Millions of people flock to Hilton Head Island every year because there’s no better place to soak up the sun or hit the golf courses. However, many forget that there’s also a treasure trove of history you can unearth beneath your feet. Discovering Hilton Head’s history is an adventure, just like any other activity here! If you want to dive into the stories that shaped this island, here are four history tours you can book.
Hilton Head History Tours
Address: 1 Mitchelville Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Phone: (843) 949-0144
Get ready for an exhilarating three-hour journey aboard a sleek, air-conditioned executive motorcoach. Expert historians will whisk you away on an unforgettable adventure that blends engaging storytelling and light walking as you hop between some sites, including the following:
- Mitchelville Town Site
- Zion Chapel of Ease Cemetery
- Greens Shell Ring
- Stoney Baynard Ruins
- Fort Howell
- Honey Horn Plantation
- Sea Pines Shell Ring
- Cherry Hill Schoolhouse
- Rear-range Leamington Lighthouse
- Calabogie at Six Oaks
Hilton Head Segway Eco Discovery Tour
Address: 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (The Coastal Discovery Museum)
Phone: (843) 800-6004
The Eco Discovery Tour takes place in a serene and pristine 70-acre nature preserve. Hop on a Segway and glide along the leisure trails, enveloped by sprawling live oaks draped in enchanting Spanish moss. You can roll out onto the boardwalk, traverse the vibrant Salt Marsh, and explore the lovely grounds of Honey Horn. All while you uncover intriguing historical tidbits along the way!
Forts of Port Royal
Address: 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (The Coastal Discovery Museum)
Phone: (843) 689-6767
Did you know that the Union forces occupied Hilton Head in November 1861? The island was a strategic base during the Civil War due to its proximity to Charleston and Savannah. On this exciting guided history tour, you’ll learn about the Battle of Port Royal, explore the intriguing historic sites of Fort Walker, and even see a vintage Steam Cannon that once served for coastal defense.
Just a heads up: you’ll have to hop in your own vehicle and join the guide on a caravan to these remarkable sites.
Gullah Heritage Trail Tours
Address: 70 Honey Horn Drive, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926 (Pickup Location: The Coastal Discovery Museum)
Phone: (843) 681-7066
Experience the rich culture of the Gullah people during a two-hour narrated bus tour led by native Gullah guides, who are descendants of formerly enslaved people from the post-Civil War era! This tour takes you through historic Gullah communities, showcasing an island once dominated by farmlands, trees, dirt roads, and natural waterways.
See Hilton Head in a Whole New Light!
Booking history tours will allow you to better understand Hilton Head’s cultural and historical significance. Remember: the island wouldn’t be the charming place it is today without its fascinating past. Connect with the local heritage and gain insights you often overlook in standard travel itineraries.
At Beachside Hilton Head, you’ll be near many of these history tour options, so exploring and learning while on vacation is always possible. Book a vacation rental today and start your historical trip to Hilton Head Island!
