Get Out of Town! Visit 12 Lowcountry Stops with the Complete Charleston Tour!

Exploring Charleston beyond its historic downtown can feel like uncovering secret treasures, and this tour promises just that. It’s designed for those eager to see the less touristy side of the Lowcountry, with a mix of nature, history, and local flavor. We’ve looked into this experience to see if it’s worth your time—and at just over six hours, it’s packed with enough sights to justify its price of $116 per person.

What stands out most is the small group size, which means you get a more personal experience and lots of chances to ask questions. We also love how the tour combines driving in a comfortable air-conditioned van with well-placed stops that let you stretch your legs and soak in the scenery. One possible snag? It’s a fairly active tour, with some long walks on sand dunes and steps, so it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a bit of physical activity.

This tour works especially well for visitors who want a comprehensive, authentic look at Charleston’s Lowcountry—not just the historic district but the surrounding areas filled with natural beauty and local history. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but eager to see a wide variety of sites.

Key Points

• A full-day experience that covers more ground than typical downtown walking tours
• Visits to popular sights like Magnolia Plantation and Angel Oak, plus hidden gems
• Comfortably transported in a small group in a climate-controlled van
• Opportunities to walk, explore beaches, and enjoy scenic views
• Includes snacks and bottled water, with optional water taxi ride
• Tour is active, with some walking, sand dunes, and steps involved
• Ideal for those seeking off-the-beaten-path locations and local flavor
• Excellent guide, with consistent praise for knowledgeability and friendliness

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Charlotte Street Park – A Quiet Antebellum Gem

The tour kicks off on Charlotte Street, a peaceful stretch of Wragg district that whispers stories of Charleston’s antebellum past. It’s a quick 15-minute stroll through a neighborhood where many buildings date back centuries, yet few travelers bother to explore. The quiet atmosphere sets a relaxed tone, and the historical significance is made more vivid thanks to your guide’s insights. As one reviewer pointed out, it’s a chance to experience “places off the beaten path,” which adds a layer of authenticity.

Folly Beach Fishing Pier – A Historic Coastal Landmark

Next, a short stop at the Folly Beach Fishing Pier offers a taste of Charleston’s seaside charm. Originally part of one of the nation’s first amusement parks in the 1940s, the pier has been beautifully renovated. You’re free to walk to the end of it for panoramic views, shop at a beachside store, or grab a snack or a drink at Pier 101 Beach Bar if it’s open. The pier’s history and lively atmosphere make it a favorite among visitors, with one reviewer noting it as a “phenomenal” spot to experience the local coastal vibe.

Morris Island Lighthouse – A Walk to a Historic Beacon

A highlight of the tour is the hike to Morris Island Lighthouse. You’ll trek approximately three-quarters of a mile across the sand dunes of Folly Beach to get up close with the 6th oldest lighthouse in the U.S. It’s a rugged 30-minute walk, with some sand dune traversing, but the payoff is a fantastic photo opportunity and a real sense of stepping back in time. According to reviews, this stop is “really worth checking out,” especially if you enjoy natural landscapes and maritime history.

Angel Oak Tree – Nature’s Masterpiece

The legendary Angel Oak, estimated to be between 400 and 500 years old, offers a peaceful, awe-inspiring sight. Its sprawling branches and massive trunk stand as a testament to nature’s endurance. The short 15-minute visit is a crowd favorite, with many describing it as “phenomenal” in their reviews. It’s a perfect moment to appreciate Charleston’s natural beauty and reflect on its long history—an ideal photo stop.

Drayton Hall – The Original Plantation House

While you won’t go inside, a brief stop at Drayton Hall allows for photos and a quick history lesson about one of the oldest remaining plantation houses in the country. Its preservation in its original form offers a window into early American architecture and plantation life. The 10-minute stop is appreciated for its “historical significance,” and many feel it’s a “valuable snapshot of the past.”

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens – A Touch of Victorian Elegance

A drive through the grounds of Magnolia Plantation takes you past the circa 1870 house, with a quick stop to snap a photo. Though admission isn’t included, the lush gardens and historic buildings are highly regarded, with visitors praising it as a “beautiful” site. It’s a peaceful contrast to the busier coastal stops, emphasizing the region’s horticultural history.

Old St. Andrew’s Parish Church – A Historic Religious Site

This church, nestled among Spanish moss and a graveyard, is the oldest remaining parish hall south of Virginia. It offers a glimpse into Charleston’s religious and community life across centuries. The brief 10-minute visit is free, but it’s packed with “historic charm” and an opportunity to appreciate the quiet, long-standing structures of Charleston.

