Folly Beach is a fantastic place for boating and cruises because it offers easy access to calm waters, scenic inlets, and the historic Morris Island Lighthouse. Its shallow creeks and salt marshes are perfect for dolphin sightings, bird watching, and exploring the local coast without leaving behind the comforts of a small boat or cruise experience. Whether you want a romantic sunset cruise, a family-friendly dolphin tour, or an adventurous shelling trip, Folly Beach’s boat tours deliver authentic, memorable moments on the water. Plus, many tours are private, ensuring you get a personal experience tailored to your interests.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the 10 best cruises and boat tours in Folly Beach. From relaxing sunset cruises to eco-friendly dolphin explorations, each one offers something special. We’ve included detailed descriptions, what makes each stand out, and who they are best suited for — helping you choose the trip that fits your style and expectations.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of boat tours, including private sunset dolphin cruises, eco-friendly wildlife tours, shelling adventures, and even a Tiki boat experience. Prices range from around $50 per person for shorter outings to $500 for exclusive private sails, with options for small groups or larger families. Click here for a private sunset cruise, or explore other options below to find your perfect match.
1. Private Charleston Sunset & Dolphin Cruise
This 1.5-hour private cruise is ideal for couples or small families wanting a relaxed evening on the water. The tour meanders through nearby creeks and inlets, and dolphins often play nearby, providing excellent photo opportunities. If the tide permits, your captain will make a stop at Morris Island to admire the lighthouse bathed in sunset hues — a striking scene for couples celebrating an anniversary or anyone seeking a peaceful end to the day.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized nature and the experience shared by an experienced captain who’s very knowledgeable about local waters. Reviewers emphasize the smooth navigation, dolphin sightings, and stunning sunset views, with one saying, “Great ride, dolphins, lighthouse — what more could you ask for?” The cost is $295 per group, making it a good value for a private experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for romantic evenings or small groups wanting a scenic, intimate cruise with wildlife sightings and sunset views.
2. Private Charleston Dolphin and Eco Boat Tour
For around $295 for a two-hour private tour, this trip is a favorite for nature lovers. As you cruise behind Folly Beach, your guide will point out bottlenose dolphins playing, hunting, and potentially engaging in the rare strand feeding—a behavior unique to this region. Along the way, you’ll likely see wading birds, bald eagles, osprey, pelicans, and maybe even a sea turtle.
This tour is especially appealing because of its focus on local wildlife and eco-conscious approach. The captain shares stories about the ecosystem, making it educational without losing entertainment value. Reviewers love the friendly captain P.D., noting that he’s very knowledgeable and makes sure everyone has good views of the dolphins. It’s a flexible option suited for families or anyone eager to learn about the local habitat.
Bottom line: An eco-focused, private tour that combines wildlife spotting with a relaxing cruise, suited for families or birding enthusiasts.
3. Folly Beach: Morning Dolphin Boat Trip to Morris Island
Starting at just $50 per person, this morning trip offers a great way to begin your day. The tour includes a pontoon cruise through the estuary, with multiple dolphin sightings and a stop at Morris Island to explore the beach and lighthouse. It’s a quick two-hour trip that’s perfect for families, early risers, or those wanting a short but scenic outing.
What sets this trip apart is its combination of wildlife watching and beach exploration, giving travelers a taste of both nature and history. The guide shares insights about Charleston’s maritime past, making it educational as well as fun. Reviews highlight the opportunity to see dolphins in action and enjoy the scenic beauty of Morris Island.
Bottom line: A compact, affordable morning tour that combines dolphin watching and beachcombing in equal measure.
4. Dolphin Boat Tour from Folly Beach to Morris Island
This 2-hour tour costs $60 per person and explores creeks and marshes behind Folly Beach in search of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. The experienced captain shares insights about the ecosystem and history, ensuring a safe and respectful wildlife experience. The cruise includes a visit to Morris Island, where you can search for shells, sharks teeth, and enjoy views of the historic lighthouse.
What makes this tour different is its emphasis on environmental education alongside wildlife viewing. Visitors enjoy the natural scenery and the chance to see dolphins, sea turtles, and various bird species. One reviewer noted, “The captain was very kind and knowledgeable,” emphasizing how personalized the experience feels.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, eco-oriented boat trip ideal for those interested in wildlife and local history, with plenty of opportunities for shelling and photography.
5. Morris Island Dolphin Cruise and Shelling Trip
For about $295 for a group of up to five, this 2-hour adventure combines dolphin watching with shelling on Morris Island. The boat departs from Folly River, taking you through salt marshes where dolphins are often seen. Once on the island, you can search for shark teeth, fossils, and shells, then explore the beach.
This tour is perfect for families or collectors seeking a hands-on experience. The guide shares details about the coastal ecosystem, making it educational. Reviewers mention the “fantastic shelling,” with sightings of dolphins, birds, and even turtles during the trip.
