KIAWAH RIVER PADDLE+HIKE
Overview
Sea Kayaking + Hiking
Join Kiawah River & Coastal Expeditions on an exclusive paddle and hike of the Kiawah River and surrounding area.
We’ll set off on a naturalist-led hike through the maritime forest of a spectacular Lowcountry oasis at Kiawah River, an island village in the Charleston countryside. We will explore a curated section of the Kiawah River trail system on this 2000-acre wonderland in search of eagles, alligators, wild turkeys, painted buntings, and our object bird, the roseate spoonbill.
After a pause to refresh and prepare for the next phase of our adventure, we will paddle through the tidal flats on the Kiawah River on the saltwater estuary, then hike a few miles around the undeveloped property during the prettiest part of the day. We will leave the mainland behind and venture into the intimate creeks via expedition-style sea kayaks. As we cross this dynamic edge that is the transition between the land and the sea we will experience a dramatic change of both flora and fauna.
Why We Love It
The ecosystem changes dramatically as the oaks and pines yield to the smooth cordgrass fields of the salt marsh. Bottlenose dolphins feed in these creeks, and egrets, herons, spoonbills, and wood storks hunt along the edges. It’s an incredible way to spend your day.
Rates & Details
4 hours (includes instruction, prep, lunch and on-water time)
$115/person
This tour is available for private booking.
Birding | Dolphins & Wildlife | Kayaking | Paddle+Hike
MEETING PLACE
Coastal Expeditions at Kiawah River
3050 Southerly Way
Johns Island, SC 29455
(843)884-7684
Meet at the Outfitter Shop near Riverfront Landing, just past the Spring House
THINGS TO KNOW
- No kayaking experience needed
- Coastal Expeditions provides kayaks, PFDs, paddles and paddling instruction
Activity Level
Participants will kayak on a guided expedition that has been timed with the tides for an enjoyable trip. The guided hike is on flat terrain and we stop frequently for moments of birding and checking out wildlife.
What To Pack & Wear
Dress in layers appropriate for the weather, hat, and shoes that stay on your feet (not flip flops).
In a small bag or backpack, pack drinking water, sunscreen, insect repellent, bagged lunch and snacks. Binoculars if you have them!
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.
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
This tour is offered year round and is tide dependent.
Currently, this tour is only available for private charters. Call (843)884-7684 for rates and availability.
