From Myrtle Beach: Charleston Day Trip, Boone Hall & Cruise

Exploring Charleston from Myrtle Beach: An Honest Take on a Full-Day Trip

If you’re considering a day trip from Myrtle Beach to Charleston, this tour promises a blend of history, Southern elegance, and a taste of the Lowcountry’s scenic beauty. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered enough details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect—and whether it’s worth your time.

What immediately catches your eye are the variety of experiences packed into one day—from a horse-drawn carriage ride through historic streets to a boat tour across the harbor, topped with a visit to Boone Hall Plantation. These are the kinds of activities that make for a memorable, well-rounded day.

That said, no tour is perfect. One thing to keep in mind is that it’s a pretty long day—about 10 hours—so if you’re not used to full-day excursions, it might feel a bit tiring. Also, the tour operates rain or shine, so dressing appropriately is a smart move. This trip seems especially suited for history buffs, architecture lovers, and those wanting a comprehensive taste of Charleston without the hassle of planning it all themselves.

Key Points
– Diverse itinerary combines historic tours, scenic cruising, and plantation visits.
– Guide and transport are praised for their professionalism, but some reviews note the bus driver didn’t serve as a guide.
– Age and interests: Great for history enthusiasts and those wanting a full day of sightseeing; not necessarily tailored to families with very young children.
– Value for cost: At $210 per person, it includes transportation, multiple tours, lunch, and shopping, making it a fairly convenient option.
– Weather considerations: Operates rain or shine, so be prepared for whatever the day brings.
– Customer feedback: Generally high ratings, with some minor hiccups like check-in delays or guide clarity noted but overall positive experiences.

A Day Packed with Charleston’s Best Sights and Stories

Starting from Myrtle Beach, the first thing you’ll notice is the comfortable air-conditioned bus that whisks you southward. The ride itself is part of the experience—your guide starts sharing tidbits about Charleston’s history and culture almost immediately, setting the tone for an engaging day.

Once you arrive in Charleston, the standout activity is the horse-drawn carriage tour with Old South Carriage Company. We love the way these tours allow you to appreciate the city’s architecture and streets without the distraction of walking. You’ll see grand historic homes, lush gardens, and iconic landmarks like Rainbow Row—all narrated by a guide who can share stories of how Charleston earned its nickname “The Holy City.”

A highlight for many is the City Market, established in 1807. It’s a lively spot to browse for souvenirs, from woven baskets to local artwork. It’s open year-round, so even if you’re there during a busy season, you might find a unique keepsake to remember your trip. Some reviews mention that this part of the trip offers a chance to stretch your legs and soak up local crafts, which is a nice break after the carriage ride.

Next, the harbor tour aboard the Carolina Belle is where you’ll really start to see Charleston from a different angle. The boat cruise is narrated, highlighting over 75 points of interest, including the USS Yorktown and the Battery. The fact that wildlife viewing and dolphin spotting are part of the experience adds a fun, relaxed element. A included deli lunch makes it easy to enjoy a scenic meal without fussing over food plans. Many travelers comment on the captain’s engaging narration, making the ride both educational and entertaining.

The last major stop is Boone Hall Plantation, a 738-acre estate that exemplifies Southern beauty and history. Walking through the grounds, you’ll see historic brick slave cabins, a cotton gin, and smokehouse—reminders of the complex history of the area. The guided house tour with a costumed host provides a deeper understanding of the plantation’s past, balancing the appreciation of its elegance with the acknowledgment of its history’s darker chapters.

While all these highlights are appealing, it’s worth noting a common thread in reviews: the guide’s knowledge and storytelling are appreciated by many, but some travelers felt that the bus driver was just a driver, not offering much commentary. It’s a minor point, but if expert narration is a priority, you might want to confirm that your guide or tour company emphasizes this.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One of the best aspects of this tour is the variety it offers. You’re not just walking around and listening to a guide—you’re actively experiencing Charleston’s sights from different angles: on land, on water, and through history. This multi-sensory approach keeps the day dynamic and engaging.

Another point of value is the convenience. For $210, you get roundtrip transportation, multiple guided tours, lunch, and some shopping time—all organized for you. This is especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with Charleston or don’t want to deal with logistics. Plus, the tour’s operating rain or shine means you’re covered no matter the weather, although you should dress accordingly.

It’s clear from reviews that the experience is generally well-received. Travelers often mention the knowledgeable guides, and the overall flow of the day gets high marks (a 4.5/5 rating from 31 reviews). The combination of historic insight, scenic views, and leisure time hits a sweet spot for many visitors.

Things to Consider Before Booking

While this tour offers a great overview of Charleston’s highlights, it’s a long day—about 10 hours—so it’s best suited for those who enjoy full days of sightseeing and don’t mind a packed schedule. If you prefer a slower pace or have mobility concerns, you might find it a bit rushed or tiring.

Also, the check-in and boarding process can sometimes cause delays, as seen in a review where guests had to wait for their turn on the boat. It’s a reminder to arrive early and stay patient.

Keep in mind that the tour is geared toward English speakers, which is pretty standard but worth noting if you’re traveling with non-English speakers. Also, since it’s an outdoor experience, dressing in layers and bringing rain gear is advisable.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, engaging day that combines history, scenery, and local culture, this trip from Myrtle Beach to Charleston ticks most boxes. It’s particularly suitable for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates organized, all-in-one day trips.

The fact that it’s praised for its knowledgeable guides and seamless transportation means you can relax and enjoy the sights without worrying about logistics. The included lunch, shopping, and various stops make the $210 price tag seem reasonable for a full day of activities.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a slow pace, has young children who might tire quickly, or craves a more personalized experience, this might not be the perfect fit. Still, for most travelers looking for a well-rounded taste of Charleston, this tour offers plenty of value and memorable moments.

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FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the activities—like the carriage ride and boat tour—can be enjoyed by older children. However, keep in mind the full-day length and walking involved.

What should I wear?
Since the tour operates rain or shine, dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes. Layers are a good idea, especially for the boat ride, which can be breezy.

Does the tour include guided narration?
Yes, the harbor cruise has a narrated tour, highlighting numerous points of interest. The carriage tour is also narrated, but some reviews suggest the guide’s storytelling is more prominent than the bus driver’s.

How long is the entire trip?
It lasts about 10 hours, usually starting in the morning. Be prepared for a full day of sightseeing.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, the carriage tour, shopping time at the Market, the harbor tour with lunch, and the Boone Hall Plantation tour are all included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
It operates rain or shine, so check the forecast and dress appropriately. In case of severe weather, confirm with the provider if the tour will proceed.

This tour offers a solid way to get a taste of Charleston’s charm without the fuss of planning everything yourself. If you’re after a day filled with history, scenic views, and Southern hospitality, it’s worth considering, especially if you like being guided through stories and sights by knowledgeable hosts.

You can check availability for your dates here: