20 Fun Things to Do in Hilton Head with Kids — Family Friendly Activities!

Hilton Head is a great place to rest and recreation with the family.

But with its many tourist attractions, including 12 miles of beaches, themed gardens, and museums, it can be hard to plan a trip.

I know this because I’ve experienced it.

As a seasoned travel writer and parent who has been to Hilton Head numerous times with the young ones, I know the challenges firsthand.

But don’t worry because I’ve learned from these experiences.

And so I’ve created this roundup of the fun things to do in Hilton Head with the kids for you.

I also made comparisons of the tourist activities based on several criteria like age compatibility, educational value, fun factor, accessibility, and affordability.

So plan the perfect trip now with my in-depth reviews and tips for you:

Fun Things to Do in Hilton Head with Kids Compared 

With its beautiful scenery and rich history, there’s no shortage of fun activities in Hilton Head. 

Here are my top picks for family-friendly things to do on the island.

Here are fun activities in Hilton Head with kids.

1. Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour — Daufuskie Island (Editor’s Choice)

1 Shelter Cove Lane
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 686-6996
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The 4.5-hour Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour is one of the top-rated activities in Hilton Head.

Ratings Criteria

• Age Compatibility: Teenagers (13-17 years)
• Educational Value: 4.5/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5
• Accessibility: 4.5/5
• Affordability: 4/5

Pros

• Focus on the island’s history
• Knowledgeable guides

Cons

• Limited shade

Why We Recommend This Activity

Learn more about Lowcountry history and the ways of life of Native Americans and European settlers from your knowledgeable guide. 

Plus, you’ll enjoy stunning nature views while touring the remote Daufuskie Island on board a golf cart.

Recommended Ages

Both teenagers and adults will love the educational tour and the stunning nature views.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa

2. Pirate Ship Adventure Sail — Harbour Town

149 Lighthouse Road
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 363-7000
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The activity allows for immersive pirate experiences for kids while you tour Hilton Head waters on a ship.

Ratings Criteria

• Age Compatibility: Young children (6-9 years)
• Educational Value: 5/5
• Fun Factor: 4/5
• Accessibility: 4.5/5
• Affordability: 4.5/5

Pros

• Includes fun treasure hunt with pirate costumes for kids
• Multiple departure times to suit your schedule

Cons

• Limited duration

Why We Recommend This Activity

This activity is popular among travelers because it’s educational and offers value for money.

Plus, the kids just love it.

Why wouldn’t they when they get to experience being a pirate on a real boat for a day?

Recommended Ages

Young children will enjoy looking for Stinky Pete and the hidden treasure–in full pirate costumes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Beach House, A Holiday Inn Resort

Related: Best Restaurants in Hilton Head

3. Mermaid Encounter Tour — Hilton Head Harbor Marina

43A Jenkins Road
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
(843) 271-6441
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This roughly one-hour boat tour gets its inspiration from the children’s book, “The Mermaid’s Friends.”

Ratings Criteria

• Age Compatibility: Preschoolers (4-5 years)
• Educational Value: 4/5
• Fun Factor: 4.5/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Affordability: 4.5/5

Pros

• Views of dolphins and other wildlife
• Up-close encounters with fun characters like a mermaid

Cons

• Crowds

Why We Recommend This Activity

Your little ones will surely enjoy meeting a “real” mermaid and asking her a question.

And you get the bonus of seeing beautiful dolphins and other marine life from your boat.

Recommended Ages

Your preschoolers will enjoy this one-of-a-kind magical experience.

The stunning nature views are perfect for you, too.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa

Related: Best Hilton Head Resorts for Families

4. Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise — Harbour Town

149 Lighthouse Rd.
Hilton Head Island, SC, 29928
(843) 363-9026
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With its beautiful animal encounters, Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise – Harbour Town is an excellent alternative to Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour and Pirate Ship Adventure Sail.

Operator Vagabond Cruise guarantees animal sightings on this popular cruise that lasts for more than an hour.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Immerse yourselves in nature on this cruise around the Calibogue Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.

You’ll pass by famous landmarks like Daufuskie and Bull Islands and The Hague Point Lighthouse.

During your cruise, you’ll also learn more about the history behind these places from your knowledgeable guide.

It’s a great way to enjoy the beautiful nature views, too.

And if you’re lucky, you might even find dolphins, egrets, and herons in the wild.

