Private and Luxury

Private and luxury tours make up more than half of all tours sold in South Carolina, with 376 options out of 672. These experiences range from exclusive walking tours and photo sessions to private sailing charters and eco boat excursions. Most are designed for families, small groups, or travelers seeking a more personal and flexible way to explore historic towns, beaches, and wildlife.

The median starting price is $63, with 57 tours under $30 and 88 over $250. While some are priced per person, others are per group or boat, making them ideal for sharing costs among friends or family. Only 6% of these tours are rated below 4 stars, so most visitors find them worth the investment.

With 376 private and luxury tours available, South Carolina offers more in this category than any other—over half of all tours in the state fall here. Prices start at $35 for small-group walking tours and reach up to $950 for private sailing or catamaran charters, with a median entry point of $63. This is identical to the median for other popular categories like walking, bus, and historical tours, but private and luxury options often include more personalized attention or exclusive access.

Most tours in this category are highly rated, with only 6% falling below 4 stars. The broad price range reflects the diversity: you’ll find everything from affordable semi-private walks to high-end private boat trips. Compared to food tours, which have a higher median price of $125, private and luxury experiences offer more variety in both activity and cost.

If you’re looking for something special—whether it’s a family-friendly dolphin cruise, a custom photo session, or a private history walk—this is the category with the widest choice and the greatest flexibility in South Carolina.

Choosing the right private or luxury tour in South Carolina depends on your group size, interests, and budget. For couples or solo travelers, semi-private walking tours like the Historic Walking Tour with a certified guide (from $35 per person) deliver expert storytelling and small groups, making them a top pick for first-time visitors. Families or groups can save by booking a private group tour, such as a customized walking experience for up to 10 people (from $350), which allows for tailored itineraries and plenty of personal attention.

Wildlife and nature lovers gravitate toward private boat excursions, where prices range from $52 per person for dolphin adventures to $429–$599 per group for private sailing or beachcomber tours. These often include knowledgeable captains or naturalists and the chance to spot dolphins, collect shells, or explore barrier islands. For a unique memento, private photo sessions in historic Charleston (from $175 per person) combine sightseeing with professional photography, ideal for special occasions or families wanting lasting memories.

Most of the best-rated tours in this category share a few traits: experienced and engaging guides, clear communication before the tour, and a willingness to tailor the experience to the group’s interests. Reviewers consistently praise guides who are knowledgeable, friendly, and able to connect history or nature to the guests’ backgrounds. For boat tours, many highlight the captains’ ability to find wildlife and accommodate specific requests.

Disappointments are rare but do occur. Some guests on private boat tours noted the lack of restrooms onboard, and a few mentioned wishing for longer tour durations. One review for a walking tour wished the experience could have been extended, but time did not permit. Overall, with only 6% of tours rated below 4 stars, most travelers find these private and luxury experiences to be a highlight of their trip.