Tea Plantation and Winery Tour in Charleston

When it comes to experiencing Charleston beyond its charming streets and historic landmarks, a Tea Plantation and Winery Tour offers a refreshing and flavorful escape. Based on enthusiastic traveler reviews, this 5-hour adventure combines natural beauty, unique educational insights, and a taste of Southern hospitality, making it an ideal choice for lovers of both tea and wine.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is its combination of outdoor sights with behind-the-scenes experiences—from the majestic Angel Oak Tree to America’s only tea plantation, plus a local vineyard. The luxury transportation, including air-conditioned comfort and a small group setting, ensures a relaxed and intimate day. However, if you’re not a fan of guided tours or prefer more flexibility, you might find the scheduled stops a bit rigid. Still, for those who want a well-rounded day with knowledgeable guides and authentic local flavors, this tour hits the mark perfectly.

This experience is best suited for wine and tea enthusiasts, nature lovers, and history buffs looking for a taste of Charleston’s scenic surroundings with an educational twist. It’s also great for visitors wanting a comprehensive, stress-free day out, without worrying about planning all the logistics themselves.

Good To Know

• Small group size enhances personal interaction and a more tailored experience.
• Expert guides and founder narration add depth and authenticity to the tour.
• Visiting the Angel Oak Tree offers stunning photo opportunities and a sense of history.
• Unlimited tea tasting at the Charleston Tea Plantation delivers refreshment and education.
• Vineyard visit provides a relaxed setting for wine tasting or photos, with optional tastings available.
• The luxury transport makes the journey comfortable, with air-conditioning and snacks included.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Angel Oak Tree: A 500-Year-Old Marvel

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Angel Oak Tree, a true Lowcountry icon. Standing as the oldest live oak in the United States, this tree’s sprawling branches and centuries of history make it a must-see. The 15-minute stop is perfect for snapping memorable photos—just be sure to bring your camera or smartphone. The site offers free admission, making it an easy, no-cost highlight that sets a tranquil, awe-inspiring tone for the day.

A review describes it as “a great opportunity to take an amazing group photo,” emphasizing how this natural wonder lends itself to capturing the essence of Charleston’s charm. It’s a quick visit, but one that leaves a lasting impression thanks to its grandeur and historical significance.

Charleston Tea Garden: America’s Only Tea Plantation

Next, the focus shifts to the Charleston Tea Plantation, the sole tea-growing operation in the United States. This visit offers a detailed glimpse into the tea-making process, with a guided tour of the factory—an insight that enthusiasts will find fascinating. The inclusion of unlimited freshly brewed hot and cold tea elevates the experience, letting you sample different blends and learn about local tea cultivation firsthand.

The tour’s knowledgeable guide and founder, Bill Hall, add credibility and personal stories, as noted by a reviewer who shared that “Connie, our guide, was super friendly and checked in with us throughout.” The plantation’s expansive fields provide excellent photo ops, and the relaxed atmosphere invites you to savor your tea while soaking in the scenic views.

A bonus? You can opt for trolley tours on-site if you’d like a more comprehensive exploration, though these are an extra expense ($20). The factory and plantation visit clock in at about an hour and 15 minutes, making it a manageable yet deeply engaging stop.

Deep Water Vineyard: Charleston’s Only Vineyard

The final stop is the Deep Water Vineyard, situated conveniently in Charleston. While wine tastings are not included in the tour price, you can purchase tickets on-site for $15-$20 if you’d like to indulge. The vineyard offers a peaceful setting with rows of vines perfect for photos or simply enjoying the lush environment.

One reviewer found the visit to be “a fun day,” with praise for the “great views” and the chance to sample local wines if you choose to purchase a tasting. This stop balances the scenic outdoors with a relaxed vibe, ideal for those wanting to unwind at the end of the day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Snacks and bottled water
• Luxury, air-conditioned transportation
• Unlimited hot and cold tea at the plantation
• English-speaking guide
• Pickup at 375 Meeting St, Charleston, with the tour ending back at the same spot

Not Included:

• Wine tastings at the vineyard (additional $15-$20)
• Trolley tours at the tea plantation (additional $20)

Knowing these options allows you to plan your day accordingly and perhaps budget for some extra tastings or tours if desired.

Practical Details and Travel Tips

The tour starts at 10:30 am and runs for approximately 5 hours, including transportation time. The small group size (up to 20 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience, and the moderate physical activity—mostly walking and standing—should suit those with average fitness levels.

Transportation is comfortable and air-conditioned, which is a plus during Charleston’s warm months. Since the tour is booked an average of 31 days in advance, it’s wise to plan ahead, especially during peak seasons.

While trolley tours are optional and purchased on-site, they aren’t included in the tour price, which keeps the base cost quite reasonable considering the total experience. Remember, this tour is weather-dependent; if rain or storms interfere, a full refund or rescheduling is available.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

One reviewer affectionately shared that their guide, Connie, made the day feel “like a VIP experience,” checking in throughout and sharing stories that brought the stops to life. The bus was equipped with mimosas and snacks, adding a touch of luxury to the group journey.

Another guest highlighted the “amazing views” and the opportunity to take the perfect Instagram shot among the vines, showing how the vineyard component appeals to those wanting scenic photos and a relaxed vibe. The combination of knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery makes this tour feel more like an indulgent day out rather than just a sightseeing trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys learning about local agriculture and production, this tour offers plenty of insight. It’s perfect for tea and wine lovers wanting to explore the origins of their favorite beverages in a beautiful setting. The small group size and friendly guides give it a personal touch that many travelers appreciate.

Those seeking a leisurely, scenic day with opportunities for photos and tastings will find this experience satisfying. It’s also suitable for visitors who prefer a structured itinerary that covers multiple highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or finding the best spots themselves.

In The Sum Up

This Tea Plantation and Winery Tour in Charleston delivers a well-rounded experience that combines natural beauty, educational engagement, and local flavors. Its carefully curated stops and knowledgeable guides create an atmosphere that’s engaging without feeling rushed. The inclusion of unlimited tea, snacks, and luxury transport adds significant value, making it a worthwhile option for those looking to add a cultural and scenic dimension to their Charleston visit.

While optional tastings at the vineyard and trolley tours cost extra, they’re easy to add if you want a bit more indulgence. The tour’s moderate length and intimate group size make it suitable for most travelers, especially those eager to explore Charleston’s lush outdoor spaces and authentic productions.

Overall, if you’re after a scenic, educational, and tasty journey that highlights the natural and culinary delights of Charleston, this tour offers a memorable day out—one that balances fun, learning, and relaxation.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, luxury, air-conditioned transportation is part of the package, making for a comfortable journey between stops.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs about 5 hours, including transport and all stops.

Can I buy wine or trolley tours on-site?
Yes, wine tastings at the vineyard and trolley tours at the plantation can be purchased separately on-site for an additional fee.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour begins at 375 Meeting St, Charleston, at 10:30 am, and ends back at the same location.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, it’s designed for travelers with moderate physical activity levels, mainly involving walking and standing.

Are the tea tastings unlimited?
Yes, during the plantation visit, you can enjoy unlimited hot and cold freshly brewed tea.

What is the cancellation policy?
This tour is non-refundable; cancellations or changes won’t be accepted. If weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Whether you’re eager to learn about tea production, sample local wines, or simply enjoy Charleston’s natural beauty, this tour balances all these elements with a relaxed, friendly vibe. It’s a well-structured day that offers both scenic views and authentic tastes—sure to become a memorable part of your Charleston adventure.