Top Hilton Head Island Nature and Wildlife Tours

Experience Hilton Head’s wildlife-rich Broad Creek Estuary on this kayaking tour designed for all ages and experience levels—no need for prior experience or your own equipment. Glide through calm salt-marsh waters and keep an eye out for wild bottlenose dolphins, as well as manatees, sea turtles, otters, and shorebirds. Paddle past waterfront homes and learn about the local history and ecology from your guide.

Hilton Head Island is known as one of North America’s best spots for watching dolphins in the wild. Get out on the water and take in amazing views of these intelligent, playful creatures during this private boat tour. With a Lowcountry Master Naturalist as your captain and guide, you’ll learn all about the ecology of Hilton Head while watching the dolphins along with other wildlife including rays, sharks, and sea turtles. Just your group (up to six passengers) cruising the waters, watching dolphins eating, playing, and socializing.

Increase your odds of seeing dolphins in the wild on this dolphin watching cruise from Hilton Head. Sail out from easy-to-find Palmetto Bay Marina at your selected departure time: admire views of the shore, look for wildlife, and learn about the local ecosystem. Plus, take a quick stop to look for shells, starfish, and sand dollars at “Disappearing Island,” a strip of land only accessible at low tide.

Enjoy an immersive way to discover Hilton Head Island's aquatic scenery—and give yourself the best chance of spotting local marine life, including dolphins—on this guided boat tour. Choose a departure time that works best for you, greet your United States Coast Guard-licensed captain, and hop aboard. Learn more about the island's ecosystem along the way, and look out for wildlife as you head into nature.

Explore the salt marsh and take in views of the incredible Lowcountry sunset! On this 90-minute tour, learn about the salt marsh and try to spot local dolphins! Guests are welcome to bring snacks and beverages on board. Don't forget to bring your camera for photos of the most incredible view of the lowcountry sunset. This tour is one-of-a-kind and memorable for all ages!

On this dolphin watching cruise from Hilton Head, you have the chance to see wildlife, check out local landmarks, and admire the coastline as you cruise out on the Calibogue Sound and Atlantic Ocean. Your guide narrates the entire trip as you sail past Bull Island, the Haig Point Lighthouse, and more, all while looking out for dolphins, egrets, herons, and other animals in the wild.

Join us for a tour on Broad Creek watching for dolphins and other wildlife in the salt marsh ecosystem. Explore Broad Creek, venture through the tidal marsh system, and learn about the island’s history. Along the way, your interpretive naturalist captain will entertain your group with fun facts and stories of the Lowcountry. Our boats are stable, comfortable, and ideal for viewing wildlife.

Experience Hilton Head Island in a way that few travelers get to: On a small, motorized "creek cat" boat during this guided tour. Operate your own vessel under your guide’s supervision while taking in views of all the quintessential sights, as well as access to some smaller marshes and wildlife-rich areas.

Explore the captivating history of Beaufort on a charming 50-55 minute horse-drawn carriage tour. Discover the elegance of the past as you glide past moss-covered Live Oaks, stunning Antebellum homes, historic churches, and iconic movie sites, all narrated by a knowledgeable guide. This fully narrated experience provides insight into Beaufort's unique charm and rich history, making it an excellent choice for families and history buffs alike. - Duration: 50-55 minutes of narrated history - Family-friendly; children under 3 ride for free - Reservations recommended for this unique journey

On this Hilton Head pirate cruise, let your inner buccaneer out to play as you set sail off the coast of Hilton Head Island. This cruise was specifically created for kids and includes fun details such as face paint, pirate gear, and fake tattoos so you can look the part, plus water cannons for a blast of entertainment.

Cruising the salt-marsh ecosystem in search of dolphins is a popular activity in Hilton Head, but unlike other similar tours, this dolphin and nature tour uses small boats so wildlife isn’t scared away easily. Sail along the water from Shelter Cove Marina, down Broad Creek, and into Calibogue Sound, while keeping a lookout for Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, birds, and other animals that call the area home.

Get out on the water in Hilton Head with this small-group mini boat tour. Follow your guide and drive your own mini boat, which can fit up to four people, to go in search of the best places for spotting dolphins. See popular local landmarks like the Harbour Town Lighthouse during this wildlife-focused itinerary.

This tour is the best as you get everything all in one! You will see local wildlife, beautiful stately waterfront homes, breathtaking water views and end the evening with a wonderful sunset. The local wildlife you will see are Atlantic bottlenose dolphin and a variety of shorebirds. What better way to spend the evening?

Glide through the tranquil waters of Hilton Head's Broad Creek Estuary on a captivating kayak tour that brings you face-to-face with playful dolphins and other fascinating wildlife. For 25 years, our expert guides have led adventurers of all ages through this serene environment, sharing entertaining stories and insights about the local ecosystem. As you paddle alongside these intelligent creatures, keep an eye out for manatees, otters, and a variety of beautiful bird species, making every paddle unique. The area we paddle through is the favorite feeding grounds for dolphins in Hilton Head which makes it more likely that you'll be paddling with dolphins than any other kayaking area in Hilton Head. This is the place to be and no other kayak company on the island has direct access to this favorite spot for the dolphins to feed and play! This family-friendly experience promises not only fun but also unforgettable memories in the heart of nature.

