Charleston Lowcountry: Angel Oak, Tea Garden & Vineyard Day Trip

Summary

Wander Wadmalaw’s ancient oaks sip tea on the farm and stroll vineyards

You’ll share tea under ancient branches at Angel Oak, taste fresh brews at Charleston Tea Garden with all-you-can-drink samples, then stroll Deep Water Vineyard for local wine tasting. Expect laughter with your guide, some quiet moments among live oaks, and maybe even new friends before heading back to Charleston.

What’s the experience like?

Li was already waiting for us by the van, waving like she’d known us forever. “Y’all ready for a real Lowcountry day?” she grinned, and honestly, I didn’t know what that meant yet. First stop: Angel Oak. It’s not just a tree — it’s this massive, tangled old soul with branches so long they rest on the earth like tired arms. There were kids climbing around (not on the tree, don’t worry), and a couple of old-timers sitting on a bench just watching the light flicker through all that green. I tried to wrap my arms around one of the roots — no chance. The bark felt cool and a little damp from last night’s rain.

The drive out to Wadmalaw Island was quieter than I expected; Spanish moss hanging everywhere, windows down, you could smell salt and mud from the marshes. At Charleston Tea Garden, our guide (I think her name was Tasha?) poured us these tiny cups of hot tea — smelled almost grassy but sweet — and explained how this is the only place in North America where tea grows like this. We hopped onto a trolley that rattled through endless rows of bushes while Tasha pointed out which leaves get picked for green tea versus black. She teased me for adding too much sugar (“Try it plain first!”) and honestly… she was right.

I thought I’d be tired by then but somehow got a second wind at Deep Water Vineyard. The sun came out just as we started walking between the vines — you could hear frogs chirping somewhere off in the brush, and someone from another group started singing quietly (I still think about that). The wine tasting was laid-back; nothing fancy or intimidating, just plastic cups and stories about muscadine grapes. There was a food truck parked nearby if you wanted lunch, or you could just wander with your glass and watch kids running around chasing chickens. We lost track of time there — Li had to round us up when it was time to head back to Charleston.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Lowcountry sightseeing and tastings

• Visit 500 year-old Angel Oak tree
• Tour Charleston Tea Garden and ride trolley
• Enjoy unlimited hot and iced tea
• Wine tasting and vineyard stroll

Top questions

How long is the day trip to Wadmalaw Island?

The tour usually lasts about 5 hours but can sometimes run longer depending on group pace.

Is lunch included in this Lowcountry sightseeing tour?

No, lunch isn’t included but you can bring your own or buy food from a truck at Deep Water Vineyard.

What is included in the tour price?

The price covers bottled water, snacks, all entry fees and taxes, plus unlimited tea tasting at Charleston Tea Garden.

How many people are on each tour?

The group size is capped at 10 guests for a more intimate experience.

Are children welcome on this tour?

Yes! Kids are welcome and there’s entertainment for them at Deep Water Vineyard.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at a designated spot in Charleston.

Can I use public transportation to reach the meeting point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

Do I need to be physically fit for this tour?

This day trip is suitable for all physical fitness levels.

What’s included

Your day includes small-group transport out to Wadmalaw Island with bottled water and snacks along the way; all entry fees covered for Angel Oak Park, Charleston Tea Garden (with unlimited hot or iced tea), plus wine tasting at Deep Water Vineyard before returning to Charleston together.