Things to do nearIntracoastal Waterway
The Intracoastal Waterway stretches along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, offering boating, wildlife watching, and access to charming waterfront towns.
The Intracoastal Waterway was developed over more than a century, with the federal government gradually connecting existing natural channels, lagoons, and rivers into a continuous inland route. Its primary purpose was commercial and military navigation, offering ships a protected alternative to the open ocean.
Today the waterway draws recreational boaters, anglers, kayakers, and birders who come to experience its varied coastal ecosystems. Pelicans glide overhead, ospreys dive for fish, and manatees surface quietly near warm-water outflows. The scenery shifts from the pine-fringed marshes of Georgia to the mangrove tunnels of Florida and the wide open bays of Texas.
Waterfront towns along the route offer fresh seafood, local fish markets, and marinas where travelers can tie up and explore on foot. Communities like Beaufort, Wrightsville Beach, and Titusville each carry their own distinct character shaped by fishing heritage and coastal life.
The Intracoastal Waterway remains one of the most rewarding ways to experience the American coastline at a measured pace, revealing landscapes and communities that are invisible from the highway.
7-day forecast
Chance of rainTips for visiting Intracoastal Waterway
Visit during spring or fall when temperatures are mild and boat traffic is lighter, making wildlife sightings more frequent.
Try anchoring near a sandbars at low tide to wade, picnic, and watch dolphins work the shallows.
Bring polarized sunglasses to cut glare off the water and spot fish, manatees, and rays beneath the surface.
Explore the waterway by kayak or paddleboard near smaller inlets where motorized vessels cannot easily reach.
Check tide charts before planning any excursion, as shallow stretches can become impassable at low water.
Top tours & experiences near Intracoastal Waterway
1-Hour Jet Ski Rental in Myrtle Beach
Independent Yamaha Jet Ski rides on the Intracoastal Waterway
Southport Sunset Cruise
Relax to beach music as the sun sets over Southport's scenic waterways
Myrtle Beach Wildlife River Cruise
Explore cypress-lined waterways and watch for local wildlife
3-Hour Private Sailing Cruise in Little River
Customize a private sail with hands-on options and coastal views
Myrtle Beach Dolphin Jet Ski Tour
Cruise the Intracoastal and Atlantic in search of dolphins
1-Hour Horseback Trail Ride in North Myrtle Beach
Ride wooded trails and the Intracoastal Waterway on horseback
30-Mile E-Bike Tour from Wilmington to Wrightsville Beach
Ride a high-performance e-bike along the scenic River to Sea Bikeway with beach time at Wrightsville
Myrtle Beach Speedboat Dolphin Cruise
Race from the Intracoastal Waterway into the Atlantic on a narrated dolphin search
Sunset Cruise in Southport
Share a private sunset outing on the Cape Fear River and Intracoastal Waterway
Dolphin Cruise From Calabash
Cruise the Intracoastal Waterway and scan for wild dolphins
Sunset Marriage Proposal Cruise in Little River
Plan a private sunset proposal sail with a captain and mate
Myrtle Beach 10-Person Pontoon Boat Rental
Chart your own day on the Intracoastal Waterway
Intracoastal Backcountry Jet Ski Tour in Myrtle Beach
Ride Jet Skis through scenic backcountry trails and waterways
20' Pontoon Boat Rental in Myrtle Beach
Cruise the Intracoastal Waterway with the option to head toward Sandy Island
Little River Speedboat Dolphin Cruise
Race along the coast on a narrated cruise with chances to spot dolphins
Private Introduction to Sailing Lesson in Little River
Try private sailing with hands-on instruction, lunch, and time on the water
Myrtle Beach Guided Ocean Jet Ski Tour
Ride a guided Yamaha jet ski from the Intracoastal Waterway into the open ocean
Masonboro Island Intracoastal Kayak Rental
Paddle Intracoastal waterways and explore Masonboro Island by kayak
Myrtle Beach 4-Hour Pontoon Boat Rental
Take the wheel for a flexible day on Myrtle Beach waterways
Half-Hour Jet Ski Rental in Little River
Try jet skiing with a beginner-friendly ride from calm water to open riding space
Myrtle Beach Pontoon Boat Rental
Captain a pontoon and explore Myrtle Beach waterways at your own pace
3-Hour Private Sailing Charter in Wilmington
Customize a private sail with a USCG-licensed captain for up to 6 guests
Private Pontoon Charter to Bird Island
Cruise to Bird Island with up to 6 guests and a local captain
2-Hour Sunset Cruise in Fort Lauderdale
Golden-hour canal and coastal views with your first drink included