Paddle Hilton Head’s tranquil waterways with a naturalist guide while savoring a fresh cup of coffee.
1.5 hrs
Guide, kayak gear, coffee
Glide through Hilton Head Island’s calm marshes on a guided kayak tour and sip coffee as you watch for local wildlife. Experienced naturalists share insights about the Lowcountry ecosystem during this relaxed 90-minute paddle.
Solo paddlers must be at least 14, all participants at least 5, and combined weight per kayak may not exceed 400 lbs.
Q: What are the weight limits?
A: Single kayak limit is 325 lbs and tandem limit is 400 lbs.
Q: I have never kayaked before. Is it hard?
A: The tour suits all experience levels and includes instruction.
Q: What should I wear?
A: Dress for the weather; expect light splashes from the paddle.
Q: Can I bring my phone?
A: You may, but you assume the risk of it getting wet or lost.
Q: What kind of kayaks are used, and can I bring my own?
A: We use sit-on-top ocean kayaks, and guests must use our provided equipment due to insurance requirements.
Q: How many people can fit in each kayak?
A: Each kayak holds a maximum of two people.
Q: Is coffee provided during the tour?
A: Yes. Freshly brewed coffee is offered either before launching or after your tour.
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the activity. No refunds within 48 hours or for late arrivals. If the operator cancels due to weather, you receive a full refund.
Palmetto Bay Marina – 86 Helmsman Way Suite 101, Hilton Head, SC 29928
If you're looking for a dolphin tour in Hilton Head that consistently delivers, this operation has clearly figured out the winning formula. The crew here really makes the experience, with names like Kate, Wendy, Pete, Kim, and Bev coming up again and again in glowing reviews. What stands out is how these guides work as genuine teams—captains positioning boats perfectly so everyone gets great views while first mates share fascinating knowledge about dolphin behavior and local ecology. Multiple families mentioned how welcoming the staff was with kids, and several reviewers emphasized that the balance between educational content and relaxed enjoyment was just right. The dolphin sightings seem to be the real deal, not just a hopeful promise. People consistently report seeing multiple pods, including mothers with calves, and the crews clearly know where to find them. Reviewers who've done similar tours elsewhere specifically note this one was better, which says a lot. The boats themselves get praise for being clean and well-maintained. Whether you choose a standard dolphin tour or something unique like the "donuts and dolphins" outing, the vibe is friendly, engaging, and family-oriented. The sunset tours get particular mentions for combining beautiful scenery with wildlife watching. It's the kind of place where people are already planning their return visit before the boat even docks.
We celebrated our 10-year wedding anniversary with Captain Seth, and it was absolutely unforgettable! The weather was perfect, the ride was smooth, and the entire experience felt magical and romantic. Captain Seth went above and beyond to make sure everything was just right—he even found so many dolphins! At one point we were completely surrounded—it felt like paradise. The water was like glass, the music set the perfect vibe, and every detail made the evening special. I’ve been on several tours before, but this one was hands-down the best. Thank you, Captain Seth, for making our anniversary celebration so memorable. It was truly perfect in every way—an experience we’ll cherish forever! 🥂🐬✨
Erika
September 28, 2025
We celebrated our 10-year wedding anniversary with Captain Seth, and it was absolutely unforgettable! The weather was perfect, the ride was smooth, and the entire experience felt magical and romantic. Captain Seth went above and beyond to make sure everything was just right—he even found so many dolphins! At one point we were completely surrounded—it felt like paradise. The water was like glass, the music set the perfect vibe, and every detail made the evening special. I’ve been on several tours before, but this one was hands-down the best. Thank you, Captain Seth, for making our anniversary celebration so memorable. It was truly perfect in every way—an experience we’ll cherish forever! 🥂🐬✨
Erika
September 28, 2025