The Citadel – Military Heritage

A quick stop at The Citadel reveals a storied military college with roots back to the Civil War. Some visitors find the history amusing—“they even started the Civil War,” as some say—adding a playful touch. It’s a 10-minute walk-around, giving you a sense of Charleston’s military tradition.

Fort Moultrie – Coastal Defense and Surprising Views

Wander along the station street just beyond Fort Moultrie to the nearby beach. The fort’s history is compelling, but the real surprise is the view of the coast and the Atlantic. It’s an engaging spot that balances history with natural scenery, praised in reviews for its “great big surprise” of a view.

Stella Maris Roman Catholic Church – Testament of Survival

Built in the 1830s for Irish Army engineers, Stella Maris provides insight into Charleston’s immigrant and military history. The brief 10-minute stop lets you soak in the architecture and history of a resilient community.

Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse – The “Ugliest” Lighthouse

This quirky stop is famously considered the “ugliest lighthouse in America,” but that’s part of its charm. Just five minutes here, but it’s a fun, memorable photo op and conversation starter among visitors.

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum – Up Close with Naval History

The USS Yorktown and USS Laffey are accessible for short visits, allowing a peek into maritime life during wartime. While admission isn’t included, the view of these historic ships from the surrounding area is impressive and adds a maritime dimension to the tour.

Charleston Harbor & Water Taxi – Scenic Return

The final stretch involves a self-pay water taxi ride (~$15), offering a scenic cruise back to downtown Charleston or a drop-off at the Waterfront Park or Liberty Hilton. The water taxi is a relaxing and picturesque way to end your day, with many reviewers appreciating this unique feature of the tour.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The tour operates in a small group of up to 8 travelers, ensuring personal attention and fewer distractions. The air-conditioned van makes traveling between sites comfortable, especially during hot summer months. The schedule is tight but well-organized, blending driving time with walks (some fairly active). Expect some longer walks across sand dunes or steps, so good mobility will enhance the experience.

The total duration is about 6.5 hours, including driving, stops, and the water taxi. The tour departs from 475 E Bay Street and ends at Aquarium Wharf, with options to be dropped off downtown or at the Hilton, giving flexibility for your day.

Value and Cost

At $116, the tour offers excellent value considering the number of sites visited and the inclusion of snacks and bottled water. While you’ll need to pay separately for the Magnolia Gardens entrance and the optional water taxi, the overall experience packs in a lot of sightseeing that would be difficult to replicate on your own without renting a car.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Guide

Guides like Leanne are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the tour engaging rather than just a drive-by. Many reviewers comment on her ability to share interesting facts without overwhelming, and her safety-conscious driving adds peace of mind. The small group size means you can ask questions freely, which many find enhances the overall enjoyment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits adventurous travelers eager to see more than just the typical Charleston sights. It’s ideal for those who appreciate history, nature, and scenic views, and are comfortable with some walking and steps. If you’re short on time but want a rundown of the Lowcountry, this tour delivers. It’s also perfect for visitors without a car, as it covers locations outside the downtown area, making it a convenient way to explore the broader Charleston region.

The Sum Up

In essence, this tour offers a carefully curated jaunt through Charleston’s lesser-known corners. You’ll enjoy a mix of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and local flavor, all delivered by a knowledgeable guide in a small group setting. The combination of scenic stops, engaging commentary, and efficient transportation makes it a standout for travelers wanting to maximize their time and experiences.

The value is clear: for just over six hours and $116, you get a well-rounded glimpse into the diverse character of Charleston’s Lowcountry—from moss-draped oaks to historic lighthouses and coastal beaches. It’s a busy day, but if you’re curious about the region’s hidden spots and want an authentic taste of southern charm, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops, walks, and the water taxi ride.

What’s included in the price?
Snacks and bottled water are included. Admission to Magnolia Plantation & Gardens and the water taxi (~$15) are not included, but most stops are free to explore.

Is the tour active?
Yes, expect some long walks, sand dunes, and steps. It’s suitable for travelers who are comfortable with a bit of physical activity.

What’s the group size?
This is a small-group tour with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 475 E Bay Street and ends at Aquarium Wharf, with options for downtown drop-off or Hilton.

Can I visit the inside of any sites?
While you won’t go inside Drayton Hall or Magnolia, you’ll get plenty of photo opportunities and quick exterior looks.

What is the water taxi?
A self-pay water cruise (~$15) that offers scenic views of Charleston Harbor and the USS Yorktown.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the active nature and walking involved, especially across dunes and steps.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 47 days ahead, so planning early is advised to secure your spot.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Exploring Charleston’s Lowcountry with this tour is like getting a personal invitation to see the city’s secrets, natural beauty, and history—all in one day. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just curious to see more than the usual, this experience offers a well-balanced, memorable journey.