Glide through Charleston’s Folly River aboard unique water cycles with Cycling Waters. Spot dolphins and ospreys while enjoying customizable rides that blend adventure and nature at your own rhythm.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–3 hours
Fitness Level
Basic physical fitness needed to pedal water cycles comfortably at a self-directed pace.
Wildlife
History
The Folly River area played a role in Charleston's early trading and fishing industries and remains a vital estuarine ecosystem today.
Conservation
Cycling Waters promotes eco-friendly practices by limiting group sizes and educating guests on minimizing disturbances to wildlife and habitats.
Cycling Waters
Glide through Charleston’s Folly River aboard unique water cycles with Cycling Waters. Spot dolphins and ospreys while enjoying customizable rides that blend adventure and nature at your own rhythm.
Cycling Waters is a Charleston, South Carolina company offering water-based cycling experiences on the Folly River and throughout the Low Country. The business operates a range of guided and self-paced excursions that combine cycling fitness, sightseeing, and wildlife viewing.
Offerings include the Hydro spin class “Pulse on the Water & Spin the Current,” a high-energy aquatic cycling workout; the Thirty Minute Scenic Excursion that showcases coastal Low Country landscapes; customizable Hourly Excursions on easy-to-use water cycles; and the Sunset Stroll for relaxed paddles timed to evening light.
Trips emphasize accessible, low-impact exercise, full-body movement, and outdoor engagement. Participants can expect opportunities to see local wildlife such as dolphins and ospreys while navigating calm waterways. Rides are available in short formats and longer, customizable durations, including options up to three hours for extended exploration. Equipment and experience are designed to suit riders seeking fitness, family-friendly outings, or nature-focused tours.
Cycling Waters presents clear trip descriptions, durations, and highlights so visitors can choose an experience that fits time and interest. Bookings typically allow for selection of ride length and pace, and departure points concentrate around Charleston-area waterways. The business promotes outdoor recreation, scenic sightseeing, and active wellness through water cycling. For travelers and locals seeking a distinctive Low Country activity, Cycling Waters provides structured trip options that pair exercise with coastal scenery and wildlife viewing. Visitors can review trip summaries, select appropriate durations, and match group sizes before booking, ensuring chosen excursions fit schedules, fitness levels, and comfort preferences.
Location
Charleston, SC
Low Country & Folly River
Ride Lengths
30–180 min
Short rides to three-hour trips
Trip Types
4 unique rides
Spin, scenic, hourly, sunset
Wildlife Viewing
Dolphins & ospreys
Spot coastal wildlife on rides
Select a Hydro spin class, scenic excursion, hourly ride, or Sunset Stroll — pick duration and pace to match schedule and interests.
Arrive Early to Check Equipment
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled ride to receive instruction and get familiar with the water cycle.
Wear Quick-Drying Clothing
Choose moisture-wicking or quick-drying fabrics since splash and humidity are common on the water.
Bring Sunscreen and Hat
The river offers little shade during midday, so protect yourself from strong sun exposure.
Watch for Wildlife Respectfully
Keep your distance from dolphins and birds to avoid disturbing their natural behavior.
Water shoes
Protects feet during launch and provides grip on wet surfaces.
summer
Light windbreaker
Keeps you warm during breezy conditions on open water.
fall
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare from the water to improve visibility and comfort.
Compact dry bag
Keeps valuables like phones and keys dry throughout the trip.