Kayak With Dolphins in Historic Shem Creek
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Paddle into the heart of Charleston’s most iconic tidal creek on this guided kayak adventure. From our private dock on Shem Creek, you’ll slip past shrimp boats and oyster beds into quiet saltmarshes alive with wildlife. Keep your eyes open for bottlenose dolphins surfacing nearby, pelicans diving for fish, and graceful egrets hunting along the banks. In summer months, even manatees and sea turtles visit these waters. Along the way, your naturalist guide shares stories of Lowcountry history and ecology, ensuring the experience is both fun and enriching. Stable kayaks, expert instruction, and small group sizes make this tour safe and enjoyable for all ages. Whether you’re a first-time paddler or seasoned adventurer, this is one of the best ways to see Charleston from the water.
Available options
Kayak With Dolphins in Historic Shem Creek
What's included
Kayaking Gear (Sea Kayak, Paddle, Personal Flotation Device)
2-Hour Guided Kayak Eco Tour
Professional Guide with storytelling & safety skills
Dry Bag (to keep phone & personal belongings from getting wet)
Detailed itinerary
1
Once you check in at Coastal Expeditions, your guides will prepare your group for the adventure by fitting your gear and offering a brief safety and instruction on how to sea kayak. Once we're on the water, we'll take a minute to get our "sea legs" before we paddle down towards the historic portion of Shem Creek and Charleston Harbor. We will return to this point at the end of the tour.
2
Stop 2
Historic Shem Creek is one of the most iconic spots in Charleston and is known for its shrimp boats, seafood restaurants and wildlife. Bottlenose dolphins frequent this creek and will often breach just feet away from your kayak. In the summers, manatees call Shem Creek home and loggerhead turtles will occasionally pop above the surface. As you pass by the shrimp boats and oyster-lined marshes, you see Charleston Harbor and the Holy City Skyline. The Netflix show Outer Banks films on Shem Creek and your guide can show you familiar places where Pogues hang out!
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
400 reviews
5★
384
4★
10
3★
6
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Coastal Expeditions is located at the end of Mill Street on the left. Parking is available in the private lot. If the lot is full, public parking is available on Mill or Scott Streets. Check in upstairs in the Coastal Expeditions office.
Important notes
Come up the stairs and check in at the desk. Your guide will meet you on the deck overlooking Shem Creek.
About Mount Pleasant
Mount Pleasant is a charming coastal town known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant community. Located just across the Cooper River from Charleston, it offers a perfect blend of southern hospitality, outdoor recreation, and historic sites.
Top Attractions
Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
This museum features the USS Yorktown, an aircraft carrier from World War II, along with other historical ships and exhibits. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Historical
2-4 hours
Moderate ($20-$30)
Bohicket Marina
A scenic marina offering boat tours, fishing, and dining with beautiful waterfront views. It's a great spot for relaxation and enjoying the local marine life.
Nature
1-3 hours
Budget to Moderate
Sullivan's Island Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse offering guided tours and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. It's a great spot for history buffs and photographers.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate ($10-$20)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Shrimp and Grits
A classic Southern dish made with shrimp, grits, and a savory sauce. It's a must-try for seafood lovers.
Dinner
Contains shellfish, can be made gluten-free
She-Crab Soup
A creamy soup made with blue crab meat and crab roe, flavored with sherry. A local favorite.
Dinner
Contains shellfish, can be made gluten-free
Benne Wafers
A traditional Southern cookie made with sesame seeds, known for its unique flavor and texture.
Dessert
Gluten-free, vegetarian
Popular Activities
Kayaking
Surfing
Hiking
Beachcombing
Spas
Yoga
Museum visits
Historic tours
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
The best time to visit Mount Pleasant is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are manageable. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities and exploring historic sites.
15-30°C
60-85°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (UTC-5)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Mount Pleasant is generally safe with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, especially in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious of your surroundings at night
- • Use reputable taxi services
Getting there
By air
- Charleston International Airport • 25 km (15 miles)
By bus
Charleston Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
CARTA buses are affordable and connect Mount Pleasant to Charleston. Fares are reasonable, and schedules are available online.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Village
Mount Pleasant Towne Centre
Sullivan's Island
Day trips
Charleston
10 km (6 miles) • Half day to full day
Charleston is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful architecture, and vibrant arts scene. It's a must-visit for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.
Kiawah Island
30 km (18 miles) • Full day
Kiawah Island is a beautiful barrier island known for its pristine beaches, wildlife, and luxury resorts. It's a great spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Folly Beach
20 km (12 miles) • Half day
Folly Beach is a popular beach destination known for its vibrant atmosphere, surfing, and seafood restaurants. It's a great spot for a relaxing day by the ocean.
Festivals
Spoleto Festival USA • Late May to early June
Mount Pleasant Farmers Market • April to October, Saturdays
Pro tips
- Visit the Mount Pleasant Farmers Market for fresh local produce and unique crafts
- Explore the historic sites and plantations for a deeper understanding of the region's history
- Enjoy the local seafood, especially shrimp and grits, a Southern classic
- Take a boat tour to see the local marine life and enjoy the waterfront views
- Visit during the off-peak season for fewer crowds and lower prices
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
