Enjoy a peaceful sunset river cruise through South Carolina’s ACE Basin, spotting wildlife and visiting a fascinating monkey population on Monkey Island.
Enjoy a peaceful sunset river cruise through South Carolina’s ACE Basin, spotting wildlife and visiting a fascinating monkey population on Monkey Island.
Book with Beaufort Dolphin Adventures
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Beaufort Dolphin Adventures · Saint Helena Island, South Carolina
Discover the serene beauty of South Carolina’s Lowcountry with the A.C.E. Basin & Monkey Island Tour by Beaufort Dolphin Adventures. This private outdoor excursion offers travelers a chance to unwind on a sunset river cruise through the scenic ACE Basin, a protected estuarine reserve home to vast waters, moss-draped oaks, and abundant wildlife. As the sky paints itself in shades of orange and pink, relax aboard a comfortable boat and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The highlight of the journey is a visit to Monkey Island on Saint Helena Island, where an intriguing population of free-roaming rhesus monkeys adds a playful and unexpected touch to your adventure. This family-friendly tour is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone wanting to experience the tranquility of the Lowcountry waterways. Beaufort Dolphin Adventures ensures a knowledgeable guide accompanies you, sharing insights into the local ecosystem, history, and wildlife. Whether you're watching graceful dolphins swim by or capturing the perfect photo as the sun dips below the horizon, this tour provides a memorable, private way to connect with nature and witness a unique peek into South Carolina’s coastal charm.
easy.
2–3 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; no strenuous activity required as the tour is by boat.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages.
While sightings aren’t guaranteed, dolphins are often spotted around the ACE Basin during the tour.
The tour does not provide food or drinks, so you may want to bring snacks and water.
Tours may be rescheduled or canceled in case of severe weather for your safety; Beaufort Dolphin Adventures will communicate any changes.
Monkeys are wild animals; it’s important to observe them from a distance without feeding or touching.
The boat cruise includes access to the shore of Monkey Island where you can observe the monkeys safely from designated areas.
Saint Helena Island has a rich Gullah heritage and is historically significant for its role in the post-Civil War era.
The ACE Basin is a protected estuarine reserve focused on preserving the delicate coastal ecosystems and wildlife habitats with minimal human impact.
Beaufort Dolphin Adventures is a locally operated tour company based on Saint Helena Island, South Carolina. The company offers a range of guided boating and beach experiences focused on wildlife viewing, coastal ecology, and family-friendly recreation. Trips include short 90‑minute river outings, two‑hour sunset cruises, longer three‑hour eco and beachcombing trips, and custom excursions that explore the Ashepoo, Combahee and Edisto (A.C.E.) Basin and nearby islands. Tours highlight dolphin watching, salt‑marsh scenery, historic Beaufort waterfront views, and beachcombing opportunities at secluded sandbar beaches and Waties Island. Guests can search for shells, sand dollars, and sharks’ teeth, paddle and swim on select tours, or relax on private charters tailored for celebrations and bird watching. Captains provide local knowledge about regional history, ecology, and navigation while prioritizing safety and a low‑impact approach to coastal habitats. Beaufort Dolphin Adventures serves families, small groups, and visitors seeking private shore access or interpretive outings in the Lowcountry. By combining wildlife viewing, natural history, and hands‑on beach exploration, the company delivers memorable Lowcountry experiences for guests of all ages. Booking information, safety protocols, and custom requests are available during reservation to ensure tailored, informed experiences for visitors today.
Book with Beaufort Dolphin Adventures