2-Hr Blackwater Kayak Tour just outside Charleston
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
Come and view the wild side of Charleston!! Just 50 minutes from downtown Charleston, and 40 minutes from Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. This "Nationally Recognized and Designated Trail" is located in the heart of a Protected Wilderness area in the Francis Marion National Forest. The beautiful Blackwater Creek is a tributary to the Santee River and was paddled by the Santee and Coastal Plain Indians for thousands of years. Giant 1000 year old Bald Cypress trees can be seen in the upper section and Water Oak, Ash, Red Maple and Swamp Dogwood shade the banks of its pristine black waters. This relaxing paddle offers spectacular birding and wildlife viewing including Prothonotary warblers, Barred Owls, alligators, turtles and the occasional river otter. Banks of the river reflect geological precedence of the Rice era where Historical earthen dikes give way to a flooded subtropical forest of abandoned rice fields once owned by prosperous Rice Plantations. This is a nature lovers dream.
Available options
2-Hr Blackwater Kayak Tour just outside Charleston
What's included
Kayak Use, Paddle, and PFD
Professional ACA Certified Kayak Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Wambaw Swamp Wilderness (4,815 acres) is a untouched, virgin forest within the Francis Marion National Forest. The area is thick with wild orchids, pickerel weed, sedges, lizard’s tail and ferns. Common sightings are wild alligators, owls, prothonotary warblers, yellow-crowned night heron, whitetail deer, and an abundance of other wildlife. The wilderness is comprised of mature cypress-gum swamp with a relatively open understory. This area is kayak and canoe access only.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.2
5 reviews
5★
4
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Meet at Still Boat Landing at the end of Forest Service Road 211-B.
About South Carolina
South Carolina is a southeastern U.S. state known for its historic coastal cities, charming plantations, and scenic beaches. It offers a rich blend of history, natural beauty, and Southern hospitality, making it a diverse and appealing destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Charleston Historic District
The Charleston Historic District is a National Historic Landmark District that showcases the city's rich history and architecture. Visitors can explore cobblestone streets, historic homes, and significant landmarks.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, guided tours available for a fee
Hunting Island State Park
Hunting Island State Park is a beautiful barrier island offering pristine beaches, hiking trails, and a historic lighthouse. It's a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Nature
Half day to full day
$8 per vehicle for park entry
Congaree National Park
Congaree National Park is home to the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. It offers hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free entry
Fort Sumter National Monument
Fort Sumter National Monument is a historic site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Visitors can take a ferry to the fort and explore its history through exhibits and ranger-led programs.
Historical
Half day
$24 for adults, $15 for children (ages 6-12), free for children under 6
Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and SkyWheel
The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and SkyWheel offer a fun and lively atmosphere with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The SkyWheel provides stunning views of the coastline from its 180-foot-tall Ferris wheel.
Entertainment
Half day to full day
Free to explore, SkyWheel tickets available for a fee
Must-Try Local Dishes
Shrimp and Grits
A classic Lowcountry dish featuring creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp, often served with bacon and a rich, flavorful sauce.
Main Course
Can be made vegetarian or vegan with plant-based alternatives.
She-Crab Soup
A creamy soup made with blue crab meat, crab roe, and a touch of sherry, often served with a side of crispy oyster crackers.
Soup
Contains shellfish and dairy.
Charleston Red Rice
A traditional Lowcountry dish made with rice, tomatoes, and the holy trinity of vegetables (onions, bell peppers, and celery), often served as a side dish with seafood or poultry.
Side Dish
Vegetarian-friendly, but may contain small amounts of meat or poultry stock.
Hoppin' John
A traditional Southern dish made with black-eyed peas, rice, and bacon or ham, often served as a side dish with seafood or poultry.
Side Dish
Can be made vegetarian or vegan with plant-based alternatives.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Congaree National Park
Kayaking in the ACE Basin
Zip-lining at Go Ape Treetop Adventure
Beachcombing on Hilton Head Island
Spa day in Charleston
Wine tasting in the South Carolina Upcountry
Exploring the Historic District in Charleston
Visiting museums and galleries in Columbia
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is warm but not excessively hot, and the crowds are manageable.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5:00), with daylight saving time observed from March to November.
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some exceptions in certain areas and situations
South Carolina is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and credit cards
- • Research tour operators and taxi services before using them
Getting there
By air
- Charleston International Airport • 12 miles from downtown Charleston
- Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport • 15 miles from downtown Greenville
By train
Charleston Amtrak Station, Columbia Amtrak Station
By bus
Charleston Bus Station, Columbia Bus Station, Greenville Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
CARTA offers bus services with routes covering major attractions, downtown areas, and residential neighborhoods. Fares are affordable, and day passes are available.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Charleston
Five Points, Columbia
Historic District, Greenville
Day trips
Hilton Head Island
About 45 miles from Savannah, GA • Half day to full day
Hilton Head Island is a popular beach destination known for its pristine beaches, luxurious resorts, and a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, golfing, and exploring the island's natural beauty.
Savannah, GA
About 105 miles from Charleston, SC • Full day
Savannah is a charming and historic city known for its beautiful architecture, lush parks, and rich history. Visitors can explore the city's historic district, visit museums and galleries, and enjoy a variety of dining and shopping options.
Congaree National Park
About 20 miles from Columbia, SC • Half day to full day
Congaree National Park is home to the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing in this unique and beautiful natural setting.
Festivals
Charleston Wine + Food Festival • Mid-February
Spoleto Festival USA • Late May to early June
Columbia's South Carolina State Fair • Mid-October to early November
Pro tips
- Visit historic sites and attractions in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat and crowds.
- Take advantage of free and low-cost attractions, such as beaches, parks, and historic sites, to save money.
- Explore the state's diverse culinary scene, from traditional Lowcountry dishes to modern Southern cuisine.
- Be mindful of hurricanes and tropical storms from June to November, and monitor weather forecasts and alerts.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious and historic sites, and be a responsible and sustainable traveler.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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