Folly Beach stands out as a favorite spot for dolphin watching, thanks to its calm tidal creeks, expansive salt marshes, and close proximity to Morris Island, home to Charleston’s iconic lighthouse. The shallow waters and abundant estuaries make it an ideal playground for wild bottlenose dolphins and other marine life. Many tours focus on giving visitors a personal experience; for example, the Private Dolphin Watch, Lighthouse and Ecological Boat Tours offers an intimate journey with a guide who’s been exploring these waters since childhood. Plus, the opportunity to get up close to the historic Morris Island Lighthouse makes this one of the most popular choices for those interested in both wildlife and history.
Some trips, like the Folly Beach Sunset Dolphin Boat Tour to Morris Island, combine wildlife viewing with a beautiful sunset, creating a romantic backdrop. Others, such as the Private Charleston Dolphin and Eco Boat Tour, focus on understanding local wildlife behaviors, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts. If you’re looking for a family-friendly adventure, the Morris Island Dolphin Cruise and Shelling Trip offers a blend of dolphin sightings and shell-hunting on the pristine beaches. All these tours give a different way to enjoy the rich marine environment that surrounds Folly Beach.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a variety of dolphin watching experiences: private boat tours, sunset cruises, shelling and wildlife explorations, and even kayaking trips. Many tours emphasize personalized service and small groups, ensuring a more intimate encounter with wildlife. Several options include stops at Morris Island for beachcombing and exploring historic landmarks, with boat trips ranging from 1.5 to 3 hours. If you’re after a romantic sunset cruise, the Folly Beach Sunset Dolphin Boat Tour is a top pick, while those wanting a full-day adventure might opt for longer, private experiences such as the Private Dolphin Watch, Lighthouse and Ecological Boat Tours.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour, helping you choose the one that best matches your interests and schedule.
1. Private Dolphin Watch, Lighthouse and Ecological Boat Tours
At number 1, the Private Dolphin Watch, Lighthouse and Ecological Boat Tours offers a deeply personal experience. Led by Captain Gresh Meggett, an eighth-generation Charlestonian, this 2-hour private tour takes you through estuaries where dolphins, oysters, and wildlife are plentiful. The tour features a visit to the Morris Island Lighthouse and explores oyster beds and historical artifacts on Morris Island. The focus on private, customizable trips makes this an ideal choice for families or couples seeking a relaxed, exclusive outing.
Guests consistently praise Captain Gresh for his storytelling and deep knowledge—”He did a great job with background info and getting close to the lighthouse,” reports one satisfied visitor. This tour is priced at $325 for up to six people, making it a premium but personalized option. Its intimate setting and focus on ecological learning make it perfect for those who want a quiet, in-depth experience.
Bottom Line: If you value privacy and a knowledgeable guide sharing local stories, this tour is a top choice. It’s well-suited for small groups wanting a tailored marine adventure.
2. Folly Beach Dolphin Watching Trip with A Stop on Morris Island
Number 2 on our list, the Folly Beach Dolphin Watching Trip with A Stop on Morris Island, offers a 2.5-hour private boat ride tailored for up to six guests. This tour explores the tidal creeks behind Folly Beach, where bottlenose dolphins are often seen feeding and playing. The trip includes a visit to Morris Island, where you can hunt for shells, shark teeth, and fossils on a quiet, accessible beach. The highlight is the chance to photograph the Morris Island Lighthouse and enjoy over an hour on the island at your own pace.
Guests rave about the personal touch—”Jim was fantastic, very patient, and the boat was comfortable,” says one reviewer. The mix of dolphin spotting, shelling, and wildlife observation makes this trip versatile and engaging. For $290, it provides a balanced combination of wildlife encounter and beach exploration. The customizable nature and intimate size make it perfect for families or small groups who want a relaxed, personal adventure.
Bottom Line: This tour is excellent for those who want a leisurely, flexible experience with plenty of opportunities for photos, shells, and dolphin sightings.
3. Folly Beach: Sunset Dolphin Boat Tour to Morris Island
Number 3 is the Folly Beach: Sunset Dolphin Boat Tour to Morris Island, a 2-hour experience priced at $50 per person. This cruise takes you on a pontoon boat through the estuary as the sun begins to set, creating a stunning backdrop for dolphin sightings. Your guide will point out local wildlife and share insights about Charleston’s maritime history. A highlight is the chance to dock near Morris Island to view the lighthouse bathed in sunset light, making it a perfect choice for a romantic evening.
