Hilton Head Island is a haven for travelers who love engaging, authentic experiences. Its combination of scenic waterways, historic towns, and lush marshes make it an ideal place to explore through guided tours. Whether you’re interested in learning about local history, spotting playful dolphins, or discovering Hollywood film locations, Hilton Head has a tour for every curiosity. We especially enjoy the Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour because it combines a scenic boat ride with in-depth storytelling about the Gullah culture and island heritage (see more details here). For a fun family outing, the Pirate Ship Adventure transforms a boat trip into a treasure hunt, making it perfect for kids and adventurous families (more info here). Many tours highlight Hilton Head’s wildlife, such as dolphin cruises or nature tours, providing both education and entertainment.
Quick Overview
In this list, you’ll find a variety of boat cruises, historic city tours, wildlife excursions, and family-friendly adventures. Highlights include the Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour, which offers a scenic boat ride plus golf cart exploration of a largely undeveloped island, and the Dolphin Watching Tours, perfect for animal lovers eager to see playful dolphins in their natural habitat. There are also charming city tours like the Beaufort Horse & Carriage, which blend history, architecture, and relaxing rides. Whether your budget is modest or you’re seeking a luxurious private cruise, the options below cover a broad spectrum of interests and price points.
1. Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour from Hilton Head
This 4.5-hour tour combines a scenic boat ride with a golf cart tour of Daufuskie Island, a quiet, largely undeveloped island made famous by Pat Conroy’s novel The Water is Wide. Your adventure begins with a boat trip from Shelter Cove Marina, where you’ll have a chance to spot dolphins and view neighboring islands. Once on Daufuskie, you’ll hop into golf carts to visit historic sites such as the First African Baptist Church and Mary Fields School, with your guide sharing insightful commentary. The tour’s small group atmosphere and knowledgeable captain, Captain Pete, make this a favorite among those interested in local culture and history. The reviews praise the organization, wildlife sightings, and depth of information, with one saying, “Great weather, dolphins on the way, and a very organized, educational trip.” This experience is best suited for history buffs and nature lovers wanting an authentic glimpse of the Lowcountry.
Bottom Line: Combining water, history, and island exploration, this tour offers exceptional value for those who want a comprehensive and relaxed day discovering Daufuskie’s story.
2. Beaufort’s #1 Horse & Carriage History Tour
For a charming way to experience a Southern city, this 50-minute horse-drawn carriage ride is perfect. Your guide takes you through the historic district of Beaufort, a town famous for its antebellum architecture and Hollywood filming locations. From Civil War sites to movie sets like The Big Chill, the guide’s stories bring the city’s storied past to life. The small-group format ensures you get plenty of attention and can ask questions easily. Reviewers highlight how informative and comfortable the ride is, with one saying, “The guide explained Beaufort’s history and the horse was very well-trained.” It’s an ideal choice for those who prefer a relaxed, narrative-driven tour with picturesque scenery.
Bottom Line: A delightful way to learn about Beaufort’s history without tiring yourself out, especially if you appreciate storytelling paired with scenic views.
3. Hilton Head Pirate Ship Adventure Sail aboard the Black Dagger
Kids and families will love this 1.5-hour pirate-themed cruise aboard the Black Dagger. The crew outfits children with pirate costumes, teaches pirate lessons, and sets sail on a treasure hunt around Hilton Head’s waters. Multiple departures make it flexible for your schedule, and the interactive elements keep children fully engaged. Adults enjoy the lively atmosphere and the chance to relax while the crew plays the part of pirates, making this a memorable, light-hearted outing. Reviewers rave about how well the crew plays their roles, with one noting, “My daughter said it was the best day of her life!” This tour is best suited for families with young kids who want a playful adventure.
Bottom Line: A fun, family-friendly activity that combines a boat ride, costumes, and a treasure hunt—an easy way to keep children entertained and create lasting memories.
4. History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart
This 1-hour golf cart tour offers a fast-paced, comprehensive look at Beaufort’s cinematic and historic highlights. Your guide takes you past iconic film sites like Forrest Gump’s medical center and the cemetery used in The Great Santini. Along the way, you’ll learn about the town’s 300-year history, from its Colonial roots to its Civil War role. The small-group setting and narrative style make this a favorite for those wanting stories behind the sights. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and intimate experience, and some mention the stunning antebellum homes and Victorian architecture. It’s suitable for travelers with limited time but a desire to understand Beaufort’s deep layers of history and Hollywood fame.
Bottom Line: An engaging, quick tour that mixes film lore with rich history, perfect for film fans and history enthusiasts alike.
5. Beaufort City Minibus Tour
Covering Hollywood film locations and historic sites, this 1 hour 15-minute minibus tour is a relaxed way to see Beaufort’s highlights. Your guide shares stories about the over 24 movies shot in town, from The Big Chill to Forrest Gump. The air-conditioned van keeps you comfortable as you pass gorgeous antebellum homes and landmarks like the National Cemetery. Ideal for those who want a narrated overview without much walking, this tour offers a good balance of entertainment and education. Reviewers praise the enthusiastic guides and the extensive local knowledge. It’s well suited for visitors with limited time but a keen interest in Hollywood history and southern architecture.
Bottom Line: A laid-back yet informative tour that showcases Beaufort’s Hollywood connections and historic beauty, great for film fans and architecture lovers.
