Explore the rich history and outstanding beauty of one of South Carolina’s most renowned landmarks on a fascinating journey.
The Morris Island Lighthouse, situated off the coast of Charleston, is a testimony to the region’s marine legacy.
The lighthouse has witnessed significant historical events. Today, it stands as a beloved symbol of the region, even though it is no longer operational.
This article covers everything you should know before booking tickets for Morris Island Lighthouse Tour.
Table of contents
- What to expect
- Where to book tickets
- How do online tickets work
- Cost of Morris Island Lighthouse Tour
- Morris Island Lighthouse Tour Tickets with Naturalist
- Folly to Sullivan’s Island: Lighthouses, Beaches and Forts Tour tickets
- Morris Island Lighthouse Dolphin Bike Tour tickets
- Charleston Marsh Eco Boat Cruise Tickets with stop at Morris Island Lighthouse
- How to reach
- Timings
- Best time to visit
- How long does the tour take
- FAQs about Morris Island Lighthouse
What to expect
The Morris Island Lighthouse Tour promises a blend of history, natural beauty, adventure, and captivating stories.
The tour begins with a scenic boat ride from Charleston to Morris Island. During this journey, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy picturesque coastline views, spot wildlife, and appreciate the area’s natural beauty.
Upon reaching Morris Island, you’ll step ashore and have the chance to explore the island’s sandy beaches and surrounding landscape.
One of the tour’s highlights is the opportunity to climb the Morris Island Lighthouse. As you climb its 201 steps, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views from the observation deck.
Morris Island is a beautiful barrier island with pristine beaches, dunes, and salt marshes. The picturesque surroundings of the Morris Island Lighthouse provide ample opportunities for photography enthusiasts.
Where to book tickets
Morris Island Lighthouse Tour tickets can be bought online or at the attraction.
Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the venue.
When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the attraction’s ticket counters.
Because some attractions sell a limited number of tickets, booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointment.
When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.
How do online tickets work
Visit Morris Island Lighthouse Tour tickets booking page, select the number of tickets, preferred date, and time slot, and buy the tickets immediately.
After making the purchase, you will receive the tickets in your email.
There is no requirement to bring any printouts. You can access the tour by showing the ticket on your smartphone.
Cost of Morris Island Lighthouse Tour
Charleston: Morris Island Nature Boat Tour with Naturalist tickets costs US$52 for visitors above 13 years.
For visitors between four and 12 years old, the tickets cost US$40.
Infants up to three years old get free tickets.
Tickets for Get Out of Town! Lighthouses, Beaches and Forts Tour! Folly to Sullivan’s Island costs US$79 for visitors above 15 years.
For visitors of age 14 and younger, the tickets cost US$25.
Tickets for Morris Island Lighthouse Dolphin Bike Tour costs US$55 for visitors of all ages.
Tickets for Charleston Marsh Eco Boat Cruise with stop at Morris Island Lighthouse cost US$56 for visitors above 13 years.
For children aged between three and 12, the tickets cost US$34.
For visitors of age two and younger, the tickets cost US$12.
Morris Island Lighthouse Tour Tickets with Naturalist
Embark on a journey through Charleston Harbor, passing by historic landmarks on the way to the uninhabited Morris Island.
The Lowcountry waterways are home to marine animals and interesting bird species, such as Great Blue Herons, Snowy Egrets, Eastern Brown Pelicans, and Least Terns. Witness this unique wildlife in their natural habitat.
Accompanied by licensed naturalists, you will explore Morris Island’s beach and discover the abundant sea life that thrives in Charleston.
Discover the wild side of Charleston’s waters while enjoying a leisurely afternoon in the salty air while collecting shells.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (12+ years): US$52
Child Ticket (4 to 12 years): US$40
Infant Ticket (up to 3 years): Free
Folly to Sullivan’s Island: Lighthouses, Beaches and Forts Tour tickets
Charleston has a laid-back vibe, yet it’s surprisingly more bustling than the coastal towns.
If you want to escape the city streets and head to the shoreline, consider booking this private guided tour.
This tour will take you to the Charleston peninsula islands, starting with Folly Beach and then Sullivan’s Island. During the tour, you’ll have the chance to snap some photos at two lighthouses, a popular tourist beach, and a historic fort.
This tour stop holds the history of the colonial United States. The first naval battle of the Revolution, the first shots of the Civil War, and the most tranquil beach spot in Charleston are included in this tour.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (14+ years): US$79
Child Ticket (up to 14 years): US$25
Morris Island Lighthouse Dolphin Bike Tour tickets
Embark on a bike tour to Morris Island Lighthouse! The tour guide will greet you at the north end of Folly Beach and provide you with bikes and basic instructions.
