There are plenty of outdoor activities on the Isle of Palms that will allow you to take in the beauty and adventure of South Carolina nature. However, if you wish to get a little more up close and personal with South Carolina's wildlife, nature watching is the perfect way to do it. The region’s Intracoastal Waterway and salt marshes provide an opportunity to experience South Carolina nature and wildlife at its best. There are a few different ways to go nature watching around the barrier island, and each one promises not to disappoint.
Kayak Tours
Kayak tours offer a unique viewpoint of the Lowcountry, and no kayaking experience is needed as you paddle off into the waterways adjacent to Isle of Palms. With the tour guides of Coastal Expeditions and St. John’s Kayak Tours, you’ll make your way through Morgan Creek and its connecting estuaries. Be on the look out for nesting colonies of shore birds within the marsh grass and dolphins as you emerge back into the ocean waters. Nature Adventures Outfitters takes Isle of Palms visitors on Blackwater or Saltwater kayak tours. Blackwater Tours explore blackwater swamps, rivers, and rice plantations where historic trees and South Carolina wildlife are in abundance. Watch out for turtles, wetland wading birds, woodpeckers, alligators, and river otters.
Eco Boat Tours
Barrier Island Eco Tours are naturalist-guided expeditions around the salt marshes surrounding Isle of Palms. Spend a day out on a boat checking out the area’s marine ecosystems while also trying your hand at fishing and crabbing. The company’s Capers Wildlife Exploration tour visits an undeveloped barrier island, winding through tidal creeks to view wildlife in South Carolina such as egrets, pelicans, osprey, bald eagles, bottlenose dolphins, herons, and more.
Walking Tours
If you prefer to stay on land, a walking tour is another way to experience the magnificence of nature. Whether you choose a guided or self-guided tour, there’s much to see as you traverse the region’s wooded trails or the gardens of nearby plantations. The natural splendor that encircles Isle of Palms is a sight to behold and one that every visitor should be sure to explore. With all the excursions available on and around the island, it’s easy to dedicate some time out of your itinerary to nature watching. For more recommendations on what to do during your stay and to browse the best rental properties on the coast, contact our staff at Exclusive Properties.