Kayak Tours Around Charleston

I live in a neighborhood that has a community dock, several racks filled with homeowners’ kayaks, and even a kayak docking station. People around here are obsessed with kayaking, obviously! It’s such a great place to do it, too, on the Stono River. There are so many little hidden waterways in the marsh. You might paddle around a bend and see gorgeous egrets and even alligators. Of course, if the tide in those little waterways is high enough, you might catch some dolphin action, too. They’re always popping up in the big water of the Stono, which is a thrill. We also have sting rays and sharks out there (I’ve never seen a big shark, but neighbors have caught plenty small ones from the dock).

The tide, though. It’s very strong on the Stono, and you have to make sure you can make it back to the dock! So timing is key. Everyone around here has a tide app on their phone. So I say beginning kayakers, be wary where you put in. I think you might do better going on a tour with an experienced kayaker. Here are some local options:

1. Coastal Expeditions
A local favorite offering rentals and guided tours through the Lowcountry’s waterways. Whether you want a guided eco-tour or just a kayak for the day, they’ve got you covered.
Address: 1156 Ocean Blvd, Isle of Palms, SC

2. Lowcountry Kayak Tours
Get a great introduction to the area’s coastal beauty with rentals and tours that go from Folly Beach to Morris Island.
Address: 51 Center St, Folly Beach, SC

3. Charleston Outdoor Adventures
This outfitter provides rentals for kayaking, paddleboarding, and more, and they even offer guided tours of Charleston Harbor and its beautiful waterways.
Address: 1485-A, Old Towne Rd, Charleston, SC

4. Paddle Charleston
They offer rentals and tours around the city’s charming waterways, including the Ashley and Cooper Rivers. A great way to take in the beautiful sights!
Address: 8 Wharfside St, Charleston, SC

5. James Island County Park
This county park offers kayak rentals, and it’s the perfect spot to explore the serene waters of the Stono River and surrounding tidal creeks.
Address: 871 Riverland Dr, Charleston, SC

6. Folly Beach Rentals
If you’re looking for a beach vibe and easy access to the water, rent a kayak here for a leisurely paddle along the coastline or a tour around the inlet.
Address: 50 Center St, Folly Beach, SC

7. Sewee Outpost
For a true adventure, rent a kayak and explore the swamps and marshes of the Francis Marion National Forest. This one is for the nature lovers!
Address: 4822 Highway 17 N, Awendaw, SC

8. Islander Watersports
Based in Isle of Palms, they offer kayak rentals for scenic paddling trips through the tidal creeks and waterways.
Address: 50 41st Ave, Isle of Palms, SC

9. Kiawah Island Paddle Sports
Rent a kayak for an unforgettable experience paddling through Kiawah Island’s beautiful salt marshes and backwaters.
Address: 1 Sanctuary Beach Dr, Kiawah Island, SC

10. Charleston Kayak Tours
Offering guided tours around Charleston Harbor and the surrounding waterways, this is a great option if you want to learn more about the history and ecology of the area.
Address: 333 W Bay St, Charleston, SC

These are just a few of the spots to explore by kayak, so whether you’re new to the sport or an experienced paddler, there’s no better way to take in the beauty of Charleston!