Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island offer a treasure trove of history, natural beauty, and coastal charm. The "Get Out of Town! Lighthouses, Beaches and Forts Tour" promises to whisk visitors away on a guided adventure that unveils the rich past of this picturesque region. From iconic lighthouses to the storied Fort Moultrie and The Citadel, this tour promises to captivate the senses and leave you eager to uncover more of the area’s hidden gems.
Key Points
-
This private guided tour takes visitors from Charleston to explore the historical sites of Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island, including forts, lighthouses, and beaches.
-
The tour covers the key highlights of the area, such as Fort Moultrie, The Citadel military college, and the scenic Folly Beach and Morris Island lighthouses.
-
The tour provides a personalized experience with a small group size, local snacks, and bottled water, as well as knowledgeable and friendly guides.
-
The tour is highly rated by past guests, with praise for the informative and enjoyable nature of the experience.
-
The tour offers flexibility with free cancellation, payment options, and the ability to accommodate special requests from guests.
Tour Overview and Highlights
This private guided tour from Charleston takes visitors to the nearby coastal communities of Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island.
Travelers will explore Fort Moultrie’s historical significance during the Revolution and Civil War, and tour The Citadel military college campus.
They’ll walk across Folly Beach’s dunes and fishing pier, and stop at two lighthouses, including one of the nation’s oldest on Morris Island.
The tour includes local snacks, bottled water, and gratuities, with a maximum of 8 travelers per group.
Highly rated with a badge of excellence, the knowledgeable and friendly guides provide a personalized, fun, and informative experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Charleston.
Meeting and Pickup Information
The tour begins at the Charleston Visitor Center, located at 375 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29403.
There’s ample parking available at the center. Guests will depart from the meeting point and return there at the end of the tour.
Confirmation of the booking is received at the time of reservation.
The tour covers sights around Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island, including historic forts, lighthouses, and the Citadel campus.
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience with knowledgeable and friendly guides.
Tour Experience and Feedback
With a highly rated 4.9-star average based on 38 reviews, this tour comes highly recommended by 97% of guests.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, particularly Leanne, describing the experience as fun, informative, and a great way to see lesser-known attractions.
Many reviews highlight the personalized nature of the tour and the opportunity for photos. Guests appreciate the included bottled water and snacks, and the tour’s proximity to public transportation.
The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.
Additional Features and Amenities
Bottled water and snacks are included on the tour, providing a refreshing and convenient respite during the exploration of Charleston’s landmarks.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Accessibility | Not wheelchair accessible, but service animals allowed |
Transportation | Near public transportation |
Cancellation | Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour |
Payment | Option to reserve now and pay later for flexibility |
Customization | Guests encouraged to contact the guide for special needs or personalized requests |
The tour’s additional amenities ensure a comfortable and convenient experience for all guests, allowing them to focus on the rich history and natural beauty of the Charleston region.
Pricing and Tour Options
The tour price starts from $85.00 per person.
Guests can consider booking an earlier tour to avoid crowds and intense heat. Those seeking a more in-depth experience can opt for the longer 6.5-hour version of the tour.
The company encourages guests to contact the guide for any special needs or personalized requests.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour and the option to reserve now and pay later, the Lighthouses, Beaches and Forts Tour offers flexibility and convenience for visitors to Charleston.
- Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour
- Daytime Horse-Drawn Carriage Sightseeing Tour of Historic Charleston
- Haunted Evening Horse and Carriage Tour of Charleston
- Hidden Alleyways and Historic Sites Small-Group Walking Tour
- Charleston Marsh Eco Boat Cruise With Stop at Morris Island Lighthouse
- Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour With Roundtrip Ferry
Fort Moultrie: A Historical Gem
Fort Moultrie stands as a historical gem on Sullivan’s Island, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s pivotal role during the American Revolution and Civil War.
The fortress withstood the British bombardment during the Battle of Sullivan’s Island in 1776, a crucial victory that inspired the state’s motto, "While I Breathe, I Hope."
Visitors can explore the fort’s well-preserved structures, including:
- The iconic palmetto-log walls that inspired the state flag’s design.
