If you’re a kayaking enthusiast, Charleston, SC offers a variety of options for you to explore. Whether you’re a local or visiting the area, there are plenty of places to launch your kayak and explore the beautiful coastal waters of Charleston. However, finding the right launching point can be a challenge.
In this guide, we’ll provide you with a map of the best places to launch your kayak in Charleston, along with some tips and tricks to stay safe on the water. Additionally, we’ll provide you with information on renting kayaks and kayaking tours and expeditions in Charleston.
Where Can You Launch Your Kayak in Charleston?
When it comes to kayaking in Charleston, choosing the right launch point is essential. Here is a list of kayak put-ins in and around Charleston, starting from the north and working our way south.
Awendaw (Bulls Bay) Kayak Put-Ins
Awendaw is located north of Charleston and offers access to Bulls Bay, Bull Island, and Cape Romain. Here are some of the public launch points in the area:
- Buck Hall Recreation Area – Located at 999 Buck Hall Landing Rd. in McClellanville, SC, this is a great launch point for exploring the area.
- Awendaw Creek Canoe Launch – Located at 900 20 5 Mile Rd. in Awendaw, SC, this launch point is perfect for those looking to explore the creeks and tributaries in the area.
- Garris Landing Public Boat Ramp – Located on State Highway S-10-1170 in Awendaw, SC, this launch point provides access to Bulls Bay and the Intracoastal Waterway.
- Paradise Island Public Boat Landing – Located on Chandler Rd. in Awendaw, SC, this launch point is a great place to start if you want to explore the creeks and marshes in the area.
Isle of Palms Kayak Put-In
Located on the northernmost sea island accessible by car, Isle of Palms offers a great launch point for kayakers looking to explore the Intracoastal Waterway. Here’s the public dock to launch your kayak:
- IOP Public Dock – Located at 50 41st Avenue in Isle of Palms, SC, this launch point provides easy access to the Intracoastal Waterway.
Mount Pleasant Kayak Put-Ins
Located across the Ravenel Bridge from downtown Charleston, Mount Pleasant offers two main kayak launches on the Cooper River, which opens up into the Charleston harbor just past Shem Creek. Here’s where you can launch your kayak:
- Shem Creek Boat Landing – Located at 109 Simmons St. in Mt. Pleasant, SC, this launch point is a popular spot for kayakers.
- Remley’s Point Public Boat Landing – Located at 112 2nd St. in Mt. Pleasant, SC, this launch point offers easy access to the Cooper River and the Charleston harbor.
Downtown Charleston Kayak Put-In
If you want to launch your kayak on the peninsula, Brittlebank Park is a great option. Located on the Ashley River, Brittlebank Park has a public dock and a large parking lot that has spaces available on all but the busiest days. Here’s the launch point:
- Brittlebank Park – Located at 185 Lockwood Dr. in Charleston, SC, this launch point is a great place to start if you want to explore the Ashley River.
James Island Kayak Put-Ins
Located across the Ashley River from downtown Charleston, James Island has multiple public boat landings and kayak launch points that provide access to the Stono River, Wappoo Creek, and Charleston harbor. Here are some of the launch points:
- Melton Peter Demetre Park – Located at 640 Wampler Dr. in Charleston, SC, this launch point provides easy access to the Stono River.
- Riverland Terrace Public Boat Landing – Located at 19-35 Plymouth Ave. in Charleston, SC, this launch point is a great place to start if you want to explore the creeks and marshes in the area.
Folly Island Kayak Put-Ins
Folly Island is a popular beach vacation destination, but it’s also a great place to paddle inland, whether you want to explore the marshes behind Folly Island or head toward the Morris Island Lighthouse. Here are some of the launch points:
- Sol Legare Public Boat Landing – Located at 2599 Sol Legare Rd. in Charleston, SC, this launch point is a great place to start if you want to explore the creeks and marshes in the area.
