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4-Hour Kayak Rentals Charleston

Rental

Charleston

Dog Friendly

Kid Friendly

Locally Owned

Wildlife

Beginner Friendly

Free Cancellation

Instant Book

Duration: 4 hours

Pricing

Tarpon

Open top kayak for 1 person who is under 6'3'' and/or 220 lbs

$35

Ride 115

Open top kayak for 1 person who is over 6'3'' and/or 220 lbs

$35

Sit-on-top Tandem Kayak

Open top double kayak for 2 people. This price is for 2 people.

$45

Description

4-Hour Kayak Rentals Charleston, SC

Experience the beauty of the Lowcountry at your own pace with 4-hour kayak rentals in Charleston, SC. This flexible rental option is perfect for exploring winding creeks, scenic tidal marshes, and abundant coastal wildlife. All rentals include paddle instruction, detailed maps, and up-to-date tidal information, so you’ll feel confident and prepared before heading out on the water.

As a trusted Charleston kayak company, we offer a wide selection of high-quality boats suited for all skill levels. Choose from stable sit-on-top kayaks for easy cruising or streamlined touring kayaks for longer, more efficient paddles. Whether it’s your first time on a kayak or you’re a seasoned paddler, our Charleston kayak rentals make it easy to enjoy one of the area’s most unforgettable outdoor experiences.

Charleston Kayak Rental Options

Sit-On-Top Single Kayaks

Tarpon - Open-top single kayak for paddlers under 6'3" and/or 220 lbs
Ride 115 - Open-top single kayak for paddlers over 6'3" and/or 220 lbs

Sit-On-Top Tandem Kayaks - Open-top double kayak for two people
Expedition / Touring Single Kayaks

Breeze Single Kayak - Expedition-style kayak for paddlers under 5'11" and 185 lbs
Carolina Single Kayak - Expedition-style kayak for paddlers over 5'11" and/or 185 lbs

Expedition / Touring Tandem Kayaks - Double touring kayak for two people

Duration

4 hours

Location of Rental Pickup

Charleston Outdoor Adventures

1871 Bowens Island Road, Charleston, SC 29412

We have a private launch at our location. Our staff will prepare and assist in getting your gear down to the water’s edge for a seamless experience.

Ages & Requirements

Single kayakers must be 13 years of age or older. Children 12 and younger must kayak with an adult in a tandem kayak.

To ensure safety, comfort, and performance, we match each guest with the appropriate kayak based on height and weight:

Tarpon: Under 6'3" and/or 220 lbs
Ride 115: Over 6'3" and/or 220 lbs
Breeze: Under 5'11" and 185 lbs
Carolina: Over 5'11" and/or 185 lbs
All Tandem Kayaks: Designed for two paddlers with a combined weight up to 450lbs

One member must bring a cell phone with them while kayaking in case of emergencies. A dry bag is provided.

What's Included

Detailed paddling instruction before launching
Kayak, paddle, personal floatation device & dry bag
Map of the area, tidal information, updated weather forecast,
Secure parking, restrooms, and use of our private paddleboard launch

Not Included

Guided instruction
Delivery
Transportation
Gratuity

What to Bring & Wear

For detailed seasonal guidance, see our guide: What to Wear Kayaking: Gear & Apparel for Every Season.

Quick-dry, moisture-wicking clothing (avoid cotton)
Water shoes or secure sandals
Sun protection: hat, sunglasses with strap, and sunscreen
Lightweight long-sleeve layer for sun or wind protection
Reusable water bottle
Small snack
Dry bag or waterproof case for phone and valuables
Any personal medications
Optional: insect repellent for marsh areas

Kayak Rentals Charleston, SC

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Charleston Outdoor Adventures

FAQs

Do I need experience to rent a kayak?

No experience is necessary. All Charleston kayak rentals include paddle instruction, maps, and tidal information to help you feel confident on the water.

What kind of kayaks do you offer?

As a trusted Charleston kayak company, we offer a range of sit-on-top and touring kayaks, including singles and tandems, with options suited for different heights and weight limits.

Where can I go during my rental?

You can explore the local tidal creeks, salt marshes, and wildlife-rich waterways surrounding our launch area. Our team provides route suggestions based on tides and experience level.

Can I kayak from your location to Folly Beach?

With 4-hour Charleston kayak rentals, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the tidal creeks, salt marshes, and scenic waterways near our launch site. Paddlers can enjoy winding channels, birdwatching, and occasional wildlife sightings, all while taking in the unique Lowcountry landscape.

The distance from our lcoation to Folly Beach is roughly 5–6 miles one way along waterways that include tidal creeks and inlets. While experienced paddlers in touring kayaks might make the trip in a single paddle, a 4-hour rental generally does not allow enough time for a round trip to Folly Beach and back. Most guests prefer to explore the local creeks and marshes nearby for a more relaxed and scenic outing. If you're hoping to explore Folly Beach, we recommend opting for a full-day Charleston kayak rental.

Are dogs allowed on kayak rentals?

Dogs are allowed on kayak rentals. We recommend considering your pet’s comfort and the weather.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations made 24 hours or more before the scheduled tour date and time will receive a full refund.
Cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled departure are non-refundable.
Same-day cancellations are considered no-shows and are non-refundable with no exceptions.
No-shows and late arrivals (checking in after the scheduled start time) are non-refundable and will be charged in full if not prepaid.
Same-day reschedules are subject to a 25% upcharge.
We reserve the right to cancel a public tour if minimum participation is not met. In this case, guests will receive a full refund.
If we cancel due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, guests will receive a full refund.