Recommended Ages

People of all ages will enjoy this beautiful nature immersion.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sonesta Resort – Hilton Head Island

5. Lawton Stables — Sea Pines

190 Greenwood Drive
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 671-2586
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Located in the Sea Pines Forest Preserve, Lawton Stables boasts over 600 acres of Hilton Head scenery.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Saddle up and ride a horse or a pony at Lawton Stables.

Their Western-style nature trail showcases lakes, forests, swamps, butterfly gardens, and wildlife, making it one of the interactive places to take kids in Hilton Head.

Aside from the horse rides, there is an animal farm to visit.

Get up close and meet their sheep, donkeys, cows, pigs, goats, alpacas, ponies, and chickens.

You can also buy food from the farm to feed the small animals yourself.

Recommended Ages

The Lawton Stables’ trail rides are for children ages eight and up, while the pony rides are for little ones at least 18 months old.

The animal farm, however, is open to everyone.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ocean Oak Resort by Hilton Grand Vacations

Related: Best Things to Do in Hilton Head

6. Station 300 Bowling Lanes — Bluffton

25 Innovation Drive
Bluffton, SC 29910
(843) 845-2695
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Opened in 2012, Station 300 Bowling Lanes is a 33,000-square-foot high-tech family entertainment center that features 24 bowling lanes, arcade games, and a full-service sports bar.

Why We Recommend This Activity

This entertainment center offers families a new and improved bowling experience.

Request shows, games, or movies through drop-down screens located at each bowling lane.

There are unique features you can only experience at Station 300, like lights and strobes as you play, bumpers you can program by individual names, and food service you can enjoy lane-side.

Recommended Ages

The fun awaiting your family at Station 300 is perfect for visitors ages five and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Candlewood Suites – Bluffton-Hilton Head

Related: Free Things to Do in Hilton Head, SC

7. The Gregg Russell Family Concerts — Sea Pines

Harbour Town 149 Lighthouse Road,
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 842-1979
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Gregg Russell has made a name for himself for over 40 years, singing his own songs under the old Liberty Oak tree in Harbour Town for millions of people across all ages.

He is such a significant individual in Hilton Head that a playground is already named after him.

Why We Recommend This Activity

You’d wonder what makes one old musician so famous on an island that hundreds of tourists would gather around a tree just to listen to him.

But every summer, Gregg Russell Concerts have visitors young and old clapping to the beat of his family-friendly music and laughing and singing on into the night. In fact, one of his songs has inspired a film.

Just a stone’s throw away from the oak tree he made famous is the playground named after him, where kids can enjoy its swings, slides, and climbs.

Recommended Ages

The entertainment that Gregg Russell offers has been loved by visitors of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Inn and Club at Harbour Town

8. Coastal Discovery Museum — Honey Horn

70 Honey Horn Drive
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
(843) 689-6767
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Founded in 1985, the 60-acre Coastal Discovery Museum opened in Hilton Head in 2007 and now offers some of the most interesting things to do in Hilton Head with toddlers.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Discover natural science, history, and culture through hands-on activities at the Coastal Discovery Museum.

There are costumes, puzzles, puppet shows, murals, and scavenger hunts to enjoy as children explore this beautiful yet fragile landscape.

Home to ancient trees as old as the 1500s, shell rings dating as far back as 4,000 years ago, a Discovery House built in 1859, and many other historical surprises, this museum inspires visitors to care for and preserve the region’s environment and history.

Recommended Ages

Guests of all ages will love the fun and educational experience that the Coastal Discovery Museum can offer.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Head Island Beach and Tennis Resort

Also See:
Things to Do in Charleston with Kids
Kids Activities: Myrtle Beach

9. Coligny Plaza

One North Forest Beach Drive, Coligny Circle
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 842-6050
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Coligny Plaza has been around for over 60 years, offering families dining, shopping, and entertainment since 1955.

Why We Recommend This Activity

There are over 60 stores to explore at Coligny Plaza — ranging from restaurants, bakeries, cafes, and bars to clothing, jewelry, gifts, rentals, toy stores, hardware stores, and anything you can think of.

There is also a theater open from Monday to Saturday.

Best of all, the plaza is close to the beach and boasts lively events perfect for families.

If you’re looking for an event at the plaza today or right this weekend, there could be one, so check their calendar.