6. 90-Minute Private Dolphin Tour in Hilton Head Island
This private boat tour offers an intimate way to see Hilton Head’s sea life, with a focus on dolphin sightings. Up to six guests cruise with a naturalist guide who explains the ecology of the area. The roughly 90-minute itinerary includes potential stops for photos of the lighthouse and chances to see playful dolphins, rays, sharks, and sea turtles. The personalized nature of this tour means you can customize your experience and ask questions about the local environment. Reviewers appreciate how knowledgeable and friendly the captain is, and many feel it’s a value for money experience, especially for wildlife lovers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families and small groups wanting a quiet, personalized wildlife experience with expert narration.
7. #1 Historical Horse Drawn Carriage Tour
This 55-minute tour takes you through Beaufort’s historic district on a horse-drawn carriage. Your guide shares stories from the city’s 300+ years of history, including its Colonial, Revolutionary, and Civil War eras. The narrative includes tales about antebellum homes, Victorian architecture, and notable residents. The guide’s storytelling style and the gentle trot of the horses make this a relaxing way to absorb Beaufort’s past. Reviewers mention the entertaining guides and beautiful scenery, with one describing it as a “most interesting historic tour.” It’s well suited for travelers who want a leisurely, informative, and scenic ride.
Bottom Line: An engaging, relaxed way to learn about Beaufort’s history while enjoying beautiful vistas and charming horse-drawn carriage rides.
8. Hilton Head Island Guided Water Tour by Creek Cat Boat
For those who want to operate their own boat, this 2-hour guided creek cat tour is a highlight. You’ll cruise around Hilton Head in a small, motorized boat, with the option to drive your own under supervision. The route covers over 25 miles, including sights like Daufuskie Island and Harbour Town Lighthouse. The small, fast boat lets you access marshes and wildlife-rich areas that bigger boats can’t reach, making for a hands-on experience. Reviewers love the fun, interactive nature of the trip, with comments on the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see wildlife like pelicans and rays.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventurous travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and hands-on boat handling in a small-group setting.
9. Hilton Head Island: Daytime Dolphin Watching Boat Tour
This 1.5-hour tour offers a classic Hilton Head experience—wild dolphin sightings in their natural habitat. The fully narrated trip takes you past the Harbour Town Lighthouse and Daufuskie Island, with opportunities to see other wildlife like pelicans and turtles. The comfortable seating and lively commentary make it perfect for families or anyone wanting a relaxing, informative adventure on the water. Many reviews highlight successful dolphin sightings and enjoyable guides. It’s a straightforward, reliable option for anyone wanting to combine scenic views with wildlife watching.
Bottom Line: A dependable, family-friendly tour that captures the essence of Hilton Head’s vibrant coastal environment.
10. Parasailing Adventure at Hilton Head Island
Soar above Calibogue Sound on a parasailing adventure that provides breathtaking aerial views of the area. This 1.5-hour experience offers options for tandem or triple flights, with the chance to spot bottlenose dolphins and the Harbour Town Lighthouse from the sky. The takeoff and landing are smooth, and safety is a priority, making it suitable for first-timers. Reviewers mention how peaceful and beautiful the flight is, often calling it a highlight of their trip. This is perfect for couples or small groups looking for an adrenaline rush combined with incredible scenery.
Bottom Line: A memorable way to see Hilton Head from above, combining adventure and spectacular views in a safe and comfortable experience.
11. Kazoo Factory Tour & Museum
For something completely different, visit the Kazoo Factory and Museum. This 45-minute to 1-hour tour takes you behind the scenes at Kazoobie Kazoos, where you’ll learn about the history of the kazoo, see the manufacturing process, and create your own kazoo. The museum houses over 150 antique kazoos, some dating back to the 1800s. Kids and adults alike enjoy the playful atmosphere and the chance to make a souvenir. One reviewer calls it, “Such a fun experience—loved the history and making my own kazoo.” It’s an ideal stop for families and music lovers.
Bottom Line: A lighthearted, educational stop that combines history, hands-on activity, and a bit of musical fun.
12. Walking Tour in Beaufort
This 2-hour 15-minute walking tour dives deep into Beaufort’s scenic streets, historic homes, and landmarks. Your guide shares stories of Native Americans, pirates, and Civil War heroes, all while you stroll through the antebellum neighborhoods. The small group keeps things intimate, and the pace is manageable for most fitness levels. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable narration and the beautiful architecture. One mentions, “Wynn made the history come alive, and the walk was in a lovely quiet neighborhood.” It’s perfect if you prefer walking and want an immersive experience that covers a lot of ground in a short time.
Bottom Line: An engaging way to explore Beaufort on foot, ideal for history enthusiasts who enjoy a leisurely pace.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, budget, and time availability. If you love history and island scenery, the Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour offers a full day of exploration. For wildlife lovers or families, the private dolphin tours and eco-cruises provide close-ups of playful dolphins and other creatures. If you’re short on time but want a quick yet informative overview, options like the Beaufort Horse & Carriage or the city minibus make great choices.
Think about your fitness level and whether you’d prefer a walking tour or a more relaxed, vehicle-based experience. For families seeking fun, the Pirate Ship Adventure is unbeatable. Budget-minded travelers will appreciate the Kazoo Factory or the horse carriage ride. Also, consider booking early during peak seasons to ensure availability, especially for popular experiences like dolphin tours or private cruises.
From historic island trips to wildlife cruises and Hollywood film locations, Hilton Head offers something for every traveler. If you’re looking for a full-day adventure, the Daufuskie Island tour provides a mix of water and land exploration. For a romantic sunset or private dolphin experience, the private sunset cruises or dolphin cruises are ideal. Families and kids will love the pirate adventure, while history buffs can’t go wrong with the Beaufort carriage or walking tours.
Remember, the best experiences are often the ones you book early—these tours fill fast in peak seasons. Whatever your interests and budget, these top Hilton Head tours will help you make the most of your visit.