
Overview
Francis Marion National Forest, just north of Charleston, South Carolina, is an ecological wonderland of over 250,000 acres.
Your guide decide where you’ll explore prior to each trip to maximize your wildlife opportunities based on the season.
If the wildflowers are blooming along the old rice fields, we’ll head towards Quinby Creek. And if songbirds like the citrus-hued prothonotary warblers are making an appearance, we’ll delve into the cypress-tupelo swamp of Echaw Creek. When swallow-tailed kites are back in the swamp to nest, we might choose to paddle through the Wambaw Wilderness Area to watch them feed on dragonflies in the open corridors between the trees.
Trust us to pick the best part of Francis Marion National Forest to paddle and we’ll make sure that you have an unforgettable experience!
Why We Love It
This is absolutely a guide favorite and where we go on our days off to paddle with friends.
Francis Marion has biodiversity that rivals the Amazon and you’ll find everything from orchids and carnivorous plants to raptors and migratory songbirds here.
Rates & Upcoming Tour Dates
5-6 hours
$95 Adult/ $75 12 & under
2025 scheduled tour dates:

Birding | Kayaking

Departure Point
It changes every tour. Upon booking, you’ll receive directions and meeting instructions.
Things to Know
- Tour includes gear (Sit-in sea kayak, PFD, paddle, etc.), pre-paddle prep/instruction and guide.
- This tour leaves on time. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before the meeting time.
- You do not need any prior kayaking experience to join this tour! We’ll provide all the gear and provide a thorough lesson before we start.
FAQ’s
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.
For paddling, wear shoes that stay on your feet (Tevas-style shoes are best), 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.
Tour Availability & Private Tours
Blackwater kayak tours are offered year round.
Private blackwater kayak tours are available. Please call (843)884-7684 for rates and availability.