Between Tides: Kayaking and SUP the Marshes of St. Simons Island
Two hours of tide-driven discovery through Georgia’s living salt marsh—no experience required.
At first light, the tide exhales. Spartina grass rustles like a soft audience, and Village Creek glides awake, slipping past the end of South Harrington Road as if it remembers every moon it has ever followed. You push off into satin water—kayak or stand-up paddle board underfoot—where the marsh opens like a book with no last page. A blue heron lifts from the bank with the nonchalance of a regular, and somewhere out in the channels, a dolphin surfaces and vanishes, as if winking you deeper into its labyrinth.
Trail Wisdom
Time Your Tide
Book morning departures for calmer winds and soft light; an ebb or flood tide can aid travel and reveal different marsh features.
Footwear Matters
Wear closed-toe water shoes or sandals with straps. Oyster shells are razor sharp along the banks and ramps.
Sun Is a Player
Even on breezy days, coastal sun is direct. A brimmed hat, UPF shirt, and reef-safe sunscreen keep you comfortable and focused.
Pack Light, Pack Dry
Bring a small dry bag for phone, keys, and a light layer. Water and snacks fit easily in deck bungees.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Harrington Graded Schoolhouse—an intimate Gullah Geechee heritage site a short drive inland
- •Guale Preserve boardwalks—quiet marsh overlooks with birding potential
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphin, Bald eagle
Conservation Note
The salt marsh here is a nursery for shrimp, fish, and oysters—give wildlife space, avoid stepping on reefs, and pack out all trash.
St. Simons Island was a strategic colonial foothold centered on Fort Frederica and is part of the federally designated Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild temperatures, Active birdlife
Challenges: Pollen, Variable winds
March–May brings temperate days and vibrant marsh greens; expect lively birds and comfortable paddling conditions.
summer
Best for: Warm water, Family outings
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Afternoon thunderstorms
June–August is hot and humid; book early or late tours, hydrate well, and watch for quick-moving pop-up storms.
fall
Best for: Stable weather, Migratory birds
Challenges: Shorter daylight, Occasional cold fronts
September–November offers the most consistent conditions—clear air, calmer winds, and crisp golden light on the marsh.
winter
Best for: Low crowds, Great visibility for wildlife
Challenges: Chilly mornings, North winds
December–February can be cool with steady breezes; dress in layers and enjoy open skies and quiet waterways.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
UPF Long-Sleeve Sun ShirtEssential
Protects from strong coastal sun and wind without overheating.
Closed-Toe Water ShoesEssential
Secure footing at the launch and protection from sharp oyster shells.
Small Dry Bag (5–10L)
Keeps phone, keys, and snacks dry in case of splashes or a quick swim.
Polarized Sunglasses With Retainer
Cuts surface glare to spot wildlife and reduces eye fatigue on bright water.
Common Questions
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. Guides provide a quick lesson on paddle technique and safety before launching, and the route is chosen for mellow conditions.
What wildlife might we see?
Common sightings include bottlenose dolphins, bald eagles, ospreys, great egrets, herons, and schools of mullet. Wildlife is wild—sightings aren’t guaranteed.
Are life jackets provided?
Yes. PFDs are fitted and required for all participants while on the water.
Should I choose a kayak or a paddle board?
Kayaks feel more stable for first-timers and photography; SUPs offer a higher vantage and a fun, active stance. Both work well on calm tidal creeks.
What happens if weather or tides are unfavorable?
Guides monitor wind, storms, and tide cycles and may adjust launch times, routes, or reschedule for safety.
Can kids join the tour?
Yes, this experience is family-friendly for school-age children with guardians. Check age and weight guidelines at booking.
What to Pack
Reef-safe sunscreen to guard against intense coastal sun; 20–24 oz water bottle for steady hydration; quick-dry layers and a light windbreaker for variable breezes; compact dry bag to protect phone, keys, and snacks.
Did You Know
Georgia protects roughly one-third of the U.S. Atlantic coast’s remaining salt marsh—about 400,000 acres—much of it surrounding the Golden Isles, including St. Simons.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive 15 minutes early to park, gear up, and use facilities before launching; Wear quick-dry clothing and bring a spare layer for wind on open channels; Bug spray helps at dawn and dusk near the ramp; Check bridge traffic onto the island during peak weekends and allow extra travel time.
Local Flavor
Refuel with shrimp and grits at Coastal Kitchen, smoky plates at Southern Soul Barbeque, or craft pints and coastal plates at Barrier Island Brewing. In the evening, stroll the Pier Village for ice cream and sunset over St. Simons Sound—shrimp boats idling like a postcard come to life.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Brunswick Golden Isles (BQK), ~20 minutes; Jacksonville (JAX) ~75 minutes. Launch: Village Creek Landing, end of S. Harrington Rd. Driving: ~10 minutes from Pier Village. Cell service: Generally good but can be spotty in the marsh. Permits: None for guided trips; PFDs mandatory; advance reservations recommended.
Sustainability Note
Paddle softly near rookeries, keep 50 yards from dolphins, and avoid stepping on oyster reefs. This working marsh filters water and nurtures marine life—leave no trace and use reef-safe sunscreen.