Reviews highlight the tour’s relaxed vibe and excellent wildlife viewing—”We saw many dolphins and the sunset was incredible,” reports a satisfied passenger. The tour’s shorter duration makes it ideal for those with limited time or looking for a peaceful evening experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a scenic, sunset-focused cruise with wildlife viewing and a touch of history.
4. Private Charleston Sunset & Dolphin Cruise
Number 4, the Private Charleston Sunset & Dolphin Cruise, offers a 1.5-hour, intimate experience for groups of up to four for $295. This tour is designed for romance or a quiet escape, allowing you to relax as dolphins play nearby. The cruise includes light commentary on Charleston’s maritime history, and if conditions permit, a stop at Morris Island to see the lighthouse glow at dusk.
With a focus on privacy, this tour is ideal for couples celebrating special occasions or small families wanting a peaceful conclusion to their day. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable captain and the stunning sunset views—”It was relaxing and beautiful, with multiple dolphins,” notes one.
Bottom Line: For a romantic, low-key cruise with the chance for wildlife sightings and sunset views, this private tour offers great value.
5. Private Charleston Dolphin and Eco Boat Tour
Number 5 is the Private Charleston Dolphin and Eco Boat Tour, a 2-hour outing for up to four people at $295. Led by guides with extensive knowledge of the local ecosystem, the tour explores calm waters behind Folly Beach, seeking out bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. The guide might even show you strand feeding, a rare hunting behavior. You’ll also see wading birds, bald eagles, and sea turtles, making this an educational experience as well as a wildlife encounter.
Reviews highlight the patience and knowledge of the captain—”He was very informative and up-close with the dolphins,” says one. The focus on ecological understanding makes this a good fit for nature lovers wanting a detailed look at the salt marsh environment.
Bottom Line: This private eco-focused tour is perfect for those who want an educational experience with the chance to see a variety of wildlife.
6. Folly Beach: Morning Dolphin Boat Trip to Morris Island
Number 6 offers a morning 2-hour tour for $65 per person, ideal for early risers. It covers the estuaries behind Folly Beach and includes a stop on Morris Island for shells and lighthouse views. The tour emphasizes the thrill of spotting dolphins in the wild and provides a chance to learn from a local captain about Charleston’s maritime environment.
Guests mention the energetic start to the day and the chance to see dolphins in their natural setting. It’s well suited for travelers who want to combine wildlife viewing with some beachcombing before the heat of midday.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for morning people wanting a quick, active dolphin experience in a scenic setting.
7. Morris Island Dolphin Cruise and Shelling Trip
Number 7 is the Morris Island Dolphin Cruise and Shelling Trip, a 2-hour tour for up to five people at $295. This trip combines dolphin watching with the fun of hunting for shells, shark teeth, and fossils on Morris Island. The boat departs from the Folly River Boat Ramp, cruising through salt marsh creeks to the historic island. The focus on shelling and wildlife makes it great for families or curious travelers.
Reviews mention the friendly captain and the abundance of dolphins and shells—“Dolphins and shells galore,” one reviewer says. The trip provides a relaxed pace, perfect for exploring both the water and the island.
Bottom Line: Ideal for shell collectors and families who want a leisurely, educational boat ride with plenty of wildlife.
8. Folly Beach Dolphin Viewing Boat Excursion
Number 8 offers a shorter, 1.5-hour experience for $52 per person. This boat excursion provides an easy way to see Charleston’s tidal creeks, the Morris Island Lighthouse, and dolphins in action. The small group size ensures a personal experience, with the crew sharing detailed insights into the local estuary.
Guests appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to learn about the saltwater ecosystem. It’s a good option for visitors with limited time or those new to dolphin watching.
Bottom Line: A quick, personable tour for dolphin and lighthouse lovers wanting a concise but informative outing.
9. Dolphin Kayak Tour on Folly Beach
Number 9 features a 2-hour kayaking adventure for $55 per person. It’s a beginner-friendly paddle in the calm waters of Folly River, perfect for those who want to combine physical activity with wildlife viewing. The tour starts with instruction from certified instructors, with opportunities to see bottlenose dolphins and native birds up close.
Reviewers love how kid-friendly and accessible the experience is—”Great for beginners, very patient guide,” one says. It’s especially suited for active travelers who prefer paddling to cruising.
