2-Hour Guided Kayak Eco Tour in Charleston

Overview

Embark on a guided, eco-based kayaking adventure through the saltwater estuaries of Folly Creek, navigating a network of tidal creeks that wind around uninhabited hammock islands. This 2-hour marsh kayaking excursion is designed for intermediate to novice, and young adult paddlers, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience for all skill levels.

You and a small group of paddlers will explore the unspoiled coastal marshes of Charleston's estuaries, immersing yourselves in the area's tranquil ambiance and breathtaking natural beauty. As you paddle through these pristine waters, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls this habitat home. Encounter Atlantic bottlenose dolphins playfully surfacing, catch glimpses of loggerhead sea turtles gliding by, and observe a variety of waterfowl in their natural environment. This adventure offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and witness the vibrant ecosystem of Charleston's coastal marshes.

City: Charleston

Mon 09 Jun

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $54.00

Make a reservation

Mon 09 Jun

Starting at $54.00

Make a reservation

New York City Tours

Unique Activities (21) Transfers & Transportation (175) Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises (252) Entry Tickets (96) Sporting Events (4) Good for Small Groups (27) Seasonal & Holiday Tours (113) Walking Tours (705) Outdoor Activities (48) Limitied Availability Tours (29) LGBT Friendly Tours (9) Family-friendly Activities (8) Wildlife Activities (6) Solo Travelers' Tours (147) Food & Drinks (96) Travelers recommend (174) Good for Groups (32) Top Activities (75) Guided Audio Tours (10) Art, Culture & History (406) Attractions to explore (43) Sustainable Tours (1) Limousine Transfers (5) Donut Walking Tour (2) Virtual Experiences (1) Additional fees (7) DSA non-compliant (17)

What's Included

See wildlife including Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, loggerhead sea turtles, and assorted waterfowl

Kayaking Equipment (Kayak, Paddles, Personal Floatation Device)

2-Hour Guided Kayaking Eco Tour in Charleston

Professional Guide

Dry Bag to keep phone or other personal belongings dry

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and shoes that can get wet.
Dress for the weather.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
The minimum age requirement for a single kayak is 13 years old. Contact for tandem.
Our captains and guides work very hard to ensure that a memorable experience is had by all of our guests. Gratuity, as you feel so inclined, is always appreciated.

What To Expect

Charleston Outdoor Adventures

Before departing from our private launching area on Bowens Island, your group will participate in a brief instructional session, safety discussion, and an explanation on how to use the foot driven steering system on your kayaks. During your 2-hour guided eco-tour, you will explore Charleston’s iconic tidal creeks and saltmarsh. While paddling through the estuarine waters behind Folly Beach, your local guide will introduce you to the area's wide variety of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins gracefully playing and feeding, wading birds exploring the shallows, crabs and invertebrates crawling on mudflats, and pelicans diving! Your guide will also discuss the value and functions of the area's major ecosystems.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (870)

nancyknoxville

Jun 2012

My husband and I took our first eco kayak tour on the salt marsh estuaries with COA. Actually it was our first time ever in a kayak. We are in our 60's and wondered if we would hinder the others with our lack of experience. Not at all !! The guide (Trip I believe was his name) was excellent, very educated on the invironment and local history, and we were in awe the entire time on the water, which was two hours. Dolphins appeared close to us. It was just an exprience we will never forget. If you are in Charleston - don't miss this relaxed, beautiful, educational, and peaceful tour. We can't stop talking about it ! It was our best day. Thank you COA, for giving us memories we will never forget.

Response from Host

Feb 2025

Charleston Outdoor Adventures is so glad to hear that your first eco kayak tour was such a memorable experience! Trip is indeed a fantastic guide, and it’s wonderful to hear that his knowledge and enthusiasm about the environment and local history made the tour even more enjoyable for you. Kayaking in the salt marsh is a peaceful way to connect with nature, and spotting dolphins up close makes it even more special. We’re so happy that you felt comfortable and never worried about hindering others—that’s the beauty of our tours. We aim to create an experience where everyone, regardless of experience level, can enjoy the wildlife and serenity of the area. Your kind words mean a lot to us, and we’re thrilled to have given you such a wonderful memory. Charleston Outdoor Adventures would love to welcome you back anytime, whether for another kayak tour or to try something new on the water!

naturelover100

May 2011

Traveled with a friend to Charleston for girls' weekend. We wanted a little outdoor adventure during the weekend so we did a 2-hour kayak tour in and around marsh area near James Island. Drive took about 20 minutes from Charleston Historic District. Charlotte Outdoor Adventure was new (only in business for about 2 years) but had some good reviews so we decided to give it a try. Made reservations by phone and Rob (manager/owner) was very personable on the phone, and was very thorough when describing what the trip would entail. When we arrived for our 9:30 am tour we were greeted by our naturalist guide, Tripp. After a 15 minute kayak / safety lesson we were on the water in the marsh. We were barely in the kayaks for 2 minutes when we saw several bottlenose dolphins swimming right in front of us. Tripp, our guide, was extremely knowledgable about the wildlife and general ecology of the area. He was very friendly, pointed out lots of wildlife and shared some wonderful natural history. He struck a great balance of sharing info and telling stories without talking too much while we all enjoyed the serenity and great scenery. Although the tour was a 2-hour tour, we actually stayed out on the water a little longer and definitely got our money's worth. I want to go back and take the 3 hour tour with my family!

Response from Host

Feb 2025

What a perfect way to enjoy a girls' weekend in Charleston! We’re thrilled to hear that your kayaking tour with Charleston Outdoor Adventures was such a memorable part of your trip. It’s great that Rob was personable and thorough with your reservation, and that Tripp provided an enriching experience on the water. Seeing bottlenose dolphins so quickly is always an exciting moment! Tripp's knowledge about the local wildlife and ecology really adds depth to the experience, and it’s wonderful to hear that he struck the perfect balance of sharing information while also letting you soak in the peaceful surroundings. It’s great that you felt like you got extra value from your 2-hour tour, and we’d love to welcome you and your family back for the 3-hour tour next time! Thanks for choosing Charleston Outdoor Adventures, and we look forward to having you back!

dyrks2023

Aug 2023

Very nice kayak tour in the late afternoon/early evening; good instructions even for beginners, extensive information about the area, the flora and fauna, the shrimp fishermen; to our great delight we were able to observe a family of dolphins - we were thrilled.

Response from Host

Feb 2025

Es freut mich zu hören, dass ihr eine so schöne Kajaktour mit Charleston Outdoor Adventures hattet! Eine Tour am späten Nachmittag oder frühen Abend ist wirklich etwas Besonderes – die Atmosphäre auf dem Wasser ist dann einfach magisch. Es ist großartig, dass ihr eine Delfinfamilie beobachten konntet, das ist immer ein unvergessliches Erlebnis! Danke, dass ihr euch die Zeit genommen habt, eure Eindrücke zu teilen. Wir würden uns freuen, euch wieder auf dem Wasser begrüßen zu dürfen!