- Folly River Boat Ramp – Located at 97 Center St. in Folly Beach, SC, this launch point provides easy access to the Folly River.
West Ashley Kayak Put-Ins
West Ashley has several places to launch your kayak, including public boat landings and kayak put-ins on the Ashley River, Stono River, Wappoo Cut, and Rantowles Creek. Here are some of the launch points:
- Bulow Landing – Located on Bulow Landing Rd. in Ravenel, SC, this launch point provides easy access to the Ashley River.
- Pierpoint Boat Landing –
Our Map of Where to Kayak in Charleston (Kayak Launching Points)
Use this Google map to find all of the kayak launching points in and around Charleston, SC. The map also includes additional put-in options slightly farther away from downtown Charleston.
Here are some tips for using the map:
- Click on the markers to see information about each location, including the name of the launching point, its address, and any additional details.
- Use the zoom feature to get a closer look at the map and see more details about each location.
- You can also use the search bar to look for specific locations or addresses.
Happy kayaking!
What To Know Before You Go Kayaking in Charleston
When planning a kayaking trip in Charleston, there are some important things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are three key considerations to keep in mind before you head out on the water:
1. Respect the Tides
Kayaking in Charleston’s tidal waters can be challenging, especially for inexperienced paddlers. To make the most of your trip, it’s important to plan your route carefully and check the tides. Riding the tide both ways can help conserve your energy and make your trip more enjoyable.
When heading toward coastal destinations like Morris Island, Capers Island, or Cape Romain, plan your trip so that you can ride the falling tide out, stay a while, and then ride the rising tide back in. If you are heading toward inland kayaking destinations like the historic plantation district, ride the rising tide on your way in and plan to turn around at slack tide.
If you’re not sure which way the tide will be flowing at a particular time in a particular location, download a tide app on your phone and check the high and low tide times at several locations around your launching point. This should give you at least a rough idea of which way the water will be flowing.
2. Check the Weather and Water Conditions Along Your Route
Along with checking the tides, it’s also important to check the weather and water conditions along your route. When heading toward coastal areas in particular, both the weather and water conditions can change drastically within a fairly short distance.
Winds of more than about 12 knots can make paddling more challenging, and swells of even two feet can be disconcerting for inexperienced paddlers. When checking the swell, you should check the swell period as well—the longer the swell period, the calmer the water will be.
In terms of rain, the forecast along Charleston’s coast is notoriously unreliable. Oftentimes, rain forecast for the morning or afternoon will get pushed to later in the day, and many days it will never come. But, unexpected downpours can happen as well; so, rather than just checking the hourly forecast, it is best to monitor the radar throughout your trip. If a storm pops up or you see dark clouds headed your way, consider cutting your trip short and coming back another day.
3. There Will Be Boats
When kayaking in Charleston, it’s important to be aware that you will likely encounter boats during your paddle. Some boaters are more conscientious than others, so it’s important to take responsibility for your own safety. If you see a boat headed your direction, do not assume that its captain sees you or that he or she will slow down. Head toward the bank, get perpendicular to the wake, and let the boat pass.
These considerations, of course, are in addition to all of the other safety considerations involved with paddling on tidal and coastal waters. No matter where you kayak in Charleston, stay comfortably within your limits, wear your PFD, leave a float plan with someone you trust, and go with a buddy or group if possible.
Renting a Kayak in Charleston
If you’re interested in kayaking but don’t own a kayak, renting one is a great option. There are several local outfitters that offer half-day and full-day rentals, making it easy for both locals and vacationers to enjoy kayaking in Charleston. Many of these outfitters have locations where you can put in without having to transport your rented kayak, and some even offer pads and straps to help you transport the kayak on your vehicle. If you’re serious about buying a kayak, some local retailers will even let you try out the kayaks in their showrooms. Renting a kayak is a great way to try out the sport before investing in your own equipment.
For more information on renting a kayak in Charleston, check out the guide, “Renting a Kayak on Vacation in Charleston.”
