Wildlife Discovery Tour at Assateague Outfitters in Bayside Stand - Ocean City

Wildlife Discovery Tour at Assateague Outfitters in Bayside Stand

Ocean Cityeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; paddling is gentle and manageable for beginners

Overview

Join Assateague Outfitters for a two-hour kayak journey through salt marshes and channels, where wild horses and migratory birds await. Discover the island’s vibrant ecosystem with hands-on activities and expert guides. An ideal adventure for nature lovers seeking an authentic coastal experience.

Details

Assateague Island, located along Maryland’s Atlantic coast, is renowned for its sprawling salt marshes, shifting tidal channels, and herds of wild horses that often seem to appear at the water’s edge. Assateague Outfitters offers a captivating Wildlife Discovery Tour that immerses visitors in this dynamic coastal environment through a two-hour kayak adventure. Led by passionate naturalist guides, the trip combines paddling with hands-on activities like clamming and netting, fostering a deeper understanding of the island’s delicate ecology.

Launching from Bayside Stand, paddlers slide quietly through the calm waters, skimming past salt marshes where herons stalk and egrets wade. The landscape pulses with perennial life—migratory birds in seasonal abundance, playful otters along the channels, and the iconic wild horses grazing just beyond the shoreline. As the guides share insights into conservation efforts and the island’s history, participants gain a richer appreciation for this protected coastal habitat.

What makes this tour stand out is its blend of adventure and education, set against the backdrop of one of Maryland’s most beloved natural spaces. The hands-on activities allow paddlers to connect physically with the environment, whether by clam digging or netting for aquatic creatures. This tour is accessible for a range of ages and fitness levels, making it a family-friendly way to experience Assateague’s wilderness.

Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, wildlife photographer, or family seeking a meaningful outdoor outing, the Wildlife Discovery Tour at Assateague Outfitters offers an authentic, up-close encounter with one of the East Coast’s most unique coastal ecosystems. It’s a chance to witness nature at its most raw and vibrant, all while supporting ongoing conservation efforts.

Located just a short drive from Ocean City, Maryland, this guided paddling trip lends a refreshing perspective on the region’s coastal biodiversity. It’s more than just a kayak tour—it’s a window into the wild heart of Assateague Island.

Adventure Tips

Wear Weather-Appropriate Clothing

Dress in layers and bring rain gear if rain is forecasted; conditions can change rapidly on the water.

Bring Sun Protection

Apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and don sunglasses to shield against sun exposure during open-water paddling.

Use Binoculars or Camera Zoom

Bring optics to get a closer look at distant birds and wildlife along the channels.

Follow Guiding Instructions Carefully

Pay attention to your guide’s safety tips and paddling instructions for a smooth experience.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Check out the Piney Point Overlook for sunset views
  • Visit the Wildlife Loop within the national park for less crowded wildlife viewing spots

Wildlife

  • Estuarine dolphins
  • Osprey

History

Assateague Island has a long history of Native American habitation and was historically used for fishing and salt production.

Conservation

Assateague Island is part of a protected national seashore, emphasizing sustainable tourism and habitat preservation efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Early morning for calm waters and wildlife activity
Golden hour at sunset for dramatic lighting

Best Viewpoints

  • Paddling near the island’s marsh flats
  • Channels leading into salt ponds

What to Photograph

Wild horses grazing
Migratory birds in flight
Shoreline reflections

Recommended Gear

Sun Protection

Essential

Protects your skin during open water paddling when UV exposure can be intense.

spring-summer specific

Waterproof Clothing

Essential

Keeps you dry and comfortable if conditions become rainy or splashy.

all specific

Binoculars

Enhances wildlife viewing and bird identification from the kayak.

Sun Hat

Provides additional protection from the sun during prolonged exposure on the water.

summer specific

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