Folly Beach offers more than just great waves and sandy shores. Its calm estuaries and salt marshes make it an ideal spot for boat tours that blend wildlife encounters with scenic views. Whether you’re hoping to spot dolphins, explore historic lighthouses, or enjoy a romantic sunset, Folly Beach has a boat tour tailored for you. Among the standout options is the Private Dolphin Watch, Lighthouse and Ecological Boat Tours, which combines personalized service, close-up wildlife viewing, and a visit to the iconic Morris Island Lighthouse. If a sunset cruise sounds more your style, the Folly Beach: Sunset Dolphin Boat Tour to Morris Island offers a relaxed way to wind down your day with chances to see dolphins and a stunning sunset.
For those wanting a more intimate experience, several private tours focus on dolphin watching and eco-exploration. The variety of options makes Folly Beach a perfect destination for wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, or couples looking for a romantic outing. From quick 1.5-hour jaunts to extended fossil-hunting trips, there’s something for every budget and interest.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find a selection of top boat tours and cruises in Folly Beach. These range from private dolphin and eco tours, like Tour #1, to sunset cruises, shelling adventures, and even Tiki boat rides. Every experience has its own unique twist — some focus on wildlife, others on history or scenery. Read on to see what makes each one special.
1. Private Dolphin Watch, Lighthouse and Ecological Boat Tours
At number 1, this private tour offers a personalized 2-hour trip through the estuaries behind Folly Beach. Led by Captain Gresh Meggett, an eighth-generation Charlestonian, you’ll explore waters filled with dolphins, oysters, and wildlife. The highlight is a close-up view of the Morris Island Lighthouse and the chance to collect shells and artifacts from Morris Island. The tour’s private setting guarantees an intimate experience for families or small groups, making it perfect for those wanting a customized day on the water. Guests love the blend of personalized attention and the opportunity to learn about local history and ecology. One reviewer notes, “Capt Gresh did a great job with background info and getting up close to the lighthouse.” With a 5-star rating and a price of $325 per group (up to six), this tour offers excellent value for a personalized, memorable experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a private, educational, and wildlife-rich boat ride with a personal touch.
2. Folly Beach: Sunset Dolphin Boat Tour to Morris Island
This tour captures the magic of Folly Beach’s evening hours, combining dolphin watching with a scenic sunset at Morris Island. For $50 per person, you’ll cruise the estuary on a pontoon boat, feeling the excitement of spotting dolphins in the wild. The tour continues with a dock visit near the historic lighthouse, guided by a local captain who shares stories of Charleston’s maritime past. Many travelers rave about seeing dolphins and the stunning sunset, making it ideal for couples and small groups. The 2-hour duration is perfect for a relaxed evening out.
Key highlights include learning about Charleston’s history from your captain and sharing the experience with friends or family. The relaxed pace and natural beauty make this a favorite for those wanting a scenic, wildlife-filled evening.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for sunset lovers, families, or anyone wanting a laid-back cruise with wildlife sightings.
3. Private Charleston Sunset & Dolphin Cruise
At number 3, this private 1.5-hour cruise is perfect for romantic evenings or small family outings. For $295, up to four people can enjoy a tranquil ride through Charleston’s creeks and inlets, with opportunities to see dolphins playing in the water and birds settling in for the night. The highlight is a potential stop at Morris Island, where the lighthouse is bathed in the evening glow. Many guests praise the knowledge and friendliness of the captain, and the intimate setting allows for a personalized experience.
This tour is ideal for those wanting a romantic, quiet escape with wildlife and coastal scenery. The short duration makes it manageable even for a tight schedule.
Bottom Line: A cozy, private option perfect for couples or small families wanting a peaceful sunset cruise.
4. Private Charleston Dolphin and Eco Boat Tour
Number 4 on our list, this private 2-hour tour emphasizes dolphin sightings and ecological discovery. Led by a captain with a wealth of local knowledge, you’ll cruise the calm waters behind Folly Beach searching for bottlenose dolphins and other wildlife like eagles, pelicans, and sea turtles. One reviewer notes, “The Captain was very patient and informative,” highlighting the tour’s educational value. If dolphins are feeding, you might witness strand feeding, a rare behavior seen only in this region.
This tour suits families or wildlife enthusiasts who want an up-close encounter with animals in their natural habitat. It’s priced at $295 for groups up to four, providing good value for a personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife lovers seeking an immersive, private eco and dolphin tour with naturalist insights.
5. Folly Beach: Morning Dolphin Boat Trip to Morris Island
For those who want to start the day with dolphin sightings, this 2-hour morning tour is a great pick. Priced at $65 per person, it offers a chance to cruise the estuary with a local guide, hunting for dolphins, and then dock at Morris Island for exploring the lighthouse. The early timing makes for a peaceful, less crowded experience, perfect for morning people who want to combine wildlife viewing with a scenic island visit.
Key highlights include a focus on natural encounters and learning about Charleston’s coastal ecology. Reviews mention how great it is for seeing dolphins and birds early in the day.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for morning explorers eager to see wildlife and explore Morris Island.
