Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life with an unforgettable 4-hour tour that takes you from Folly Beach to Sullivan’s Island. This adventure showcases stunning coastal scenery, historic Civil War sites, and iconic lighthouses. Explore the grounds of Fort Moultrie, learn about its significance, and enjoy picturesque views of The Citadel. With complimentary snacks and bottled water, this experience is perfect for history and nature enthusiasts seeking an engaging getaway. What will you discover on this tour?
Good To Know
- Explore the natural beauty of Folly Beach, including its iconic fishing pier and opportunities to spot dolphins along the shoreline.
- Discover the historic significance of Fort Moultrie, a coastal fort that played a pivotal role in the American Revolution and Civil War.
- Glimpse the iconic gothic architecture and manicured grounds of The Citadel military college campus, visible from Fort Moultrie.
- Enjoy complimentary bottled water and a variety of individually packaged snacks throughout the approximately 4-hour tour.
- Benefit from free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and the option to reserve now and pay later for flexible scheduling.
Tour Overview
The "Get Out of Town! Lighthouses, Beaches and Forts Tour" offers a unique Charleston experience.
Over approximately 4 hours, visitors explore Folly Beach, Sullivan’s Island, and Fort Moultrie. The tour stops at two lighthouses, including one on Morris Island. Guests stroll the dunes and pier of Folly Beach.
They also discover The Citadel’s military college campus. A knowledgeable guide provides historical context throughout the tour. Bottled water and snacks are included.
The tour has an excellent 4.9 rating from 38 reviews, with 97% of travelers recommending it. Priced from $85 per person, the small-group tour has a maximum capacity of 8 travelers.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Charleston.
Exploring Folly Beach
Why, Folly Beach is the first stop on this captivating tour. Guests will explore the island’s stunning natural beauty, including its iconic fishing pier and windswept dunes.
The tour guide provides historical context, sharing tales of Folly’s role in the Civil War and its evolution as a popular beach destination. Visitors can stroll along the shore, snap photos of the vibrant coastal scenery, and even spot playful dolphins in the distance.
The tour then moves on to Sullivan’s Island, offering a chance to delve deeper into the region’s rich military history at Fort Moultrie.
Discovering Fort Moultrie
After exploring the natural beauty of Folly Beach, the tour takes visitors to the historic Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island.
This coastal fort played a pivotal role in the American Revolution and Civil War, withstanding British bombardment in 1776 and serving as a strategic outpost.
Guests can wander the well-preserved grounds, examine the cannons, and learn about the fort’s significance from the knowledgeable guide.
The Citadel military college is also visible from the fort, providing a glimpse into South Carolina’s proud military history.
This stop offers a deeper dive into the region’s rich past beyond the picturesque shores.
Seeing The Citadel Campus
Next on the tour, visitors catch a glimpse of The Citadel military college campus from the vantage point of Fort Moultrie.
The iconic gothic architecture and manicured grounds of the prestigious institution come into view across the harbor.
Key facts about The Citadel include:
- Founded in 1842, it’s one of the oldest military colleges in the United States.
- The campus spans 300 acres and houses over 2,300 students, known as cadets.
- Notable alumni include several U.S. Senators, Congressmen, and Medal of Honor recipients.
The tour guide provides historical context about the college’s role in Charleston’s military heritage.
Photographing the Lighthouses
The tour now turns its focus to the iconic lighthouses that dot the Charleston coastline.
Guests will have the chance to photograph two picturesque beacons – one on Morris Island and another on Sullivan’s Island.
The Morris Island Lighthouse, dating back to 1876, stands solitary on a remote beach, offering a dramatic photo opportunity.
The Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, with its distinctive black and white spiral pattern, is a more accessible landmark.
Snapping photos of these historic structures against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean is a highlight of the tour, capturing the natural beauty and maritime heritage of the region.
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Walking the Folly Beach Pier
Departing the lighthouses, the tour group makes its way to Folly Beach, where they stroll along the iconic pier stretching nearly 1,000 feet into the Atlantic Ocean.
The pier offers breathtaking views of the coastline and a chance to feel the ocean breeze.
Travelers can:
- Spot pelicans and other seabirds gliding above the waves.
- Admire the vibrant fishing boats docked at the pier’s end.
- Venture to the far end of the pier for panoramic vistas of the beach and distant Sullivan’s Island.
The peaceful walk along the pier provides a relaxing respite from the tour’s historical sites.
Snacks and Amenities
As travelers embark on the tour, they’ll be pleased to find that bottled water and snacks are provided throughout the experience. These complimentary offerings help keep guests energized and hydrated as they explore the historical sites and scenic landscapes.
Included Amenities | Description |
---|---|
Bottled Water | Refreshing, filtered drinking water |
Snacks | Variety of individually packaged options |
Gratuities | Not included, left to traveler’s discretion |
Cancellation | Free up to 24 hours prior |
Payment | Option to reserve now, pay later |
The tour’s thoughtful inclusions ensure a comfortable and convenient experience for all participants.
Booking and Logistics
To book the "Get Out of Town! Lighthouses, Beaches and Forts Tour", travelers can:
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Reserve their spot online through the tour operator’s website, receiving instant confirmation.
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Select a preferred tour date and time, with options ranging from early morning to late afternoon.
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Pay a deposit upon booking, with the balance due on the day of the tour, allowing for flexible scheduling.
The tour departs from the Charleston Visitor Center, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
Guests are advised to arrive at the meeting point approximately 15 minutes before the scheduled start time to ensure a prompt departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Clothing and Footwear Are Recommended for the Tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, breathable and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for the tour. Visitors should dress in layers to accommodate the varying environments and activities throughout the day.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
While the tour provides bottled water and snacks, guests are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. It’s a good idea to pack a light lunch or refreshments to enjoy during the tour.
Is There an Option to Extend or Customize the Tour Duration?
The tour has a fixed 4-hour duration, and there doesn’t appear to be an option to extend or customize the length. Travelers should plan accordingly, as the tour likely has a set itinerary and schedule it adheres to.
Are There Any Child-Friendly or Family-Oriented Activities Included?
The tour includes several family-friendly activities, such as exploring the dunes and fishing pier at Folly Beach, visiting historical sites like Fort Moultrie, and taking in scenic views of lighthouses. Snacks and bottled water are provided for all travelers.
Is There a Limit on the Number of Photos I Can Take During the Tour?
There’s no stated limit on the number of photos participants can take during the tour. The tour description encourages photography of the lighthouses, beaches, and historical sites visited, suggesting ample opportunities to capture scenic views and memorable moments.
The Sum Up
This tour offers a captivating blend of coastal scenery, historical insights, and iconic landmarks. From the stunning Folly Beach to the imposing Fort Moultrie and the picturesque Citadel, visitors will be immersed in the region’s rich history and natural beauty. With complimentary snacks and bottled water, this experience caters to both history and nature enthusiasts, making it an unforgettable way to get out of town.
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