Turtle Tide Art Project

Turtle Tide is the Edisto Chamber of Commerce’s public art project: blank loggerhead turtle sculptures are painted by local artists, set out around the island for turtle season, and auctioned to benefit Edisto nonprofits. Since it began in 2022, the auctions have raised nearly $300,000. The project is taking 2026 off and returns in 2027.

Quick Facts

• Next season: 2027 (dates TBA)
• Reveal: Late May or early June
• On display: Around the island during turtle season, May through October
• Auction: In past years held with the Fall Festival in October (December in 2025)
• Organizer: Edisto Chamber of Commerce, 42 Station Ct, 843-869-3867

How It Works

Each spring, ten blank turtle sculptures arrive on Edisto and local artists transform them. After the reveal, the turtles are placed at sponsor locations around the island, and a printed and online Turtle Tide Guide maps where to find each one. Photograph all ten and share with #EdistoTurtleTide for a chance at a prize.

Where the Money Goes

Auction proceeds go to Edisto nonprofits. Recent beneficiaries include the Edisto Beach Loggerhead Turtle Project, Edisto Island Open Land Trust, Edisto Island Community Clinic, Edisto Art Guild, Edisto Island Lions Club, Edisto Seniors, Edisto Belles, and ALOE (Animal Lovers of Edisto) Canine Rescue.

• 2022: more than $60,000
• 2023: more than $90,000
• 2024: more than $97,000
• 2025: more than $51,800

Check the Chamber’s Turtle Tide page for 2027 artist and sponsor news.

Details as of October 2026 from the Edisto Chamber of Commerce. Dates and times can change, so confirm with the Chamber at 843-869-3867 before you go.