Charleston, South Carolina, is known for its traversable waterways and breathtakingly beautiful kayaking spots, such as Shem Creek or Folly Beach.
In this guide, we’ll tell you about the best kayaking spots Charleston has to offer, where to rent kayaks, and which kayaking tours are worth signing up for.
Top Kayaking Spots in Charleston
The state of South Carolina is a great place for camping and kayaking; Charleston just so happens to be the hub. The city has multiple kayaking launches downtown. Not to mention, Mount Pleasant and James Island are both a short drive away.
Here are some of the best places to Kayak in Charleston you should add to your three-day vacation (or staycation) itinerary.
Shem Creek
Shem Creek is a must-visit for any kayaker in Charleston. This bustling spot promises frequent dolphin sightings.
Shem Creek’s calm waters suit both beginners and experienced paddlers.
- Experience Level: Novice to Intermediate
- Typical Wildlife: Dolphins, pelicans, egrets, crabs
- Best Launch Point: Shem Creek Park Public Boat Landing
Folly Beach
Folly Beach is another gem for kayakers. This spot features scenic marshes and winding creeks that provide a calm paddling experience, ideal for beginners. Launching from Folly Landing is convenient and offers access to various picturesque landscapes, such as the historic Morris Island Lighthouse.
- Experience Level: Novice to Intermediate
- Typical Wildlife: Dolphins, sea turtles, pelicans, osprey
- Best Launch Point: Folly River Boat Landing
Isle of Palms
The Isle of Palms is a prime kayaking spot known for its beautiful waters and scenic views. With six miles of sandy beaches, you can pull ashore for a post-kayak day at the beach. The Isle of Palms has an assortment of tidal pools you can explore to find hermit crabs and other sea creatures.
- Experience Level: Intermediate
- Typical Wildlife: Dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, shorebirds
- Best Launch Point: Isle of Palms Marina
Capers Island
Capers Island is an exclusive destination accessible only by kayak or boat. Known for its abundant wildlife and striking Boneyard Beach, this island and the nearby barrier islands offer a unique paddling experience. Plus, the shoreline is covered in old, dead trees, which are perfect perches for birds of prey. Did you hear that, birdwatchers?
- Experience Level: Intermediate to Expert
- Typical Wildlife: Sea turtles, dolphins, bald eagles, egrets
- Best Launch Point: Isle of Palms Marina (paddle across the Intracoastal Waterway)
Lake Moultrie
Lake Moultrie spans 60,000 acres, offering ample space for kayakers of all skill levels. The Jungle paddling trail cuts through shallow, swampy waters where you’ll encounter water lilies and wading birds.
- Experience Level: Novice to Intermediate
- Typical Wildlife: Alligators, ospreys, herons, bass, bald eagles
- Best Launch Point: Diversion Canal Boat Ramp
Ashley River
The Ashley River is ideal for beginners, thanks to its gentle currents and limited boat traffic. This peaceful paddling experience allows novices to focus on mastering their basic kayaking skills–without worrying about strong currents or crowded waterways.
- Experience Level: Novice to Intermediate
- Typical Wildlife: Alligators, egrets, herons, turtles
- Best Launch Point: W.O. Thomas Jr. Boat Landing
Best Launch Points for Kayaking in Charleston
If you’re looking to get on the water as soon as possible, there are several locations with quick launch points. These spots offer convenient parking and easy access to popular kayaking spots. Plus, they’re all located near downtown Charleston. There are even spots located near the city’s historic district.
Mount Pleasant
The Pitt Street Bridge Kayak Launch and Patriots Point Public Boat Landing both offer easy access to Charleston Harbor.
Additional launch points in Mount Pleasant include Remley’s Point and Palmetto Island County Park. These two are better for scenic nature trips and provide access to the Wando River and Horlbeck Creek, respectively.
Downtown Charleston
Brittlebank Park is a major launch point for kayakers in downtown Charleston. The park offers ample parking and direct access to the Ashley River. You can also launch from Haddrell Point for access to the Cooper River.
James Island
Public landings on James Island provide access to both the Stono River and Wappoo Creek. You can also use the Sol Legare Boat Landing for access to Folly River.
Guided Kayak Tours in Charleston
One of the best ways to get acquainted with Charleston’s waterways is with a guided tour. Eco tours present plenty of opportunities for encounters with dolphins, wading birds, and oyster beds. Historical tours, on the other hand, give you a glimpse into Charleston’s storied past.
