Paddle protected waters to a low-tide sandbar near Hunting Island
2 hours and 30 minutes
Guides, kayaks, paddles
Kayak through the protected waters of the Fripp Inlet and land on a sandbar that’s only accessible at low tide. Learn about barrier islands and beach renourishment projects along the way.
All children under 12 must ride in a tandem kayak. You will sign a waiver onsite before launching. The launch point has limited restroom options.
In the event that Beaufort Kayak Tours needs to cancel, we will contact you at least 2 hours before the scheduled tour time.
Bring at least 1 liter of drinking water per person. Cameras and binoculars are welcome; if you bring a camera, consider protecting it in a Ziploc bag.
Dress for the weather and wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet. Bike or golf gloves are optional.
Restroom options are limited. There is a portapotty at the landing, and restrooms are available at Hunting Island State Park’s Nature Center.
Russ Point Public boat landing.
Jim and Teri, the husband-and-wife team behind these tours, have clearly found their calling. Reviewers consistently praise their warm personalities, deep local knowledge, and genuine passion for both the ecology and history of the South Carolina Lowcountry. The dolphin tours seem to be the star attraction, with multiple groups reporting 20+ minute encounters paddling alongside pods, though the ACE Basin tour gets special mention for its historical significance, including sites connected to Harriet Tubman and rice plantation history. First-timers feel especially well cared for, as Jim and Teri take time with paddling instruction and adapt to different skill levels. The tours work well for diverse groups, from bachelorette parties to book clubs to families with kids. The vast majority of experiences are glowing, though there are a couple things worth noting. One reviewer felt the tour was more "follow the leader" than educational, suggesting that much of the paddle time was spent out of earshot of the guides, limiting the learning opportunities. They proposed headsets as a solution for sharing information throughout. There's also one frustrated review about a last-minute cancellation due to wind conditions, which the customer felt was questionable given the actual weather that day. These concerns are outliers in an otherwise enthusiastic collection of feedback, but if you're on a tight vacation schedule or hoping for constant narration, they're worth considering before booking.
Had an absolute blast during our Dolphin Ecology Tour. Safe for all ages and size, and skill. Tour guides were super knowledgeable, patient, and welcoming. Highly recommend making this an item on your itinerary.
Rebecca
April 3, 2024
Had an absolute blast during our Dolphin Ecology Tour. Safe for all ages and size, and skill. Tour guides were super knowledgeable, patient, and welcoming. Highly recommend making this an item on your itinerary.
Rebecca
April 3, 2024