hopes to encourage people to discover more of South Carolina’s state parks and highlight the natural history of Edisto Island and the surrounding ACE Basin. Their hours are Tuesday-Saturday from 9 am-4 pm. Check out their Instagram to stay up to date on each month’s programs! For any questions, give them a call at 843-869-4430.
Bingo: If your family wants to participate in playing Bingo, stop by the Lion’s Club every Tuesday and Thursday (except for the week of SC Governors Cup in July). All families are welcome. Doors open at 5:30pm and games begin at 6pm. Arrive early. The event will fill up fast! Check out our Bingo blog for more information and to read more about what to expect. The Edisto Lion’s Club is located at 2907 Myrtle Street, Edisto Island, SC 29438.
Local libraries: Edisto is fortunate to have not just one, but TWO county libraries! The first is the Charleston County branch, located on 1589 Highway 174 in the Trinity Episcopal Hall. It’s a wonderful place to explore the local history, connect with the town, and check out your next beach read! They are currently offering a family Storytime at 11am every Saturday, bring your little ones to enjoy some reading and arts and crafts! For more information give them a call at (843) 869-2355. The second library Edisto hosts is the Colleton County branch, which is at 71 Station Court, right in front of the Civic Center. They offer an exciting variety of books and DVDs, but be sure to check their hours before visiting. You can see what their hours are and any new programs at 843-869-2499.
Ice Cream Shops: You may have seen the Happie Truck driving around Edisto on your last adventure here, but if you aren’t familiar, they sell boiled peanuts, ice cream, and other frozen treats right from their own adorable little truck! And, if you miss their boiled peanuts when you’re back home you’re in luck – they ship worldwide. You and your family can also grab a cone or milkshake at 3 Gulls Creamery which serves the famous Hershey brand ice cream or stop by Sugartime and get your candy fix in, too!
Source: 3 Gulls Creamery on Facebook
Now all you have to do is get to planning your next trip! Don’t forget to check out our events calendar to stay up to date on what’s happening on Edisto.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with all things Edisto. Keep eye out for an exciting new project coming soon involving public art and loggerhead turtles!
