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4-Hour Kayak Rentals Charleston

Rental ·
5.0
See all kayak rentals in 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

All Prices

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
Breeze Single Kayak

Expedition style kayak for 1 person who is under 5'11'' and 185lbs

$45
Carolina Single Kayak

Expedition style kayak for 1 person who is over 5'11" and/or 185lbs.

$45
Tandem Expedition Kayak

2 people go in this double touring kayak. Price is for 2 people

$55
Tandem Expedition Comp
$0
Ride 115 Comp
$0
Tarpon Comp
$0
Tandem Sit-on-top Comp
$0
Breeze Comp
$0
Carolina Comp
$0

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

  1. Sit-On-Top Single Kayaks
    1. Tarpon - Open-top single kayak for paddlers under 6'3" and/or 220 lbs
    2. Ride 115 - Open-top single kayak for paddlers over 6'3" and/or 220 lbs
  2. Sit-On-Top Tandem Kayaks - Open-top double kayak for two people
  3. Expedition / Touring Single Kayaks
    1. Breeze Single Kayak - Expedition-style kayak for paddlers under 5'11" and 185 lbs
    2. Carolina Single Kayak - Expedition-style kayak for paddlers over 5'11" and/or 185 lbs
  4. Expedition / Touring Tandem Kayaks - Double touring kayak for two people

Duration

4 hours

Location of Rental Pickup

Charleston Outdoor Adventures
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:
  1. Tarpon: Under 6'3" and/or 220 lbs
  2. Ride 115: Over 6'3" and/or 220 lbs
  3. Breeze: Under 5'11" and 185 lbs
  4. Carolina: Over 5'11" and/or 185 lbs
  5. 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

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

Not Included

  1. Guided instruction
  2. Delivery
  3. Transportation
  4. Gratuity

What to Bring & Wear

For detailed seasonal guidance, see our guide: What to Wear Kayaking: Gear & Apparel for Every Season.
  1. Quick-dry, moisture-wicking clothing (avoid cotton)
  2. Water shoes or secure sandals
  3. Sun protection: hat, sunglasses with strap, and sunscreen
  4. Lightweight long-sleeve layer for sun or wind protection
  5. Reusable water bottle
  6. Small snack
  7. Dry bag or waterproof case for phone and valuables
  8. Any personal medications
  9. 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.

What if the weather is bad?

Tours operate rain or shine as long as conditions are safe. If we cancel due to unsafe weather, you will receive a full refund or have the option to reschedule. Weather decisions are typically made at the time of departure and discussed at check-in. If you do not hear from us in advance, please plan to arrive as scheduled and dress for the weather.

Weather Policy

  • All marine activities are subject to water and weather conditions.
  • We monitor weather and radar continuously.
  • Guests may be contacted 24–48 hours in advance if there are serious weather concerns.
  • Tours operate rain or shine if conditions are safe; ponchos are provided if rain is likely.
  • If we cancel due to unsafe weather or other unforeseen circumstances, guests receive a full refund.
  • Guests should not assume a trip is canceled due to rain unless notified by our staff.
  • Final weather decisions are made by our staff on the day of the trip.

What is the best time of day to see wildlife?

You can spot wildlife at any time of the day; there’s no particular time that’s better than others.

Is there transportation available?

Transportation to our location is not provided. Rental cars and Uber are the recommended options. It’s advisable to schedule your drop-off and pickup in advance.

What is the best time of day to see Dolphins?

Dolphins are residents of the Charleston area and can be observed 24/7, 365 days a year. However, you’re more likely to witness strand feeding behavior during low tide.

On our Dolphin Eco Charter and the Morris Island Lighthouse tour, both conducted on our Carolina Skiff bay boat, you have a 99% chance of seeing dolphins. While dolphins may also be spotted on our other tours, these two tours offer the best chances of sightings.

Can we bring food and drinks?

Yes, you’re welcome to bring items with you, but we kindly ask that you avoid bringing anything in single-use glass bottles and be mindful not to litter. Thank you for helping us keep our environment clean and beautiful!

Can I go inside the Morris Island Lighthouse?

No, the historic lighthouse is not accessible to the public as it is surrounded by water.

Do you allow dogs?

with the exception of service dogs, dogs or any other pets are not permitted on guided group tours. However, dogs are welcome on kayak rentals or private tours with prior approval. Please inform us if you will be accompanied by a service dog. This policy is implemented in consideration of the well-being of pets and the comfort of all our guests. Additionally, please note that dogs are not allowed on specific tours and rentals, including the Fossil Hunting Tour, Morris Island Lighthouse Tour, Dolphin Eco Charter, SUP rentals, guided kayak tours, or fishing charters.

Cancellation Policy

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

    October 2026

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    Reviews

    Location

    Address

    1871 Bowens Island Rd.

    Charleston, SC, 29412

    US

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