Discover Kiawah Island’s exclusive beach accessible only by boat with Salty Bum Charters. Spot dolphins, birds, and sweeping views of Penny Creek and the Ocean Course on this intimate coastal tour.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated boating with a gentle beach walk
Wildlife
History
Kiawah Island has long been an important site for Native American tribes and later became a private lowcountry retreat.
Conservation
Salty Bum Charters follows strict waste disposal practices and promotes respect for delicate coastal ecosystems to minimize environmental impact.
Salty Bum Charters, LLC
Discover Kiawah Island’s exclusive beach accessible only by boat with Salty Bum Charters. Spot dolphins, birds, and sweeping views of Penny Creek and the Ocean Course on this intimate coastal tour.
Salty Bum Charters, LLC operates from Johns Island, South Carolina, offering private boat charters that showcase the Lowcountry's barrier islands and Charleston Harbor. The company specializes in guided excursions to Morris Island, Kiawah Island and Sandy Point, Charleston Harbor, sunset cruises, and Capers Island with Boneyard Beach. Each trip focuses on local history, wildlife viewing, shoreline exploration, and leisurely beach access by boat.
Crews prioritize safety, local knowledge, and personalized experiences for small groups and families. Vessels navigate short distances from Charleston Harbor to nearby islands, providing opportunities to see dolphins, seabirds, historic sites, and shoreline artifacts exposed by erosion. Saltwater conditions and tidal access determine landing opportunities, and captains adjust routes accordingly to maximize guest experience while following local regulations.
Salty Bum Charters coordinates private tours suitable for first-time visitors and repeat guests seeking a scenic, educational outing. The Charleston Harbor Tour visits the Battery, Rainbow Row, Ravenel Bridge, Fort Sumter, and USS Yorktown landmarks. The Morris Island Tour highlights the island’s lighthouse remnants and exposed artifacts, while the Kiawah Island/Sandy Point Tour includes Penny Creek scenery and potential dolphin sightings. The Capers Island/Boneyard Beach Tour recommends allowing at least four hours for a full visit.
Booking information, safety briefings, and trip durations are provided at reservation. The operator's focus on guided, private experiences, local itineraries, and adherence to maritime guidelines supports trust and repeat business. Reservations are required for most trips; guests receive pre-trip details including meeting location, safety equipment, weather contingencies, and tide guidance provided before departure.
Based In
Johns Island, SC
Local Lowcountry base
Tours Offered
5 tours
Barrier island and harbor trips
Private Charters
Private tours
Small-group, personalized trips
Capers Visit
At least 4 hours
Full island exploration recommended
Reserve a guided excursion to Morris Island, Kiawah, Capers Island, or Charleston Harbor for a personalized Lowcountry experience.
Wear Sun-Protective Clothing
The boat offers limited shade, so bring long sleeves and a hat to protect against strong sun exposure.
Bring a Camera or Binoculars
Wildlife sightings include dolphins and shorebirds, so have gear ready for capturing moments or getting a closer look.
Avoid Spray Sunscreens
Stick to lotion-based sunscreen to avoid residue on boat surfaces and ensure effective application in breezy conditions.
Alcohol Onboard Rules
Guests over 21 may bring alcohol in non-glass containers but must drink responsibly to avoid cutting the trip short.
Sunglasses
Protects eyes from glare reflecting off the water.
summer
Water-resistant Camera or Smartphone
Capture wildlife and scenic views along the shoreline and estuary.
Sunscreen (lotion, non-spray)
Protects skin from UV rays when boat shade is limited.
spring|summer|fall
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Keeps you comfortable from cool breezes on the water.
fall|winter