Folly to Sullivan’s Island: Lighthouses, Beaches & Forts Half-Day Tour from Charleston
In four hours you can leave downtown Charleston for a focused sweep of Folly Beach, the Citadel, Fort Moultrie and Sullivan’s Island. This small-group tour pairs ocean air with military history and quick, photogenic stops—perfect for travelers short on time but hungry for the Lowcountry.
The Experience
Before You Go
Meet at the Visitors Center
Arrive 15 minutes early at 375 Meeting St to load luggage and secure good seats in the Sprinter van; parking is available nearby.
Beach-friendly footwear
Bring shoes that handle sand—short beach walks include soft dunes where standard sneakers will clog.
Sun and wind protection
Bring sunscreen, a hat and a light wind layer—the Atlantic sun and breeze are stronger than they feel.
Notify about mobility needs
There are sandy and uneven surfaces; discuss mobility limitations with the operator before booking.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Morning pelican roosts at the far end of Folly Pier for close bird shots
- •Quiet Fort Moultrie earthworks on the eastern approach—long views back to Charleston Harbor
Wildlife
- •Atlantic bottlenose dolphin
- •Brown pelican and herons
Conservation Note
The barrier islands are vulnerable to erosion and sea-level rise; stay off marked dunes, respect nesting shorebird zones, and pack out trash to limit human impact.
Fort Moultrie and quarantine houses on these islands played central roles in colonial defense and the transatlantic slave trade, making the coastline a living chapter of American history.
Photographer's Notes
- • Fort Moultrie overlook facing Charleston Harbor
- • Folly Beach Pier mid-length for surf and bird action
- • Citadel parade ground for architectural compositions
What to Bring
Closed-toe walking shoesEssential
Protects feet on sandy walkways, boardwalks and shell-strewn areas.
Sunscreen & sunglassesEssential
The sun reflects off water and sand; protection makes the stops comfortable.
Light wind shell or layer
Coastal breezes can be cool even on warm days, especially near the forts.
Camera or phone with extra batteryEssential
Multiple photo stops—lighthouses, piers and harbor vistas—reward a charged camera.
Common Questions
Where do we meet and finish?
Meet and end at the Charleston Visitors Center (375 Meeting St); there’s nearby parking and a connected garage across Ann Street.
Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour includes short beach walks on sand that can be uneven—contact the operator before booking to discuss accommodations.
What’s included in the price?
Bottled water and a local snack are included; admissions to paid attractions are not included unless specified.
How many people are on the tour?
Small-group maximum is eight people; the tour requires a four-person minimum to operate.
Are pets allowed?
Service animals are welcome; non-service pets are not listed as permitted—confirm with the operator if needed.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; the tour may cancel for bad weather or insufficient travelers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Charleston, South Carolina
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in basic to average fitness—includes short walks on sand and flat surfaces
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