5 (1617)
Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Kayak Tour: Dolphins & Nature Await!
120
Overview
2-Hour Hilton Head Guided Kayak Nature Tour invites everyone to paddle through the stunning salt marshes of Hilton Head Island! This exciting tour, led by expert naturalist guides, offers a unique way to see the Lowcountry. Participants will explore the island's diverse wildlife, uncover its fascinating history, and discover hidden gems along Broad Creek. Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a bit of adventure.
Setting off from Shelter Cove Marina, the tour begins with a brief paddle clinic. Then, it's off to explore the salt marshes, tidal rivers, and creeks. Keep an eye out for playful dolphins, beautiful birds, and enjoy the amazing views. The guides share stories about Hilton Head's rich history and culture, making it an educational and fun experience.
This kayak tour offers an immersive experience into Hilton Head's natural beauty. It combines adventure, education, and stunning scenery into one memorable journey. Whether you are a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, this tour promises a unique perspective on the Lowcountry’s charm. 
Highlights
See Dolphins!: Watch Atlantic bottlenose dolphins play in their natural habitat.
Expert Guides: Learn from naturalist guides about the local wildlife and history.
Explore Salt Marshes: Paddle through the breathtaking salt marshes of Hilton Head Island.
All Equipment Provided: Kayaks, paddles, and personal flotation devices are included.
Sentiment Analysis
Guests love seeing dolphins and other wildlife up close.
-
The guides are knowledgeable and make the tour fun.
-
The tour is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Hilton Head.
-
Many reviewers mentioned that the tour was family friendly.
Some find the sun exposure challenging, especially in the summer.
-
A few guests felt the tour could be longer.
The Journey
Shelter Cove Marina
The starting point of the kayak tour, Shelter Cove Marina offers a picturesque setting and access to the Broad Creek. It's a hub for various water activities and provides stunning views of the surrounding Lowcountry.
Broad Creek
A tidal creek surrounded by salt marshes on Hilton Head Island. It features diverse wildlife, including dolphins and various bird species. The creek's ecosystem is integral to the island's natural beauty.
Hilton Head Island Salt Marshes
These vibrant salt marshes are a crucial part of Hilton Head Island's ecosystem, providing habitat for numerous species. Kayaking through them offers a unique perspective on the Lowcountry's natural beauty and ecological importance.
Know Before You Go
This kayak tour includes a professional guide and all kayaking equipment: kayak, paddles, and a personal flotation device (PFD). Participants will have the chance to see wildlife, including Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. Gratuities and snacks are not included. Please note that children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult in a double kayak. It is the responsibility of the traveler to make their own way to the departure point. No pickup and drop-off services are provided.
Hot Tip
Reviewers suggest wearing clothing suitable for water activities and bringing water, snacks, and sunscreen. Also, book in advance, especially during peak season!
Review Summary
People usually say this tour delivers an exceptional nature experience with highly knowledgeable and passionate guides who make visitors feel safe and comfortable regardless of skill level. Travelers consistently praise the abundance of wildlife encounters—particularly dolphins and manatees—combined with engaging storytelling about the Lowcountry's ecosystem and local history. The most frequently mentioned strengths include professional staff, well-maintained equipment, excellent instruction for beginners, and the guides' genuine enthusiasm for sharing their knowledge of Hilton Head Island. While the experience is overwhelmingly positive with ratings near 5 stars, a few travelers note that wildlife sightings depend on tidal conditions and seasonal timing, and that the boat ride through channels can occasionally be bumpy. Overall, reviewers recommend this tour as a must-do activity for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking an authentic connection with the island's natural beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Charleston
$30
Charleston History Walk: See Rainbow Row & French Quarter
4.9
(6102 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Historic Charleston Guided Sightseeing Walking Tour invites everyone to step into a city where history whispers from every building. This easy 2-hour walk takes people through the heart of Charleston's historic district, including the charming French Quarter and the beautiful homes "South of Broad."
A friendly, local guide shares stories about the people and big events that made Charleston what it is today. Expect to see famous spots like Rainbow Row with its colorful houses and the historic Four Corners of Law. The tour also explores the French Quarter, known for its art galleries and historic buildings. Plus, a relaxing walk along The Battery gives amazing views of the harbor.
This tour includes a professional guide, and a chance to learn a lot about Charleston's past. What is not included is gratuities.
