Explore Hilton Head Island’s Salt Marshes: Kayak Rentals and Guided Tours for Wildlife Encounters
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for paddlers of moderate fitness; some kayaking experience helpful but beginners can manage with guidance.
Overview
Paddle through Hilton Head Island’s dynamic salt marshes, where guided tours and kayak rentals offer encounters with dolphins, osprey, and coastal wildlife. Discover this Lowcountry gem from the water.
Kayak Rentals (Please call if unsure about booking a Guided Tour versus a Kayak Rental)
2 Hours • Please call if the number of kayaks you need does not show as available online, Thanks!
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About This Adventure
Kayak unguided if you have kayaking experience. We will go over the area with you, tell you about the dolphins favorite spots to hang out and answer any questions that a you have before departure. Of course our guided tours are available as well if you are unsure about being out there on your own. Either way we'd love for you to experience all the fun to be had out on the beautiful salt marsh of Hilton Head Island. Nothing better than seeing a dolphin close up in the wild!
Duration
2 Hour Rental
About
Our kayak rentals are for a two hour period. In 2 hours you can explore the same areas where our tours go to look for dolphins and we are happy to offer the advice as far as the best places to go looking!
Kayak Rental Requirements:
- We do not allow rental groups to wander through areas of oyster beds because of damage it causes to our kayaks. If you are interested in exploring into the marsh where most of the oyster beds lie then it is best to sign up for one of our tours to be with a guide that knows where these oyster beds lie.
- We will not rent to a single individual for safety reasons. You must be accompanied by at least one other person to rent a kayak. If you arrive as a single at the dock, we will not rent you a kayak, but you will be welcome to join our next guided tour! Guided tours usually department at 4 different times throughout the day including morning, afternoon and evening times!
- Kayak rentals are for those that can demonstrate that they are competent to be out on the water on their own and without a guide. Though we are there to help you, you must be able to demonstrate that you can get in and out of a kayak unassisted otherwise for safety reason we will require you to join a guided tour instead.
Adventure Tips
Check the Tide Schedule
Plan your kayak trip around high or mid-tide for the best water levels and wildlife sightings.
Wear Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against strong coastal sun.
Bring Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized during your 2-hour kayak adventure with water and light snacks.
Use a Dry Bag
Keep your phone, camera, and keys dry by using a waterproof dry bag on your kayak.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bottlenose dolphins often swim alongside kayaks
- Ospreys nesting high in marsh trees are common sights
History
Hilton Head Island’s salt marshes have been essential to the local Gullah culture and early settlers, with waters once used for oyster harvesting and fishing.
Conservation
Operators promote sustainable paddling practices, emphasizing the protection of delicate marsh habitats and minimizing disturbance to wildlife.
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Adventure Hotspots in Hilton Head Island
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Lightweight, Quick-Dry Clothing
Comfortable clothing that dries quickly keeps you comfortable when splashed or paddling through wet marshes.
summer specific
Waterproof Sunscreen
Protect your skin from intense sun exposure during open water paddling.
Closed-Toe Water Shoes
Provides grip and protects feet when launching or walking near marshy shorelines.
Polarized Sunglasses
Helps reduce glare on water, improving visibility and eye comfort.