Dolphin & Nature Tour — photo 1 of 5

Dolphin & Nature Tour

1 / 5

Rating

4.7(807)

Family of 4

$80-$140 for a family of 4

Duration

1.5-2 hours

Best Ages

Best for ages 3 and up

About

The Dolphin & Nature Tour operated by Hilton Head Tours is one of the island's most reviewed and consistently rated dolphin tour operators — 807 reviews averaging 4.7 stars reflects a reliable operation with guides who know where the dolphins are and how to deliver an engaging educational experience.

Hilton Head Island's waters are among the most dolphin-populated on the East Coast. The island sits at the confluence of multiple tidal creek systems and the Calibogue Sound, creating a rich foraging environment that bottle-nose dolphins actively use. Seeing wild dolphins isn't a once-in-a-while event here — it's the consistent expectation, with guides who understand dolphin behavior and positioning tours to maximize sighting frequency.

The naturalist commentary elevates the experience from simple dolphin watching to genuine wildlife education. Guides explain foraging strategies, how dolphins use the Hilton Head ecosystem, and the environmental factors that affect their population. Kids who absorb this information while watching actual wild dolphins exhibit the behaviors being described form connections that aquarium visits simply can't replicate.

Departures from 18 Simmons Rd in northern Hilton Head (no Sea Pines gate fee required). Multiple daily departure times are typically available in peak season — book at hiltonheadtours.com. Morning departures offer calmer water and are generally recommended for families with young children.

Age Suitability

Infants (0-1)Toddlers (1-3)Little Kids (4-6)Big Kids (7-9)Tweens (10-12)Teens (13-17)

Parent Logistics

Stroller-Friendly

No

Nursing / Changing

Not Available

Kid Meals

Not Available

Setting

Outdoor

Rainy Day

Not ideal

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

Morning for calmer water and better dolphin sightings; book in advance

Wait Times

Book online — limited capacity per tour

Nearby Food

Simmons Road area is in northern Hilton Head with access to island dining nearby.

Why Kids Love It

Wild bottle-nose dolphins commonly swim alongside and under the boat on these tours — an experience that's photographed millions of times on Hilton Head Island and still feels completely magical every time. Naturalist guides provide commentary on dolphin behavior and the coastal ecosystem. Kids who've seen dolphins at aquarium shows are stunned by the difference of encountering wild, free dolphins on open water.

What Parents Say

We had many sightings during the ride and our 11year old son was absolutely amazed by the dolphins.
Google Review

Pro Tips from Parents

  • Book at hiltonheadtours.com — the operator offers multiple daily departures
  • Morning tours have calmer water and dolphins are often more active
  • Dolphin sightings are very common (guides know the patterns) but not guaranteed
  • Children ages 2 and under may be free — confirm when booking
  • Sunscreen is essential — open water sun exposure is intense

What to Bring

  • Sunscreen
  • Light windbreaker for open water
  • Camera with zoom for dolphin photos
  • Water

Cost Info

Admission Prices

Adult
$31.95
Child
$16.95

Tips to Save

  • Book directly at hiltonheadtours.
  • com.
  • Morning tours typically offer better water conditions.
  • Compared to Outside Hilton Head, this operator focuses specifically on dolphin and nature tours — a more targeted offering for families who primarily want the dolphin experience.

Hours & Contact

Contact

18 Simmons Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

Frequently Asked Questions

Tickets & Booking

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