Whether you go the eco-tour route or the historical tour route, you can’t go wrong.
Here are the best kayak tours you can sign up for:
Flipper Finders
This company offers 2-hour guided tours through the Charleston Harbor and along Folly Beach. They offer a Full Moon tour, which is a great option for adventurous paddlers.
- Location: 83 Center Street, Folly Beach, SC and 50 Immigration St., Charleston, SC
- Cost:
- Adult: $50
- Child: $40
Charleston Kayak
If you’re looking for a more mysterious experience, Charleston Kayak offers blackwater swamp tours through the Woodlands Nature Reserve. Plus, they have sunset tours where you can spot fireflies and other nocturnal wildlife.
- Location: 4279 Ashley River Rd, Charleston SC
- Cost:
- Daytime: $89
- Sunset: $99
Sea Kayak Carolina
For guided tours of the Lowcountry, Sea Kayak Carolina is your best bet. They offer 2-hour tours along the Shem Creek. Plus, they have a sunset tour along the Crab Bank Seabird Sanctuary.
- Location: 118 May Lane, Mount Pleasant, SC
- Cost: $55 per person
Kayak Rentals in Charleston
For those who don’t own a kayak, Charleston offers plenty of rental options. Whether you’re looking for a single-day rental or a multi-day adventure, local outfitters have you covered.
Coastal Expeditions
Coastal Expeditions is a popular choice for kayak rentals in Charleston. They have two locations with free private parking at Shem Creek HQ and Kiawah River. Rentals are offered in 3-hour increments.
- Location: 514 Mill St, Mount Pleasant, SC
- Cost:
- Single Kayak – $45
- Double Kayak – $55
Nature Adventures Outfitters
Nature Adventures Outfitters specializes in kayak tours along Shem Creek. They also offer paddleboarding rentals and other tours by request. If you weren’t already sold, check out their 400 5-star reviews on Trustpilot. As you’ll see from the customer testimonials, Nature Adventures Outfitters are a great choice for day trips.
- Location: 1 Shrimp Boat Ln, Mount Pleasant, SC
- Cost:
- Single Kayak – $45
- Guided Tour – $50
Charleston Outdoor Adventures
Charleston Outdoor Adventures focuses on daily kayak rentals and specialized tours around the Folly River. Rentals are either 4-hour increments or 24-hour increments. The unique part about COA is that with a daily rental, you can take the kayak offsite or have it delivered to a nearby launch point.
- Location: 1871 Bowens Island Road, Charleston, SC
- Cost:
- Single Kayak – $35
- Double Kayak – $45
- Double Expedition – $55
Tips for Safe Kayaking in Charleston
In addition to the normal kayaking safety tips (lifejacket, sun protection, etc.), check out these tips for when you kayak in Charleston.
Tip #1: Know the Tides
Charleston’s waterways are influenced by strong tides and currents. The current can be particularly strong in Shem Creek at high tide, so time your paddle to avoid fighting against it. Use data from NOAA to learn when tides are at their highest, and when they are receding. The Shem Creek is at low tide in the evening and early morning, reaching high tide around noon.
Tip #2: Understand Charleston’s Seasonal Weather Conditions
Charleston can experience sudden thunderstorms, particularly in the summer. Check the weather forecast before you go out, and be prepared to head back quickly if you see storm clouds forming.
Tip #3: Keep Your Eyes Peeled for Boat Traffic
Shem Creek, for example, is a bustling area with heavy boat traffic. It’s often overrun with fishing vessels, tour boats, and recreational boats.
As a best practice, stay close to the shore and be aware of your surroundings at all times. If necessary, use a whistle or horn to signal your presence, especially in narrow channels. When you’re in open water, the wake of passing boats can make kayaking more difficult (and dangerous).
Keep Your Kayaks Safe for Next Season
Storing your kayaking gear can be tough, especially if you have a large family. No matter if you’re moving to Charleston with your kayaks, or looking to pick up a new hobby, your kayaks will need a safe home.
If you don’t have space in your garage or shed, consider finding a local storage solution. Neighbor.com is a peer-to-peer storage marketplace that offers affordable self-storage options, even in neighborhoods with high costs of living.
Each of Neighbor’s hosts is thoroughly vetted for safety and discretion, so you can rest assured that your kayaks and other outdoor gear are safe.
If you’re looking to make a little money on the side, consider signing up to be a Neighbor host! Renting out your unused space is a great way to make passive income, and some hosts make up to $294 per hour!
