Myrtle Beach to Charleston with Horse & Carriage Ride, Harbor Cruise, Boone Hall

Planning a day trip from Myrtle Beach to Charleston? This tour offers an engaging way to experience some of South Carolina’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. From riding in a horse-drawn carriage through historic streets to exploring a legendary plantation, this full-day excursion packs in plenty of highlights.

We particularly love the seamless blend of transportation, guided tours, and free time, making it a solid choice for first-time visitors eager to get a taste of Charleston’s stately architecture and scenic harbor. The included boxed lunch and comfortable transport add real value for a day packed with activity.

One thing to keep in mind: at approximately 10.5 hours, it’s a long day. Some travelers might find the schedule tight or wish for more personal time at each stop. Still, if your goal is to see the top sights efficiently, this trip hits most of what you’ll want to remember about Charleston in one go.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a well-organized itinerary, historic charm, and a mix of outdoor and indoor experiences. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to savor the essence of historic Charleston.

Key Points

• All-inclusive day trip with transportation, guided tours, and a boxed lunch
• Highlights include a horse-drawn carriage ride, harbor cruise, and Boone Hall Plantation tour
• Approximate 10.5-hour experience designed for convenience and efficiency
• Small group setting (maximum 48 travelers) for a more personal feel
• Ideal for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Charleston’s top attractions
• Includes features like a restroom on the bus and optional snacks onboard

An Impressive, Well-Organized Itinerary

This tour is crafted for travelers who want to maximize their time in Charleston without the stress of logistics. Starting with pickup from Myrtle Beach’s Ripley’s Aquarium (a convenient central point), the day begins early, giving you a full glimpse of the city’s historic core.

Charleston Carriage Ride — The Heart of Historic Downtown

The first stop is a one-hour carriage tour of Charleston’s highlights, narrated by guides who bring the city’s stories to life. From the stunning architecture to the charming streets, this ride offers a leisurely introduction to the city’s most iconic sights.

Reviews frequently mention the quality of the guide and the horse, with Cathy_I noting, “The carriage ride around Charleston was both informative and fun.” The horses, like Harmony, are well cared for and part of the authentic experience, adding a personal touch that many travelers appreciate. The carriage ride also offers a chance to snap some photos of the historic district, including the famous Rainbow Row and other colorful facades.

Quick Stop at Charleston City Market

Next, you’ll get a 30-minute window at the Old City Market — a lively hub of local vendors, artisans, and food stalls. While brief, it’s enough time to browse, pick up a souvenir, or simply enjoy the bustling atmosphere. Many reviews note the market’s charm, and some even mention enjoying browsing or shopping there, although it’s more of a quick peek than a shopping spree.

Charleston Harbor Tour — The Best Views of the Harbour

The highlight of the afternoon is a 90-minute narrated harbor cruise aboard the Carolina Belle. Onboard, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the harbor, Fort Sumter, and the coast, all while listening to stories that bring the scenery to life. The boat provides a relaxed setting to unwind after the carriage ride, with a boxed lunch served on the boat.

Several reviewers, including Dori_D, describe the harbor cruise as “beautiful and very well narrated,” emphasizing the quality of the commentary and the scenic views. You might find that seeing Charleston from the water offers a fresh perspective, especially with the cool breeze and the iconic skyline in the background.

Boone Hall Plantation — A Step Back in Time

The final major stop is Boone Hall Plantation, one of the most famous plantations in the region. You’ll spend about two hours exploring the grounds, gardens, and the historic house. The avenue of live oaks and the well-maintained gardens often impress visitors, as Irene_D notes, “The house and gardens were beautiful, and the history was fascinating.”

The guided tour of Boone Hall offers insights into plantation life and architecture, providing context for the region’s past. It’s a chance to walk through the historic grounds, snap photos of the iconic Oak-Alley, and learn about the area’s history from experienced guides.

How Does the Experience Feel in Practice?

The entire day is designed with convenience in mind. Transportation is covered from and back to Myrtle Beach, with a comfortable bus equipped with a restroom. This means you won’t have to worry about parking or navigating between stops. The group size is limited to 48, allowing for more personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.

The boxed lunch is a thoughtful inclusion — a simple yet satisfying deli-style meal that keeps you energized through a busy day. Optional snacks are available on the boat if you want to nibble while enjoying the harbor views; just bring cash if you plan to purchase extras.

Guides and drivers receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and punctuality. As Cathy_I puts it, “Our bus driver, Bobby, was great!” and Irene_D describes the guides as “great and knowledgeable.” This level of service makes the day flow smoothly and adds to the overall positive experience.

Flexibility and Practicalities

The tour runs rain or shine, with a clear policy for cancellations due to weather. While the schedule is packed, the transportation and guided nature of the tour are especially helpful for those unfamiliar with Charleston or who prefer a structured day.

Keep in mind that the entire trip lasts roughly 10.5 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with long days. The timing is tight but manageable if you like a full itinerary.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for first-timers wanting a comprehensive introduction to Charleston’s highlights, especially if you prefer your sightseeing organized and hassle-free. It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, history, and scenic cruising. However, if you’re hoping for a slow-paced, in-depth exploration or more free time at each stop, you might find it a bit rushed.

The Value of the Experience

At $215 per person, this tour offers a quite good value considering the inclusions: transportation, guided tours, the harbor cruise, and a boxed lunch. When you factor in the cost of individual attractions and transportation if you tried to organize it yourself, this all-in-one package streamlines the effort and ensures you see the most without extra planning.

Many travelers, like Katherine_S, mention how well-organized the transition from one activity to another is, making the long day feel seamless. This is especially helpful if you’re new to the area or prefer guided experiences over self-guided wandering.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Myrtle Beach to Charleston packs in the city’s best sights and experiences in a single, stress-free package. From the historic carriage ride to the scenic harbor cruise and the stately Boone Hall, you’ll get a well-rounded taste of Charleston’s charm and history.

The combination of guided tours, free time at the market, and comfortable transportation make it ideal for travelers seeking convenience without sacrificing authenticity. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, beautiful views, and the overall value — all important factors when choosing a day tour.

While the schedule is packed, it’s a great way to make the most of a single day and create memories that go beyond just photos. If you’re the type who enjoys learning while seeing the sights, and you appreciate a well-organized trip, this tour will fit the bill.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Myrtle Beach is included, starting from Ripley’s Aquarium. The bus is comfortable and equipped with a restroom.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 10.5 hours, from pickup in Myrtle Beach to return after exploring Charleston’s highlights.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes a carriage ride, guided tour of Boone Hall, harbor cruise, visit to the City Market, and a boxed lunch.

Are there any optional extras I should bring?
Snacks can be purchased onboard the harbor cruise if desired, but the boxed lunch is included. Bringing cash for souvenirs or extras is recommended.

What should I wear?
Casual clothing is fine. Be prepared for potentially warm weather, and consider comfortable shoes for walking on the plantation and at the market.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the trip, for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for kids or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, and guides are friendly and accommodating. The long day might be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues.

In the end, this tour offers a well-curated glimpse into Charleston’s historic and scenic charms, all in one comfortable day. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting to see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail — and with plenty of authentic moments to cherish.