Get Out of Town! Lighthouses, Beaches and Forts Tour! Folly to Sullivans Island

Escape the ordinary and embark on an unforgettable 4-hour tour from Folly Beach to Sullivan’s Island. This highly-rated excursion allows you to explore historic sites like Fort Moultrie and The Citadel, while enjoying stunning ocean views along the Folly Beach pier. With knowledgeable guides providing captivating stories, you’ll learn about maritime history at the iconic Morris Island Lighthouse. Don’t miss the chance to savor local snacks and capture moments at these picturesque landmarks.

Key Points

• Explore the historic landmarks of Folly Beach and Sullivan’s Island, including Fort Moultrie, The Citadel, and two iconic lighthouses on a guided 4-hour excursion.
• Stroll along the Folly Beach pier, engage in water sports, and learn about the town’s rich history and significance as a popular vacation destination.
• Discover the strategic importance of Fort Moultrie in defending Charleston Harbor during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, and hear captivating stories of its heroic defenders.
• Visit The Citadel, the iconic military college, and witness the daily dress parade showcasing the cadets’ precision and discipline.
• Admire the striking black-and-white striped design of the historic Morris Island Lighthouse and learn about its role in safeguarding coastal communities.

Tour Overview

The "Get Out of Town! Lighthouses, Beaches and Forts Tour" takes visitors on a 4-hour excursion from Folly Beach to Sullivan’s Island in Charleston, USA.

This highly-rated tour (97% recommended) allows guests to explore iconic sites like Fort Moultrie, The Citadel, and two historic lighthouses.

Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour includes bottled water, local snacks, and gratuities.

With a maximum of 8 travelers, the experience offers personalized service and a flexible, relaxed pace.

The tour starts and ends at the Charleston Visitor Center, and features comfortable transportation with tech amenities like videos and local photos.

Exploring Folly Beach

What does the tour’s first stop at Folly Beach entail? Guests have the chance to explore the charming coastal town and its vibrant beach.

Strolling along the Folly Beach pier, they can take in stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and barrier islands. The tour guide highlights the local history, including Folly Beach’s role as a popular vacation spot since the late 19th century.

Visitors may spot beachgoers enjoying watersports or simply relaxing on the sand. After soaking in the ocean breeze, the group heads to the next destination on the tour’s itinerary – Sullivan’s Island.

Discovering Fort Moultrie

From Folly Beach, the tour group makes its way to Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island. This historic fort played a crucial role in the Revolutionary War and Civil War.

Visitors explore the fort’s impressive bastions, gun batteries, and underground passages, learning about its strategic importance in defending Charleston Harbor. The guide shares captivating stories of the fort’s heroic defenders, including Sergeant William Jasper‘s famous flag-raising during the Battle of Sullivan’s Island.

Guests have ample time to wander the grounds and imagine the sounds of cannon fire echoing across the tidal marshes.

Visiting The Citadel

Next, the tour group makes its way to The Citadel, Charleston’s iconic military college. As they approach the campus, they take in the impressive neoclassical architecture and the disciplined cadets maneuvering through the grounds.

The guide highlights key facts:

• The Citadel was founded in 1842 and has produced notable alumni, including several U.S. Senators and Congressmen.
• The campus features the Summerall Chapel, a landmark with a distinct copper-covered steeple.
• Visitors can observe the daily dress parade, a long-standing tradition showcasing the cadets’ precision and discipline.
• The Citadel Museum offers insights into the college’s rich history and military heritage.
• The campus provides a glimpse into the rigorous academic and military training that shapes future leaders.

Admiring Morris Island Lighthouse

The tour group then journeys to the iconic Morris Island Lighthouse, one of the nation’s oldest lighthouses.

This 19th-century structure has weathered the test of time, standing as a testament to the region’s maritime history.

Visitors marvel at its striking black-and-white striped design, which served as a beacon for ships navigating the treacherous waters of the Charleston harbor.

The group has the opportunity to snap photos and learn about the lighthouse’s role in safeguarding coastal communities.

This stop provides a glimpse into the area’s rich nautical heritage and the vital importance of these iconic structures.

Capturing Moments at the Lighthouses and Fort

With cameras at the ready, the group eagerly captures moments of the next stops on the tour – the lighthouses and historic fort.

The Morris Island Lighthouse, standing tall and majestic, makes for a stunning backdrop. Visitors snap photos of the picturesque structure, its red-and-white striped facade contrasting beautifully against the azure sky.

At Fort Moultrie, the group explores the historic battlements, documenting the imposing stone walls and cannons that once defended Charleston. The tour guide shares stories of the fort’s role in the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, adding depth to the visual experience.

• Morris Island Lighthouse
• Fort Moultrie fortifications
• Cannon displays at the fort
• Scenic coastal views
• Memorable photo opportunities

Feedback From Satisfied Customers

Overwhelmingly positive customer feedback underscores the tour’s ability to deliver an exceptional experience. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, such as Leeann, who provide personalized service and local insights.

Customers highlight the unique opportunity to explore Charleston’s history beyond the downtown area, with memorable moments captured at the lighthouses and fort. Early tour times are recommended to avoid crowds and heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Does the Tour Start and End?

The tour starts at the Charleston Visitor Center and returns to the same location, lasting approximately 4 hours in total. Specific start and end times are not provided in the overview.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Water?

No, you don’t need to bring your own snacks and water. The tour includes bottled water and local snacks from Charleston, so you can leave your own provisions at home and enjoy the complimentary refreshments provided.

Is There a Restroom Stop During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes a restroom stop during the 4-hour experience. The guides ensure travelers have opportunities to use facilities at various points throughout the tour, keeping the pace comfortable and convenient for participants.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible. Guides accommodate guests with mobility needs, and the transportation van is equipped to comfortably accommodate wheelchairs. Visitors should let the tour operator know in advance about any accessibility requirements.

Do We Get Free Transportation to the Meeting Point?

The tour does not provide free transportation to the meeting point at the Charleston Visitor Center. Travelers are responsible for getting themselves to the starting location for the 4-hour tour experience.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an unforgettable journey through the rich maritime history of South Carolina’s coast. From the iconic Folly Beach pier to the historic Fort Moultrie and Morris Island Lighthouse, travelers will be captivated by the stunning ocean vistas and captivating stories shared by the knowledgeable guides. With local snacks and bottled water provided, it’s an experience not to be missed for anyone seeking to explore the area’s unique coastal landmarks.