Charleston History & Unbelievable Wildlife
This is one of our most popular kayak tour options!
This tour is the gateway for experiencing Charleston by water. Feeding into the protected edge of Charleston Harbor, this kayaking tour offers outstanding views of the Holy City skyline and unparalleled wildlife opportunities.
The sights of pelicans gliding just above the water and sounds of dolphins breaching alongside your kayak are all part of the Shem Creek experience. In the warmer months, we often see sea turtles and manatees in the creek- and the kayak is the best way to see these gentle visitors.
Once we emerge into the Charleston Harbor, the focus shifts to the inspiring views of the Charleston Peninsula and Crab Bank Island.
The 22-acre Crab Bank Seabird Sanctuary is one of Charleston's most significant nesting sites for pelicans, gulls, black skimmers, terns and other water birds. Hundreds of birds cover this island during the nesting season and the cacophany of avian sounds adds to the overall experience.
Thousands of adult and fledgling birds cover this island nest-to-nest for a significant portion of the year. You will never forget seeing this natural wonder.
This is an enjoyable paddle that is suitable for all ages and skill levels. Perfect for families and small groups, Shem Creek is a great introduction to the intermingling natural and human history of the Lowcountry.
Daily tours last up to 3 hours, and include basic kayak instruction.
The creek is full of dolphins, bobbing Pelicans and sometimes a manatee or two! And once your reach the mouth of Shem Creek and peak into the Charleston Harbor, the tour gets even better! With views of the Cooper River Bridge and the Charleston Skyline, we'll circumnavigate Crab Bank and get a close up view of the birds that nest here.
Like a beach on spring break, Crab Bank is full of all types of birds in the spring and summer! It's quite an experience to see and hear!