Recommended Ages

Coligny Plaza’s selection of stores and events is beloved by visitors across all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Omni Oceanfront Resort Hilton Head Island

10. Bristol Sports Arena — Wexford

4 Helmsman Way,
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 842-3835
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The Bristol Sports Arena was named after the Bristol family, whose donations funded the rink in 2011.

Why We Recommend This Activity

If you’re a family of athletes and sports enthusiasts, the Bristol Sports Arena offers you a skate park and multipurpose rink, baseball field, basketball field, and soccer field, as well as restrooms if you’ll be spending time longer here than you think.

The rink is open to the public and hosts an adult roller hockey game to watch every week.

Recommended Ages

The Bristol Sports Arena is best for children who are ages seven and up and love skating, especially teens.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Palmera Inn and Suites

11. Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge

Pinckney Wildlife Refuge Road
Hilton Head, SC 29926
(912) 652-4415
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The Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge was named after General Charles Pinckney, who acquired the land in 1715 and whose descendants owned it for 200 years.

Why We Recommend This Activity

The 4,000-acre Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge is home to wildlife you can watch roaming about.

Interestingly, this forest preserve also has 115 prehistoric sites dating back to 8,000 BC.

Go hiking, fishing, biking, birding, or hunting across this wide expanse of saltmarsh, forestland, brushland, and freshwater pond.

There may be reptile encounters beneath the overgrowths and along the ponds, so stay on the graveled paths and leave the animals alone.

Recommended Ages

This refuge does not have any visitor centers, so it may be best to explore it with children ages 10 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites By Hilton Hilton Head

Also See:
Best Places to Go for Spring Break with Family

12. Shelter Cove Towne Centre — Palmetto Dunes

40 Shelter Cove Lane
Hilton Head, SC 29928-3543
(843) 686-3090
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It may look like a residential village, but Shelter Cove Towne Centre is actually a lifestyle space offering a mix of residences, shops, restaurants, events, and entertainment across 290,000 square feet.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Shelter Cove Towne Centre gathers residents and visitors alike in a community park with its events and shows, playground, pavilion, picnic spots, and breathtaking water views.

You can bike together all the way from Shelter Cove Harbour to the center as there are bike trails, bike corrals, a tire air fill station, and water fountains just for you.

Recommended Ages

Whether you plan to witness events or spend the rest of the day winding down for a picnic, there is something to do for everyone of any age at Shelter Cove Towne Centre.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Hilton Head

Related: Things to Do Near Hilton Head

13. Driessen Beach Park

64 Bradley Beach Road
Hilton Head, SC 29928-5303
(843) 842-5698
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Among all the beaches in Hilton Head, Driessen Beach has one of the largest parking spaces.

It is named after a historically significant local family in Hilton Head, the Driessens, who have lived near the area for generations.

Why We Recommend This Activity

We’ve talked about lakes, ponds, and entertainment centers close to the beach.

Now let’s show you one of the best family beaches in Hilton Head, which can offer you cheap family fun.

Driessen Beach Park is a hidden gem: it’s open to the public but is also relatively isolated.

If you want to steer clear of large crowds, Driessen Beach Park has picnic shelters, grills, a vending machine, beach rentals, playground, bathrooms, water fountains, and outdoor showers.

Recommended Ages

Driessen Beach Park welcomes guests of all ages to its fine white sand and lifeguarded beach.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Island Links Resort by Palmera

14. Commander Zodiac — Sea Pines

232 S. Sea Pines Drive
South Beach Marina, Sea Pines Plantation
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 671-3344
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Commander Zodiac has been offering nature excursions, sailing lessons, and boat rentals for over 35 years.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Climb aboard hard-bottomed rafts and watch dolphins follow you around.

Commander Zodiac’s tours have been featured by National Geographic, the Discovery Channel, and the BBC.

Choose among a one-hour dolphin tour, a 90-minute dolphin and salt marsh excursion, and a two-hour dolphin and beachcombing tour.

Aside from friendly, intelligent dolphins, you get to meet birds and other animals as well.

Recommended Ages

Commander Zodiac offers their activities for visitors ages 4 and up.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Beach House, A Holiday Inn Resort

15. Duck Donuts — Long Cove

890 William Hilton Pkwy Suite 70
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 842-3825
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First opened in Duck Town of North Carolina (hence its name), Duck Donuts has been offering a sweet, welcoming, family-friendly experience since 2007 to everyone who visits their stores.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Treat the entire family just this once with delectable, customizable doughnuts! Duck Donuts’ customizable dessert begins with their freshly baked trademark vanilla cake doughnut, then you pick your own coating, topping, and drizzle.

