Savvy travelers know Hilton Head Island’s best experiences come through its excellent guided tours. The most worthwhile options include kayak nature tours through peaceful marshlands – perfect for spotting dolphins and coastal birds up close. The boat-based dolphin watching tours are reliable and fascinating, typically lasting 90 minutes. For history buffs, Daufuskie Island tours are a must, offering authentic glimpses into the area’s Gullah culture. Local craft beverage tours showcase the island’s emerging brewery scene, with generous tastings and expert commentary. Smart travelers book these tours early, especially during peak season. Let’s explore our favorite Hilton Head Island tours.
Key Points
- The Hilton Head Guided Kayak Tours offer a 2-hour nature experience with a 99% recommendation rate, showcasing wildlife like birds and dolphins.
- The Eco-Friendly Kayak Experiences provide 1.5-hour guided tours supporting manatee rescue and featuring wildlife sightings of herons, egrets, and dolphins.
- The Dolphin Watching Boat Tours offer a 1.5-hour guided tour focusing on Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, with highly rated knowledgeable local guides.
- The Daufuskie Island History Tours provide a guided exploration of Gullah history, with round-trip boat transportation and golf cart for island exploration.
- The Guided Liquor and Beer Tasting Tour offers a 2.5-hour experience with 7 samples at a distillery and 1 beer at a brewery, catering to up to 14 travelers.
2-Hour Hilton Head Guided Kayak Nature Tour
The 2-Hour Hilton Head Guided Kayak Nature Tour offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the serene Broad Creek Wildlife Area. With over 1,495 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence.
Led by professional naturalist guides, guests can expect to observe a variety of local wildlife, including birds and Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, as well as learn about the area’s rich ecology and history.
The tour is suitable for all skill levels, with no prior kayaking experience necessary. Included equipment, such as kayaks, paddles, and personal flotation devices, ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.
Participants should dress in smart casual attire and be prepared for a moderate level of physical activity. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
With a maximum of 15 travelers and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a flexible and personalized nature exploration opportunity for visitors to Hilton Head Island.
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Hilton Head Island: Dolphin Watching Guided Tour by Boat
A 1.5-hour dolphin watching guided tour by boat offers visitors to Hilton Head Island a unique opportunity to observe Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, pelicans, stingrays, and turtles in their natural habitat.
The tour, priced from $39.99 per person, departs from Lowcountry Watersports and covers key locations like Calibogue Sound, Harbour Town Lighthouse, and Daufuskie Island. Fully narrated by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour provides insight into the local ecosystem, history, and wildlife.
Passengers can enjoy comfortable seating and fun music during the journey. With an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 563 reviews, the tour is praised for its guide expertise and wildlife sightings.
However, it may not be suitable for those prone to motion sickness, as the boat lacks a ramp and requires climbing stairs. The tour is subject to weather conditions, and the captain will inform participants of any changes.
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Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour From Hilton Head
Daufuskie Island, accessible only by boat from Hilton Head Island, offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Lowcountry region. The Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour from Hilton Head is a popular and highly-rated excursion, boasting 855 reviews with a 96% traveler recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence.
The tour includes round-trip boat transportation, a golf cart for island exploration, and an informative guide who shares the island’s Gullah history and local connections. Travelers can expect an approximately 1.5-hour boat ride each way and a maximum group size of 16 people.
The tour also provides bottled water, an iced cooler, and a lunch option. Visitors are advised to dress warmly, bring snacks or a packed lunch, and use the restroom before departure.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly, and service animals are allowed. This guided history tour offers an immersive and enjoyable experience for those interested in exploring the unique heritage of Daufuskie Island.
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Hilton Head Island: Guided Kayak Tour With Coffee
Situated along the picturesque Broad Creek in Hilton Head Island, the Guided Kayak Tour with Coffee offers an immersive and eco-friendly experience for nature enthusiasts.
Led by knowledgeable naturalist guides, this 1.5-hour excursion allows participants to explore the island’s marshes and spot an array of local wildlife, including herons, egrets, brown pelicans, bald eagles, and Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins.
The tour includes the use of single or tandem kayaks, life vests, and paddles, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. Guests can also enjoy locally brewed coffee, with each cup contributing to manatee rescue efforts.
The tour departs from Lowcountry Watersports on Broad Creek and returns to the same location after the tour.
While the activity is suitable for most participants, there are some restrictions, such as a weight limit of 350 lbs per kayak and a minimum age requirement of 5 for tandem kayakers.
