Hilton Head Island is known for its stunning beaches, golf courses, and natural beauty, but it also offers a surprising wealth of historical experiences. Unlike many beach destinations, Hilton Head and its surrounding areas are filled with stories of colonial times, Civil War history, and Gullah heritage. What makes these tours stand out is their ability to bring history alive—whether through boat rides, horse carriages, or walking tours. We especially enjoy the Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour from Hilton Head for its engaging exploration of a largely untouched island that inspired Pat Conroy’s famous novel The Water is Wide. It’s a perfect mix of scenic boat rides and insightful storytelling.
If you’re short on time but want a rich taste of history, the Beaufort’s #1 Horse & Carriage History Tour offers a charming, relaxed way to see the historic district. For those interested in film and local culture, the History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart combines storytelling with visits to iconic filming locations. Whichever style appeals to you, Hilton Head’s mix of guided boat rides, carriage tours, and walking adventures ensures a memorable dive into the area’s past.
1. Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour from Hilton Head
At number 1, the Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour from Hilton Head takes you beyond the usual beach scene into the heart of a largely undeveloped island that’s steeped in history. This 4.5-hour tour includes round-trip boat tickets from Shelter Cove Marina, with the water ride itself offering opportunities to spot dolphins and learn about the surrounding islands. Upon landing, you’ll explore on golf carts, visiting historic sites like the First African Baptist Church and Mary Fields School, both essential to understanding the African American and Gullah communities.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of scenic water travel and intimate island exploration. Captain Pete, a well-informed guide, shares stories about the island’s past—ranging from its Gullah roots to its Civil War history—highlighted by visits to artisan shops and historical landmarks. The upgraded experience of traveling by golf cart allows you to get close to the island’s natural beauty and solitude, which bigger tours can’t offer. With a perfect 5-star rating from nearly 1,000 reviews, visitors often praise the knowledgeable narration and the chance to see dolphins on the way.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a deep, personal connection with Daufuskie’s history and environment, ideal for travelers wanting an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience.
2. Beaufort’s #1 Horse & Carriage History Tour
For around $35, the Beaufort’s #1 Horse & Carriage History Tour delivers a charming 55-minute ride through the historic district of this picturesque southern city. This tour offers a relaxed way to soak in Beaufort’s antebellum architecture, moss-draped live oaks, and quaint streets. Your guide, who shares stories of the city’s past from its founding in 1712 through its Civil War role, makes history approachable and engaging.
What sets this tour apart is its small-group setting, ensuring you get personal attention and a chance to ask questions. The route covers key landmarks including historic churches, beautiful gardens, and homes that have appeared in movies like The Prince of Tides. Guests often comment on the lively narration and the friendliness of the guides, making it a perfect activity for families or couples wanting an intimate, leisurely sightseeing experience. The guide’s storytelling also includes details about the city’s role in various American historical periods, giving you a well-rounded picture of Beaufort.
Bottom Line: This carriage tour is an easy, comfortable way to learn about Beaufort’s history without the walking, ideal for those seeking a laid-back, informative experience.
3. History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart
At number 3, the History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart is a lively 1-hour exploration of the town’s cinematic fame alongside its deep history. This fully narrated tour takes you past iconic filming locations from movies like Forrest Gump and G.I. Jane, as well as notable historic sites.
The tour’s highlight is its comprehensive coverage of Beaufort’s past—from Spanish explorers to the Civil War—and its Hollywood moments. The guide points out where stars stayed during filming and shares stories behind the movies. It also includes visits to the Beaufort National Cemetery and the Gump Medical Center, giving a tangible connection to the area’s history. Travel is in a comfortable van with multiple departures, making it flexible for your schedule. Guests love the mix of history, Hollywood lore, and scenic drives, plus the opportunity to see unmarked film locations most visitors miss on foot.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a lively, fast-paced overview of Beaufort’s history and its Hollywood connection, excellent for film buffs and history fans alike.
4. #1 Historical Horse Drawn Carriage Tour
The #1 Historical Horse Drawn Carriage Tour provides a 55-minute journey through Beaufort’s historic streets in a tradition-rich carriage. This small-group ride is narrated by guides who share stories from the city’s founding in 1712 through its role in the Civil War and beyond. It’s the perfect way to experience Beaufort’s colonial architecture, Victorian homes, and the scenic live oaks.
What makes this tour special is the combination of comfort and storytelling. The guide highlights the role of historic landmarks, including the churchyard where early settlers and soldiers are buried. Tour participants often remark on the quality of the guide’s storytelling and the attentiveness to detail, like the informative commentary on local legends and folklore. The ride’s relaxed pace makes it an appealing choice for those who prefer a seated, scenic experience.
Bottom Line: This horse-drawn carriage tour offers a gentle, informative glimpse into Beaufort’s history, great for those who love traditional methods of sightseeing.