We’ll start with a short ride down a beautiful road adorned with graffiti before making our way up pristine natural dunes. Once we reach the top, you can take in the stunning view of Morris Island Lighthouse, just a quarter mile off the beach.
The lighthouse is a great photography location. We’ll then continue our bike tour along the coast to Folly River, a great location for dolphin-watching and observing local wildlife. After a brief rest, we’ll head back to the parking area.
The tour lasts about an hour, and the operating hours are subject to the tide.
Ticket Price: US$55
Charleston Marsh Eco Boat Cruise Tickets with stop at Morris Island Lighthouse
Experience a delightful boat cruise from Charleston, where you will navigate through Lowcountry tidal creeks and marshes to reach the beautiful and uninhabited Morris Island.
You will be riding on a private boat company that launches from Bowens Island, and you will marvel at the rich biodiversity of the estuary.
Once you arrive, you will have free time to capture stunning photos of the historic Morris Island Lighthouse, search for beautiful seashells, and spot incredible wildlife such as birds, sea turtles, and dolphins.
You will then return to your starting point after this enjoyable adventure.
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (13+ years): US$56
Child Ticket (3 to 14 years): US$34
Infant Ticket (up to 2 years): US$12
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How to reach
The Morris Island Lighthouse is located north of Folly Beach on the southern side of Charleston Harbor. At 161 feet (49 meters), it is the tallest lighthouse in South Carolina.
Address: 1750 E Ashley Ave, Folly Beach, SC 29439, United States. Get Directions.
You can reach the location by public or private transportation.
By boat
There are several boats that take you from Folly Beach to the lighthouse. You can get the tickets at the operator’s counters.
By walk
You can walk to the lighthouse from the Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve on Folly Island.
The walk is about 1.5 miles ( 2.4 km) long and takes 30 minutes.
By Bus
The Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve is only 21 minutes from Secessionville Rd / Rainbow Rd. (Bus: 31)
By Car
If you’re traveling by car, turn on Google Maps and begin your journey.
Click here to learn more about the parking lots near Morris Island.
Timings
The Morris Island Lighthouse operates from 6 am to 8 pm, Monday to Sunday.
Best time to visit
The best time to go to the Morris Island Lighthouse is at sunrise or sunset when the light is turned on.
An early morning tour to the lighthouse at 6, when the tours start, provides a great experience as there will be minimal crowds and ample time to admire the surroundings.
If you want to capture beautiful photographs of the lighthouse and the surrounding landscape, the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon can offer the best lighting conditions.
If you prefer a less crowded experience, consider visiting during weekdays, avoiding major holidays and school vacation periods.
If you prefer more comfortable temperatures, visiting the Morris Island Lighthouse during the milder spring months (March to May) or fall ( September to November)can be a good choice.
How long does the tour take
The Morris Island Lighthouse Tour lasts around 2 to 3 hours.
This itinerary usually includes the boat ride to Morris Island, exploration time on the island, climbing the lighthouse (if permitted), and the return boat ride to Charleston.
FAQs about Morris Island Lighthouse
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Morris Island Lighthouse Tour.
The Morris Island Lighthouse is closed for public entry as it is no longer operational.
However, guided tours to Morris Island allow visitors to explore and learn about the lighthouse’s history.
While climbing the Morris Island Lighthouse was once possible, it’s important to note that access to the tower may be restricted or prohibited due to safety concerns or preservation efforts.
However, some tours may allow climbing a nearby observation tower for panoramic views of the area.
It’s advisable to bring comfortable footwear suitable for walking on sandy terrain, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and drinking water.
Also, remember to bring your camera or smartphone if you plan to take photographs.
Morris Island is known for its diverse wildlife, including various bird species, marine life, and coastal vegetation.
During the tour, you may have the chance to observe birds, such as shorebirds and seabirds, as well as dolphins and other marine creatures in the surrounding waters.
Morris Island is a barrier island, and its terrain may not be suitable for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility. The boat ride and island exploration may involve walking on sandy beaches and uneven surfaces.
If you have mobility concerns, it’s essential to check with the tour operator about accessibility options.
Bringing pets may be restricted on the tour due to the natural environment and wildlife considerations.
While you may be near the water during the tour, swimming is typically prohibited due to safety concerns, strong currents, and potentially hazardous conditions.
The Morris Island tour may be canceled or rescheduled in bad weather for safety reasons. Tour operators usually have policies regarding cancellations and refunds due to weather conditions.
Sources
# Charlestonoutdooradventures.com
# Adventureharbortours.com
# Discovergeorgetownsc.com
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