Charleston
$250
Savor Charleston: Chef-Led Food, Wine & History Culinary Adventure
5.0
(943 reviews)
Duration: 240
minutes
Embark on the Undiscovered Charleston tour led by Chef Forrest Parker. Enjoy a 90-minute historic food tour, a cooking demo, lunch, and wine at Bistro a Vin. Discover local flavors and heritage with a South Carolina Chef Ambassador. Taste the path less traveled in Charleston!
Savannah
$35
Savannah Ghost Tour: History & Haunts by Candlelight
4.9
(3162 reviews)
Duration: 90
minutes
Savannah History and Haunts Candlelit Ghost Walking Tour invites guests to explore Savannah's haunted history. This 90-minute walking tour takes visitors through the city's most historic and spooky spots, where tales of war, murder, and mystery linger.
Participants can expect to walk along cobblestone streets, under moss-draped oaks, and through historic squares, all while listening to chilling ghost stories, legends, and superstitions. A professional guide leads the way by lantern light, creating an immersive and eerie atmosphere. The tour begins at the Meeting Point.
This experience includes captivating ghost stories, legends, superstitions, and historical insights delivered by a professional guide. Please note that gratuities are not included and are appreciated for exceptional service. Savannah History and Haunts Candlelit Ghost Walking Tour offers an unforgettable journey into the city's ghostly past.
Hilton Head Island
$247.48
Hilton Head: Private Dolphin Tour - Guaranteed Sightings!
5.0
(513 reviews)
Duration: 90
minutes
90-Minute Private Dolphin Tour in Hilton Head Island offers a personal and unforgettable experience on the water. This isn't just a boat ride; it's a chance for your group to see dolphins up close in their natural home. The tour takes small groups to spots larger boats can't reach, giving guests a more intimate view of these amazing animals.
Guests can expect to see dolphins eating, playing, and hanging out in the Calibogue Sound. The captain, a Lowcountry Master Naturalist, shares interesting facts about the local environment. Visitors might also spot mobula rays jumping, sea turtles coming up for air, and many kinds of birds. The tour also cruises by the Harbourtown Lighthouse and Daufuskie Island.
The tour includes a private boat just for your group, a licensed captain who is also a Lowcountry Master Naturalist, and all fees and taxes. Gratuity for the captain is not included.
Charleston
$499
Charleston Yacht Tour: BYOB, Dolphins & Luxury!
5.0
(394 reviews)
Duration: 150
minutes
Private Luxury Yacht Charters, BYOB & Dolphins in Charleston offers a special way to see the city. This isn't just a boat ride; it's a relaxing trip on your own private yacht, perfect for families, friends, or anyone wanting to see Charleston from the water. Imagine sailing around Charleston Harbor, seeing sights like Fort Sumter, the Ravenel Bridge, and the historic buildings along the waterfront.
What can guests expect? Guests can sit back and relax while the boat’s crew takes care of everything. They get to bring their own drinks and snacks to enjoy while sailing. It's a great way to spend a day on the water, spotting dolphins and seeing Charleston's famous landmarks. The tour goes all around the harbor, so everyone gets a good view.
This private yacht experience includes bottled water and soda. It doesn't include tips for the crew, so guests should remember to tip if they enjoyed the sail. With options for hourly, daily, or special sunset tours, it's easy to make a special memory on the water. This is a unique adventure in Charleston, blending history, nature, and relaxation into one amazing trip.
Charleston
$34
Charleston's Hidden Alleyways: Small Group Walking Tour
4.9
(2302 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Hidden Alleyways and Historic Sites Small-Group Walking Tour in Charleston. This two-hour walking tour takes folks on a special trip through Charleston's neat alleyways and historic spots. It's a small group, so everyone gets a good look! Charleston's alleyways are in the historic part of town, where you can see famous places and still find some secrets. This tour is great for folks who like to walk and learn cool stuff about history.
Get ready to see amazing places like the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, Rainbow Row, and Heyward-Washington House. Walk down Philadelphia Alley and visit St. Philip's Church and Charleston Waterfront Park. You'll learn about Charleston's past and how it became what it is today. A friendly local guide will show you around the streets of the historic district. The tour includes places like Rainbow Row. This tour is just for a small group, so it feels more personal. It explores the history and beauty of Charleston's hidden alleyways.
This tour includes a professional guide who knows a lot about Charleston. It does not include tips for the guide, so bring some cash to tip the guide. With so many positive reviews, this tour is sure to give you a great time.
Nearby Events
The Charleston Music Hall
Jan 16
8:00 PMSherri Shepherd: Make It Make Sense Tour in Charleston
Sherri Shepherd brings her acclaimed 'Make It Make Sense Tour' to The Charleston Music Hall, delivering a night of sharp wit, relatable stories, and side-splitting comedy. Known for her Emmy-winning work on 'The View,' her stand-up roots, and her dynamic presence on stage, Shepherd’s live show promises laughter and inspiration for fans of comedy and pop culture.
