All Hilton Head Island Tours & Excursions in 2026

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.

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.

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.

Hop on a Jet Ski and explore Hilton Head Island on this scenic tour. Leave from Palmetto Bay Marina, past gorgeous mansions, until you reach the designated area where you can zoom around as you like. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings and get the chance to observe birds, dolphins, and maybe even a sea turtle in their natural habitat.

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*

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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 an exciting shark fishing trip in the calm inshore waters of Calibogue Sound—perfect for families and first-timers. Your captain takes you to productive fishing grounds to hunt for species such as Blacktip, Bull, Atlantic Sharpnose, and Hammerhead sharks. As you cruise along Broad Creek, keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins, pelicans, and other wildlife before practicing catch-and-release fishing at each stop.

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.

**Drivers must be 21 years old + with a driver's license** Discover the magic of Hilton Head Island with a sunset jet ski tour like no other! As the sun sets behind the horizon, you’ll ride along serene waters, surrounded by the island's pristine beauty and coastal wildlife. Glide past hidden coves and scenic shorelines while soaking in the golden glow of the evening sky. Once in the designated area, get ready to unleash your thrill-seeking side and zoom across the water on your Jet Ski! Whether you're a seasoned jet skier or a first-time rider, our expert guides will ensure an unforgettable adventure filled with excitement and awe-inspiring views. Don't miss the chance to make memories that will last a lifetime!

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!

If you’re keen to spend some time exploring Daufuskie Island independently, then this is an easy and stress-free option. A great alternative to sightseeing tours, this transport package gives you the freedom to plan your own itinerary. Simply travel on a ferry from Hilton Head to Daufuskie Island, then choose how you spend your day. Possibilities include golf cart rental, or visiting the favorite foodie hotspot of Daufuskie Crab Company.

What sets the Sunday Brunch Cruise apart is the unique opportunity to enjoy a relaxing meal while cruising through the scenic waterways of Hilton Head Island. With stunning views, the chance to spot dolphins, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Lowcountry. Reserved seating, both indoor and shaded outdoor, ensures comfort for everyone, and $10 bottomless mimosas make it an extra special way to start your Sunday.

Soar over Hilton Head Island with a parasailing adventure. Get a bird’s eye view of Calibogue Sound, Harbour Town Lighthouse, and Daufuskie Island during the flight. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins. Take-off and land on the back of a custom parasail boat, or choose to cool off and get wet. Tandem and triple flights are also available for couples or small groups.

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.

Set sail on your own private pontoon boat for up to six hours with training from a local guide. After getting your safety and boating instructions, you’ll head off for your own unique adventure, be it spotting dolphins, taking a dip, or just kicking back and relaxing on the water. The boats are clean and comfortable, and all the safety equipment will be waiting for you on board.

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.