Guests are advised to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing for a memorable and eco-conscious experience.
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Hilton Head Island Guided Water Tour by Creek Cat Boat
One of the most popular guided water tours on Hilton Head Island is the Guided Water Tour by Creek Cat Boat. This 2-hour experience takes visitors on a scenic adventure around the island’s waterways aboard small, motorized creek cat boats.
The tour departs from multiple locations, with the main meeting point at 86 Helmsman Way. Groups are capped at 20 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
During the tour, guests can expect to spot a variety of wildlife, including egrets, eagles, ospreys, otters, and dolphins, as they visit Harbour Town, Daufuskie Island, and smaller marshes.
Participants will also be treated to beautiful sunset views and the unique landscapes of Hilton Head. The tour is supervised by professional guides and is suitable for first-time drivers, with a maximum weight limit of 250 lbs per passenger.
Complimentary bottled water, hotel pickup/dropoff, and gratuities are included, and the activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
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Hilton Head Island: 1.5-Hour Guided Small-Group Kayak Tour
The Hilton Head Island: 1.5-Hour Guided Small-Group Kayak Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the serene waterways of Broad Creek. Priced from $45 per person, this guided tour accommodates up to 10 participants in single or tandem kayaks.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides insights into the local history and ecology, with the chance to spot diverse wildlife like herons, egrets, and dolphins.
The tour’s booking process is straightforward – reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. However, the activity isn’t suitable for young children or those with certain physical limitations.
Participants should come prepared with recommended items like sunglasses and sun protection.
Reviews for the tour are overwhelmingly positive, with guests praising the guides’ expertise and the overall value for money.
Whether you’re seeking a relaxing paddle or a chance to learn about the local environment, this Hilton Head Island kayak tour promises an engaging and memorable experience.
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Hilton Head Guided Kayak Tour
For those seeking a guided exploration of Hilton Head Island’s serene waterways, the Hilton Head Guided Kayak Tour offers an engaging and immersive experience. This 4.5-star rated tour, with 111 reviews, takes small groups of up to 15 participants on a journey through Skull Creek and the surrounding saltwater marshlands.
Along the way, paddlers can expect to spot an array of wildlife, including brown pelicans, egrets, herons, osprey, bald eagles, and even Atlantic bottlenose dolphins.
The tour departs from the Hilton Head Harbor, where participants check in at the yellow “Island Head” building before embarking on their adventure. Despite not being wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level.
Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the local ecology and assist inexperienced kayakers, ensuring a relaxing and enriching experience on the calm waters. With a price starting from $43.46 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a convenient and affordable way to explore the natural beauty of Hilton Head Island.
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Hilton Head: Guided Kayak Sunrise or Sunset Tour
Though the Hilton Head Guided Kayak Tour offers a serene exploration of the island’s waterways, the Hilton Head: Guided Kayak Sunrise or Sunset Tour provides a unique opportunity to witness the stunning natural beauty of Hilton Head Island from a different perspective.
This 1.5-hour guided tour is limited to just 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. As the sun rises or sets, paddlers can spot local wildlife like birds and dolphins while learning about the area’s ecosystem.
Transportation, equipment, and even hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making this tour a hassle-free way to enjoy the marshes and creeks of Skull Creek.
While the tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 or those with mobility issues, it’s an ideal experience for participants aged 12 and older.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guides and excellent value, this guided kayak tour is a must-do activity for visitors to Hilton Head Island.
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Hilton Head Morning Kayaking & Coffee Guided Tour
Start your day in Hilton Head Island with the exhilarating Hilton Head Morning Kayaking & Coffee Guided Tour. This 4.7/5 rated tour takes you on a journey through the island’s marshes and creeks, offering a glimpse into the local ecology.
Fueled by a morning coffee, you’ll explore the waters while keeping an eye out for wildlife, including birds and dolphins.
The tour is conducted in small groups, ensuring personalized attention from the knowledgeable guides. All necessary equipment, including kayaks, life jackets, and paddles, is provided.
With a maximum of 12 travelers per tour, you’ll enjoy a leisurely and relaxing experience. However, please note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with certain health conditions.
Customer reviews praise the guides’ informative and friendly approach, as well as the memorable wildlife encounters.
