Where to Go Paddling on Hilton Head Island

By Hilton Head Insider

The natural beauty of the Lowcountry is calling! What better way to experience the wildlife and charming landscapes of Hilton Head Island than from the water? Keep reading to find out where to paddle on your own or with a guide on Hilton Head Island this summer. If you’re looking for rentals, our outfitting partners have everything you need to get out and enjoy America’s Favorite Island® from the water.

Getting Ready for Your Paddling Trip

Being prepared is the surest way to have fun while paddling. Make sure to pack water-friendly clothing and footwear, a hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the UV rays, and plenty of water for your trip. Other things that you may want to consider in your pack include a drybag, sunglasses, a camera, and binoculars (these are a must if you’re into birding). Once you have everything you need for your trip, consider checking out one of our paddling partners to get outfitted with all the kayaking essentials: a single or double kayak, a paddle, and a life jacket. Sea Monkeys Watersports offers single and tandem kayak rentals out of Skull Creek, accompanied by a brief instructional lesson beforehand and route suggestions. Kayak Hilton Head also offers 2-hour rentals for single and tandem kayaks if you want to see the dolphins at your own speed. Explore the scenic 11-mile Palmetto Dunes Lagoon with a single kayak, tandem kayak, or 3-person canoe with rentals from Hilton Head Outfitters, located inside the Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort. If you’re looking for hourly, daily, or longer rental options, Outside Hilton Head offers these options to explore Broad Creek on your own. Keep in mind that most kayak rental outfitters require at least one member of the party to be at least 18 years of age and recommend that everyone have some prior kayaking experience before embarking on a solo paddling journey.

Booking a Guided Tour With Paddling Experts

Whether an experienced kayaker or new to the activity, Hilton Head Island’s variety of paddling outfitters and expert guides has you covered. Kayak Hilton Head offers an incredible guided tour option, where you have the opportunity to spot dolphins, shorebirds, otters, minks, and even sea turtles and manatees, if you’re lucky! Paddle by the famous Harbour Town Lighthouse for a great view (and amazing photo opp). The local guides at the Coastal Discovery Museum lead visitors on a tour of Jarvis Creek, a tranquil marsh that offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. Outside Hilton Head’s paddleboard and kayak rentals also offer a wide range of booking options, from guided kayak tours to full moon trips, kayak fishing rentals, and SUP adventures. H20 Sports also offers group and private kayak tours upon request on the Calibogue Sound and surrounding marshes, departing from the lighthouse and departure dock on Lighthouse Road. No matter where you paddle, the expertise and safety that come with having a guide are sure to help you get the most out of your trip.

Setting Out on Your Paddling Adventure

Now that you have your gear, it’s time to decide where to begin your adventure! From serene, hidden creeks to iconic waterways, we’ve compiled a list of some popular spots to launch and enjoy a glimpse into the natural beauty of America’s Favorite Island®.

Jarvis Creek

For a secluded escape and peaceful paddle at the north end of Hilton Head Island, head to Jarvis Creek Park. This area is reserved for non-motorized boats, ensuring calm and quiet waters. Get here early for a morning paddle when wildlife — including bottlenose dolphins and wading birds — is most active.

Broad Creek at Shelter Cove Marina

Shelter Cove Marina provides easy access to the scenic and winding Broad Creek. This central, meandering waterway offers opportunities to immerse yourself in the lush landscapes of the island. While you’re here, keep an eye out for eagles and herons in the sky, and if you’re lucky, maybe even minks along the banks.

Palmetto Dunes Lagoon

Just east of Broad Creek, birdwatching enthusiasts can find more to love at Palmetto Dunes Lagoon. This 11-mile lagoon system is exceptionally calm, making it a great choice for paddlers of all skill levels. Plus, the surrounding area is a haven for egrets, cranes, and many other bird species as you paddle past beautiful residential areas and three golf courses.

Harbour Town

Home to the famous Harbour Town Lighthouse, setting out on the water from Harbour Town offers quintessential views of Hilton Head Island. With bottlenose dolphins, gentle manatees, and loggerhead sea turtles swimming beneath the surface and the iconic candy-striped lighthouse in the background, paddling the Harbour Town waters is a truly memorable experience.

To make the most of your time paddling, it’s important to plan ahead. Consider the length of the trip, variety of wildlife, time of day, and your own experience when choosing where to head out on your paddling adventure. A calm, early-morning paddle in a secluded creek is a great choice for birders, while a quiet evening sunset paddle is the perfect backdrop for a date on the water. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to create plenty of memories on the water.

Paddling Safety Tips

Whether you’ve paddled 100 times or if this will be your first experience, it’s important to always be prepared and safe. Make sure to arrive early for your kayak rental or guided tour so that you have time to listen to the expert's instructions before heading out. Respecting the natural environment and wildlife is another way to stay safe and be a good guest on our beautiful island. Be sure to observe wildlife from a distance and leave no trash behind. The waterways are some of the most important ecosystems on Hilton Head Island, and we want to protect them as best we can to continue enjoying its beauty for years to come.

Paddle to Your Heart’s Content in the Lowcountry

Now that you’re prepared for your paddling trip, we hope you have a fantastic time! Don’t forget a hat, binoculars, and your adventurous spirit to get the most out of your visit this summer. And, if you’re looking for an ocean excursion that’s a little more hair-raising, check out our full list of water activities.