Hilton Head Island is famous for its stunning beaches, golf courses, and serene landscapes, but it also offers some surprisingly rich walking experiences. Whether you’re into history, movies, or spooky tales, these walking tours provide a great way to see the area up close. Our favorites include a historic stroll through Beaufort, a tour blending film locations with history, and a ghostly adventure through the town’s darker past. Each offers a unique perspective on this charming Lowcountry town, perfect for stretching your legs and enjoying local stories.
If you’re visiting Hilton Head and want a thoughtful, engaging way to explore, these tours stand out. They’re all highly rated, with excellent guides, and range from family-friendly ghost stories to deep dives into Beaufort’s colonial past. For example, the Walking Tour in Beaufort (see more) brings you face-to-face with antebellum architecture and fascinating tales of the Civil War, while the Complete History and Movie Walking Tour (see more) uncovers Hollywood connections along with centuries of local history. If ghost stories are your thing, the Beaufort Ghost Walking Tours (see more) offers an eerie peek into the town’s supernatural side.
1. Walking Tour in Beaufort
This tour is a true stand-out for anyone wanting to soak in Beaufort’s historic charm without the crowds and high prices of private tours. At just $35 per person for about 2 hours and 15 minutes, it offers a balanced mix of storytelling and sightseeing. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore some of the finest antebellum homes and visit monuments, churches, and statues that tell the story of a city formed by Native Americans, pirates, and soldiers.
What sets this tour apart is its small-group format, which means more interaction and personalized attention. The guide shares vivid tales of the Revolutionary War, Civil War, and other pivotal moments that shaped Beaufort and, by extension, the United States. The walk begins at 10:30 a.m. at 1006 Bay St, making it an easy addition to a morning of exploring the Lowcountry.
Guests consistently give it perfect or near-perfect reviews. People rave about the guide’s enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, with comments like “Janet was a lot of fun and provided a lot of information.” This tour is ideal for history lovers, architecture buffs, or anyone seeking a relaxed, informative stroll. The only possible downside is the 2-hour-plus duration, which may be too long for very young children or those with limited mobility.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an engaging, intimate look at Beaufort’s antebellum architecture and historic stories — perfect for history enthusiasts and those wanting a less commercial experience.
2. Complete History and Movie Walking Tour of Beaufort
For around $30, this tour combines Beaufort’s 300-year history with its Hollywood fame, making it a distinctive option. Starting at the Beaufort Downtown Marina Store at 1006 Bay Street, the guide takes you through the picturesque streets for approximately 2 hours. What makes this tour special is its focus on the film locations of movies like Forrest Gump, G.I. Jane, and The Prince of Tides — a favorite for movie buffs.
Led by a guide with personal insights, the tour offers an authentic look at the town’s past and its ties to Hollywood. You’ll walk past homes where stars stayed and learn which scenes were shot where. The guide’s engaging storytelling helps bring Beaufort’s history and movie lore to life, creating a layered experience that appeals to both history enthusiasts and film fans.
While reviews praise the guide’s knowledge, some mention the movie details could be more detailed. Still, the overall consensus is that this tour provides great value, especially considering the combined historical and cinematic focus. It’s best suited for those interested in movies, history, or both, and who enjoy a lively, conversational guide.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking to combine a love of film with a walk through history, this tour hits the mark with its engaging storytelling and unique Hollywood connections.
3. Beaufort Ghost Walking Tours
For a different kind of experience, consider the Beaufort Ghost Walking Tours. Priced at $22 per person, it runs for about 1 to 2 hours and is perfect for those interested in the town’s darker side. The tour starts at 7:00 p.m. at 1002 Bay St, making it a great evening activity.
This tour offers a spooky look at Beaufort’s dark past, with stories of eerie hauntings and supernatural mysteries. It visits landmark homes and historic sites, ending at the town’s oldest church, St. Helena’s Anglican. The guide shares tales of tragic accidents, restless spirits, and ghostly encounters that have persisted through the centuries, making it a fun and atmospheric experience.
What makes this tour appealing is its intimate vibe; small groups allow for better storytelling and participation, especially when trying to detect supernatural activity with spirit-hunting tools. Reviews highlight the guide’s enthusiasm and how the stories are delivered with humor and suspense. It’s best suited for families with teenagers, history lovers with a taste for the spooky, or anyone seeking a memorable night tour.
Bottom Line: This ghost tour provides a fun, chilling way to learn about Beaufort’s history through its ghost stories, perfect for thrill-seekers and fans of the supernatural.
How to Choose Your Perfect Walking Tour in Hilton Head Island
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you love deep history, the Walking Tour in Beaufort (see more) offers a thorough peek into antebellum architecture and Civil War stories. For fans of movies and history, the Complete History and Movie Walking Tour (see more) combines Hollywood with local lore. If spooky stories and a dash of mystery are your thing, the Beaufort Ghost Walking Tours (see more) is the way to go, especially for evening entertainment.
Consider how much time you have—most tours are about two hours—and your budget. The ghost tour is the most affordable, while the other two are similarly priced but offer different thematic experiences. Think about whether you prefer daytime explorations of historic streets or an evening ghost story session. Booking early is always wise, especially in peak season, to secure a spot on your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Hilton Head Island offers a surprisingly diverse range of walking tours, whether you want to explore the historic streets of Beaufort, see the film locations that put it on the map, or get a spooky glimpse into its supernatural stories. For history lovers, the first tour provides a detailed and personal view of the antebellum South. Movie fans will appreciate the blend of Hollywood and history in the second. And if you’re after fun stories that give you a thrill, the ghost tour is a memorable way to end a day.
Each tour has its own charm and focus. If you’re traveling with family, the ghost walk or the historic tour might be best, while couples or groups of friends looking for a unique experience might prefer the film and history tour. Whichever you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these engaging ways to discover Hilton Head Island’s neighbor, Beaufort.