Paddle Assateague’s backwaters with a naturalist guide
2.5 Hours
Guide, kayak, paddle, PFD
Explore Assateague Island’s calm backwaters by kayak as a naturalist guide helps you spot and learn about local wildlife. Paddle at an easy pace through salt marshes and channels while hearing stories of the island’s ecology and history.
Assateague Island National Seashore entrance fee is not included ($25 per vehicle, valid for 7 days). Water shoes or sandals are required; flip-flops do not work in the bay.
Cancel at least 48 hours before your scheduled tour time for a full refund.
Arrive 30 minutes before your tour start time.
Yes. Your booking does not include the Assateague Island National Seashore entrance fee. The source states it is $25 per vehicle and is valid for 7 days.
Wear weather-appropriate boating attire (synthetic clothing or a bathing suit, plus an extra layer) and footwear that can get wet. Water shoes (not socks) or full-coverage sandals work best; flip-flops do not work in the bay.
12003 Bayside Dr, Berlin, MD 21811
The wildlife discovery kayak tours here are genuinely special, and what makes them stand out is the caliber of the guides. Names like Morgan, Andrew, Tish, Steve, Anthony, Meredith, and Raiden come up repeatedly, with reviewers praising not just their knowledge of local ecosystems and wildlife, but their warmth and ability to handle groups of different ages and skill levels. The tours typically run 2-3 hours and paddle through shallow Sinepuxent Bay, where you're practically guaranteed to see wild horses plus an array of birds, horseshoe crabs, and other marine life. Many tours include hands-on experiences like clamming or net fishing, which kids especially love. One visitor even mentioned arriving 30 minutes late and still getting a personalized tour. Beyond the wildlife tours, you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or bikes to explore on your own, and the staff provides helpful guidance on where to go and how to navigate conditions. The main complaint worth noting is that tour groups can get large, sometimes approaching 25-30 people with two guides, which makes it harder to hear commentary and creates a less intimate experience for those who prefer smaller groups. The paddle back can be challenging if winds pick up or currents are strong, so families with young kids should consider whether everyone can handle a fairly long workout. On the plus side, the water is shallow and calm enough that you can wade around afterward, and there are bathrooms and a small shop at the stand. A nice bonus: half their profits support Maryland Coastal Bays Programs, so your adventure dollars go toward conservation efforts.
I’ve rented kayaks from Assateague Outfitters twice for some paddle-in backcountry camping. Although they only have sit-on boats now, they are very bay-worthy vessels if the winds aren’t too bad. And the outfitter team is wonderful for suggestions and worked with us around weather conditions to adjust our booking. Assateague is a magical place, but I loved getting to see parts of the island that most people don’t get to see!
Allison Seger
April 6, 2026
I’ve rented kayaks from Assateague Outfitters twice for some paddle-in backcountry camping. Although they only have sit-on boats now, they are very bay-worthy vessels if the winds aren’t too bad. And the outfitter team is wonderful for suggestions and worked with us around weather conditions to adjust our booking. Assateague is a magical place, but I loved getting to see parts of the island that most people don’t get to see!
Allison Seger
April 6, 2026