Explore Cat Island: Wando River Kayak Adventure and Fossil Hunting in South Carolina
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4.5–5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate paddling fitness; some experience with basic kayaking skills is helpful but not required.
Overview
Discover the hidden gem of Cat Island on a guided kayak tour through South Carolina’s Wando River. Paddle scenic waterways, explore sandy beaches, and hunt for ancient shark teeth fossils on this unique 4.5-hour adventure.
Cat Island - Wando River Paddle and Fossil Hunt
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a 4.5-hour adventure to Cat Island, where sandy beaches and a maritime forest await. Enjoy a scenic paddle while learning about local wildlife and history. Spend time relaxing, swimming, and hunting for fossils, including shark teeth. Join a nature walk for an unforgettable exploration of this unique island.
Duration
4.5 Hours
About
Cat Island is a small Island on the upper Wando River. This Island has a nice sandy beach that is great for relaxing and a small maritime forest to explore. Cat Island is also on of the best island to hunt for fossils (mainly sharks teeth) along the beach.
We will meet at Paradise Island Boat Landing at 9:45 and depart at around 10:00 am. We will ride the tide out to the Island. During the paddle you will learn about the diverse wildlife and rich history of the area. We stop on the Island where we can have lunch, relax, swim, explore, and hunt for fossils. I will lead a short nature walk on the Island as well for anyone who would like to join in. We will stay on the island for approximately 1 hour and wait for the tide to change, then ride the tide back to the landing.
You will need to bring a lunch, plenty of water and sunscreen, and appropriate clothes and footwear for paddling and the beach.
Adventure Tips
Bring a Dry Bag
Protect your phone and valuables from water with a dry bag since the trip involves paddling and beach exploration.
Wear Water Shoes
Closed-toed water shoes are recommended for paddling comfort and beach walking, but sturdy sandals are acceptable.
Apply Sunscreen Generously
The exposed paddle and beach sun can be strong; sunscreen is a must to prevent burns during the 4.5-hour trip.
Bring Plenty of Water and Snacks
You need to bring your own lunch and drinks to enjoy during the island stop, so pack accordingly.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Ospreys fishing along the Wando River
- White-tailed deer occasionally seen in the island’s forest
History
Cat Island sits within the historic estuarine network near Charleston, an area inhabited by indigenous peoples and shaped by centuries of coastal change.
Conservation
Nature Adventure Outfitters promotes low-impact paddling tourism to protect fragile marsh ecosystems and encourages visitors to leave no trace during their visit.
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Adventure Hotspots in Awendaw
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Dry Bag or Waterproof Phone Bag
Keeps electronics and valuables dry during the paddle and beach time.
Water Shoes
Protects feet from sharp shells and rocks while paddling and beachcombing.
Sunscreen
Prevents sunburn during extended sun exposure on the water and beach.
summer specific
Hat
Provides shade and keeps sun out of your eyes during the paddle.
summer specific