Get Out of Town! Visit 12 Lowcountry Stops with the Complete Charleston Tour!

Get Out of Town! Visit 12 Lowcountry Stops with the Complete Charleston Tour! offers an extensive way to see the Charleston area beyond the historic downtown. For $116 per person, this 6.5-hour tour takes you through 12 unique stops, showcasing the city’s natural beauty, historic sites, and coastal charm. The tour departs from 475 E Bay Street at 8:30 am, and is operated by Snap! Picture Perfect Tours.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its combination of comfortable transportation, limited group size (max 8 travelers), and well-planned itinerary. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable storytelling and friendly approach, making each stop engaging and informative. With snacks and bottled water included, it’s designed for comfort and convenience, though lunch is not provided. This tour suits anyone looking for a rundown of Charleston’s surrounding Lowcountry, especially those with limited time or a desire to access sites off the usual tourist trail.

Key Points

• Visit 12 diverse locations spanning historic plantations, beaches, and lighthouse sites within a single tour
• Limited group sizes ensure an intimate experience with more attention from the guide
• Includes transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned van with commentary throughout
• Highlights include the Angel Oak Tree, Folly Beach Pier, Morris Island Lighthouse, and Patriots Point Naval Museum
• Snacks and bottled water are provided, but lunch is not included
• The tour is fast-paced, with some long walks and steps, so good mobility is recommended

Exploring Charleston’s Lowcountry in a Single Day

This tour offers a comprehensive view of Charleston’s surrounding Lowcountry, going far beyond the downtown area. It begins at Charlotte Street Park, an antebellum street in the Wragg district, where the quiet atmosphere hints at the area’s history. From there, the adventure moves to Folly Beach, where the Folly Beach Fishing Pier hearkens back to the 1940s when it was among the first amusement parks in the nation.

The tour then hikes to the Morris Island Lighthouse, the sixth oldest lighthouse in the US, with a 3/4 mile walk over sand dunes that offers a close-up view of this historic beacon. The Angel Oak Tree, a 400-500 year-old live oak on Johns Island, is a highlight for its size and age, making it a favorite stop.

Visiting Historic Plantations and Churches

The tour includes a stop at Drayton Hall, the oldest remaining plantation house in its original form. Though inside visits are not included, the guide provides ample pictures and historical context. Nearby, the Magnolia Plantation & Gardens offers a quick drive-by with a brief stop for photos of the circa 1870 home, along with its lush grounds.

Old St. Andrew’s Parish Church, among the earliest parish halls south of Virginia, stands among Spanish moss and a historic graveyard, emphasizing Charleston’s long-standing religious heritage. The Stella Maris Roman Catholic Church, built in the 1830s for Irish Army Corps engineers, offers a glimpse into local resilience and history.

Maritime and Military Heritage

The Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum provides up-close views of the USS Yorktown and USS Laffey, key ships in US naval history. Although the museum admission is not included, the visit adds a significant maritime dimension to the tour. Nearby, the Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina offers a different vantage point of the ships and waterfront, with stunning views of the Cooper River.

Plus, the tour passes by Fort Moultrie and Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, the latter being humorously known as the “ugliest lighthouse in America”. The walk along station streets beyond Fort Moultrie leads to the beach, revealing the area’s military significance and scenic coastlines.

Unique Coastal Stops and Water Taxi Ride

Folly Beach’s Fishing Pier and nearby Morris Island Lighthouse provide classic Lowcountry scenery, sand dunes, and ocean views. The water taxi option, available for self-pay of $15, allows travelers to cruise back across Charleston Harbor, offering a relaxing end to the day. Alternatively, the van will drop passengers at Liberty Hilton or downtown Charleston, providing flexibility for the rest of the day.

The Guide’s Approach and Tour Pacing

The guide, Leanne, receives high praise for her knowledgeable storytelling and friendly demeanor. She manages a fast-paced schedule, balancing short walks, site visits, and longer drives effectively. The small group size facilitates interaction and ensures all questions are answered, making the experience personal and engaging.

While some reviews mention the brief stops and long distances between sites, the overall consensus is that the tour offers valuable access to locations that are difficult to visit independently. The itinerary and maps provided on arrival help travelers stay oriented and make the most of each stop.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes snacks and bottled water, which keeps participants refreshed during the day. Lunch is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly. The mobile ticket system allows for a smooth check-in process, and the departure point is centrally located at 475 E Bay Street.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should contact the operator in advance, given the long walks, sand dunes, and steps at some sites.

The Perfect Choice for In-Depth Charleston Exploration

This full-day tour delivers a broad snapshot of Charleston’s Lowcountry, emphasizing sites outside the city’s historic core. It’s especially valuable for visitors who want to see plantations, beaches, lighthouses, and military sites in one trip. The limited group size and expert guide ensure a personalized experience with plenty of opportunities for questions.

While it’s fast-paced and involves some physical activity, the value and scope of sites visited make it a worthwhile investment. It suits travelers eager to explore Charleston’s natural beauty and history without renting a car or spending days on multiple tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $116 per person.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 475 E Bay Street and can drop off at Liberty Hilton, downtown Charleston, or via water taxi (self-pay, $15).

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included; travelers should plan to bring their own or buy food during the day.

What stops are included?
Highlights include Charlotte Street Park, Folly Beach Pier, Morris Island Lighthouse, Angel Oak Tree, Drayton Hall, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, Old St. Andrew’s Parish Church, The Citadel, Fort Moultrie, Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse, Patriots Point Naval Museum, and views from Charleston Harbor Resort.

Is the tour suitable for all mobility levels?
While most travelers can participate, the tour involves long walks, sand dunes, and steps, so those with mobility concerns should contact the operator beforehand.

How many people are in each tour?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, which helps maintain an intimate experience.

What should I bring?
Besides snacks and water provided, visitors should bring comfortable walking shoes and plan for some physical activity at certain stops.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.