moderate
2–3 hours
Participants should have a basic level of fitness comfortable with 2-3 hours of paddling on calm to moderately narrow water channels.
J & L Kayak Tours delivers immersive paddling adventures through the winding creeks and marshes of Waties Island in North Myrtle Beach. From sunset kayak trips to crabbing excursions, discover a coastal landscape where wildlife and watercraft meet.
J & L Kayak Tours offers a hands-on way to engage with the intricate waterways of North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Situated along the Atlantic Coast, this region features a unique coastal ecosystem centered around Waties Island, an undeveloped barrier island known for its winding creeks, salt marshes, and rich biodiversity. Paddling with J & L takes you through the Waties Island Creek Maze, a network of tidal water channels lined with maritime forest and marsh grasses that reveal the pulse of this coastal wilderness.
Trips include guided tours by day and twilight adventures, where the fading light casts long shadows on water and marsh, offering a quiet spectacle of shorebirds and fish activity. The Cherry Grove Sunset Kayak Tour complements this with stunning evening panoramas of the coastal horizon. Beyond paddling, their Crabbing Adventure invites participants to try their hand at catching blue crabs, connecting you to the local tradition and marine pulse of the region.
For a flexible experience, self-guided kayak rentals put you in control, making it possible to navigate at your own pace and appreciate the quiet corners of Waties Island Beach. What sets J & L Kayak Tours apart is an emphasis on eco-adventure that respects the delicate balance of this protected habitat while offering immersive access. The tours highlight the area's salt marshes, a critical nursery for fish and shellfish, and the forested edges where shorebirds roost and hunt.
This area is a quiet counterpoint to the busier stretches of Myrtle Beach nearby, making J & L Kayak Tours an ideal choice for travelers seeking hands-on encounters with nature that feel genuine and unspoiled. Whether you’re new to kayaking or a seasoned paddler, the variety of trip options makes this business a cornerstone of North Myrtle Beach’s outdoor recreation scene, connecting visitors directly with the coastal landscapes that define this Atlantic corridor.
Check the local tide charts before your trip; tidal changes can significantly alter water levels and creek accessibility.
Outfit yourself in moisture-wicking layers and avoid cotton to stay comfortable when paddling and possibly getting wet.
Mosquitoes and biting flies can be heavy in the marsh areas, especially in warmer months, so insect repellent is recommended.
Keep your gear evenly distributed in the kayak for better stability in narrow creeks and tidal channels.
Waties Island is privately owned but preserved for its natural state, maintaining much of its historic maritime forest and marshlands for wildlife.
Tours emphasize low-impact practices and respect for tidal ecosystems to maintain the health of this coastal habitat.
Keeps your belongings dry while navigating tidal creeks and marshes.
Protects against mosquitoes and biting insects common in salt marsh areas.
spring|summer|fall specific
Provides sun protection during extended daylight hours on open water.
spring|summer|fall specific
Allows for adapting to temperature shifts, especially in cooler seasons.
spring|fall|winter specific