Not only are these doughnuts rewarding; you can also consider customizing the doughnut as one of the fun things to do in Hilton Head with kids that you can include in your itinerary.

Recommended Ages

A treat at Duck Donuts is best for youngsters ages 1 and up, but be ready for leftovers if they’re not pleased with their own coating, topping, and drizzle choices.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa

16. Harbour Town Lighthouse

149 Lighthouse Rd
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(866) 305-9814
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Harbour Town Lighthouse isn’t just a pretty view—it’s a walk through history.

This iconic red-and-white-striped lighthouse doubles as a museum.

As families ascend its 104 steps, they encounter ancient pottery, war artifacts, and quirky local photos.

It’s a must-see in the Sea Pines resort.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Kids love a good climb, and this lighthouse delivers 104 steps that are more than just a stairway—they’re a journey through time.

Each step reveals something new, from 10,000-year-old pottery to Revolutionary War relics.

It’s like a history lesson without the classroom.

Furthermore, kids 5 and under get in free, making it budget-friendly.

Parents will appreciate the educational angle and the stunning panoramic views at the top.

It’s a win-win for the whole family.

And if you’re there during the holidays, they even light up the lighthouse like a Christmas tree.

Recommended Ages

While the lighthouse is open to all, it’s best suited for kids aged 6 and up who can handle the climb.

Younger kids enter free but might find the steps a bit much.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ocean Oak Resort by Hilton Grand Vacations

17. The Sandbox Children’s Museum

80 Nassau St
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 842-7645
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The Sandbox features some of the most fascinating indoor kids activities Hilton Head Island, South Carolina has to offer.

Designed for the 10-and-under crowd, this interactive museum features everything from a kinetic sand table to a mini grocery store.

And don’t miss the two-story sandcastle playground.

Why We Recommend This Activity

This isn’t your average museum.

It’s a playground for the imagination, home to several exciting Hilton Head Island kids activities.

Kids can get hands-on with kinetic sand, build epic LEGO structures, or role-play in a vet clinic.

The two-story sandcastle in the middle?

A total showstopper.

Parents can relax on the cute patio while the little ones scale a rock wall or navigate a pool-noodle forest.

It’s a full day of fun, conveniently located next to another awesome outdoor playground.

Recommended Ages

This museum is perfect for kids aged 2 to 10.

The museum has a variety of activities that cater to different age groups, making it a hit for siblings too.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort

18. Lowcountry Celebration Park

94 Pope Ave
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 341-4600
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If you’re looking for things to do with kids, Hilton Head Island is loaded with choices.

For one, Lowcountry Celebration Park is a playground paradise.

Opened in 2020, it features a giant pirate ship, climbing nets, and even a wading pool.

It’s the ultimate spot for active kids and chill parents alike.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Ahoy, mateys.

Kids can unleash their inner pirate on a massive ship complete with slides and climbing nets.

Toddlers aren’t left out.

They have their own play area.

To cool off, the wading pool is a splash hit.

Parents will love the clean facilities, free parking, and picnic spots.

It’s a day well-spent for everyone.

Recommended Ages

Ideal for kids aged 2 to 12.

The park has specific areas for toddlers and older kids, so it’s a great spot for families with children of varying ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Oak Resort Hilton Head

19. Adventure Hilton Head

33 Broad Creek Marina Way
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
(843) 682-6000
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Searching for fun things to do in Hilton Head Island for kids?

Guess what?

Adventure Hilton Head is an adrenaline junkie’s playground.

From zip-lining to Go-Kart racing, this outdoor park offers a variety of heart-pounding activities for families.

Why We Recommend This Activity

Ready, set, adventure.

Older kids (10+) can zip through the trees, enjoying seven lines with killer views.

For the younger crowd (5+), the aerial ropes courses offer varying challenges.

We tried the Go-Karts, and let me tell you, those electric cars zip.

Parents can join in on the fun or cheer from the sidelines. It’s a day of thrills you won’t forget.

Recommended Ages

It’s best for kids aged 5 and up.

The park offers different activities tailored to various age groups, making it versatile for families.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: SpringHill Suites Hilton Head Island

20. Gregg Russell Harbour Town Playground

140 Lighthouse Rd
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
(843) 785-3333
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If you’re at Sea Pines Resort and looking for “things to do with kids near me”, check out Gregg Russell Playground.

