Lowcountry Travelers Guide: All About South Carolina Waterways

South Carolina is known for its beautiful coastal landscapes, pristine beaches, and abundant history. But, beyond the sandy shores and the bustling cities lies a network of waterways that flow throughout the state, offering a variety of recreational opportunities for locals and visitors.

Positioned perfectly in the heart of the Lowcountry, Kiawah Island is a paradise for nature lovers and water enthusiasts alike. With miles of shoreline and vast waterways, there’s no shortage of opportunities for exploration and adventure. Continue reading to learn all about the ways to explore the bountiful South Carolina waterways!

Kayaking Adventures

Kayaking is a popular activity on Kiawah Island, offering a unique perspective of the Island’s natural beauty. And, regardless of your proficiency level, there are plenty of options for a memorable kayaking adventure. One popular route is the Kiawah River, which flows through marshes and tidal creeks, giving kayakers a chance to see a variety of wildlife up close, such as herons, dolphins, and even alligators.

SeaCoast Sports and Outfitters is the Island’s go-to place for anything needed for a day full of outdoor exploration. Here, you can rent kayaks by the day, or multiple days, if you will be visiting longer than a weekend.

Related: Kiawah Outdoor Water Activities: 5 Ways to Play

Paddleboarding Excursions

Paddleboarding is another fantastic way to explore the expansive South Carolina waterways. This activity is suitable for all ages and fitness levels and offers a leisurely paddle through some of the most beautiful natural scenery, providing a special opportunity to get close to nature.

Paddleboards can be rented from various locations on the Island, including the Bohicket Marina, and there is no shortage of waters to explore. You can spend the entire day exploring the abundant marshes, ponds, lagoons, and rivers that make up the area — the choice is entirely yours!

Fishing Expeditions

For those looking for a more relaxing activity, fishing is a popular option on Kiawah Island. There are several species of fish that can be caught in the waters around the Island, including redfish, trout, and flounder. The Bohicket Marina offers fishing charters, which is a great way to explore the waters and learn from an experienced guide.

If you prefer to fish on your own, there are plenty of opportunities to do so from the shore. Beach fishing is popular on Kiawah Island, and you can also fish from several of the Island’s docks and piers. Just be sure to obtain a fishing license before you start!

Related: Cast a Line: Where to Go Fishing on the Carolina Coast

Canoeing Trips

Canoeing is another excellent way to explore the lush greenery and abundant wildlife of South Carolina’s freshwater creeks and marshes. It’s a bit slower than kayaking, which makes it perfect for families or groups of friends who want to take their time and enjoy the scenery. The Kiawah River is a highly sought-after location for canoeing around the Island, with numerous launch points available for your selection such as Cinder Creek Pavilion and Eagle Point Landing.

Safety is paramount when canoeing, so make sure you’re familiar with the waterway and any potential hazards. Always wear a life jacket, and if possible, bring a first aid kit — after all, you’d rather be safe than sorry!

Sailing Escapades

For a more thorough view of South Carolina waterways, consider renting a boat. If you are a Kiawah Island Club Member, you can rent a boat from the Cassique boathouse and kayak dock. Additionally, Bohicket Marina on the north side of the Island has boat rentals, along with fishing and sailing charters.

Boating around Kiawah Island offers a chance to explore the Island’s numerous tidal creeks, which wind through the salt marshes and provide a habitat for a variety of wildlife. You can also venture out into the Atlantic Ocean and visit nearby islands, such as Seabrook Island or Edisto Island.

Dolphin Watching

One of the most popular activities on Kiawah Island is dolphin watching, as these playful creatures can often be seen swimming and playing in the waters around the Island. A great way to see dolphins on Kiawah Island is by taking a sunset boat tour. These tours offer a chance to observe dolphins in their natural habitat and to witness a stunning sunset over the water.

Become a Kiawah Island Resident

Whether you prefer kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, boating, or simply watching the dolphins play, the South Carolina waterways have something for everyone.

Kiawah’s varied landscape offers the chance to live in a waterfront residence overlooking the ocean, rivers, marshland, creeks, or lagoons. When building or purchasing a home, every vantage point has been designed to maximize the views in your home.

Across Kiawah Island, you can find estates, cottages, villas, and homesites that are sure to impress. If you’re interested in purchasing an existing residence or building a home, view our available listings by clicking the button below.