Parking is located at 1 Shrimp Boat Lane, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464. The launch site is attached to Mount Pleasant Seafood.

Shem Creek 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

Explore the tidal waterways of Shem Creek, Bayview Creek, and Charleston Harbor at your own pace, with views of surrounding marsh and the protected bird sanctuary at Crab Bank Island (no foot access March 15–October 15).

More than 8 miles of paddle routes are available, ranging from quiet marsh creeks to residential waterways, the active Shem Creek area, working shrimp docks, and open harbor stretches. Paddling these routes offers water-level views toward downtown Charleston, Fort Sumter, Sullivan’s Island, James Island, and Castle Pinckney.

Kayak rentals are appropriate for all experience levels. Both sit-on-top and sit-in kayaks are available. Craft requests are accommodated when possible but cannot be guaranteed.

What’s Included

Kayak (Single or Tandem)
PFD (Life Jacket) / Paddles
Basic instruction from ramp guides
Launch assistance

Map of waterways w/ recommendations based on current conditions

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Good to Know

Ages 4+ (30 lbs min) welcome
Ages 13 & under must be in Tandem with adult
Minors (under 17) 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

Ages 4 and up welcome. Ages 14 and up can paddle in single kayaks if desired. 13 and under must be in a Tandem 2 person kayak with someone 14 or older. Minors under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an Adult over 18 years of age.