Bottom line: An engaging mix of wildlife viewing and beachcombing, suitable for families and shell enthusiasts.
6. Private 2 Hour Morris Island and River Cruise
This private 2-hour tour costs $295 per group (up to four people). It offers a chance to see Morris Island, including the iconic lighthouse, and explore local wildlife like dolphins, sea turtles, and ospreys. The highlight is the opportunity to find shark teeth on the beach, which many visitors find exciting.
This tour appeals to those interested in history and nature. The guide shares fascinating facts about Morris Island’s lighthouse and ecosystem. Several reviews praise the knowledgeable captain and the ability to see dolphins and shells along the way.
Bottom line: A private, flexible trip blending wildlife viewing with historic sights, ideal for small groups or families seeking personalized attention.
7. Folly Beach: Private Daytime or Sunset Sail, Cooler Provided
This 2-hour private sail costs $500 for up to six people and is perfect for those seeking a luxurious, relaxed experience. The catamaran often encounters dolphins, and you can beach on islands for shelling or swimming. The guide is a trained naturalist, sharing insights about local wildlife and the environment.
During the sunset sail, the view of the Lowcountry skyline is breathtaking, especially with the lighthouse in the background. Reviewers mention the comfortable boat, the fun guide Richard, and the chance to see dolphins up close. It’s a high-end option for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a peaceful day on the water.
Bottom line: A premium private sail offering a combination of wildlife, scenic views, and the chance for shelling or swimming — ideal for couples or small groups celebrating.
8. 2-Hour Tiki Boat Tour in Folly Beach
At $75 per person, this Tiki boat tour combines nature, fun, and a little party vibe. The custom-built Tiki boat takes you through Folly River, with chances to see dolphins and marine wildlife. You can bring your own beverages to sip as you relax and enjoy the scenery. The tour often includes swimming at remote islands and is perfect for groups looking for a laid-back, lively experience.
Reviewers say the crew is friendly and entertaining, making it a fun alternative to more traditional boat trips. The tour focuses on dolphin encounters and nature exploration, with enough flexibility to customize your experience.
Bottom line: A lively, social outing that combines wildlife viewing with beach stops and a relaxed party atmosphere.
9. Folly OBX Filming Locations and Pogue Life Boat Tour w/ Dolphins
For $360 for a group of up to six, this 1.5-hour tour offers a fun twist for fans of the Outer Banks series. You’ll visit filming locations like the Pogue Life boat and the lighthouse seen in the show, all while cruising the waters behind Folly Beach. The tour combines pop culture with wildlife viewing, including potential dolphin sightings.
Reviewers are impressed with guide Alex’s knowledge of the series and local area, emphasizing that it’s a unique experience for fans of the show and those interested in coastal scenery.
Bottom line: A niche tour blending pop culture with wildlife, perfect for series fans and curious travelers alike.
10. Folly Beach Dolphin Viewing Boat Excursion
Priced at $52 per person for around 90 minutes, this dolphin-focused boat trip explores Charleston’s tidal creeks, hoping to spot resident bottlenose dolphins. The route includes a visit to Morris Island Lighthouse, and the captain aims to make the experience personal and engaging.
Ideal for travelers on a budget or those simply wanting a straightforward dolphin-watching adventure, this tour emphasizes wildlife viewing and learning from a seasoned captain. With reviews highlighting the personalized approach and dolphin sightings, it’s a reliable choice for casual explorers.
Bottom line: An affordable, relaxed way to see dolphins in their natural environment with a knowledgeable guide.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Folly Beach
When selecting a boat tour, consider your budget, the type of experience you want (private vs. group), and your interest in wildlife, history, or scenery. For example, if you value privacy and sunset views, the Private Charleston Sunset & Dolphin Cruise is a top pick. If you’re interested in eco-friendly wildlife encounters, the Private Charleston Dolphin and Eco Boat Tour offers a personalized, educational experience.
For families or casual travelers, shorter trips like the Folly Beach Dolphin Viewing Boat Excursion or the Morning Dolphin Boat Trip to Morris Island provide great value. But if a more lively, social experience is your goal, the Tiki Boat or private daytime or sunset sails are excellent choices.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred times and ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Folly Beach offers a wide range of boat tours tailored to different interests and budgets. Whether you want a romantic sunset cruise, a family-friendly dolphin adventure, or a cultural pop-culture tour, you’ll find something to suit your style. Two standout options are the Private Charleston Sunset & Dolphin Cruise for its intimacy and scenery, and the Private Charleston Dolphin and Eco Boat Tour for wildlife enthusiasts.
If you’re a budget traveler, the shorter trips like the dolphin viewing tours are perfect, while those seeking a luxury experience will appreciate the private sails or the sunset cruise. No matter your choice, booking early and considering your interests will help you make the most of your time on the water.
Enjoy your time exploring Folly Beach from the water — the best way to see the area’s natural beauty and wildlife firsthand.