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Hilton Head Island: 2-Hour Guided Creek Cat Tour
Adventurous travelers can captain their own Creek Cat, a unique water-based vehicle akin to a go-kart, during the 2-Hour Guided Creek Cat Tour on Hilton Head Island. Priced from $145 per person, this 2-hour experience allows participants to reach speeds up to 30 mph as they explore the local waterways.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides insights into the island’s history, ecology, and abundant wildlife, including sightings of Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins, egrets, eagles, ospreys, and otters. Key highlights include the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse, Daufuskie Island, and Bull Island.
The tour includes transportation, bottled water, and hotel pickup and drop-off, though food and tips aren’t covered. Certain restrictions apply, making the tour unsuitable for children under 5, pregnant women, and those with specific health concerns or over 250 lbs.
With an impressive 4.8/5 overall rating from 51 reviews, this guided Creek Cat tour offers a thrilling and informative way to discover the natural wonders of Hilton Head Island.
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Hilton Head Guided Stand Up Paddleboard Tour
Travelers seeking a tranquil way to explore Hilton Head Island’s picturesque waterways can embark on the Hilton Head Guided Stand Up Paddleboard Tour. This 92% traveler-recommended experience offers a guided stand-up paddleboard tour through the island’s Skull Creek, with a small group size of up to 8 participants for personalized attention.
The tour provides all necessary paddleboarding equipment, and instruction is available for beginners. Guests can expect to see local wildlife, including Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and sea birds, while enjoying the calm waters.
The meeting point is at the Island Head, 43 Jenkins Rd, Hilton Head Island, where guests check in outside the yellow harbormaster building.
The 4.8-star rated tour starts at $43.46 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience. Travelers have praised the knowledgeable guides and the overall enjoyable experience, though some have provided feedback on equipment condition and challenges with wind and tide.
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Hilton Head: Guided Disappearing Island Tour by Mini Boat
For those seeking a unique way to explore Hilton Head Island’s stunning natural surroundings, the Guided Disappearing Island Tour by Mini Boat provides an unforgettable experience.
This 2-hour tour allows visitors to cruise to a remote island that’s only accessible during low tide, offering a chance to discover the area’s diverse wildlife and natural beauty.
Departing from Hilton Head, guests board a small, eco-friendly mini boat and embark on an adventure through the island’s intricate waterways. Along the way, they may spot dolphins, birds, and other marine life in their natural habitat.
The tour culminates with the opportunity to disembark and explore the Disappearing Island, a one-of-a-kind destination that vanishes as the tide rises.
With its affordable starting price of $55 per person, the Guided Disappearing Island Tour provides an affordable and unique way to take in Hilton Head’s captivating coastal ecosystem.
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Hilton Head Guided Sunset Creek Cat Tour
As the sun dips below the horizon, the Hilton Head Guided Sunset Creek Cat Tour offers visitors a captivating way to experience the island’s pristine waterways. This 2-hour guided tour explores the scenic creeks, including Harbourtown, Daufuskie Island, and South Beach, with a focus on the area’s abundant nature and wildlife, particularly the iconic Atlantic bottlenose dolphins.
Accommodating a maximum of 275 lbs per passenger, the small group tour allows for personalized attention from the knowledgeable guides. Travelers will cruise aboard a 30 HP motorized Creek Cat, equipped with bottled water and life jackets.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, it’s suitable for passengers aged 5 and up with a valid driver’s license.
With an overall 4.5-star rating from 28 reviews, the tour promises close encounters with dolphins, though some guests have reported mixed experiences with wildlife sightings and water conditions.
Booking options include a lowest price guarantee and reserve now, pay later options.
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Guided Reconstruction City Walking Tour in Beaufort
Though just a short drive from the beaches of Hilton Head Island, the Guided Reconstruction City Walking Tour in Beaufort immerses visitors in the captivating history of this charming coastal town.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour takes a maximum of 20 travelers on a journey through Beaufort’s architectural gems and the city’s remarkable reconstruction after the Civil War.
Conveniently meeting at 928 Bay Street, the tour includes all fees, taxes, and gratuities, making it a hassle-free experience.
The tour is accessible, accommodating wheelchair users, stroller-pushers, and service animals, though it’s not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions due to the uneven terrain.
With three glowing 5-star reviews, this tour offers an engaging and immersive glimpse into Beaufort’s past, perfect for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.
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Hilton Head Guided Pedego Electric Bike Tour
The Hilton Head Guided Pedego Electric Bike Tour offers visitors a unique and eco-friendly way to explore the picturesque island. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars from 59 reviews, this 97% recommended tour takes participants on a scenic journey through the island’s natural beauty.
