Discover the thrill of paddling at Hilton Head Island with Island Head’s kayak rentals. Perfect for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike, experience the island’s salt marshes and wildlife — hassle-free and year-round.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–3 hours
Fitness Level
Open to all fitness levels. Basic paddling ability is helpful but not required.
Wildlife
History
Hilton Head's salt marshes have supported local Gullah communities for centuries, and paddling here offers a glimpse into the area's rich cultural and natural history.
Conservation
Island Head champions responsible paddling practices, encouraging visitors to avoid disturbing wildlife and stick to designated waterways to protect delicate ecosystems.
Island Head- Hilton Head Harbor
Discover the thrill of paddling at Hilton Head Island with Island Head’s kayak rentals. Perfect for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike, experience the island’s salt marshes and wildlife — hassle-free and year-round.
Island Head - Hilton Head Harbor is a marine activity provider located on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, offering guided paddles, boat rentals, watersports and sky excursions across the Lowcountry.
The company operates guided kayak tours and sunrise kayak tours through Skull Creek’s salt‑water marshlands where guests can view birds and dolphins and learn local history. Island Head also runs a Kayak Club that provides Club Pass members year‑round access to single and double kayaks with gear and a dock. For larger groups and private outings, Island Head schedules private water ski adventure days with a USCG captain for parties of 1–6 or 7–12 passengers, plus private tubing trips and pontoon boat rentals to explore destinations like Daufuskie Island and the May River. Private sunset cruises accommodate up to 14 passengers for two‑hour scenic sailings. Parasailing flights offer tandem or triple options with aerial views of Daufuskie Island and Harbourtown Lighthouse. Island Head Surf Lessons are led by local surf instructor Cody for beginners and intermediate surfers.
Safety and professionalism are emphasized through USCG‑certified captains, professional boat orientations for rentals, and equipment provided for rentals and tours. The range of options accommodates families, couples, friend groups and individual adventurers seeking guided nature paddles, watersport thrills, or relaxed Lowcountry cruises. Booking flexibility and local knowledge make Island Head a convenient choice for exploring Hilton Head Island waterways. Guests can reserve single excursions, multi‑hour days, or fully private charters, and staff provide recommendations for dining, wildlife viewing and local navigation tips daily.
Tours Offered
10
Guided and private options
Max Capacity
14
Largest private cruises hold 14
Certified Captains
USCG
USCG captains on private days
Year-Round Access
Kayak Club
Club Pass members launch anytime
Reserve guided kayak tours, private charters, parasailing flights, or surf lessons with flexible booking and USCG‑certified captains.
Wear Layers and Sun Protection
Dress in lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing and apply waterproof sunscreen before heading out.
Check Weather Conditions
Always confirm the weather forecast to avoid storms or high winds that can make paddling dangerous.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water and stay hydrated during your paddle, especially on warm days.
Paddle with a Partner
Kayaking is safer and more fun when you have a buddy on the water.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
A PFD is required for safe paddling and is provided with your rental.
Waterproof Hat or Cap
Protects you from sun exposure while paddling.
summer
Sunscreen
Apply generously to protect your skin during outdoor water activity.
summer
Quick-Dry Towel
Useful for drying off after kayaking or if you get splashed.