Charleston’s charming coastal communities make a beautiful vacation backdrop, but to get a sense of place you have to get out on the water. Exploring the area by kayak to see the region from a different point of view. After all, water is life and these local waterways flow through the very soul of the region.
One of the best places to start is the Kiawah River, which offers an array of access points. This easy-flowing river provides the perfect opportunity to spend a sunny morning or afternoon weaving through the Lowcountry marshes.
Hit the wild and scenic water trail on Johns Island with a Kiawah River Kayak Tour through Coastal Expeditions. The tours begin under the shaded canopy of grand oaks at the Farmhouse at Kiawah River. Your group will then head down to nearby Bobcat Landing where everyone will be fitted to gear and given a short lesson in sea kayaking. From there, the adventure begins. Glide through a maze of salt marsh and tidal flats, keeping an eye out for the abundant wildlife that calls this ecosystem home. See pods of bottlenose dolphins and a myriad of birds such as herons, eagles, roseate spoonbills, and more. This tour has become a favorite for our guides because the wildlife is so good.
Or take a two-hour guided Kayak Safari Tour with Tidal Trails. Relax and unwind with a slow-moving paddle through the saltwater creeks surrounding Kiawah Island. Explore the salt marshes with their amazing natural beauty.
If you want to get into the spirit, join tours on a Pluff Mud Paddle at Mingo Point. It’s one of the best memories of childhood by those who regularly vacation in the Lowcountry. This guided two-hour adventure takes place at low tide for optimal muddiness. It’s a great adventure for the kids, but adults love it, too. Getting up to your knees in mud is a time-honored tradition on Kiawah Island. And you know what they say: “When in Rome …”
If you bring your kayak or rent one, there are several places to launch for a day of exploration. There’s a spot under the Kiawah River bridge where it’s easy to launch and paddle to Captain Sam’s Creek. You can also launch on the southwest end of the beach and paddle into the Kiawah River. Cinder Creek Pavilion and Kayak Launch offers an option for Kiawah guests, as does Eagle Point Landing.
Pick the perfect spot to call home base while enjoying your Kiawah Island paddling adventure. After a day on the water, you’ll want a place to kick back in comfort. You can even rent a luxury home with a private pool so you can take a plunge to end the day. We’ve got a range of properties from oceanfront to budget-friendly.