Activity Center Meet Willie, Spottie, and Caroline

Range and Behavior:

Our little cuties are a native here to the southeast and can easily be found hunting fiddler crabs in the salt marsh! Malaclemys terrapin (Diamondback Terrapins) are the only brackish water turtle found in North America, meaning they are tolerant to both fresh and saltwater. They are a federally protected and vulnerable species, which makes it super unique that the Activity Center is able to care for three of these turtles! Terrapins are naturally curious animals and so docile that you might even see one of our naturalists petting their heads! Because of their inquisitive nature, they are also often found in crab traps looking for an easy meal. However, this normally results in them being trapped and unable to escape; thus resulting in a serious injury. Luckily back in the 90’s a law was passed that required new crab traps to have a larger hole specifically designed for our terrapins to be able to swim through and not get trapped (take a look at the picture below, it’s the orange rectangle!). Make sure your crab trap has this extra hole to ensure the protection of this species!

Diet and reproduction:

Terrapins always seem to be hungry. They love eating worms, crabs, fish, really anything they are able to catch. Our three hoodlums love it when guests bring them fiddler crabs to chase and eat! Next time you are outside, be sure to grab them some dinner! Although Terrapins live mostly in the water, they also utilize the mud flats and beaches to bask in the sunlight, eat, and even lay their eggs! If you frequent the marina area of Fripp Island Resort during May-July, you might see some of the mothers come up and nest in the soil, rocks, or mulch (in some cases)!

Diamondback terrapins are such a joy to watch and learn more about. Stop by the Activity Center to meet them for our Meet the Animals program!

Fourth of July Golf Cart Parade Theme Announcement

We can’t wait to see your cart designs for our annual golf cart parade! This year we hope you roll the dice with us as we explore the world of games! Join us July 4th for this favorite family event.

Upcoming Events:

Turtle Week June 12-16, 2023

Swim on by the Activity Center for a week dedicated to our Sea Turtles! Turtle walks, crafts, and donations to a local nonprofit.

World Oceans Day June 8, 2023

Join our naturalist in celebrating the beauty of our ocean! Special talks, beach sweeps, and more!

Shark Week July 23-29, 2023

Join our team to learn all about sharks, conservation efforts, and specially themed activities to promote our beloved apex predator!

Bird Weekend August 20-26, 2023

Do you enjoy watching all the beautiful birds that call Fripp home? Celebrate them by joining us for birding tours, guest speakers, and more!

Friday

2pm Craft Hour: Tie Pillows ($12) & Build-A-Fripper ($30)

4pm Golf Cart Scavenger Hunt ($15 per team)

Gather a team and meet at the Creek House. Set off with a list of clues that will take you on your golf cart to explore the island *Must provide a golf cart and camera* (A team consists of however many people can fit on your golf cart)

8:30pm Swim-in Movie at the Cabana Club - The Sandlot

Saturday

7-8am Memorial Day 5K Fun Run Registration

8am Start Time at Ocean Point Golf Course

($20 pre-registration, $25 day-of, Memorial Day t-shirt included, not timed)

12pm-6pm Arts & Crafts Show in front of the Beach Club

Come support our artisans and vendors! Grab those one-of-a-kind gifts for your family.

2pm Craft Hour: Sand Art, iSpy Bottles, and Calm Bottles ($12)

Sunday

12pm-6pm Arts & Crafts Show in front of the Beach Club

Come support our artisans and vendors! Grab those one-of-a-kind gifts for your family.

12pm Pop-Up Meet the Animals

Come meet a few of our friendly native Fripp Island animal residents at the Beach Club

2pm Craft Hour: Sunburst Mirrors & Paint Your Own Birdhouse ($12)

2pm Cornhole Tournament (21+) at the Adult Pool ($12 a team)

6pm-9pm Kids Night Out at the Creek House

(Advance Registration Required for Drop-Off Programs, No Walk-Ins, Call 843-838-1516 to register)

Call 843-838-1516 with questions or for more information

*Must present club or guest cards to participate in all resort programs and activities.