Charleston is a city that practically breathes history, charm, and stories from its cobblestone streets to its waterfront. It’s no surprise that so many visitors want to explore beyond just wandering around on their own. The city has a wealth of tours that reveal its secrets—whether it’s walking through historic neighborhoods, sailing off the coast, or uncovering ghostly tales after dark. We especially like the Charleston: History and Architecture Guided Walking Tour for its lively storytelling and inside visits to landmarks like St Michael’s Church. It’s a perfect way to get a sense of Charleston’s layered past.
For something more active, the Charleston: Schooner Sailing Harbor Tour & Dolphin Watch offers a hands-on sailing experience with a chance to spot playful dolphins while learning about maritime history. Looking for a taste of local culture? The Shem Creek Culture Tour takes you behind the scenes of shrimping and explores the creek’s natural beauty. And if spooky stories are your thing, Charleston’s haunted walking tours—like the Charleston Terrors: Pirate Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour—bring the city’s ghostly past to life.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of our top picks, helping you decide which tour fits your interests, schedule, and vacation style.
1. Charleston: History and Architecture Guided Walking Tour
At number one, this Charleston: History and Architecture Guided Walking Tour offers a deep dive into Charleston’s historic neighborhoods and architectural marvels. For $30 per person, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours wandering through the city’s tight alleys and colorful streets with a local guide. The tour’s focus on inside visits to landmarks like the Old Exchange, Dock St Theatre, and St Michael’s Church makes it stand out. Your guide shares stories that aren’t in every history book, from ironwork gates to stories about the homes of influential Charleston figures.
Guests consistently praise the guide for making history engaging and accessible. The reviews highlight the guide’s enthusiasm and storytelling, with comments like “Jackson is knowledgeable and entertaining!” It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick but rundown of Charleston’s rich past, combined with visits inside key sites. The small group size ensures plenty of questions and interaction.
Bottom line: A perfect choice if you’re limited on time but want a well-rounded, engaging introduction to Charleston’s architecture and history.
2. Charleston: Schooner Sailing Harbor Tour & Dolphin Watch
Number two on our list is the Charleston: Schooner Sailing Harbor Tour & Dolphin Watch. For $48, this 1.5-hour adventure offers a classic sailing experience aboard a three-masted schooner. The tour is unique because you’ll hoist the sails yourself, giving you a real working sailing feel—something you won’t find on a typical boat cruise. As you glide through Charleston Harbor, you’ll see landmarks like Fort Sumter and Castle Pinckney from the water, with plenty of chances to snap photos.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to spot dolphins playing in the water, adding a fun wildlife element. The crew also shares stories about Charleston’s maritime history, making it both educational and relaxing. Guests mention feeling the breeze on their face and appreciating the active participation in sailing. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy the water, want a hands-on experience, and love wildlife.
Bottom line: A fantastic option for those wanting a breezy, engaging, and scenic way to see Charleston from the water, with the bonus of dolphin sightings.
3. Charleston: Shem Creek Culture Tour
Topping our list at number three is the Shem Creek Culture Tour, which offers an intimate look at one of Charleston’s most iconic waterside neighborhoods. For just $25, your 1.5-hour tour takes you behind the scenes of the shrimping industry, with a visit to a working shrimp processing facility. You’ll also enjoy a stroll over a marsh boardwalk, where guides talk about the local wildlife and natural ecosystems.
What sets this tour apart is the personal stories shared about Shem Creek’s history and culture, plus the opportunity to taste a local dessert at an old seafood market. The reviews highlight Captain Bryan’s expert knowledge—he’s known for connecting history, culture, and modern life seamlessly. It’s especially good for travelers who want to understand the local economy, see wildlife, and enjoy a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Bottom line: A memorable experience if you’re interested in local culture, seafood, and the natural beauty of Charleston’s waterfront.
4. Charleston: Women and Wine Tour
Number four features the Women and Wine Tour, a two-hour exploration blending history and local drinking spots. For $34, this tour visits two historic bars and discusses notable female figures who shaped Charleston. Led by two licensed historians, the tour offers a deeper understanding of the city’s social fabric while sampling some excellent wines.
This experience is unique because it combines cultural storytelling with relaxed bar stops, allowing for conversation and reflection. The small group size and guided commentary make it appealing to those interested in women’s history and local spirits. Reviewers rave about the hosts’ knowledge, with one mentioning how they “learned about important female figures” and enjoyed the historic sites along the way.
