Is prior kayaking experience required?

No, this tour is designed for all skill levels, including first-time kayakers.

Are life jackets provided?

Yes, all participants receive personal flotation devices for safety during the tour.

Can children participate?

Children age 7 and above can join, but those under 14 must ride tandem with an adult.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Tours may be rescheduled or fully refunded in case of unsafe weather or ocean conditions.

Is there parking available at the launch site?

Yes, free limited parking is available at Owl Creek Boat Ramp, with additional metered options nearby.

Are pets allowed on the kayak tour?

Small pets can join with tandem XL kayak add-ons, subject to weight restrictions.

Explore Rudee Inlet: Private Kayak Nature and Dolphin Tour in Virginia Beach | Kayak | Private

Virginia Beach's Rudee Inlet offers a unique gateway to serene waters and playful dolphins, making it an ideal spot for paddlers of all ages on the Private Kayak Nature and Dolphin Tour. Located at the Owl Creek Boat Ramp at 717 General Booth Blvd, this 1.5-hour guided kayak excursion provides a personalized, intimate experience to explore calm waterways and encounter local marine life up close. It's a choice adventure that blends gentle exercise with the thrill of spotting dolphins in their natural habitat. Rudee Inlet is part of a rich coastal ecosystem where tidal creeks and channels feed into the Atlantic, creating a network of protected waters well suited for beginners and families. Launching from Owl Creek Boat Ramp, the tour welcomes small groups—up to 10 paddlers—offering both single and tandem sit-on-top kayaks. This inclusive setup ensures even novice kayakers can confidently navigate the peaceful inlet under the watchful care of expert local guides. As you paddle, the landscape unfolds with salt marsh grasses and scattered oyster beds that form habitats for diverse bird species and aquatic wildlife. The inlet’s slow-moving waters and protected coves mean you often paddle alongside curious schools of fish or catch sight of squawking herons perched on weathered pilings. The tour’s highlight is a chance to venture toward Rudee Inlet’s mouth where bottlenose dolphins frequently swim, offering memorable wildlife encounters that transform a simple paddle into an unforgettable experience. Beyond wildlife, the tour provides a chance to connect with the coastal environment of Virginia Beach from a unique vantage point. The guide’s expertise extends not only to navigational tips but also to local ecology and conservation efforts, fostering a deeper appreciation for the marine landscape and its delicate balance. Available year-round with recommended wetsuit rentals from October through March, the Private Kayak Nature and Dolphin Tour accommodates ages 7 through adult, perfect for families or small groups seeking an enriching outdoor activity near the city. Parking is free and easy at the launch site, and the business prioritizes safety with life jackets and tandem options for younger paddlers. For travelers staying near downtown Virginia Beach or along the oceanfront, this kayak tour mixes the tranquility of nature with the excitement of spotting dolphins, making it a standout choice for anyone wanting to experience the Atlantic Coast beyond the sandy shores. Whether you’re new to paddling or eager for an eco-adventure to inspire, this intimate tour promises vivid memories and a fresh perspective on Virginia Beach’s vibrant coastal waters.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

1.5 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels including beginners and families with children.

Wildlife

Bottlenose dolphins
Great blue herons

History

Rudee Inlet has long served as a local fishing and boating hub, integral to Virginia Beach’s maritime heritage.

Conservation

The tour promotes eco-friendly practices and respects local wildlife habitats to minimize visitor impact.

VB Surf Sessions is a Virginia Beach-based surf and paddle sports company that runs lessons, camps, guided tours, private events, and equipment rentals on Croatan Beach, Rudee Inlet, and nearby waterways. The company offers multi-day surf camps (five-day and three-day), single-day programs, drop-in sessions, private lessons, and specialized instruction such as SUP surf and stand up paddleboard guided tours. Rentals include softtop and performance surfboards, stand up paddleboards, kayaks, tandem kayaks, bodyboards, skimboards, wetsuits, and beach cruisers for visitors seeking gear on site. Instruction emphasizes safety, small instructor-to-student ratios, and progressive skill development tailored to all levels from beginners to experienced riders. Seasonal offerings run during peak months and select private lessons and rentals are available year-round; several guided paddling tours operate April through September and highlight local wildlife including dolphins and bald eagles. Private events and group bookings provide customizable half-day surf camps for birthdays, weddings, corporate team-building, and other large gatherings. VB Surf Sessions is featured on The Adventure Collective and works with local beaches and waterways in Coastal Virginia. The business provides gear, local surf knowledge, and guided nature excursions to help guests connect with the ocean and coastal ecosystems. Third-party listings, tourism guides, and local partners list VB Surf Sessions as a resource for surf instruction, SUP tours, kayak dolphin tours, and beach equipment rentals in Virginia Beach. Instruction staff are experienced local surfers and paddling guides familiar with Virginia Beach conditions, safety protocols, and local tide and weather patterns to support safe learning for guests.

Base locationVirginia Beach, Virginia

Tours offered26+

Specialtywater-activities

StewardshipLeave No Trace