Enjoy sunset views and scan the water for Atlantic bottlenose dolphins on this dolphin-watching cruise off the coast of South Carolina. The frequency of dolphin sightings makes this cruise ideal for those hoping to catch photos of the majestic sea creatures. Plus, throughout the cruise, you can learn about dolphins and your surroundings from an on-board naturalist.

Travel along a forested bike trail without breaking a sweat on this Hilton Head Segway tour. Admire the scenery and the ride as you glide among live oaks, Spanish moss, and saw palmettos at a leisurely pace that’s ideal for teens and families. This fun ride doesn’t include any narration—just get rolling and enjoy the views.

Discover the enchanting Vanishing Island on this 3-hour cruise from Hilton Head. This unique sandbar, which appears only at low tide, invites beachcombers and dolphin watchers alike to explore its pristine shores. Enjoy the thrill of spotting dolphins in their natural habitat while collecting shells and observing diverse marine life. Perfect for families and nature enthusiasts, this adventure promises a memorable experience in a stunning coastal environment. - 3-hour cruise to the Vanishing Island sandbar - Ideal for families and nature lovers seeking adventure - Opportunity to spot dolphins and collect shells - Explore a unique marine environment at low tide

Located south of Hilton Head Island, Vanishing Mile Isle can only be visited when it’s briefly exposed during low tide. With this private charter, you can easily access this unique location and spend time beachcombing for sand dollars, seashells, and more, with a master naturalist onhand to provide more information. Along the way, look for dolphins and other wildlife in Calibogue Sound.

Looking for a more personal sailing experience without the cost of a private charter? Our Afternoon Public Sail is the perfect balance. With a maximum of just 6 guests onboard, you’ll enjoy an intimate, relaxed atmosphere. Aboard our newest and largest sailboat. Join us for a 2-hour afternoon sail spotting dolphins, birds, and other local wildlife. Once the sails are raised, feel the power and excitement as the wind fills the sails and the boat heels—this is authentic, hands-on sailing at its best. Our experienced captain encourages guests to be as involved or relaxed as they’d like. Discover why sailing is the best way to enjoy the coast—small group, smooth sailing, and unforgettable views. - Enjoy an intimate sailing experience with only 6 guests on board - Spot dolphins and wildlife while sailing through Port Royal Sound - Participate in sailing activities or relax as you prefer - Perfect for small groups looking for a unique afternoon adventure

This rental is recommended for parties 8 or more. It is without a doubt the best rental boat on Hilton Head Island for large groups. The quality and craftmanship of this Bennington screams luxury! We guarantee enjoyment for everyone, combining comfort, style and function to create the perfect atmosphere for a great experience on the water. This rental allows you to see Hilton Head by water. Whether you want to anchor in a quiet cover or see the sites this boat is perfect for your group. The destinations pre-marked includes Daufuskie Island, Harbourtown Light House, Sandbar, Skull Creek Boat House and Fishing Holes.

Start your morning with an unforgettable adventure on the waters of Hilton Head Island! Our Dolphins & Donuts Tour combines two of the best things in life, delicious, fresh donuts and the chance to see playful dolphins in their natural habitat. Perfect for families, couples, and nature lovers, Dolphins & Donuts is the ideal way to start your day on Hilton Head Island. Book your spot today and treat yourself to a morning of sweetness and adventure!

***Booking 1 person, is booking 1 boat for up to 6 people *** Experience a breathtaking private sunset dolphin tour on Hilton Head Island! Watch dolphins, stunning sunsets, and magical fireworks while cruising the scenic waterways. Perfect for unforgettable memories! Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Private Sunset & Fireworks Dolphin Tour on Hilton Head Island, SC! This exclusive experience offers front-row seats to breathtaking sunsets and a spectacular fireworks show, all while encountering playful dolphins in their natural habitat. Cruise through scenic waterways as the evening sky transforms into a canvas of colors. Ideal for romantic getaways, family outings, or celebrations, this private tour guarantees magical moments on the water. Witness Hilton Head's natural beauty like never before!

Looking for a more personal sailing experience without booking an entire private charter? The Afternoon Public Sail is the perfect balance. With a maximum of just six guests onboard, you’ll enjoy an intimate, relaxed atmosphere. It’s a shared experience that still feels special, and it keeps the price lower than a private sail. Join us for a 2-hour afternoon sail spotting dolphins, coastal birds, and other local wildlife. Once the sails are raised, feel the power and excitement as the wind fills the sails and the boat heels—this is authentic, hands-on sailing at its best. The experienced captain encourages guests to be as involved or relaxed as they’d like. Discover why sailing is the best way to enjoy the coast—small group, smooth sailing, and unforgettable views. *Enjoy a 2-hour afternoon sail with a maximum of six guests *Spot dolphins and coastal wildlife while sailing *Hands-on sailing experience or relax on deck *Perfect for all skill levels in a tranquil, intimate setting