LVL 2 — Easy Going
Murrells Inlet, Georgetown County, SC

Murrells Inlet Kayaking Guide

3-6 miles (variable)
2-3 hours
Tidal creek paddle with dolphins. Murrells Inlet is the seafood capital of South Carolina and one of the best places in the state to paddle with bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat.

Murrells Inlet is a tidal estuary just south of Myrtle Beach that has somehow retained its character as a working fishing village. The creek system winds through salt marshes where bottlenose dolphins regularly feed in the channels, especially on incoming tides.

The paddle from the public landing near the Marshwalk takes you through a maze of tidal creeks with views of the marsh, the inlet, and Garden City Beach. Osprey nest on channel markers. Great blue herons stalk the shallows. On a good morning, you will have dolphins within 20 feet of your kayak.

Tips from the field

  • Paddle on an incoming tide for the best dolphin activity.
  • The Murrells Inlet Marshwalk is a great place to grab lunch after your paddle.
  • Kayak rentals are available from several outfitters on the inlet.
  • The inlet is tidal. Check tide charts before you go.

At a Glance

Where: Murrells Inlet, Georgetown County, SC
Surface: Tidal creek and estuary paddling
Parking: Public parking at Morse Park Landing
Shade: Open marsh, minimal shade
Restrooms: Public restrooms at Morse Park Landing

Accessibility

  • Guided Tours Available
  • Dog-Friendly

Nearby

  • Murrells Inlet Marshwalk
  • Huntington Beach State Park
  • Brookgreen Gardens