Kayaking Tours and Expeditions in Charleston
If you want to explore Charleston’s waterways with a group or take a guided tour, several outfitters offer half-day and full-day excursions. Some of these excursions even go to uninhabited sea islands such as Morris Island, Capers Island, and Bulls Island. Signing up for these tours in advance is necessary, as the most popular options fill up quickly. Taking a tour is a good option if you’re unsure of where to kayak in Charleston, as it guarantees that you will see something interesting during your paddling excursion.
Coastal Expeditions offers several kayaking tours, including the Shem Creek Kayak Tour, which lasts for three hours and includes a variety of sights such as dolphins, manatees, shrimp boats, and birding. They also offer overnight kayaking camping expeditions to Capers Island, down the Edisto, and to Adventure Island, a privately-owned island with a historically significant past.
Charleston Kayak Tours offers a range of tour options, including two, three, four, and five to six-hour tours. The two and three-hour tours are their most popular, while the longer kayak tours are more specialized and take you through unique Charleston waterways.
Kayak rentals are also available at Shem Creek seven days a week, with a variety of high-end Wilderness Systems and Perception Kayaks to choose from. Werner and Harmony Fiberglass/Plastic Paddles are also available for rent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Have to Register Your Kayak in Charleston, SC?
No, you do not have to register your kayak in Charleston, SC. However, if you plan to use your kayak in other states, you should check their regulations as they may require registration.
What are the Top Kayaking Spots in Charleston for Experienced Paddlers?
Experienced paddlers can enjoy kayaking in the ocean around Folly Beach or Sullivan’s Island. They can also explore the winding creeks and marshes of the ACE Basin or the Wadmalaw River.
Can Beginners Find Suitable Kayaking Locations in Charleston, and if so, Where?
Yes, beginners can find suitable kayaking locations in Charleston. The calm waters of Shem Creek or the Ashley River are great places to start. They can also take a guided tour to learn basic skills and safety tips.
Where Can I Launch My Kayak in Charleston?
You can launch your kayak at public boat ramps such as the one at Wappoo Cut or the James Island County Park. Some parks and private businesses also offer kayak launches for a fee.
Can You Kayak in Charleston, SC?
Yes, kayaking is a popular activity in Charleston, SC. With its numerous waterways and natural beauty, it is a great place to explore by kayak.
Where Can I Go Kayaking in Charleston, SC?
You can go kayaking in many places in Charleston, SC. Some popular destinations include Shem Creek, Folly Beach, the ACE Basin, and the Wadmalaw River.
Can You Launch a Kayak from Anywhere?
No, you cannot launch a kayak from anywhere in Charleston. Some areas are restricted or private property. You should always check the regulations and obtain permission before launching your kayak.
Is It Safe to Kayak in Charleston?
Kayaking can be safe in Charleston if you follow basic safety guidelines such as wearing a life jacket, checking the weather forecast, and staying aware of your surroundings. However, you should always be prepared for unexpected changes in weather or water conditions.
Are There Any Locations in Charleston Where Kayaking is Available at No Cost?
Some public parks and boat ramps offer free kayak launches. However, you may need to bring your own kayak or rent one from a nearby business.
Where Can One Rent a Kayak in Charleston for a Day Out on the Water?
There are many businesses that offer kayak rentals in Charleston, such as Coastal Expeditions, Nature Adventures Outfitters, and Charleston Outdoor Adventures.
What are the Recommended Kayak Tours or Expeditions in the Charleston Area?
Some recommended kayak tours or expeditions in the Charleston area include exploring the ACE Basin, paddling through the historic rice fields of Wadmalaw Island, or taking a sunset tour of Shem Creek.
Which State Parks Near Charleston Offer the Best Kayaking Experiences?
Some of the state parks near Charleston that offer the best kayaking experiences include Huntington Beach State Park, Edisto Beach State Park, and Hunting Island State Park. These parks offer scenic waterways and diverse wildlife for kayakers to enjoy.