6. Morris Island Dolphin Cruise and Shelling Trip
This 2-hour adventure for up to five people costs $295 and combines dolphin watching with shelling. Departing from the Folly River Boat Ramp, you’ll cruise salt marshes and spot dolphins, then land on Morris Island to hunt for fossils, shark teeth, and shells. It’s an ideal trip for families and collectors, offering both wildlife viewing and tactile exploration of the beach. Many reviews highlight the friendly guide and the opportunity to pick up unique finds.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of nature and treasure hunting, plus close-up views of the lighthouse. It’s perfect for those with a taste for adventure and collecting.
Bottom Line: Best suited for families or collectors wanting a mix of wildlife and fossil hunting.
7. Folly Beach Dolphin Viewing Boat Excursion
This 1.5-hour tour is a quick, personable way to see dolphins in their natural habitat. For $52 per person, you’ll cruise the tidal creeks and learn about the local environment from the captain. Reviews mention how unique and personal each trip feels, emphasizing the relaxed, friendly vibe. It’s a great option for those short on time but eager for a chance to see wild bottlenose dolphins along with scenic views of Charleston’s waterways.
Bottom line: Perfect for a brief, engaging wildlife adventure for families or solo travelers.
8. 2-Hour Tiki Boat Tour in Folly Beach
Number 8 features a custom Tiki boat experience on a 2-hour tour for $75 per person. This boat is designed for fun, with a laid-back vibe that blends nature, relaxation, and socializing. You’ll glide past Folly’s beaches and uninhabited islands, with chances to swim or snorkel. The crew is known for making everyone comfortable, and many guests enjoy bringing their own beverages to add to the fun.
The highlight is the chance to see dolphins playing alongside the boat in a lively, informal setting. It’s well suited for groups wanting a lively, flexible day on the water.
Bottom line: A great choice for groups looking for a vibrant, social experience with wildlife and swimming.
9. Folly Beach: Morris Island Boat Tour with Fossil Hunting
This longer, 4.5-hour tour at $150 per person, is perfect for fossil hunters. It includes a scenic boat ride, walking on Morris Island, and the thrill of searching for shark teeth and fossils. The tour also features a view of the Morris Island Lighthouse and detailed commentary about the island’s history. It’s ideal for those interested in geology, history, or simply an extended adventure. The length and focus on fossil hunting set it apart.
Guests appreciate the personalized approach and the opportunity to find fossils many only dream of. It’s a more hands-on, educational experience.
Bottom line: Best for dedicated fossil enthusiasts or history buffs wanting a thorough inland and coastal experience.
$150 per person
10. PRIVATE 2HR DOLPHIN CRUISE
Priced at $325 for up to four people, this private 2-hour cruise offers an exclusive dolphin-viewing adventure with a focus on seeing wild dolphins and the Morris Island Lighthouse from the water. With a focus on personalized attention, this tour suits small groups or couples wanting privacy and wildlife encounters.
Reviews emphasize the friendly, knowledgeable guides. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss option for a short, wildlife-focused trip.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for privacy-minded travelers wanting a dedicated dolphin and lighthouse experience.
$325 per group up to 4
11. Charleston, SC: Folly Beach Private Sunset & Dolphin Cruise
This private 1.5-hour cruise combines dolphin watching with sunset views, ideal for a romantic or mellow end-of-day experience. It’s exclusive for groups up to four and includes a chance to see the Morris Island Lighthouse bathed in evening light. Many reviews highlight the calm, scenic atmosphere and the friendly captain.
If you love sunsets and wildlife, this is a refined, intimate option. It’s priced at $315 per group.
Bottom line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a tranquil, scenic evening on the water.
$315 per group up to 4
12. Private Folly River Sunset Dolphin Cruise
Finally, this private 1.5-hour cruise offers a relaxed way to enjoy dolphin encounters and the Morris Island Lighthouse at sunset. Priced at $285 per group (up to four), it focuses on wildlife, scenery, and a gentle cruise back with views of the Lowcountry sunset.
Travelers love the personalized experience and the chance to walk on Morris Island to hunt for seashells. It’s suited for those wanting a peaceful, wildlife-rich evening.
Bottom line: An excellent, quiet option for small groups or couples wanting a sunset cruise with wildlife.
$285.00 per group (up to 4)
How to Choose Your Perfect Folly Beach Boat Tour
When selecting the right boat tour, consider your budget, the time you have available, and what you most want to see. If you’re after a private experience with personalized attention, tours like Tour #1 or Tour #4 are excellent options. Want a romantic sunset? The Sunset Dolphin Cruise or Sunset & Dolphin Cruise fit the bill.
For families or fossil enthusiasts, the longer Folly Beach Morris Island Fossil Tour offers a more involved experience. And if you’re just looking for a quick, fun outing, the Dolphin Viewing Boat Excursion is a good pick.
Booking early, especially for private or popular sunset tours, ensures you secure your preferred time. Consider the season, as summer months tend to be more crowded, but also offer more wildlife activity.
Final Thoughts
Folly Beach’s boat tours range from private eco safaris to lively sunset cruises, giving you plenty of ways to see dolphins, historic lighthouses, and scenic marshes. For a personalized, wildlife-rich outing, the Private Dolphin Watch stands out. Couples seeking romance will appreciate the Sunset & Dolphin Cruises, while families or fossil hunters may prefer longer excursions like the Fossil and Shelling Trip.
No matter what experience you choose, booking in advance will ensure a smooth, memorable adventure on Folly Beach’s waters.