Do I need prior kayaking experience to join the tour?

No previous experience is required, but basic paddling skills and comfort on water help ensure a smooth trip.

Are tours suitable for children?

Yes, children are welcome and offered a discounted rate; however, participants should be at least 8 years old.

What wildlife might I see during the tour?

Expect to see great egrets, osprey, herons, and possibly river otters among the sanctuary’s diverse species.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Tours may be rescheduled or canceled if weather creates unsafe paddling conditions; Coastal Kayak contacts guests promptly.

Is gear provided or should I bring my own?

Coastal Kayak provides kayaks, paddles, and PFDs; guests should bring appropriate clothing and personal items.

How physically demanding is this tour?

The tour is moderate in difficulty, requiring steady paddling through marsh trails; not overly strenuous but some endurance is needed.

Pine Island Kayak Tours by Coastal Kayak Touring Company | Guided Tour | Kayak

Between the quiet villages of Duck and Corolla along North Carolina’s Outer Banks lies the Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary, a rugged network of intertwining marsh waterways covering 8 square miles. Here, Coastal Kayak Touring Company offers a two-hour guided paddle that immerses adventurers in one of the region’s most authentic and least trafficked wildlife refuges. This isn’t your typical flatwater excursion; the sanctuary’s maze of tidal creeks and small islands demands a skilled pilot to navigate, and Coastal Kayak’s expert guides do just that—leading guests through a labyrinth of salt marshes and tidal pools where the landscape feels suspended in time.

The sanctuary is part of a preservation project by the National Audubon Society, set aside to protect critical coastal habitat and the avian species that rely on it. Kayakers glide past sprawling salt marsh cordgrass, spotting great egrets stalking shallow edges, osprey on high perch trees, and occasionally the unmistakable silhouette of an elusive river otter slipping through the water. The absence of motorized boats keeps the environment peaceful, letting paddlers soak in the natural quiet and vibrant ecological richness.

Tours begin with a short walk along an Audubon trail to launch points hidden among the creek banks. From there, guests follow their guides deep into this watery wilderness, where the challenge is not only in the paddling but the wildlife viewing—quiet moments and keen eyes yield remarkable encounters. Offered from spring through early fall, the trip balances light physical activity with opportunities to connect deeply with Outer Banks’ coastal ecosystem.

Coastal Kayak Touring Company stands out in the region’s outdoor scene by blending adventure, conservation, and education. Their partnership with the National Audubon Society ensures an authentic and responsible experience that supports local wildlife protection efforts. For paddlers seeking a tranquil, nature-rich outing off the beaten path, this kayak tour delivers memorable solitude and discovery within North Carolina’s coastal wilds.

About Coastal Kayak Touring Company

Coastal Kayak Touring Company offers guided kayak and stand-up paddleboard tours across the Outer Banks, specializing in sheltered sounds, maritime forests, marshes, and wildlife refuges. Trips launch from local access points and explore iconic areas including Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest, Bodie Island and its lighthouse views, Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge, Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, and the Pine Island Audubon Sanctuary. Tours range from a condensed one-hour family-friendly option through maritime forest and marsh to longer sunrise, sunset, and refuge trips that emphasize birdwatching, historic sites, and quiet paddling. Guides emphasize safety, environmental stewardship, and interpretive natural history, leading small groups with equipment, basic instruction, and route choices tailored to skill level. The company’s itineraries highlight wildlife viewing—shorebirds, waterfowl, raptors, and aquatic life—along with scenic coastal habitats and accessible launch logistics, including a short walk behind Off Island for the Bodie Island Lighthouse route. Pea Island tours run March through November, offering seasonal wildlife peaks. Coastal Kayak Touring Company works within refuge regulations and recommends appropriate clothing, sun protection, and hydration; guests receive pre-trip briefings and flotation devices. Ideal for families, photographers, birders, and paddlers seeking calm water exploration, the operator balances immersive natural experiences with straightforward logistics and reliable local knowledge. Safety-conscious practices, experienced guides, and adherence to refuge rules support trustworthy outings and memorable paddling experiences throughout the Outer Banks. Reservations are required for select trips, and group sizes are managed to minimize disturbance, ensuring quiet viewing and personalized attention from knowledgeable guides available on every outing.