Is prior kayaking experience necessary?

No, all skill levels are welcome. Guides provide instruction and support suitable for beginners.

What wildlife might we see?

Common sightings include dolphins, herons, egrets, and occasionally sea turtles in the area.

What should I bring on the tour?

Essential items include comfortable clothing, a water bottle, insect repellent, and appropriate footwear for paddling.

Are life jackets provided?

Yes, all participants are supplied with Coast Guard-approved life jackets for safety.

Can children participate?

Age limits vary, but typically children over 10 can join with parental supervision. Confirm when booking.

What happens if there is bad weather?

Tours may be rescheduled or canceled for safety in case of storms or high winds.

Full Moon Kayak Tour to Masonboro Island: Paddle Under Wilmington’s Enchanting Night Sky | Guided Tour | Boat Tour

Wilmington, North Carolina, serves as the gateway to one of the most captivating coastal paddling experiences in the Southeast: the Full Moon Paddle to Masonboro Island. This guided kayak tour, spanning approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, offers an extraordinary chance to explore pristine coastal waters under the glow of a luminous full moon. Located along the Atlantic coastline, Masonboro Island is a natural barrier island distinguished by its expansive salt marshes, sandy beaches, and untouched maritime forests—a rare gem where nature thrives largely undisturbed. The magic begins as participants gather at Kayak Carolina’s launch site at 613 Trails End Road in Wilmington. Paddling off during twilight hours, you’ll witness the transition from sunset to moonlight, watching the sky shift as stars emerge while the full moon casts silvery reflections on calm waters. This timing not only enhances the scenic beauty but also provides a peaceful atmosphere that feels miles away from city life. Masonboro Island is notable for its diverse ecosystems, including tidal creeks and seagrass beds that support an abundance of coastal wildlife. During the tour, expect to quietly share waterways with curious dolphins, shorebirds such as herons and egrets, and perhaps even the elusive sea turtle bobbing near the surface. The island’s relatively untouched character makes it a sanctuary for wildlife and a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. What sets this Full Moon Paddle apart is its all-levels accessibility and guided nature. Whether you’re a beginner eager to try kayaking for the first time or an experienced paddler looking for a unique evening adventure, expert guides from Kayak Carolina provide supportive instruction, ensuring you feel confident and secure throughout the journey. Along the way, they enrich the experience with insightful commentary on local history, habitats, and conservation efforts protecting these fragile coastal corridors. Besides adventure, the tour embodies sustainability, operating with a commitment to minimizing environmental impact through low-impact paddling practices and education about Masonboro Island’s ecological importance. This responsible approach aligns with Wilmington’s growing reputation as a hub for outdoor recreation with strong conservation values. Booking a Full Moon Paddle is not just a trip but a chance to connect with the Atlantic coast at a rare and magical hour, fostering a deep appreciation for North Carolina’s natural treasures. Whether you’re seeking serene night vistas, wildlife encounters, or simply a memorable escape from daily routines, this tour promises a remarkable experience under one of nature’s most beautiful lights. Nearby City: Wilmington, NC

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2.5–3 hours.

Fitness level

Basic fitness needed to paddle at a comfortable pace over a few miles, suitable for beginners up to experienced paddlers.

Wildlife

Bottlenose dolphins
Great blue herons

History

Masonboro Island remains one of the few undeveloped barrier islands on the North Carolina coast, preserving ecological habitats since designation as part of a protected estuarine system.

Conservation

Kayak Carolina promotes Leave No Trace principles and educates visitors on the importance of preserving Masonboro Island’s delicate ecosystems through mindful paddling.

Kayak Carolina is a Kure Beach, North Carolina-based outfitter offering guided kayak tours, rentals, and specialty events across nearby coastal reserves. The company runs guided paddles at Zeke's Island, Masonboro Island, Shark's Tooth Island, Town Creek, and along the Cape Fear River, and provides drop-off and pick-up rental service for convenient access. Trips include leisurely sunset and sunrise paddles, family-focused adventures, salt marsh nature tours, birding excursions, full moon paddles, and seasonal series such as the Black River Fall Foliage outings. Guided experiences are led by certified instructors and professional guides, and many tours are explicitly noted as suitable for all skill levels and families. Kayak Carolina also offers marine education field trips at Zeke's Island and Kure Beach, blending hands-on learning with kayaking, hiking, and wildlife interpretation. Rental options let paddlers explore Shark's Tooth Island, Masonboro Island, Town Creek, and Zeke's Island independently while searching for shark teeth, fossils, and coastal wildlife. Special events include community-focused outings like the Dog Paddle Event that supports Freedom Bridge Animal Rescue and Orion's Stars. Safety, local knowledge, and wildlife viewing are consistent features across offerings, with calm salt marsh creeks and uninhabited beaches featured on multiple routes. For visitors seeking guided interpretation, family-friendly pacing, or flexible rentals along the Kure Beach coastline, Kayak Carolina provides a range of experiences tailored to varied interests and abilities. Reservations and schedule details are available through Kayak Carolina's booking channels; timing varies by tide, season, and selected route. Group and custom trips arranged on request quickly.

Base locationWilmington, North Carolina

Tours offered18+

Specialtywater-activities

StewardshipLeave No Trace