Get Out of Town! Lighthouses, Beaches and Forts Tour! Folly to Sullivan’s Island

Exploring the Charleston Shoreline: Our Take on the Get Out of Town! Lighthouses, Beaches and Forts Tour

If you’re visiting Charleston and looking to get a different perspective on this laid-back city, the Get Out of Town! Lighthouses, Beaches and Forts Tour might just be what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a clear picture of a well-rounded, scenic adventure that’s especially appealing for those wanting to see more than just the historic downtown.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are its balance of stunning coastal views and rich historical insights. Plus, the small group size (up to 8 travelers) promises a more personalized experience. A potential consideration? The tour covers over 50 miles in about four hours, so it’s fast-paced and may feel a bit rushed if you love lingering at one spot. Overall, it seems best suited for travelers who want a mix of beaches, landmarks, and history without spending all day on the road.

If you’re someone who appreciates a flexible, engaging guide, and loves the idea of exploring Charleston’s beaches and historic sites with a comfortable ride, this tour could be a great fit. It’s ideal for those keen on scenic views, history, and a bit of adventure outside the usual city sightseeing.

Key Points

• Small group setting enhances the personalized experience and allows for more interaction with your guide.
• Diverse stops include beaches, lighthouses, forts, and a military college, offering a well-rounded look at the area’s natural and historic sites.
• Knowledgeable guides are highly praised for their friendliness, local insights, and ability to make the tour engaging.
• Comfortable transportation and snacks are included, making the four-hour trip relaxed and convenient.
• Flexible itinerary with stops that are meaningful, avoiding the typical rushed feel of larger tours.
• Great value for the price when considering the variety of sights and the personalized touch.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Morris Island Lighthouse

The tour kicks off with a walk to the Morris Island Lighthouse, the sixth oldest lighthouse in the US. This 1/4 mile walk includes some beach and sand, so wear comfortable shoes. The lighthouse itself is a striking sight, and the views of Charleston Harbor are truly worth the effort. Our sources describe this as a highlight, with travelers loving the vista and the chance to snap some memorable photos. One reviewer mentioned, “The lighthouse was my favorite,” highlighting its appeal.

Folly Beach & Pier

Next, you’ll visit Folly Beach, which is more than just a pretty seaside town. The Folly Beach Fishing Pier is a hub of activity, a classic Southern beach scene with plenty of photo ops. While it’s a quick stop (about 10 minutes), it’s enough to soak in the lively atmosphere. Travelers often comment on how the pier and beach area evoke a nostalgic, laid-back vibe. One reviewer called it a “fun tour,” emphasizing the relaxing coastal stop.

The Citadel Military College

Your guide will drive you around The Citadel, a renowned military school with a striking campus. You’ll get a chance for some quick photos and a glimpse of this historic institution. It’s a short stop (about 10 minutes), but enough for a quick appreciation of its architecture and significance. One reviewer noted, “Spending a few moments at the Citadel was a unique experience,” which captures its distinctive charm.

Fort Moultrie

This is a major highlight for history buffs. Fort Moultrie played pivotal roles during the Revolution and Civil War, and its grounds tell stories of military strategy and resilience. The site also carries somber reminders of its role during the era of slavery, with quarantine houses where African slaves were detained en route to America. If time permits, your guide may even take you to the visitor center. According to reviews, this is a meaningful stop, with visitors appreciating the blend of beauty and historical significance. One said, “Fort Moultrie offers a powerful glimpse into America’s past,” emphasizing the depth of this site.

Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse

The tour wraps up with a quick stop at the Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, which has a reputation for being one of the “ugliest” lighthouses in the US. While the nickname might suggest otherwise, it’s still an interesting sight, and a fun photo opportunity. This brief stop (around 5 minutes) is more about finishing the journey with a quirky landmark than an in-depth visit.

What You Can Expect

This tour is designed to be both relaxed and informative. The guide, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, takes you on a comfortable ride through some of Charleston’s most scenic and historic spots. You’ll get a chance to walk on the beaches, admire lighthouses, and learn about key moments in American history—all in a manageable four-hour window.

The transportation is described as high-tech and comfortable, with bottled water and snacks provided. One reviewer even noted, “Having water and snacks made the trip even better,” which is a simple but appreciated touch during a day of sightseeing. The small group size, limited to 8 travelers, means that it’s easier for the guide to personalize the experience and share insider tips.

Speed and Timing

The tour begins at 8:30 am, perfect for beating the heat and crowds. The pace is flexible enough that travelers rarely felt rushed, and the stops are timed to balance sightseeing with comfort. Since the tour covers over 50 miles, expect a good amount of driving, but the stops are well-chosen to maximize your experience without feeling hurried.

Price and Value

At $85 per person, this tour sits at a reasonable price point for what’s included—multiple scenic stops, a knowledgeable guide, snacks, and plenty of photo opportunities. When you compare it to other city tours costing up to $50 for just a couple of hours, this four-hour experience offers excellent value for a varied, scenic journey outside of downtown.

Booking and Cancellation

With the ability to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, it’s a low-risk option for travelers with flexible plans. The tour is weather-dependent, so if conditions aren’t perfect, you’ll have the chance to reschedule or receive a full refund.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently emphasize the guide’s friendliness and knowledge. Many mention that the small group size makes it feel more like a personalized outing than a typical tour bus experience. One reviewer said, “LeAnn was excellent! She was thoughtful and friendly,” and another added, “She took and shared family pictures,” which highlights the personal touch.

The scenic stops at lighthouses and beaches are described as stunning and unique—something you might not get on a typical city tour. People also appreciate the historical context provided at Fort Moultrie, which adds depth to the visit beyond just sightseeing.

A few reviews mentioned the trip as being “relaxing” and “fun,” with some suggesting it could be an all-day adventure if you want to linger longer. The tour’s pace seems just right for most, giving enough time at each stop to enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, beach lovers, and those seeking a break from city bustle. It’s perfect if you want a mix of outdoor scenery, historic landmarks, and relaxed sightseeing. The small group size and personalized approach make it especially suitable for travelers who appreciate a more intimate, flexible tour.

It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with someone who prefers a laid-back pace, or if you want to include a bit of everything—beaches, lighthouses, forts, and military history—in one trip.

The Sum Up

The Get Out of Town! Lighthouses, Beaches and Forts Tour offers a well-rounded, scenic look at Charleston’s coastal area. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and stops at some of the most photogenic spots, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to explore beyond the city streets.

The experience shines in its diversity—covering beaches, historic forts, and iconic lighthouses—while maintaining a relaxed pace that allows you to enjoy each stop. The small group size makes it feel personalized and engaging, and the included snacks and water are simple touches that add to the comfort.

If you’re after a tour that balances sightseeing, history, and coastal beauty, and you don’t mind a bit of driving, this tour is hard to beat at its price point. It’s especially perfect for those who want a glimpse of Charleston’s natural and historic treasures without the hustle of larger, more commercialized tours.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, with multiple stops along the coast and islands.

What’s included in the tour?
You’ll get bottled water, snacks, and the chance to see several key sites, guided by a knowledgeable local.

Is it suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, the tour’s relaxed pace and outdoor stops could appeal to travelers with older children or teens who enjoy sightseeing.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking on beaches and sand, and dress for the weather—layers are always a good idea.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if your plans change.

What if it rains?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 49 days ahead, so it’s wise to plan early if you want to secure a spot during peak season.

If you’re looking for a way to see Charleston’s beaches, lighthouses, and forts with a friendly guide and a small group, this tour is a solid bet. It combines scenic beauty with history, all wrapped up in a comfortable, manageable package. Happy travels!