Sip History in The Sun Cabana Covered Cocktail Class

Thinking of adding a unique, laid-back activity to your Charleston itinerary? This Sip History in The Sun Cabana Covered Cocktail Class promises just that—a cheerful mix of history, skill, and good drinks, all set in the heart of downtown Charleston. With a stellar 5-star rating from over 300 reviews, it seems many travelers find it a memorable way to spend an afternoon. But is it worth the $117 price tag? We’ve dug into the details to help you decide if this experience fits your travel style.

Two things we love about this class are its outdoor setting, which captures Charleston’s breezy charm, and the way it combines history with hands-on fun. Plus, the small group size means you get personalized attention from knowledgeable guides. One consideration? It’s a relatively short experience (just about two hours), so if you’re looking for a lengthy tour or deep dive into Charleston’s history, you might want to supplement it with other activities. This class would suit travelers who enjoy casual learning, social experiences, and, of course, sipping well-crafted cocktails.

Key Points

• An outdoor, relaxed setting that highlights Charleston’s vibe
• Expert guides who make the history of cocktails engaging
• Includes three different cocktails and tasty bar snacks
• Small groups (up to 20 participants) for personalized attention
• Offers a chance to learn the art of cocktail making
• Perfect for a late afternoon activity, leaving your day free afterward

An Authentic Charleston Experience: What the Tour Offers

This cocktail class is held at an outdoor bar right in downtown Charleston, on Calhoun Street. The location, with its open-air vibe, lets you soak in the city’s lively yet relaxed atmosphere—an ideal backdrop for learning something new. You’ll meet your guides, who are described as knowledgeable and personable, at 135 Calhoun Street. The meeting point is convenient, near public transportation, making it easy to access without a car.

The tour lasts approximately two hours, making it a perfect late afternoon activity. It’s designed to be light and fun, not a serious drink-making masterclass. You’ll get to make and sample three cocktails, with instruction on each step along the way. The class concludes with everyone enjoying their creations, accompanied by basic bar snacks—nothing fancy, but enough to complement the drinks and keep things casual.

What You Can Expect During the Class

Cocktail Making: The core of the experience is the hands-on aspect. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned sipper, the mixologists will guide you through creating three classic cocktails. From what reviews tell us, Logan and James are especially praised for their engaging, knowledgeable style, making it easy to follow along and pick up some tips for your own bar at home.

Historical Context: Alongside the practical skills, your guides sprinkle in fascinating tidbits about the history of cocktails and prohibition. As one reviewer noted, the class includes “drink history, drink making, and consumption,” making it both educational and entertaining.

Sample the Results: After making your drinks, you get to enjoy them. Many mention that the cocktails are delicious, with some reviewers calling out the quality and flavor. The pairing of drink and snack keeps things balanced, so it’s more than just a drink-mixing lesson—it’s a full sensory experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Crowd reviews consistently describe this class as “fun,” “interactive,” and “laid back.” The small-group format (max 20 people) fosters a friendly atmosphere, where you’re encouraged to participate and ask questions. Multiple reviews note the guides’ ability to teach while keeping the mood light and enjoyable.

Authenticity: Unlike overly commercialized tours, this experience emphasizes genuine Charleston charm. The outdoor setting, friendly guides, and focus on the history of prohibition give it an authentic feel—more than just mixing drinks, it’s a window into local culture.

Value for Money: At $117 per person, many reviewers agree it’s worth the price. You’re not only learning how to make three cocktails but also gaining insights into their historical roots—all in a comfortable outdoor setting. Plus, the included snacks and the chance to sample your own creations add to the value.

Booking & Flexibility: With an average booking window of 30 days in advance, it’s popular but still accessible. The tour is fully refundable if canceled 24 hours ahead, giving peace of mind in case plans change.

The Experience in Detail: From Start to Finish

You’ll begin your journey on Calhoun Street, where guides will welcome you to the outdoor bar. Expect a casual, friendly environment that encourages participation. The class is designed to be approachable—perfect for both cocktail novices and more experienced drinkers.

