2.5-Hour Kayak Tour of Masonboro Island

Explore Masonboro Island’s protected Intracoastal waterways on a kayaking outing for confident paddlers. Discover salt marsh estuaries near the open Atlantic and the island’s undeveloped coastal landscape.

• Explore intricate salt marsh estuaries around Masonboro Island
• Navigate busy boat channels and boat wake before reaching secluded waterways
• Experience open-water conditions with current and possible wind chop
• Discover one of southern North Carolina’s largest undisturbed barrier islands

Itinerary

1. Check-In & Safety Briefing Guests arrive at the launch location at 613 Trails End Rd, Wilmington, NC 28409. Guides provide kayaks, paddles, life vests, and a quick safety overview.

2. Launch & Paddle to Masonboro Island. Participants paddle toward the protected islands and marshlands that make up Intracoastal waterways

3. Explore the Coastal Ecosystem Guests kayak through tidal flats, marshes, and barrier islands while spotting wildlife such as birds, fish, and other marine life.

4. Island Stops & Exploration Depending on conditions, the group may stop for shell hunting, island hopping, or exploring the shoreline.

5. Return Paddle After exploring the reserve, the group paddles back to the launch point to end the tour.

What's Included

• Kayak
• Paddle
• Life vest
• Water safety and paddle-skill demonstration

Important details

• Arrive 15–20 minutes early to take part in the safety and skill demonstration
• A signed waiver is required for every participant before the activity
• Single kayaks are available for ages 12+
• Tandem kayaks have no minimum age when one rider is an adult
• Confident kayak paddling skills are recommended due to channel crossings, boat wake, current, and wind chop