Bottom line: Best suited for history lovers who also enjoy a good drink and want an engaging, personalized tour with a social aspect.
5. Charleston: Pirates and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour
Number five on our list is the Pirates and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour. For $30, this 2-hour tour takes you through Charleston’s haunted streets, sharing tales of pirates and spirits. It’s an atmospheric walk that visits sites like cemeteries, the old prison, and the Pink House, with stories that blend history and legend.
Guide Shea Washbourne receives praise for his entertaining storytelling. Guests love the mix of historical facts and spooky tales, making it a lively experience. The tour is well-suited for those interested in mystery, pirates, and haunted stories. It’s a fun, engaging way to see the city after dark, especially if you enjoy mystery and paranormal tales.
Bottom line: A great option if you’re looking for a lively, story-driven ghost tour that combines history with a touch of the supernatural.
6. Charleston Terrors: Pirate Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour
At number six, the Charleston Terrors: Pirate Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour offers a shorter but intense 1-hour experience for $27. Led by guides who bring Charleston’s haunting stories to life, this tour focuses on pirate legends and spooky encounters.
While shorter, it packs a punch with tales of apparitions, unsettled spirits, and the city’s dark side. Reviewers mention the “chilling stories” and “captivating guides,” making this a good choice for a quick, spooky outing. It’s best suited for travelers with a strong stomach and an interest in horror stories.
Bottom line: A quick but effective ghost tour for those wanting a chilling experience without a long commitment.
7. Charleston: The Ghosts of Liberty Guided Walking Tour
Number seven, the Ghosts of Liberty Tour, offers a family-friendly look at Charleston’s haunted history. For $25 and 1.5 hours, it covers stories of courage, freedom, and restless spirits across historic sites like the Provost Dungeon and the Exchange Building.
While it has fewer reviews, those that do exist praise the guide’s enthusiasm and the engaging stories. It’s ideal for travelers with kids or those who prefer a less spooky, more story-driven experience. This tour provides a good balance of history and ghost stories without being overwhelming.
Bottom line: A suitable choice if you want a family-oriented, accessible ghost walk that combines history with ghostly tales.
8. Take an Amazing Guided Ghost Tour!
Finally, the Take an Amazing Guided Ghost Tour is a top-rated, evening walking tour for $30. It explores more than 300 years of haunted history, visiting graveyards and haunted sites with a paranormal investigator guide. The tour promises spooky stories and a chance to capture spirits on camera.
Guests praise the atmosphere and knowledge of the guide, making it both fun and chilling. It’s suited for travelers looking for a full immersion into Charleston’s ghostly past with a slightly adventurous spirit. The tour’s emphasis on paranormal investigation makes it stand out from more traditional ghost walks.
Bottom line: A great pick for those seeking a paranormal experience in Charleston, especially if you’re intrigued by ghost-hunting stories.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding among Charleston’s many tour options, consider your interests, budget, and schedule. History buffs may prefer the History and Architecture Tour, while wildlife lovers might enjoy the sailing trip. For a mix of culture and drinks, the Women and Wine Tour offers a unique perspective on Charleston’s social history.
If you’re after spooky stories, the ghost tours—like the Pirates and Ghosts or Haunted Walking Tour—are excellent, especially if you don’t mind a bit of spine-tingling fun. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the Shem Creek Culture Tour, which offers a lot for its price.
Booking early is always wise, especially during peak seasons. Most tours run year-round, but check availability and start times in advance. Think about whether you prefer walking, sailing, or a mix—each offers a different experience of Charleston’s rich story.
Final Thoughts
Charleston’s tour options cover everything from architectural marvels and lively sailing to ghost stories and cultural insights. If you want a comprehensive history experience, the walking tour is hard to beat. For a relaxing afternoon, sailing around the harbor provides scenic views and wildlife. And for those interested in the city’s spooky side, ghost tours deliver chills and fascinating stories.
For different travelers—whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family, or a thrill-seeker—there’s a tour that will enhance your visit. Consider your interests carefully, book in advance, and enjoy discovering Charleston’s many layers. With so many great options, you’ll find something memorable to take home—whether a new fact, a sunset sail, or a ghostly encounter.