Bottom Line: An engaging, hands-on way to see dolphins and birds, suited for those comfortable with a gentle paddle.
10. PRIVATE 2HR DOLPHIN CRUISE
Number 10 provides a highly personal 2-hour private cruise at $325 for up to four people. This trip emphasizes wild dolphin encounters and getting close to the Morris Island Lighthouse from the water. It’s perfect for small groups wanting a flexible, tailored experience focusing on wildlife and scenery.
Reviews are limited but positive, highlighting the personal attention—”Great experience, saw lots of dolphins,” notes one. The private setting makes it ideal for special occasions or quiet exploration.
Bottom Line: For those seeking privacy and a customizable dolphin adventure, this tour delivers a focused, intimate outing.
$325 per group up to 4
11. Private Dolphin, Lighthouse and Shelling Adventure (Folly Beach)
Number 11 is a private 2-hour tour for up to six, blending dolphin sightings, lighthouse views, and shelling on Morris Island. Led by an eighth-generation captain, this trip offers a mix of history, wildlife, and beachcombing. One hour is spent on the boat, and another exploring the island’s shells and shark teeth.
The personalized approach and focus on both nature and history make it appealing. Reviewers say, “Dolphins, shells, lighthouse—what more could you want?” It’s well-suited for families and small groups looking for a well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: A great all-in-one option for those wanting wildlife, history, and shelling with a private guide.
$325.00 per group (up to 6)
12. Charleston, SC: Folly Beach Private Sunset & Dolphin Cruise
Number 12 offers an up to 4-person private sunset cruise lasting 1.5 hours at $315. It’s designed for a romantic, relaxed experience, where you can watch dolphins in their evening routine and see Morris Island’s lighthouse glow at dusk.
Reviewers praise the peaceful setting and the chance to see multiple dolphins—”Perfect sunset, close-up views of the lighthouse,” says one. It’s ideal for couples celebrating milestones or anyone wanting a quiet, scenic finish to their day.
Bottom Line: A romantic, private way to enjoy sunset views, wildlife, and the lighthouse in a calm setting.
$315 per group up to 4
13. Private Folly River Sunset Dolphin Cruise
Finally, the Private Folly River Sunset Dolphin Cruise offers a 1.5-hour personal experience for up to four people at $285. It features scenic views of Folly River and surrounding creeks, with plenty of dolphin sightings. You’ll have a chance to walk on Morris Island’s beach to hunt for seashells and enjoy sunset views.
Guests mention the ease of parking and the ability to see dolphins “playing and feeding,” making it a laid-back yet memorable outing. This tour fits travelers seeking a flexible, private adventure with wildlife, relaxation, and a touch of history.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups wanting a private, sunset-focused cruise with beach time and dolphin sightings.
$285.00 per group (up to 4)
How to Choose
When selecting your dolphin watching tour in Folly Beach, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. If privacy and personalized attention are your priorities, options like the Private Dolphin Watch, Lighthouse and Ecological Boat Tours or the Private Charleston Dolphin and Eco Boat Tour are excellent choices. For those wanting a romantic evening, the sunset cruises—Sunset Dolphin Boat Tour or the Private Charleston Sunset & Dolphin Cruise—offer breathtaking views.
Families and active travelers might prefer the Dolphin Kayak Tour or the Shelling and Dolphin Cruise, blending wildlife with hands-on activities. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, to secure your spot.
Consider the trip length—shorter outings are perfect for a quick wildlife fix, while longer, private tours suit those looking for an in-depth exploration. Also, think about whether you want a guided, educational experience or a more relaxed sightseeing cruise.
Final Thoughts
Folly Beach offers a broad range of dolphin watching tours, from private charters to scenic sunset cruises, ensuring there’s something for every type of traveler. For a truly personalized experience where you can learn about local wildlife and history, the private tours stand out. If a romantic evening under the sunset sounds perfect, the sunset cruises provide unforgettable views and wildlife encounters. Families and active visitors will enjoy shelling, kayaking, and casual boat rides that combine fun and education.
To make the most of your trip, book early, especially during summer, and pick the tour that best matches your interests—whether that’s quiet solitude, family fun, or a romantic sunset. No matter what you choose, Folly Beach’s waters promise memorable dolphin sightings and a taste of the local coastal charm.