Charleston is no stranger to horse-and-buggy or historical housing tours, but tourist may sometimes overlook the real gem in the Lowcountry – its ecosystems. During your visit, it is essential that you dig beyond the peninsula alone. Scattered all around the peninsula, you’ll find companies eager to share the cities roots in nature, from age-old stories to haunting legends. Come paddle board, kayak, or take a hike and dig deeper than ever before in Charleston! Here are 6 ecotours that are an absolute must on your next visit to the Holy City!
4279 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414
The Charleston Kayak Company is one of Charleston’s best known spots for hunting hidden Lowcountry beauties. Known best for their kayaking adventures and hiking services, the company has been sharing blackwater swamps with guests for 12 years. They offer five fantastic services – the Blackwater Cypress Swamp Kayak Tour, Sunsets with Blackwater and Fireflies, E-Bike Trail Rides, an Ashley River Kayaking Tours, and Woodlands Nature Reserve Camping.
The Blackwater Cypress Swamp Kayak tour guides guests through winding waterways, with possible sightings of owls, herons, turtles, and even alligators. The Sunset Blackwater Paddling tour offers a look into the mysterious and enchanting reserve – complete with birds singing, frog calls, and during certain times of the year, firefly mating rituals with synchronized flashing. If you prefer land over water, you’ll enjoy biking through the nature trails or an immersive camping excursion in the Woodlands Nature Reserve with stargazing, water access, and stunning trails. With a wide selection, the Charleston Kayak Company is a perfect choice if you want to explore the serene Lowcountry.
10 Wharfside St. Charleston, SC 29401
Sandlapper Water Tours is a highly rated, locally owned harbor tour company through the Charleston Maritime Center. Near the aquarium, their boats offer full amenities including a bar, restroom, comfortable seating, and shaded areas. On your next private excursion, you’ll get the chance to experience all the Charleston has to offer on the water, from amazing views to wildlife.
Offerings are divided up via themes – Sunset Cruise, Nature and Dolphin Tour, or a Ghost and Pirate Tour. The Sunset cruise allows leisurely guests to sail through the river, giving a perfect view of the city’s skyline. If you’re more interested in seeing the eco side of the river, you’ll want to choose the Nature and Dolphin Tour. There, you’ll have the opportunity to spot dolphins, birds, and Lowcountry ecosystems that might not be as easily found elsewhere. Perhaps one of their most intriguing tours is the Ghost and Pirate Tour, where guests dive deep into Charleston’s haunting stories and harbor lore under the dark night sky.
Charleston Outdoor Adventures knows that slowing down is a top priority when visiting, and what better way to experience it than by water? Just minutes from downtown guests can slip into a kayak or hop on a tour boat and explore creeks, marshes, and wildlife that you’d never get to spot from the city. In addition to pointing out dolphins and shorebirds, your guides will share stories about Charleston’s history, from old fishing traditions to the Gullah Geechee culture that continues shaping the area today. Think of it as less of a tour, and more of a story of the Lowcountry
There are countless ways to explore with Charleston Outdoor Adventures. Bring the family to paddle calm waters, seek adventure on paddle boards for a closer look at wildlife, or even book a private sunset or full moon cruise and watch the sky illuminate the beloved Folly Beach. Additionally, you can join a fishing charter and learn the best fishing tips from some of the city’s best anglers. Trips are designed specially to be small and intimate, led by guides who have a passion for Lowcountry ecosystems. No matter how familiar you are with Charleston, this experience is sure to be life changing and informative.
2223 Folly Road Charleston, SC 29412
Castaway Island Excursions is a family-owned business that was born from a simple love of Folly Creek. You’ll find this spot along the banks at Crosby’s Fish & Shrimp Dock. Over the years, Castaway has grown from a modest kayak rental location into a place where adventure begins, yet it has kept its same Southern hospitality and passion that it has always had from the beginning. Whether you step in a kayak, paddle board, or one of their tour boats, you’ll feel the company’s love and knowledge for marshes, dolphins, and secret stories that are hidden in the Charleston’s wetlands.
Castaway opens so many doors when you choose to explore with them. Paddle quietly through the creeks, spot wading birds, and beware of oyster beds. One of their most popular services is their guided kayak tours, but if you prefer to leave the steering to someone else, you can choose from a boat excursions from dolphin sightings to fossil hunts or a Morris Island drop off. You’ll also get to check out the beloved lighthouse and hunt for some beautiful seashells on a secluded, private beach. Go with friends, family, or even larger groups – you’re sure to have a good time!
514 Mill St B, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
Coastal Expeditions has been guiding treasured guests through creeks, rivers, and island since 1992, telling the story of the Lowcountry. The staff has skilled experts who know the area like the back of their hand, from each twist of the creek and winding trail. Consider a kayaking trip through flooded forests, loggerhead turtle seeking, or exploring wild barrier islands.
The company values sharing the beauty with guests, but also emhasizes the importance of being kind to our ecosystems while exploring. No matter what trip you choose to embark on, you won’t just be seeing wildlife – you’ll helping to protect it. When you book tours through Coastal Expeditions, you’re also supporting sea turtle protection, bird research, and local education through the Coastal Expeditions Foundations. So whether you’re looking to sunrise paddle, hunt for fossils, or a family beach exploration day, this makes an excellent last-minute excursion!
Dawhoo Boat Landing, South Carolina 174, Edisto Island, SC
A perfect day on the South Carolina coast calls for a few essentials – breathtaking ocean views, waves crashing, a shining sun, and of course, a warm welcome from a dolphin. No aquarium walls, no glass barriers, just an unfiltered thrill of nature! Edisto Dolphin Tours doesn’t just take you on a boat ride, but shows you Mother Nature’s natural rhythm. Their veteran captains each have decades of experience on the water, and they know each turn of every creek and inlet. Most importantly, they know where to spot dolphins – who they know by name – making the moment all the more special.
But there’s more than just dolphins. During the warmer months, you’ll be able to spot alligators, the Lowcountry’s most powerful reptile. While stunning views are a given, no matter which wildlife you’re hoping to see, you’ll make memories that you’ll carry all the way back home.
Get Wild in Charleston
Sometimes, it’s best to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and into what gives Charleston its real charm – nature. Paddleboard, kayak, or go hiking to discover urban legends, explore native wildlife, and experience a new serenity that you didn’t know the city could offer. Regardless of whether you’re seeking adventure with friends, family, or solo, any eco-tour will give you what really matters – memories that you’ll carry for a lifetime.
Written by Alexis Boatner