Led by certified guides, the tour provides informative commentary on Hilton Head’s history, nature, and wildlife, including opportunities to observe birds and alligators. The easy-to-operate Pedego electric bikes are suitable for all skill levels, allowing adventurers to effortlessly navigate the scenic routes.
While some participants noted issues with hearing the guide during the ride, the overall feedback praises the knowledgeable and friendly guides, as well as the fun, relaxing, and educational experience.
Priced at $95 per person with a lowest price guarantee, the tour is a must-do activity for those seeking to explore Hilton Head Island in a unique and sustainable way.
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Hilton Head Guided Kayak Eco Tour
For those seeking a more serene and eco-friendly way to explore Hilton Head Island, the Hilton Head Guided Kayak Eco Tour offers an immersive experience on the water.
This 90-minute tour takes visitors through the island’s waterways and inlets, providing opportunities to spot dolphins, sharks, and other local wildlife. Led by professional guides, the tour includes all necessary equipment, including kayaks and life jackets.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, it’s suitable for participants aged 5 and up, with a maximum weight limit of 400 lbs per kayak.
With a maximum group size of 16, the tour offers a more intimate experience, though some reviews suggest challenges in hearing the guides on the water.
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Hilton Head Honey Horn Admission With Guided Tour
Visitors seeking to experience the historic grounds, salt marsh, architecture, and gardens of Hilton Head’s Coastal Discovery Museum can do so with the Honey Horn Admission With Guided Tour.
This 97% traveler-recommended experience provides a guided exploration of the museum’s notable areas, including the Camille Garden and butterfly habitat. With a price of $12 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour offers excellent value.
Guests can expect a personalized narrative from knowledgeable guides, who provide in-depth local history and insights into the ecosystem and conservation efforts.
The tour, which accommodates up to 12 travelers and is wheelchair and stroller accessible, concludes back at the Coastal Discovery Museum.
Reviewers praise the guides’ expertise, pacing, and engaging presentations, highlighting the informative talks, humor, and interactive experiences.
Families and history enthusiasts will particularly enjoy this comprehensive tour of Honey Horn.
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Sunset Guided Kayak Tour 90 Minutes
Embarking on a 90-minute sunset kayak tour, visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of Hilton Head Island‘s waterways.
Operated by Island Head, this guided tour offers a unique perspective on the island’s natural landscapes. Priced at £43.58 per person, the Sunset Guided Kayak Tour is likely to sell out, so advance booking is recommended.
The tour departs from the meeting point outside the yellow harbor master building at 43 Jenkins Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926, USA, and returns to the same location.
With all gear provided and a knowledgeable guide, participants can enjoy the experience without any hassle. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start of the tour, and the option to reserve now and pay later is available.
With an overall rating of 4.3 based on 6 reviews, the Sunset Guided Kayak Tour promises an unforgettable experience on Hilton Head Island.
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Guided Historical Bus and Boat Cruise Tour in Beaufort
The Guided Historical Bus and Boat Cruise Tour in Beaufort offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and scenic beauty of the surrounding area.
This limited-time tour, available only on Mondays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, takes travelers on a journey through Hilton Head Island’s past.
The experience begins with a guided historical bus tour, followed by a boat cruise along the waterways. With a maximum group size of 20 travelers, the tour provides an intimate and personalized experience.
Priced at €65.48 per person, the tour includes all fees and taxes, making it a budget-friendly option.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, as the boat portion may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
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Guided Liquor and Beer Tasting Tour in Beaufort
Although the Guided Liquor and Beer Tasting Tour in Beaufort lasts 2.5 hours, it packs a punch with 7 samples at RLB Distillery and 1 flagship beer at Shellring Ale Works. Priced at $58.85 per person, the tour accommodates up to 14 travelers and departs from Kelly Tours Beaufort, where you’ll find red, white, and blue rocking chairs in front of the building.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. Pregnant travelers aren’t recommended to participate. Most travelers, however, can enjoy the experience.
With a perfect 5-star rating from 2 reviews, the tour has received praise for its great guide, wonderful history, and beautiful weather.
The tour ends back at the meeting point, providing a convenient start and finish. Guests can look forward to a delightful exploration of Beaufort’s liquor and beer scene on this highly rated guided experience.
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The Sum Up
Hilton Head Island and the surrounding areas offer a wide range of guided tours for visitors. From kayaking through nature to exploring historic Daufuskie Island, there are plenty of options to suit different interests and activity levels. The guided tours provide an informative and hassle-free way to discover the natural beauty and rich history of the region.