5. Beaufort Gullah Heritage Tour
The Beaufort Gullah Heritage Tour is a 3-hour journey into the culture and history of the Gullah community, renowned for their distinct language and traditions. Starting from the Beaufort Marina, the tour visits historic Gullah plantation houses, cemeteries, churches, and the praise house where community gatherings still take place.
This experience offers a deep dive into the cultural fabric of the Lowcountry, emphasizing the resilience and traditions of the Gullah people. Your guide shares stories about their heritage, customs, and the important role they played in the area’s history. The tour’s vehicle is air-conditioned, making it comfortable even on hot days, and it includes visual and narrative insights into local life that you won’t get elsewhere. Reviews highlight the guide’s energy and knowledge, noting the educational value and emotional impact of the stories shared.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history and culture enthusiasts wanting an in-depth look at Gullah traditions and their influence on the Lowcountry.
6. Complete History and Movie Walking Tour of Beaufort
The Complete History and Movie Walking Tour of Beaufort is a 2-hour stroll through the historic district, blending architectural highlights with Hollywood film locations. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll walk past landmarks like the homes used in movies such as Forrest Gump and The Prince of Tides, alongside stories from Beaufort’s 300-year past.
This tour’s strength lies in its detailed storytelling and personal engagement. You’ll see the residences of movie stars, learn about the early settlers, and hear folklore along the way. The walking pace allows for close-up views and spontaneous questions. Reviewers praise their guide’s enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, making this a great option for those who enjoy storytelling on foot and want to experience the town at a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history lovers and movie buffs who want an up-close, personal exploration of Beaufort’s cinematic and historic sites.
7. Hilton Head: Daufuskie Island History & Artisans Tour
At number 7, the Hilton Head: Daufuskie Island History & Artisans Tour combines history with local craftsmanship over 4.5 hours. This tour visits artisan workshops, historical sites, and learns about Native American and European settler influences, with special focus on Gullah traditions.
What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on the island’s living artisan culture, with opportunities to see traditional crafts being made. You’ll also explore sites like the Gullah community’s historic homes and cemeteries, gaining insight into the island’s layered past. It’s a well-rounded experience suited for those who want a mix of history, culture, and hands-on artisan visits. The tour’s reviews note the knowledgeable guides and the vivid storytelling about the island’s history and culture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting an immersive cultural experience that combines historical sites with artisan craftsmanship.
8. Hilton Head: E-Bike History & Nature Tour
The Hilton Head: E-Bike History & Nature Tour offers a 2-hour ride through scenic trails and historic landmarks on electric bikes. This tour blends outdoor activity with educational commentary, allowing you to cover more ground effortlessly.
On this tour, you’ll spot local wildlife, visit key historic sites, and enjoy the breeze as you pedal through natural areas. The electric bikes make it accessible for most fitness levels, and reviewers mention how fun and easy it is to explore with a guide who shares rich details about Hilton Head’s past. The ride offers a great balance of physical activity and cultural insight, making it ideal for active travelers who want a versatile experience.
Bottom Line: Best for active explorers who want to combine history, nature, and a little exercise on a guided e-bike adventure.
9. Guided Historical Bus and Boat Cruise Tour in Beaufort
Rounding out our list, the Guided Historical Bus and Boat Cruise Tour in Beaufort offers a comprehensive 2 hours and 45 minutes of land and water exploration. It’s perfect for families or travelers who want multiple perspectives on the city’s history.
This combo includes a 75-minute bus tour of Beaufort’s historic sites, covering the early Colonial period, Civil War, and Hollywood filming spots. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a 90-minute boat cruise along the waterway, seeing the landscape from a different vantage point. The tour’s reviews mention its family-friendly nature and the engaging narration that makes history both accessible and interesting.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one experience ideal for those who want to see both land and water highlights with minimal hassle.
How to Choose Your Ideal Historical Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your interests and travel style. If you want an off-the-beaten-path experience with fewer crowds, the Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour is unbeatable. For a relaxed, scenic approach, the horse-drawn carriage (Tour #4) offers a charming way to learn local stories. Those interested in film history will appreciate the Beaufort by Golf Cart Tour, which combines Hollywood locations with local lore.
Budget-conscious travelers can opt for the Tour #6 walking experience, while active adventurers will enjoy the E-Bike Tour. Families or those seeking a full day of exploration might prefer the Land & Sea Combo.
When booking, consider the season—spring and fall usually offer more temperate weather—and reserve early, especially for popular tours. Whether you favor a boat ride, a carriage, or walking, Hilton Head’s diverse options make it easy to find a history tour that fits your interests and schedule.
Hilton Head Island offers a surprising depth of stories waiting to be uncovered. Whether you choose a scenic boat trip, an intimate carriage ride, or an active e-bike tour, you’ll walk away with a richer appreciation of this area’s past. For history lovers, these tours are not only educational but also often fun and memorable. If you’re planning your trip, consider trying a few different experiences to get a full picture of Hilton Head and Beaufort’s fascinating history—booking early is always a good idea to secure your spot.