Tea Plantation and Winery Tour in Charleston

Experience the Best of Charleston’s Lowcountry with a Visit to the Tea Plantation and Winery

If you’re craving a taste of authentic South Carolina beyond the usual historic sights, this Tea Plantation and Winery Tour in Charleston offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, local craftsmanship, and good company. For a reasonable $135 per person, you get about five hours of exploring some of the region’s most iconic and scenic spots—starting with a photo among the legendary Angel Oak Tree, then a visit to America’s only tea plantation, and finishing with a stop at Deep Water Vineyard, Charleston’s sole vineyard.

What we particularly love about this tour is its intimate, well-curated itinerary. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience feel both educational and personal. The chance to taste unlimited freshly brewed tea at the plantation and sample local wines at the vineyard adds a flavorful touch that keeps travelers engaged and satisfied. Plus, the luxury transportation and well-organized schedule ensure comfort and ease throughout the day.

One possible consideration is that trolley tours and wine tastings are optional extra costs—so if you’re eager to indulge in wine tastings, be prepared for an additional fee. Also, the tour involves some walking and standing, so travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.

This experience is best suited for wine and tea enthusiasts, curious travelers eager to explore Charleston’s outdoors, or small groups wanting an engaging day outside the city. If you enjoy learning about local agriculture and tasting regional specialties, this tour offers a well-balanced introduction to the Lowcountry’s flavors and scenic beauty.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit America’s only tea plantation and Charleston’s only vineyard for a true taste of local agricultural pride.
• Beautiful Sights: The tour kicks off with a photo among the iconic Angel Oak Tree, one of the oldest and most photographed trees in the country.
• Educational and Tasty: Enjoy a factory tour at the tea plantation with unlimited hot and cold tea, plus options to purchase wine tastings at the vineyard.
• Comfort and Convenience: Luxury, air-conditioned transportation with a friendly guide makes for a relaxed, hassle-free day.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour feels personalized and less rushed.
• Optional Extras: Trolley rides and wine tastings are available for purchase, adding flexibility to your experience.

A Detailed Look at the Charleston Tea Plantation and Winery Tour

Starting Point and First Stop: The Angel Oak Tree

The tour begins at 375 Meeting St in Charleston, with departure at 10:30 am. Our first stop is the Angel Oak Tree, a majestic live oak estimated to be over 500 years old. It’s a true icon of the Lowcountry—impressive for its size, sprawling branches, and history. We found it to be a fantastic photo opportunity, especially with the sunlight filtering through the dense canopy. The experience here is brief—about 15 minutes—so it’s a quick but memorable introduction to the area’s natural grandeur.

This stop is free, making it a budget-friendly way to start your day, and the perfect place to stretch your legs before heading into the countryside.

Visiting America’s Only Tea Plantation

Next, the group heads to the Charleston Tea Garden, the only tea plantation in the United States. The fact that this is the nation’s only tea farm makes it a unique spot. Here, a guided tour of the factory reveals how tea leaves are grown, harvested, and processed—an aspect we really appreciated because it’s not something you see every day.

The unlimited hot and cold tea included is a real highlight. You can enjoy it during the tour or relax afterward with a refreshing beverage. The guide, along with founder Bill Hall’s narration, makes the process engaging and approachable, especially if you’re interested in local agriculture or just love a good cup of tea.

While the trolley tour of the plantation is optional and costs an extra $20, it’s a worthwhile upgrade if you want a broader look at the farm’s operation and a more relaxed ride through the sprawling property. The plantation’s setting is serene, and the lush greenery makes for beautiful photos—perfect for social media or just soaking in the scenery.

Visiting Deep Water Vineyard

The final stop is Deep Water Vineyard, the only vineyard in Charleston. The setting among the vines offers an authentic, small-scale wine experience. While wine tastings are not included in the standard ticket, you have the option to purchase them on site for around $15-$20.

Guests have praised the knowledgeable guides and excellent wines, which speak to the care and quality of this local operation. The vineyard itself is picturesque, and even if you don’t indulge in tasting, you’ll enjoy a few moments capturing photos among the rows of vines or simply savoring the peaceful landscape.

The Value of the Experience

Throughout the day, snacks, bottled water, and beverages are provided, and the luxury transportation ensures comfort as you hop from site to site. The entire experience is approximately five hours, which balances enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Critics and reviewers have shared how Connie (the guide) made the day special by checking in with everyone and ensuring a VIP feel—an important aspect that turns a simple tour into a memorable outing. The small group size means more personalized attention and a chance to ask questions or chat about local history and culture.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This tour suits those with a curiosity for local food and drink, as it combines behind-the-scenes looks at tea and wine production with scenic outdoor stops. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate learning while tasting and prefer a relaxed, small-group environment. If you’re interested in the natural beauty of Charleston’s landscape—like the legendary Angel Oak—and enjoy discovering hidden local treasures, this tour will meet your expectations.

It’s also ideal for families, couples, or small groups who want a flexible, engaging day outside the typical tourist sites. Keep in mind that moderate physical activity is required, so travelers with mobility issues should consider that.

Making the Most of Your Day

To get the best value, consider arriving early and spending some extra time at the Angel Oak Tree before the tour begins. If you’re interested in trying local wines, budget for the additional tasting fee at Deep Water Vineyard. If you’re keen on a more in-depth experience, the optional trolley tour at the plantation offers a broader view.

Be prepared for some walking, especially at the vineyard and the plantation, and wear comfortable shoes. Since snacks and drinks are provided, you won’t need to bring much, but a camera for the beautiful scenery is a must.

The Sum Up

This Tea Plantation and Winery Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Charleston’s agricultural and natural environment. It balances scenic beauty, local craftsmanship, and light educational content—all served with excellent guides and a relaxed pace. It’s especially suited for enthusiasts of regional food and drink, outdoor lovers, or those seeking a small-group, personalized experience.

If you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys uncovering local stories behind the food and drink you love, this tour will leave you with memorable sights, new knowledge, and perhaps a new favorite tea or bottle of wine.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, luxury air-conditioned transportation is included, making it easy and comfortable to move between sites.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately 5 hours, which includes travel time and visits to each stop.

Are there any optional activities I can pay for?
Yes, you can purchase a trolley tour of the plantation for about $20 and wine tastings at Deep Water Vineyard for around $15-$20.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, along with a camera. Snacks and beverages are provided, so you don’t need to bring extra food.

Is this experience suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
The tour requires a moderate physical fitness level and some walking, so it’s best suited for those who are reasonably mobile.

What’s included in the price?
Admission to the Angel Oak, the tea plantation, bottled water, snacks, and unlimited freshly brewed tea. Guides are also included.

Can I expect to see or learn about the history of the sites?
While the focus is more on the present-day production and scenic views, guides share insights that add context to each location.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most ages, but specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned. Be aware of the physical activity involved.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or storms, a different date or full refund will be offered.

In essence, this tour is a fantastic way to add a flavorful, scenic, and educational experience to your Charleston visit—perfect for those who love good stories, great views, and authentic local tastes.