Built around a giant live oak, it offers a treehouse vibe with classic playground fun.

Why We Recommend This Activity

A visit to Gregg Russell Harbour Town Playground should be on your list of kid friendly things to do in Hilton Head Island.

This isn’t just a playground.

It’s a treehouse adventure.

Kids can swing, slide, and climb in the shade of a massive live oak.

The natural setting adds a unique twist to the usual playground fare.

Parents will love the shade and the Instagram-worthy moments.

It’s a charming pit stop after visiting the nearby Harbour Town Lighthouse.

Recommended Ages

This playground is a hit for kids of all ages, from toddlers to pre-teens. The variety of equipment means there’s something for everyone.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Inn and Club at Harbour Town

Activity Guide

Comparing Activities: Which One Is Right For You?

When comparing Hilton Head attractions, consider the fun factor, educational value, and types of experiences provided.

Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour offers a historical immersion, while the Pirate Ship Adventure Sail provides stunning nature views.

The Mermaid Encounter Tour allows for a magical sea experience.

My family and I enjoyed each activity as we experienced firsthand the beauty of Hilton Head and its rich history.

And if you’re an animal lover, the Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise is an excellent option.

We took pictures of the beautiful 1800s First African Baptist Church we saw during the Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour.

My kids were so fully immersed in the Pirate Ship Adventure Sail activity that it took a while before they could shake off their pirate accent during the activity.

They also enjoyed talking to the beautiful “mermaid” in the waters they said they thought only existed in storybooks.

And as a parent, I enjoyed watching them, too.

How I Picked The Activities

I didn’t just stumble upon these magical adventures. 

I’ve lived them with my tribe, laughed with the locals, and chatted with experts. 

Oh, and I’ve scoured online reviews. 

I’ve done my homework, so you can focus on making sweet memories. 

Our Rating Method 

I rate these activities based on the following criteria: 

• Age Compatibility: I use this criterion to assess the ideal age range for each attraction. Is this activity suitable for toddlers, preschoolers, or young children? Will teenagers and tweens enjoy this attraction? I ask myself these questions whenever I assess age compatibility. 
• Educational Value: This is used to evaluate the educational benefits that the activity offers. Does the activity provide learning opportunities to children? Does it teach them lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating the activity’s educational value. 
• Fun Factor: This measures the level of excitement, engagement, and enjoyment that the activity offers. Is it engaging and enjoyable for kids? Will it create memorable and positive experiences for families? These questions are important whenever I rate the activity’s fun factor. 
• Accessibility: This measures how accessible the activity is for families. Is it wheelchair accessible? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have ample parking space? I consider these factors when evaluating the accessibility of every activity. 
• Affordability: This assesses the value of money provided by the activity. Are the admission fees reasonable? Does it offer deals or discounts for families? I use these questions to evaluate the affordability of every attraction. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hilton Head Good For families?

Yes, Hilton Head is good for families. Its family-friendly activities include the Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour, the Pirate Ship Adventure Sail, and the Mermaid Encounter Tour.

What Is Hilton Head Famous For?

Hilton Head is famous for the Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour, the Pirate Ship Adventure Sail, and the Mermaid Encounter Tour.

Fun Things to Do in Hilton Head with Kids: Reddit User Recommendations

Family Activities
byu/bremenfish inhiltonhead

Conclusion

These are the most fun things to do in Hilton Head with kids.

My family couldn’t stop taking pictures of iconic landmarks like the Mary Fields School during the Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour. 

At the Pirate Ship Adventure Sail, my kids dressed up as pirates, even imitating their accents, as we sailed through Hilton Head waters.

My young ones also loved interacting with the “mermaid,” who swam near us several times during the Mermaid Encounter Tour.

These activities come with their limitations, though.

The Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour might not be as enjoyable for those who don’t like history.

The Pirate Ship Adventure Sail may only be a hit for the younger ones.

And teenagers and pre-teens may not appreciate the Mermaid Encounter Tour.

The good news is that the Dolphin Watching Nature Cruise is a great alternative with its opportunities for close animal encounters.

Also, even with the drawbacks, the three other activities are worth every family’s time.

So, what’s our top choice? 

After all that fun, the Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour shines brightest. 

It’s an adventure that marries education with excitement. 

History whispers in your ears as you explore breathtaking views. 

It’s more than an attraction. 

It’s an unforgettable, heart-expanding experience.