See Beaufort from two angles: a guided historic bus tour through the National Historic District and a 90-minute dolphin-and-history boat cruise. Perfect for families, this combo pairs local storytelling with likely wildlife sightings and easy logistics.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the shaded bus onto a brick-lined street and the harbor draws your eye — a low tide of marsh grass and slow-moving water where gulls and ospreys wheel. The city smells faintly of salt and varnish; a small band of people drifts toward the waterfront, tickets in hand, for a 90-minute boat cruise that will cut through tidal creeks and past oak-lined bluffs.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most adults and older children with moderate mobility; involves short periods of standing and boarding a boat and bus.
Wildlife
History
Beaufort is one of South Carolina’s oldest towns, with layers of Native American presence followed by Spanish, French and English settlement; the downtown contains notable antebellum architecture and Civil War-era sites.
Conservation
The surrounding salt marshes are ecologically sensitive; stay on designated paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and follow no-feed guidelines for marine animals to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Guided Historical Bus and Boat Cruise Tour in Beaufort today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Reserve the boat in advance
Boat cruises operate only on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays at 3 PM; call to secure your spot after booking the land portion.
Bring binoculars
Binoculars improve dolphin, bird and shoreline viewing from both the bus and boat — compact optics are ideal for families.
Prepare for sun and spray
Wear sunscreen and a lightweight windbreaker—the boat can be cool and salty even on warm days.
Arrive early for boarding
Plan to be at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure to handle check-in and any accessibility needs.
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is important during the bus portion and while waiting on the dock.
Binoculars
A compact pair helps spot dolphins, ospreys and distant shoreline details.
Light waterproof jacket
A wind- and water-resistant layer protects against spray and changing coastal weather.
spring
Sunscreen and hat
Open-deck boat time exposes you to direct sun—broad-spectrum protection reduces burn and glare.
summer