Crystal-clear mountain lake surrounded by waterfalls that drop directly into the water. Paddling Jocassee is one of the most spectacular outdoor experiences in South Carolina.
One of the largest undeveloped estuaries on the East Coast. Paddle through tidal creeks and salt marshes where bald eagles, wood storks, and river otters share the water with your kayak.
Paddle through ancient cypress swamps where the water runs the color of dark tea and the silence is absolute. The blackwater creeks of Francis Marion are among the most atmospheric paddling in the Southeast.
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.
56,000 acres along the SC-Georgia border. Paddle into coves that feel miles from civilization on a calm morning. The Twelve Mile Creek and Eighteen Mile Creek arms near Clemson offer sheltered water with forested shoreline.
400 acres on the Saluda River with everything: paved riverwalk, kayak launch, splash pad, disc golf, dog park, and the best urban paddle experience in the Midlands. Free admission.
Cherry Grove Marsh Kayak Trail, North Myrtle Beach
3 to 6 miles
2-3 hours
Tidal marsh kayaking in the quieter northern end of the Grand Strand. Paddle through salt marsh channels with views of the Cherry Grove inlet and the barrier island. Dolphins are common on incoming tides.
The Black River near Georgetown contains bald cypress trees dated to more than 2,000 years old. When these trees were saplings, the Roman Empire was still standing. Paddle right past them through tannin-dark water in one of the most atmospheric paddles in the Southeast.
An open-water crossing to an uninhabited barrier island that is one of the most important loggerhead sea turtle nesting beaches on the East Coast. Bull Island has no development, no cars, and no crowds. Just beach, forest, and wildlife.
The back side of Folly Beach. Paddle the Folly River through salt marsh with views of the Morris Island Lighthouse and the Charleston skyline in the distance. Calmer than the ocean side and excellent for SUP.
