Top Hilton Head Island Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises

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.

Discover Beaufort’s old southern charm on a horse-drawn carriage tour around the historic center. Join a small group for a narrated tour of Old Beaufort and pass by the area’s key landmarks. Listen to your guide retell the history of the city from its early Colonial period to the American Revolution and Civil War eras up to the present day.

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.

Come aboard the Spirit of Harbour Town for a 3 course dinner cruise prepared by the chefs of Sea Pines Resort *SHARE YOUR MEAL PREFERENCES AT CHECKOUT IN THE SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS SECTION* APPS Heirloom Tomato Panzanella Salad - Greens, Tomatoes, Mozzarella, Cucumbers, Focaccia, Basil, Apple Cider Vinaigrette ENTREE (Select 1) 1. Roasted Pork Loin - Buttermilk Whipped Potatoes, Peppercorn Sauce, Shaved Fennel Slaw 2. Blackened Mahi Mahi -Buttermilk Whipped Potatoes, Pineapple Salsa, Shaved Fennel Slaw 3. Roasted Chicken Breast - Buttermilk Whipped Potatoes, Chimichurri, Shaved Fennel Slaw 4. Pasta Primavera - Fresh Vegetables, Olive oil, Garlic, White Wine, Herbs DESSERT (Select 1) 1. Sunset Key Lime Pie - Raspberry Coulis, whipped cream 2. Chocolate Torte - Raspberry Coulis, whipped cream KIDS (3-12) 1. Chicken Tenders - Mashed Potatoes and Fresh Vegetables 2. Chicken Alfredo pasta - Parmesan Cream, Roasted chicken *Children's Menu comes with salad & dessert choice*

Remote Daufuskie Island is accessible only by boat and remains largely undeveloped, despite its fame as the setting of Pat Conroy’s novel “The Water is Wide.” A guided tour makes the trip a cinch—this package includes round-trip boat tickets, plus transportation between island attractions such as the First African Baptist Church and Mary Fields School, all visited with the benefit of commentary from your guide.

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!

A sailboat cruise from Hilton Head is a peaceful way to see stunning Lowcountry landscapes without the noise of a moor. Join a captain and crew aboard a 39-foot long (12 meter) sailboat that competed in America’s Cup—head through quiet waters and past gorgeous scenery without the roar of a motor. You can even try your hand on deck and help out with the sails.

Cruise from Hilton Head to Savannah on this Lowcountry day trip that’s packed with views. Relax on the open-air upper deck or air-conditioned lower cabin as you cruise through the Intracoastal Waterway, drink in hand from the onboard bar (own price). Then, dock in Savannah and spend a few hours of free time shopping, dining, and sightseeing before sailing back to Hilton Head.

Over 24 Hollywood films have been shot in the historic town of Beaufort, South Carolina. Explore Beaufort without the hassle of navigating on a tour of the area’s highlights, from scenic film locations to historic homes. Your small group size ensures the full attention of your guide, who navigates for you and provides little–known stories about Beaufort’s past. Morning and afternoon departure times are available for your convenience.

Embark on a nautical adventure aboard the Black Dagger pirate ship, which transforms kids into little pirates for a treasure hunt on the waters of Hilton Head. The crew provides kids with pirate costumes and pirate lessons before setting sail in search of treasure, making this the ultimate way to sightsee and keep kids entertained. This family-friendly cruise has a choice of several departures in the morning and afternoon, making it easy to fit into your schedule.

Discover Beaufort’s historic district without the hassle of navigating a tour that highlights the town’s Hollywood past. In addition to telling little–known stories about the town’s 300–year history, your guide brings you to landmarks often missed by visitors, from unmarked Forrest Gump film locations to the cemetery used in The Great Santini.

Explore the diverse marine ecosystem surrounding Hilton Head Island on this small-group morning boat ride that doesn’t scare the animals away. Spot Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, egrets, pelicans and picturesque lighthouses as you cruise around Hilton Head and Daufuskie Islands with narration by your guide. Snack on fresh doughnuts and orange juice as you enjoy morning on the water.

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!

Skip the hassle of a shared tour and enjoy a do-it-yourself day out on the water with a pre-reserved Pontoon boat rental. Boats can accommodate private groups of up to ten people, and anyone with boating experience and a driver’s license can take on the role of captain. Note that a fuel surcharge applies in addition to gratuity.

Search for crabs alongside marine science students on this Lowcountry crabbing tour from Hilton Head. As you sail out on the Lowcountry’s famous salt marshes, your knowledgeable guides share tons of information about the rich local ecosystem and the wildlife that calls it home—see some of it for yourself, including whatever you pull up in your crabbing pots. Take home some of your catch if you get any.

Your comfortable passenger ferry offers the shortest route from Hilton Head to Daufuskie, with a smooth 30-minute ride dock to dock. No long crossings. No complicated transfers. Just a quick, scenic trip across the water that gets you to the island faster — and gives you more time to explore. Designed with families in mind, our boat features spacious seating, shade, and a stable ride that’s comfortable for all ages. Whether you're traveling with young kids, grandparents, or a group of friends, our crew makes boarding simple and stress-free. Choose the most convenient departure point, the fastest crossing, and a family-friendly experience that makes your day seamless from start to finish.

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.

Sit back and relax while a United States Coast Guard-licensed captain steers this boat tour toward stunning sunset views and a chance to spot wild dolphins. This 1.5-hour wildlife experience is fun and educational for children and grown-ups alike, with a friendly crew who’ll navigate the water for you and help you learn more about the local ecosystem.

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.

Explore the rich history of Beaufort, South Carolina, on a captivating golf cart tour. This one-hour journey offers a unique blend of local lore and architectural beauty and many film spots that were filmed here, showcasing the stunning Antebellum homes and live oaks draped in Spanish moss. Knowledgeable guides share insights into the town's 300-year-old past, making history come alive. Perfect for families, history buffs, and travelers seeking an authentic Lowcountry experience. - Enjoy a one-hour guided golf cart tour in Beaufort's historic district - Learn about Beaufort's culture, architecture, and fascinating stories - Tours available daily, departing from Emma's Earth Shop in downtown Beaufort - Eco-friendly 8-man golf carts provide a comfortable, engaging ride

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.

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.

End your day in Hilton Head aboard a relaxing sunset cruise around the island and waterways. Board your private vessel and enjoy a calm ride on Calibogue Sound with views of Harbour Town and the area is awash in golden light. While you sail, keep your eyes peeled for several species of wildlife including the playful Atlantic bottlenose dolphin.