Photo Credit: Zach Steinhauser (Photos 1-3 in the gallery above)
At night, the Purple Martins take flight! Each summer the skies over Bomb Island on Lake Murray come to life as the Purple Martins arrive for their summer vacation. It is estimated that more than one million birds venture north for the summer and roost on the island, giving spectators a rare look at one of nature’s true phenomenons. This sanctuary provides the ideal layover for Purple Martins as they make the long journey south to their winter home in South America. This sanctuary remains the largest roosting site in North America.
When is the best time of year to see Purple Martins?
Late-June through early-August is the best time to view the phenomenon, with the number of birds peaking in mid- to late-July. The birds are visible at two times during the day: in the morning and the evening. Local weather forecasters have reported that when the birds leave at daybreak, the morning migration’s radar image is larger than Hurricane Hugo.
Where is this phenomenon located?
This one-of-a-kind birding event is located at Bomb Island on beautiful Lake Murray in South Carolina, USA.
How can you see the birds?
A boat is the best way to view the phenomenon! There are boat rentals around Lake Murray or you can charter a personal tour.
Book a Purple Martin tour!
Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, you don’t want to miss this extraordinary phenomenon. Create lasting memories on a tour of this avian phenomenon with any of Lake Murray’s experienced boat captains. Most tours last about two hours and riders are encouraged to bring their own beverages and snacks.
Captain Zach Steinhauser
📍 Wingard’s Market | 1403 N. Lake Drive, Lexington, SC
📞 (803) 359-9091
🌐 carolinasafarico.com/lake-murray-purple-martin-tours
📧 [email protected]
Captain Kenny Hardee
📍 Pontoon Rentals & Tours | 220 Jakes Landing Road, Lexington, SC
📞 (803) 530-3713
🌐 lake-murray-boat-rentals.com
Captain Rick Crout
📍 Captain Hook’s Lake Murray Tours
📞 (803) 603-1142
🌐 captainhookstours.com
📧 [email protected]
Captain Dale Gossett
📍 Lake Murray Island Tours
📞 (803) 318-3911
🌐 lakemurrayislandtours.com
📧 [email protected]
Captain Ben Stickney
📍 Pilot Cove Ventures – Sailboat and PowerBoat Tours
📞 (803) 969-0105
🌐 pilotcoveventures.com
📧 [email protected]
Spirit of Lake Murray – Purple Martin Cruises
📍 Spirit of Lake Murray
📞 (803) 250-5497
🌐 spiritoflakemurray.com
📧 [email protected]