Dolphin & Nature Tour
Rating
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
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.”
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.