Paddle the Past: Shark's Tooth Island Salt Marsh Tour
A gentle paddle with a big payoff: fossils, salt marsh silence, and Cape Fear River views.
The Cape Fear River moves like an old storyteller—unhurried, steady, and full of secrets. You slide a kayak off the sandy edge of River Road Park and the water greets the hull with a soft hush, as if inviting you closer. Marsh grass leans and whispers. A gull cuts the sky. Under the broad arms of a live oak, you tighten your PFD and follow your guide toward a speck of land with a curious reputation: Shark’s Tooth Island, where the river sometimes surrenders relics millions of years old.
Trail Wisdom
Aim for a falling tide
Low or falling tide exposes gravel bars where shark teeth collect—plan your launch accordingly for the best finds.
Wear closed-toe water shoes
Oyster shells and sharp shell hash are common along the shoreline; protect your feet with snug, hard-soled water shoes.
Keep phones dry and tethered
Use a waterproof pouch with a lanyard and stash valuables in a small dry bag to avoid accidental drops.
Respect the marsh
Stay off delicate Spartina grass and avoid stepping on oyster reefs—both are critical for erosion control and habitat.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Gravel pockets on the downstream tip of Shark’s Tooth Island at low tide
- •The narrow marsh creases behind the Dot Islands for calm-water wildlife watching
Wildlife
Osprey, Bottlenose dolphin (occasional)
Conservation Note
Salt marshes here are vital nurseries for fish and birds. Avoid trampling Spartina grass and oyster reefs, and pack out all trash to protect this fragile estuary.
Shark’s Tooth Island and nearby islets include areas formed by dredge spoil from maintaining the Cape Fear River channel—sediments that sometimes contain Miocene-era fossils.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild temperatures, Active birdlife
Challenges: Pollen, Variable winds
Spring brings comfortable paddling and migratory birds. Expect changing winds; mornings are typically calmer.
summer
Best for: Warm water, Family outings
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Afternoon thunderstorms, Mosquitoes and no-see-ums
Summer delivers easy, warm paddling and longer days. Hydrate well, wear sun protection, and watch for quick-moving storms.
fall
Best for: Low humidity, Clear skies
Challenges: King tides, Occasional nor’easters
Fall is prime for fossil hunting and soft light. Tides can run higher than usual—check the tables and plan your timing.
winter
Best for: Quiet waterways, Migratory waterfowl
Challenges: Cold water temps, Wind chill
Winter is peaceful with excellent birding. Dress in insulating, quick-dry layers and bring a thermos of something warm.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-toe water shoesEssential
Protects feet from sharp oyster shells and provides traction on wet sand and gravel.
Sun-protective hat and UPF shirtEssential
The river reflects sunlight; lightweight coverage reduces heat and sun exposure.
Small dry bag + phone pouchEssential
Keeps phones, keys, and snacks dry; a lanyard prevents accidental drops overboard.
Electrolyte drinks and snacksEssential
Short paddle, big sun—staying hydrated and fueled improves comfort and focus while searching for fossils.
Common Questions
Do I need prior kayaking experience?
No. This is an easy, guided paddle with short segments and shallow water; your guide provides a quick orientation before launching.
Will I definitely find a shark tooth?
Teeth are commonly found here but never guaranteed. Timing (low tide) and slow, careful searching increase your chances.
Are kids welcome on the tour?
Yes—this is family-friendly. Children must be accompanied by an adult; confirm age and weight guidelines when booking.
What’s the water like on this route?
Usually calm and shallow (about 6 inches to 4 feet) with gentle current. Guides plan around tides and wind for safest conditions.
What kind of kayaks are used?
Stable recreational kayaks are provided, along with paddles and PFDs. Singles and tandems may be available depending on group size.
What if the weather turns bad?
If conditions aren’t safe or enjoyable, tours are rescheduled or refunded at 100% according to the operator’s weather policy.
What to Pack
Closed-toe water shoes (oyster shell protection), 1–2 liters of water with electrolytes (heat and sun), small dry bag with phone pouch (keep valuables safe), quick-dry clothing and a brimmed hat (sun protection and comfort).
Did You Know
Many fossils on Shark’s Tooth Island come from ancient sediments brought up during Cape Fear River channel dredging—some teeth date back to the Miocene, including the famed megalodon.
Quick Travel Tips
Book a morning tour for calmer winds and cooler temps; Check tide tables and aim for a falling tide; Arrive 15 minutes early to park on the left and meet by the big oak; Restrooms are at the park entrance—use them before gearing up.
Local Flavor
After your paddle, head to Cape Fear Seafood Company (Carolina Beach Road) for blackened local fish, or grab a post-tour pint at Good Hops Brewing in Carolina Beach. If you’re cruising the Boardwalk, Britt’s Donuts is a beloved stop (seasonal hours). For a nature chaser, loop through Carolina Beach State Park to spot native Venus flytraps along the Flytrap Trail.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: ILM (Wilmington International). Launch/meet: River Road Park, 100 River Rd Park, Wilmington. Drive time: ~18 minutes from Downtown Wilmington; ~14 minutes from Carolina Beach. Cell service: Generally good but can drop near marsh channels. Permits: None required; parking available at the park. Tide awareness recommended for best fossil hunting.
Sustainability Note
This estuary’s marsh and oyster reefs buffer storms and nurture juvenile fish and birds—step lightly, avoid disturbing vegetation and reefs, and pack out every scrap of trash.