Pets under 50 pounds are allowed. Bring a towel for them to lay on, and a pet life jacket is recommended. No refunds are offered if your pet does not like the experience and your time is cut short.

Charleston Kayak Rentals

Explore Shem Creek’s Hidden Waterways

Quick Facts

DurationHalf & Full Day

Start Times10:15am - 2:30pm

LocationShem Creek – 1 Shrimp Boat Ln

PriceStarting at $27

CapacitySingle/Tandem Sit-In/On

Cancellation48 - hour notice

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Description

At your own pace, explore the scenic marshlands and flat tidal waters of Shem Creek, Bayview Creek, and Charleston Harbor, including views of the protected bird sanctuary Crab Bank Island (not accessible by foot March 15 – October 15).

With more than 8 miles of waterways to paddle, no two visits are the same. Routes range from quiet, nature-only marsh areas to beautiful residential waterways, the lively Shem Creek entertainment district, working shrimp boats, and open harbor views. From the water, you’ll see distant sights of downtown Charleston, Fort Sumter, Sullivan’s Island, James Island, and Castle Pinckney.

Kayak rentals are suitable for all skill levels. We offer both sit-on-top and sit-in kayaks. Preferences will be honored but not guaranteed.

What’s Included

Single or Tandem Kayak (sit in or on top avail.)
PFD (Life Jacket) / Paddles
Basic instruction from ramp guides
Launch assistance

Map of waterways w/ recommendations based on current conditions

Check Real-Time availability

Good to Know

Ages 4+ (30 lbs min) welcome
Phone required 1 per party
Kids under 14 must be accompanied by adult
Please arrive 30 minutes early
Wear clothes you don't mind getting wet!

What To Bring

All items listed are available for purchase on-site, except shoes.

Water & Snacks

Sunscreen

Waterproof Phone Case

Dry Bag

Shoes you don’t mind getting wet

Hat & Sunglasses

FAQ’s

Is kayaking suitable for beginners?

Yes. Kayaking is suitable for beginners, and no prior experience is required. Basic instruction is provided before launch, and guides adjust the pace based on group ability. Calm, protected waterways are used whenever conditions allow.

What kind of wildlife can I see?

Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are commonly seen while kayaking in Charleston’s tidal creeks. Pelicans, egrets, herons, and other coastal birds are frequent. Manatees are rare but possible in warmer months.

Do I need a reservation?

Yes, we recommend booking in advance to guarantee equipment.

Can I bring my dog?

Pets under 50 pounds are allowed. Please bring a towel for them to lay on to protect the equipment. If you are not sure how they will do around the water, a life jacket for them is also recommended. No refunds will be offered if your pet does not like the experience and your time is cut short.

Where do we park?

We are located at 1 Shrimp Boat Lane, Mount Pleasant SC 29464

We are attached to Mount Pleasant Seafood (blue building closest to the road with no parking right next to us)

Click here https://hi.natureadventurestours.com/l/riQqf9vVy to see and download a map of where to park for your convenience.

What about weather and conditions?

Kayak tours operate in light rain and overcast conditions. Wind and tidal flow matter more than rain. If conditions exceed safe limits, rentals may be delayed, adjusted, or rescheduled before launch.

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Availability

Hours

Office Hours

Daily

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Rental & Tour Windows

Varies by season & weather

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Restrictions

• Adult (18+) must be present in the group
• Minimum age: 4+ (30 lb minimum)
• Solo paddling allowed for 14+
Weight Limits:
• Single kayak: 325 lb max
• Tandem kayak: 550 lb max