ACE BASIN KAYAK TOUR

Hunting Island State Park, Coastal Expeditions, Dolphin Boat Tour, Beaufort, Fripp Island, Dawtaw

Into the Wild.

Some of the most beautiful places in the Lowcountry can only be reached by kayak—protected, quiet, and teeming with life. The ACE Basin is a haven for songbirds, raptors, wildflowers, and native wildlife like alligators and deer. As we paddle its hidden passages, it feels like stepping back in time.

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6 hours
$115 Adults | $95 12 & under

Offered by private reservation, too—just say when, and we’ll be there with paddles ready.

What is the ACE Basin?

The ACE Basin is a vast, protected estuary named for the Ashepoo, Combahee, and Edisto Rivers. It’s one of the last great wild places on the East Coast—where freshwater creeks meet saltmarsh, blackwater swamps, and barrier islands.

Thanks to a major conservation effort between landowners, nonprofits, and government agencies, over 1 million acres of habitat here are safeguarded for wildlife like dolphins, bald eagles, alligators, and migratory birds.

There isn’t anywhere else in the world like the ACE Basin in terms of biodiversity and a distinct ‘sense of place’. On the Atlantic Flyway, this is a great trip for birders who want to see migratory species and- depending on the time of year- outliers like Tundra Swans.

Chris Crolley, Wildflowers, blackwater kayak tour, Coastal Expeditions

MEETING PLACE

Our ACE Basin itinerary shifts with the seasons to follow tides, wildlife, and weather. You’ll receive the exact meeting location after booking.

THINGS TO KNOW

No kayaking experience needed. We use kayaks as a way to reach places that are otherwise inaccessible—quiet creeks, hidden backwaters, and wild stretches of the Lowcountry. This isn’t whitewater—it’s about moving with the rhythm of the tide, observing nature, and experiencing the landscape in a deeper way. We’ll provide all the gear and guidance you need for a safe, meaningful day on the water.

Activity Level

Participants will canoe or kayak on a guided expedition down a tidal blackwater creek. This is an excellent tour for beginning and experienced paddlers.

What To Pack & Wear

Pack a small backpack with drinking water, sunscreen & insect repellent, bagged lunch and snacks. We’ll take a break on a sandbar or creek bank mid-tour for a picnic.

Wear shoes that stay on your feet (Tevas-style shoes are best, but tennis shoes are great in cooler weather), a hat, and synthetic clothing (it will dry faster than cotton). During cooler weather, dress in layers.

Cancellation & Weather Policy

This tour is non-refundable within 7 days of the scheduled tour.

Weather (thunderstorms or high winds) may impact this excursion. Cancellations usually occur due to lightning, thunder or high winds and we will make sure to reschedule your group if needed. Our general cancellation policies apply unless our experts determine it is potentially unsafe or unwise to venture out. In the event that we decide to cancel due to weather, we will make every effort to call you at least two hours before your departure and help you reschedule or credit/refund the full cost of your trip.

Guide Safety & Training

All Coastal Expeditions guides hold certifications in first aid, CPR and lifeguarding. Throughout the year, they participate in continuing education and training to ensure that they are proficient paddlers, and all lead guides hold sea kayaking certifications from the American Canoe Association of Level 1 or higher.

Our captains hold 100-ton master captain licenses from the USCG. Coastal Expeditions boats are custom-built vessels that receive yearly inspections from the U.S. Coast Guard.

Gratuity

Gratuity is not included in your tour price. Our guides go above and beyond to make sure you have a fantastic time out on the water! Average gratuity ranges from 15%–25% of your tour cost based on your experience. It is not required, but always greatly appreciated.