- The underground bombproof shelter that protected soldiers during intense bombardments.
- Exhibits showcasing the fort’s central role in coastal defense throughout the 19th century.
The Citadel: Exploring Military Traditions
As part of the tour, visitors have the opportunity to explore The Citadel, a renowned military college steeped in rich traditions.
Guests can wander the historic campus, taking in the grand architecture and seeing the institution’s storied past. They’ll learn about the rigorous cadet training program and the school’s role in shaping future military leaders.
The tour provides a fascinating glimpse into the discipline, honor, and sense of duty that define The Citadel experience. It’s a chance to gain a deeper appreciation for the military heritage that has made this college a revered institution in the region.
Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island: Coastal Treasures
On the tour, visitors explore the coastal treasures of Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island. They walk across Folly Beach’s dunes and pier, taking in panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
The tour then visits:
- Fort Moultrie, a historic fort with significance during the Revolution and Civil War.
- Two lighthouses, including one of the nation’s oldest on Morris Island.
- The Citadel military college campus, providing a glimpse into the institution’s rich history and traditions.
Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable guide offers fascinating insights and opportunities for photos, creating a personalized and immersive experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?
The tour does not specifically mention any discounts for children or seniors. However, guests are encouraged to contact the guide for any special needs or personalized requests, which may include discounted pricing considerations.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?
While the tour includes bottled water and snacks, guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks if they prefer. The tour experience is designed to be flexible and accommodate individual preferences.
Are There Any Covid-19 Protocols in Place?
The tour company follows all local COVID-19 safety protocols, which may include masks and social distancing. Guests are encouraged to contact the tour provider for the latest updates on any pandemic-related requirements or guidelines.
How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location?
The tour spends varying amounts of time at each location, allowing guests to fully explore Fort Moultrie, The Citadel campus, Folly Beach, and the two lighthouses. The guides provide ample time for discovery while maintaining an engaging and efficient pace.
Is There an Option to Stay Longer at Certain Sites?
Yes, the tour allows flexibility for guests to spend more time at certain sites. The guide encourages travelers to contact them about personalized requests or the desire for a more in-depth, 6.5-hour version of the tour.
Recap
This guided tour from Folly Beach to Sullivan’s Island offers an immersive experience that showcases the region’s natural wonders and rich history. Visitors can marvel at picturesque lighthouses, stroll along scenic beaches, and explore the historic Fort Moultrie and The Citadel military college. With personalized attention from knowledgeable guides, this tour provides an intimate and unforgettable glimpse into the coastal gems of South Carolina.
More Tours in Charleston
- Private Luxury Afternoon Harbor Tour On Sailing Yacht Fate BYOB
- Private Afternoon Sailing/Dolphin & History Tours on Mystique
- Charleston Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour
- Charleston Gardens & Architecture 2 Hour Small Group Walking Tour
- Charleston Self Guided Walking Tour
- Charleston History and Historic Gossip Tour
More Tour Reviews in Charleston
- Narrated Haunted Ghost Cruise of Charleston Harbor
- Small-Group Tour: Charleston Old Walled City Historical Walking Tour
- Charleston Haunted Horse and Carriage Evening Tour
- Charleston Haunted Jail Night-Time Walking Tour With Admission to Old City Jail
- Drayton Hall Admission Ticket With Interpreter-Guided Tour
- Storied Charleston Walking Tour by Author Liz Duren
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Charleston we have recnetly reviewed
- 5 Best Dinner Tours In Charleston
- 2 Best Shopping Tours In Charleston
- 6 Best Dining Experiences In Charleston
- 2 Best Jet-Ski Experiences In Charleston
- 2 Best Lunch Experiences In Charleston
- 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Charleston
- 12 Best Food Tours In Charleston
- Jet Ski Rentals
- Half Day Party Bus Brewery Tour of Charleston
- Unique Scavenger Hunt in North Charleston by Zombie Scavengers
- Lowcountry History Strolls
- Charleston City Scavenger Hunt by Crazy Dash