Beaufort’s history comes in layers: Spanish and French attempts at settlement, the planter-era mansions, the Civil War occupation, Gullah culture on the Sea Islands, and finally the film crews who arrived in the late 20th century. The van and golf cart tours here peel back one layer at a time.
Related: Best Tours & Experiences in Beaufort County South Carolina
Top-Rated Beaufort South Carolina Tours & Experiences
Dolphin Cruise
A boat trip on the Lowcountry waterways, where bottlenose dolphins often feed in tidal creeks. Sightings are common but not guaranteed. Check the departure point and season, bring sunscreen and bug spray, and consider the tide.
Beaufort History and Film Location Tour By Van
A van tour combining local history with filming sites from movies shot around Beaufort. Good for first-timers and film fans. Check the route, any stops where you can leave the van and the length.
History and Movie Tour of Beaufort By Van
Another van-based tour pairing the town’s past with its film credits. Compare its route and duration with the other van tour before choosing, and confirm the pickup location and group size.
Historic Golf Cart Tour in Beaufort SC
A guided golf cart ride through the historic district’s narrow streets and waterfront, passing antebellum homes under live oaks draped in Spanish moss. Open air and small groups keep it relaxed. Check capacity and the weather policy.
Prices and availability can change quickly during peak travel season, so it’s worth reserving your spot in Beaufort South Carolina early — especially for the more popular options above.
Browse more Beaufort South Carolina tours on Viator →
Gullah culture and the Sea Islands
The Sea Islands are the center of Gullah Geechee heritage, and Penn Center on St. Helena Island began in 1862 as a school for freed people. Hunting Island State Park, with its lighthouse and beach, is also close. Town tours focus on the historic district, so add the islands separately.
Why These Beaufort Tours Stand Out
Beaufort is the second-oldest city in South Carolina, with a waterfront park, live oaks and antebellum houses in a compact historic district. It feels smaller and quieter than Charleston or Savannah, which is much of the appeal.
Choosing Where to Stay in Beaufort
Stay in the historic district or The Point for walkable streets, small inns and waterfront views. Port Royal and Lady’s Island offer cheaper rooms, and Hunting Island has cabins and camping for a beach-first trip. Hilton Head is under an hour away by car.
When to Go to Beaufort
Spring and fall are the most comfortable, with azaleas in March and April and mild days through November. Summer is hot, humid and buggy near the marsh, and hurricane season runs June through November. Winters are mild, though cooler evenings affect ghost walks and cruises.
What Beaufort Tours Cost
Across 6 priced tours, prices run from $27 to $48, a narrow band, with a median of $38. The cheapest is Beaufort Ghost Walking Tours at $27. Since prices are close, choose by theme and group size rather than cost.
Comparing the Best Beaufort Options
Historic Golf Cart Tour in Beaufort leads on rating at 5 stars, but History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart has the most reviews at 661. Van, golf cart and ghost options each cover different ground. The film-focused tours draw the biggest crowds, while the Pat Conroy-themed tour suits readers.
Smart Ways to Book Beaufort Tours
Bring insect repellent in summer and wear sun protection in the open-air carts. Parking in the historic district is time-limited on some streets. Many Viator listings allow free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start; check each one.
Quick Questions About Visiting Beaufort
How much do Beaufort tours cost?
Across 6 priced tours, prices run from $27 to $48, with a median of $38. The band is narrow, so compare the format, route and length of each tour.
Which Beaufort tour is the most popular?
History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart has 661 reviews at 4.9 stars, the most of any listing. The best rating among tours with at least 20 reviews is Historic Golf Cart Tour in Beaufort at 5 stars for $36.
Can I see movie locations in Beaufort?
Yes, two van tours combine local history with film locations. The most reviewed listing has 661 reviews, and prices across the lineup start at $27.
Is Beaufort, SC the same as Beaufort, NC?
No. This page covers Beaufort, South Carolina, in the Lowcountry near Hilton Head and Savannah. Beaufort, North Carolina, is a separate coastal town, so check the location before booking.
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