As the session kicks off, your guides will share snippets about Charleston’s role in the cocktail scene and the history of prohibition. You might find the background stories as engaging as the drinks themselves, making the class feel like a lively conversation rather than a lecture.

The first cocktail might be a classic, expertly explained and demonstrated. You’ll learn the proper techniques, from muddling ingredients to shaking or stirring. The guides often share helpful hints—like how to get the perfect balance or avoid common mistakes. Several reviews praise guides like Logan and James for their “knowledgeable and personable” style, which makes learning easy and fun.

Following that, you’ll get to craft two more cocktails, each with its own unique story or twist. You’ll have time to chat with your fellow participants, which, given the small size, often feels more like a gathering of friends than a tour.

Sampling and Snacks: Once your drinks are ready, you’ll sit back to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Basic bar snacks accompany the drinks, keeping things casual and satisfying. Guests frequently comment on the quality of the cocktails, describing them as “delicious” and “well-made,” even by experienced standards.

Authentic Atmosphere and Practical Details

The outdoor location is a key feature—weather permitting, it’s an ideal setting to enjoy Charleston’s gentle breezes while learning about cocktails. The open-air bar offers a relaxed vibe that helps you unwind and truly soak up the experience.

The group size maxes out at 20, which means personalized attention is baked into the experience. This smaller group allows guides to tailor tips and answer questions thoroughly—something many reviewers appreciated.

Pricing and Duration: At around $117, the class offers good value for a two-hour, interactive experience that combines history, skill, and tasting. Most travelers find the price reasonable, especially given the high praise for guides and the quality of the drinks.

Accessibility and Convenience: The tour is near public transportation, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible for many. To participate, you’ll need a valid ID, and you must fill out a liability waiver. Booking is straightforward, and flexible cancellation policies provide extra peace of mind.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This cocktail class is ideal for those looking for a relaxed, social activity with a local flavor. If you enjoy learning new skills in a friendly environment, you’ll love the hands-on aspect. It’s perfect as a casual date activity, an outing with friends, or even a solo adventure where you want to meet new people.

Travelers interested in Charleston’s history will appreciate the context about prohibition and cocktail culture—adding depth beyond just making drinks. If you’re partial to outdoor settings and good company, this is a great way to spend part of your afternoon.

The Sum Up: Why You Should Consider This Class

This Sip History in The Sun Cabana Covered Cocktail Class offers a charming and engaging way to spend an afternoon in Charleston. Combining history, skill, and social interaction, it captures the city’s warm, welcoming spirit. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized experience that’s both fun and educational.

The inclusion of three cocktails and snacks makes it a good-value activity, especially for those who want to learn something useful while enjoying themselves. The outdoor setting and relaxed vibe are a perfect match for Charleston’s easygoing charm.

If you’re seeking a memorable, authentic experience that balances learning, tasting, and socializing, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for curious travelers, cocktail enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a lighthearted, enjoyable break from sightseeing.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
You’ll need a valid ID to participate, so generally it’s aimed at adults. It’s best suited for travelers of legal drinking age.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about two hours, making it a compact but engaging activity.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour outdoors?
Yes, held at an outdoor bar in Charleston, weather permitting. It’s a lively setting that captures the city’s atmosphere.

Are snacks included?
Yes, basic bar snacks are provided along with your cocktails.

How many people participate?
The group is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Do guides provide the recipes?
While the experience focuses on learning and tasting, guides share helpful tips and background on each drink.

Is this activity good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The friendly group setting makes it easy to meet others, and guides encourage participation.

In the end, this cocktail class is a delightful way to toast Charleston’s history and enjoy some well-made drinks in a relaxed, friendly environment. Whether you’re a history buff, a cocktail lover, or just looking for a fun afternoon activity, it’s worth considering for your Charleston visit.