Top Hilton Head Island Water Tours

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.

Cruise down Broad Creek off Hilton Head Island—and leave the navigation and logistics to someone else—on this boat tour. Spot dolphins, shore birds, and other wildlife on this family-friendly tour by experienced local operators and a knowledgeable captain and crew, who share facts and insights along the way.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

Experience the magic of a Sip & Sunset - BYOB Adults only Dolphin Cruise on Hilton Head Island, where breathtaking coastal views meet great music for an unforgettable evening on the water. As the sun dips below the horizon, casting vibrant hues across the sky, relax aboard this fun and comfortable cruise while enjoying a curated music list. Glide through the scenic waterways of the Lowcountry, spotting playful dolphins and taking in panoramic views of the island’s pristine coastline. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply unwinding after a day of exploring, this Hilton Head sunset cruise offers the perfect blend of relaxation, fun & coastal charm.

Start your day off on the right foot with a relaxing kayak tour through the waterways of Hilton Head. Join a small group and grab a cup of coffee to energize you before setting off. Then, explore the marshes and broad creeks of the region, learning about the local area from your guide.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Take part in an authentic Lowcountry travel experience with this shrimping tour from Hilton Head Island. Join a crew on board a fishing boat and head out on the salt marshes for a chance to catch shrimp and fish, and learn about the environment and wildlife as you go. After the trip, hang out and enjoy a day pass to the Sea Pines Resort.

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.

Experience the serene beauty of Hilton Head Island’s Lowcountry on a guided sunrise kayak eco tour. As the first rays of light illuminate the marshlands, paddle through calm, winding waterways rich with natural wonders. Your journey begins in the soft morning light, where the tranquil environment comes alive with the sounds of nature. Watch as graceful egrets, blue herons, and playful dolphins begin their day, while expert guides share fascinating insights into the unique ecosystem of the tidal creeks and salt marshes. Marvel at the golden reflections on the water and enjoy the peace of being surrounded by the untouched beauty of the Lowcountry. This unforgettable tour is ideal for all skill levels and provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature in one of South Carolina’s most picturesque settings. Bring your curiosity, a sense of adventure, and a desire to explore Hilton Head’s vibrant natural world at its most peaceful hour.

Combine Costal Expedition's 90-minute Dolphin & History Boat Cruise with a Historic Bus Tour of the City of Beaufort. Departing, from the downtown Beaufort Marina at the Waterfront Park (1006 Bay St), this Land & Sea tour is a fun and family-friendly escape. Take our air-conditioned bus on a Historic Tour of the City of Beaufort at either 10 am or 12:30 pm. Then take a break for lunch or to walk around the park before your 3 pm Boat Cruise along the waterway. You will get another perspective of Beaufort's incredible history and abundant wildlife. Learn stories about Native Americans, Spanish exploration, French settlement, and English colonization - all while seeing playful dolphins, bald eagles, and ospreys. This 90-minute cruise is a relaxing–and cool–break from land that will entertain the whole family! **The boat only goes out on certain days of the week, so please expect a call from a Kelly associate to clarify scheduling.

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*

Set out on a 2-hour private cruise from Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, in search of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. Board your vessel and cruise past the Harbour Town Lighthouse and Daufuskie Island. While you sail, watch for playful dolphins and other local wildlife like bald eagles.

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.

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

Glide through scenic salt-marsh creeks and open coastal waters on this guided jet-ski adventure around Hilton Head Island, starting from Palmetto Bay Marina. Ride through winding waterways toward Bull Creek and Calibogue Sound — keep an eye out for dolphins, pelicans, herons, and other wildlife as you speed across calm water, all under the watchful eye of your instructor.

***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!