With a career spanning decades—from sitcoms like 'Less Than Perfect' to her own syndicated talk show—Sherri Shepherd continues to captivate audiences with her authenticity and humor. The Charleston Music Hall, a historic venue celebrated for its intimate atmosphere and top-tier acoustics, provides the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable evening of live comedy.
North Charleston Performing Arts Center
Apr 28
8:00 PMEarth, Wind & Fire: Tickets at Charleston PAC
Earth, Wind & Fire will bring their iconic sound to the North Charleston Performing Arts Center. Known for their vibrant stage presence and fusion of funk, soul, and disco, Earth, Wind & Fire continues to captivate audiences with their timeless hits and electrifying performances, even as they tour with a mix of veteran and newer band members. Fans can expect a high-energy show filled with their signature grooves and positive vibes.
Earth, Wind & Fire have sold over 90 million records worldwide, solidifying their place as one of the best-selling music acts of all time. The North Charleston Performing Arts Center, a premier venue in South Carolina, is known for hosting a wide variety of events, from Broadway shows to concerts, offering a state-of-the-art experience for attendees.
Credit One Stadium
Mar 28
11:00 AMBook Tickets: Credit One Charleston Open Session 12
The Credit One Charleston Open: Session 12 brings elite women’s tennis action to Credit One Stadium in Charleston, SC. As a WTA 500 event, it attracts top-ranked professionals competing on clay courts, making it one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in North America. Attendees can expect thrilling matches as players advance toward the later stages of this historic competition.
The Charleston Open, originally the Family Circle Cup since 1973, has been instrumental in shaping women’s tennis history with legendary champions like Chris Evert and Serena Williams. Credit One Stadium, known for its intimate setting and passionate tennis fans, provides a premier venue experience hosting nearly 90,000 visitors annually for this marquee clay-court tournament.
North Charleston Coliseum
May 21
7:00 PMDwight Yoakam & ZZ Top in North Charleston!
The Dos Amigos Tour brings country icon Dwight Yoakam and rock legends ZZ Top to the North Charleston Coliseum. Expect a night of unforgettable music as Yoakam, known for his neo-traditional country style and recent projects, shares the stage with ZZ Top, the blues-rock trio still going strong after decades of hits. This is a can't-miss event for fans of both artists.
Dwight Yoakam is celebrated for blending honky-tonk, rockabilly, and Bakersfield sound, earning multiple Grammy Awards and critical acclaim. ZZ Top, Rock and Roll Hall of Famers, continues to captivate audiences with their signature beards and blues-infused rock anthems. The North Charleston Coliseum, a major entertainment venue in South Carolina, provides a great setting for this exciting musical collaboration. The coliseum offers a seating capacity for thousands, ensuring a memorable concert experience.
Savannah Civic Center - Johnny Mercer Theatre
Feb 13
7:30 PMJohn Mulaney Mister Whatever Tickets Savannah GA
John Mulaney: Mister Whatever brings award-winning comedy to the Savannah Civic Center - Johnny Mercer Theatre, delivering a night of sharp wit and storytelling in an intimate setting. This tour, extending through 2026, has been praised for its clever humor and engaging performances, featuring some special guest appearances occasionally.
John Mulaney has built a career marked by precise, honest, and hilarious stand-up shows, with the Mister Whatever Tour continuing this legacy. The Savannah Civic Center - Johnny Mercer Theatre is known for its vibrant arts scene and excellent acoustics, making it a prime venue for this comedic event.
District Live
Jan 24
8:00 PMJesse Cook Live at District Live Savannah Tickets
Jesse Cook brings his mesmerizing nuevo flamenco guitar performance to District Live in Savannah, GA. Known for skillfully weaving flamenco, jazz, and world music influences, Cook’s live shows captivate audiences with intricate guitar work and vibrant rhythms. This event offers a unique chance to experience one of the genre’s foremost artists in an intimate yet dynamic venue.
With a career spanning over 25 years and 14 albums, Jesse Cook has earned numerous accolades including a Juno Award and Acoustic Guitar Magazine’s Player’s Choice silver medal. District Live is celebrated for hosting eclectic, high-quality music events, making it the perfect setting to enjoy Cook’s masterful blend of pop and adult contemporary sounds fused with flamenco roots.
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Charleston
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Charleston From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate & Rock in Charleston. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Charleston Activities