Historical tours on Hilton Head Island offer authentic glimpses into South Carolina’s Lowcountry past. The must-see options include Beaufort’s horse-drawn carriage tours (featuring charming horses like Bandit and Link), which showcase Victorian architecture and local lore in an intimate setting. I’m especially fond of the Daufuskie Island tour – it’s the best way to understand the area’s unique Gullah culture and heritage. For movie buffs, Beaufort’s golf cart history tour reveals filming locations while weaving in historical context. These well-researched excursions each run about 2-3 hours and provide excellent value. Let’s examine the top historical tours worth your time.
Key Points
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Beaufort’s Horse & Carriage History Tour offers an engaging and informative exploration of Beaufort’s history and architecture, with knowledgeable guides and scenic views.
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Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour highlights the Gullah culture and significant sites, with round-trip boat tickets and golf cart exploration included.
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History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart connects the town’s history to Hollywood films, with informative storytelling and an intimate experience.
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Historical Horse Drawn Carriage Tour provides a charming way to explore Beaufort’s historic district, with friendly horses enhancing the experience.
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Beaufort Gullah Heritage Tour offers an educational and enjoyable experience focused on the Gullah culture and history, with wheelchair accessibility and flexible cancellation policies.
Beaufort’s #1 Horse & Carriage History Tour
One of the top historical tours in Hilton Head Island is Beaufort’s #1 Horse & Carriage History Tour.
Rated 4.8 stars with 863 reviews, this 1-hour tour is recommended by 97% of travelers and boasts a Badge of Excellence.
Departing from Beaufort, the tour focuses on the town’s history and architecture, with guides providing engaging storytelling and insights.
Travelers can enjoy scenic views of beautiful old houses and historic sites, as well as learn about specific horses like the intelligent Angus.
While the tour is generally praised for its informative and enthusiastic guides, some reviews suggest checking the historical accuracy of certain content.
Read our full review: Beaufort’s #1 Horse & Carriage History Tour Review
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Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour From Hilton Head
The Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour from Hilton Head provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the remote and historically significant island. Rated 4.8 out of 851 reviews, the half-day tour takes travelers on a journey through the island’s past, immersing them in its Gullah culture.
Highlights include visiting the First African Baptist Church and Mary Fields School, while a knowledgeable historian guide offers insightful commentary. Travelers can expect round-trip boat tickets, a golf cart for island exploration, and complimentary bottled water.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals. With a maximum group size of 16, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience that has earned a 96% traveler recommendation.
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History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart
Exploring Beaufort’s rich history and cinematic pedigree, the History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart offers visitors a captivating and eco-friendly way to discover this charming Southern city.
Boasting a 97% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this 1-hour tour takes guests on an informative journey through Beaufort’s past, covering its plantations, notable homes, and the National Cemetery.
Led by knowledgeable guides praised for their storytelling and accommodating nature, the tour also highlights the town’s connection to Hollywood, sharing engaging anecdotes about movies filmed in the area.
With a maximum capacity of 7 people per booking, this relaxing golf cart experience is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy Beaufort’s unique blend of history and culture.
Read our full review: History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart Review
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1 Historical Horse Drawn Carriage Tour
Hilton Head Island visitors seeking a captivating journey through time can embark on the Historical Horse Drawn Carriage Tour.
The 4.9-rated tour takes guests through Beaufort’s historic district, providing insight into the area’s rich past. With knowledgeable guides and friendly horses like Bandit and Link, the experience is both educational and delightful.
Priced at $35 per person, the tour offers excellent value, with inclusions like fees, taxes, and gratuities.
While the carriage isn’t wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes service animals and infants.
With a 97% recommendation rate and flexible cancellation policies, this historical adventure is a must-do for those seeking an immersive look into Beaufort’s captivating story.
Read our full review: #1 Historical Horse Drawn Carriage Tour Review
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Complete History and Movie Walking Tour of Beaufort
Frequently, visitors to Hilton Head Island embark on the Complete History and Movie Walking Tour of Beaufort, a captivating 100% recommended experience that delves into 300 years of the city’s past.
For $30 per person, travelers explore the historic district, admiring ancient oaks draped in Spanish moss, and visit residences featured in Hollywood films like “Forrest Gump” and “G.I. Jane.”
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour offers flexible departure times and a maximum group size of 10 travelers.
While some reviewers suggest incorporating more movie scene photos, the tour consistently earns praise for its engaging delivery and historical insights.
Wheelchair accessible and operating in all weather conditions, this tour provides an immersive look at Beaufort’s rich heritage.
Read our full review: Complete History and Movie Walking Tour of Beaufort Review
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Beaufort Gullah Heritage Tour
Travelers seeking a deeper understanding of the Gullah culture can embark on the captivating Beaufort Gullah Heritage Tour.
This 4.9-star rated experience takes visitors through significant sites related to Gullah history and tradition. Highlights include visits to praise houses and engaging commentary from knowledgeable guides.
The tour, priced at $49 per person, accommodates up to 14 travelers and departs at 10 AM from Beaufort.
With wheelchair accessibility and a cancellation policy allowing free changes up to 24 hours prior, the tour offers a convenient and inclusive way to explore the Gullah heritage.
Reviewers praise the educational and fun nature of the experience, making it a must-do activity for those interested in the rich cultural tapestry of Hilton Head Island.
Read our full review: Beaufort Gullah Heritage Tour Review
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Guided Historical Bus and Boat Cruise Tour in Beaufort
What better way to explore the rich history of Beaufort than through the Guided Historical Bus and Boat Cruise Tour? This tour offers a unique experience, combining a bus and boat ride to showcase the area’s historical landmarks.
For $63 per person, visitors can embark on this 20-person maximum tour, which is wheelchair and stroller accessible. The boat portion is available only on specific days, so booking in advance is recommended.
While gratuity and parking costs aren’t included, all fees and taxes are covered. Moderate physical fitness is required, and infants must sit on laps.
With a 4.0 overall rating, this tour provides an immersive way to discover Beaufort’s captivating past.
Read our full review: Guided Historical Bus and Boat Cruise Tour in Beaufort Review
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The Sum Up
Hilton Head Island and the surrounding Beaufort area offer a range of historical tours that immerse visitors in the region’s rich past. From horse-drawn carriage rides to guided bus and boat cruises, these tours provide an engaging and informative way to explore the area’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in architecture, Gullah heritage, or movie filming locations, there’s a tour to suit your interests and make the most of your time in this historic part of the Lowcountry.