Folly Beach Private Sunset Dolphin Cruise — Charleston Dolphin Watching at Golden Hour
Trade the noise of Charleston for a private 90‑minute cruise through Folly’s creeks and inlets—watch dolphins play, birds head to roost, and, tide permitting, see Morris Island Lighthouse bathed in evening light. Quiet, intimate, and easy for most travelers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Boarding step
Be prepared to step down roughly 24 inches to get into the boat; plan assistance if mobility is limited.
Bring your own beverage
A cooler, ice, and bottled water are provided—alcohol allowed if you’re 21+, and your favorite drink makes the sunset more personal.
Light jacket after sunset
Temperatures and breeze intensify quickly on the water; pack a windbreaker or light fleece even on warm days.
Timing for dolphins
Dolphins are most active near dusk; arrive early to board and position the boat before the best light and activity.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Ask the crew to idle near the marsh edges—herons and egrets often land in quiet channels just before dusk.
- •If tide permits, a close pass by Morris Island reveals the lighthouse from a rare seaward angle not visible from public land.
Wildlife
- •Atlantic bottlenose dolphin
- •Great blue heron
Conservation Note
These barrier islands and inlets are dynamic habitats—stay off restricted sandbars and avoid disturbing roosting birds; operators follow local wildlife guidelines to minimize disturbance.
Morris Island Lighthouse (first lit in 1876) has watched the shifting Charleston coastline for more than a century; its position has been altered over time by erosion and shifting sands.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow of the boat for dolphin action shots
- • Starboard side when passing Morris Island Lighthouse
- • Near the marsh channels for bird portraits
What to Bring
Windbreaker or light jacketEssential
Keeps you warm when the sea breeze picks up after sunset.
Binoculars
Helps spot distant dolphin pods and bird roosts in the marsh.
Camera with zoom lens or smartphone with telephotoEssential
Captures dolphins and the Morris Island Lighthouse in low light.
Non‑slip shoesEssential
Provides secure footing on a wet deck and during boarding.
Common Questions
How long is the cruise?
The tour runs 90 minutes from launch to return—enough time for inlets, dolphin viewing, and a sunset pass by Morris Island if tides allow.
Will we definitely see dolphins?
Dolphin sightings are common but not guaranteed—Atlantic bottlenose dolphins frequent these waters, and the crew positions the boat to maximize viewing opportunities.
Is this tour private?
Yes—the booking is for a private boat, ideal for couples or small family groups.
Are lifejackets provided?
Yes—lifejackets and all required safety equipment are provided for every passenger.
Can we bring alcoholic beverages?
Yes—alcohol is allowed for guests 21 and older; the operator supplies a cooler and ice for your drinks.
What about parking and meeting location?
Park in the short‑term parking lot at Folly Beach (first right as you enter, before Hotel Folly) and follow the ramps to the boat marked Blue Moon; the operator will text a photo of the boat before departure.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1.5 hours (90 minutes)
Location
Folly Beach, South Carolina
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required—suitable for most ages and families; must be able to step down into the vessel.
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