The historic tours of Hilton Head Island and its surroundings offer remarkable value for history buffs. Three standout experiences lead the pack: The fascinating Daufuskie Island tour reveals authentic African American history and the area’s intriguing indigo trade. Beaufort’s antebellum tours, available by golf cart or horse-drawn carriage, showcase grand plantations and historic churches while highlighting famous movie locations. The excellent Gullah Heritage Tour provides an authentic look at this unique coastal culture. These carefully curated experiences explore centuries of Lowcountry history with expert local guides. Check our recommended tours below for specific times and booking details.
Good To Know
Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour offers a scenic boat ride and golf cart exploration with a focus on African American heritage and indigo school.
History and Movie Tour of Beaufort provides an engaging and educational experience highlighting the town’s charm through anecdotes about local history and films.
Beaufort Small-Group Historic Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour offers a captivating anecdotal journey through historic sites, with positive interactions with the horses.
Beaufort’s #1 Horse & Carriage History Tour covers Antebellum South and Civil War sites with a personalized experience for groups of up to 16 people.
Beaufort Gullah Heritage Tour immerses visitors in the local Gullah culture, highlighting the history, traditions, and language of this unique community.
Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour From Hilton Head
For those seeking to enjoy the rich history and captivating culture of the Lowcountry, the Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour from Hilton Head stands out as a must-do experience.
With an impressive 851 reviews and a 96% traveler recommendation, this tour boasts a Badge of Excellence. Priced at $115 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 16 guests and offers free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling.
Highlights include a scenic boat ride, golf cart exploration, and engaging historical insights from knowledgeable guides praised for their storytelling abilities.
Visitors can expect to discover the island’s African American heritage, visit the indigo school, and receive recommendations for further learning.
Read our full review: Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour From Hilton Head Review
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History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart
The History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart offers visitors a delightful and informative exploration of this charming South Carolina town.
The one-hour tour takes guests on a relaxing ride in a Yamaha golf cart, covering the town’s rich history, including plantations, churches, and the national cemetery. Knowledgeable guides share engaging anecdotes and movie facts, highlighting the area’s role as a filming location.
With a 97% recommendation rate and an exceptional 5.0 overall rating, this tour is a must-do for visitors to Hilton Head.
Whether you’re interested in history, movies, or simply experiencing the beauty of Beaufort, this tour delivers an enjoyable and educational experience.
Read our full review: History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart Review
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Beaufort Small-Group Historic Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour – Hilton Head Island
Beaufort’s rich history and charming streets come alive during the Beaufort Small-Group Historic Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour. This highly-rated 5-star experience takes visitors on a delightful journey through the town’s highlights.
With knowledgeable guides, guests learn captivating anecdotes about historic homes and buildings. The tour’s leisurely pace and engaging storytelling make it a hit with history buffs and families alike.
Travelers rave about the positive interactions with the horses, particularly “Link” and “Bandit.” At $35 per person, this 90-minute tour offers excellent value, with all fees, taxes, and gratuities included.
Wheelchair inaccessible but welcoming of service animals, the tour is a must-do for those seeking an authentic taste of Beaufort’s past.
Read our full review: Beaufort Small-Group Historic Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour – Hilton Head Island Review
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Beaufort’s #1 Horse & Carriage History Tour
Travelers seeking an immersive journey into Beaufort’s storied past will find the Beaufort’s #1 Horse & Carriage History Tour a captivating experience.
Boasting 863 reviews and a 97% recommendation rate, this top-rated tour takes guests on a relaxing ride through the historic district, where they’ll learn about the Antebellum South and visit Civil War sites, historic churches, and movie locations.
With a maximum group size of 16, the tour offers a personalized experience led by knowledgeable and engaging guides.
Covering more ground than a walking tour, this 1-hour experience provides excellent value at $35 per person, making it a must-do activity for visitors to Hilton Head Island.
Read our full review: Beaufort’s #1 Horse & Carriage History Tour Review
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Beaufort Gullah Heritage Tour
An immersive cultural exploration awaits visitors on the Beaufort Gullah Heritage Tour, an acclaimed experience that delves into the rich history and traditions of the Gullah people.
Consistently rated 5 out of 5 stars by travelers, the tour offers an engaging and educational journey through Beaufort’s Gullah heritage. Guests can expect knowledgeable and entertaining guides, air-conditioned comfort, and a maximum group size of 14 for an intimate experience.
Highlights include visits to praise houses and opportunities to learn the Gullah language, providing invaluable insights into the local culture and cuisine.
Whether an avid historian or a curious traveler, this tour promises a truly memorable and enlightening adventure.
Read our full review: Beaufort Gullah Heritage Tour Review
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Guided Historical Bus and Boat Cruise Tour in Beaufort
The Guided Historical Bus and Boat Cruise Tour provides an immersive exploration of Beaufort’s rich history and scenic waterways. Priced at €60.64 per person, the tour offers a maximum of 20 travelers a chance to discover the area’s past through a guided bus and boat experience.
While the boat portion is only available on select days, the tour includes all fees and taxes, making it a convenient and inclusive option. Wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as the allowance of service animals, ensure the tour caters to diverse needs.
With a 4.0 rating and free cancellation policies, this tour is a compelling choice for those seeking an engaging historical adventure in Hilton Head Island.
Read our full review: Guided Historical Bus and Boat Cruise Tour in Beaufort Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Choose the Best Historical Tour for My Interests?
To choose the best historical tour for your interests, consider the tour’s focus, duration, reviews, and cost. Reflect on what aspects of history most intrigue you, then select a tour that aligns with your preferences and provides an engaging, informative experience.
Can I Customize the Tour to Focus on Specific Historical Periods?
Yes, many historical tour companies in Hilton Head Island offer customizable tours that allow you to focus on specific historical periods or themes that interest you. This provides a personalized experience tailored to your preferences.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible, and What Accommodations Are Available?
Many historical tours on Hilton Head Island offer wheelchair accessibility and accommodations. Visitors should inquire about specific tour details to ensure their needs are met. Companies often provide options to customize tours and focus on areas of historical interest.
What Should I Bring or Wear for a Comfortable Tour Experience?
For a comfortable tour experience, visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes, bring sunscreen, a hat, and water. They should also dress in layers as the weather can change throughout the day.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals for Multiple Historical Tours?
Many historical tour companies offer discounts or package deals for visitors interested in taking multiple tours. Travelers can often save money by purchasing tickets in advance or bundling multiple tours together. It’s worth inquiring about any available discounts or promotions.
The Sum Up
Hilton Head Island and the surrounding areas offer a wealth of historical tours, from guided boat and bus tours to horse-drawn carriage rides. Whether you’re interested in the Gullah culture, movie sets, or the colonial history of Beaufort, there’s a tour to suit your interests. With knowledgeable guides and immersive experiences, these tours provide a captivating glimpse into the region’s past.