Top North Carolina Kayaking Tours

Enjoy a relaxing time out on the waters of Pamlico Sound on a kayak tour to Cape Hatteras. Join a small group and paddle out onto the calm waterways just around the sunset hour. Keep your eyes peeled for local birds like ospreys, pelicans, egrets as well as sea turtles, rays, and river otters.

The Roanoke Island Tour offers an enriching adventure through the scenic canals and marshes of Historic Roanoke Island. As you paddle, our knowledgeable guides share captivating stories about early English settlers and the area's diverse wildlife. Enjoy a refreshing break with a walk along a tranquil sandy beach, perfect for soaking in the coastal atmosphere. This family-friendly tour, lasting 1.5 hours, is designed for all ages and includes beginner paddle lessons, ensuring everyone can join in the fun. - Paddle through picturesque marshes teeming with wildlife like otters and osprey - A leisurely paddle enhances your coastal exploration - All equipment provided, including kayaks, paddles, and life jackets, ensuring a comfortable experience

End your day with a beautiful sunset and a relaxing kayak during your time in Corolla. Board your sit-in kayak and paddle around the waterways of Currituck Sound in the Outer Banks. Navigate bays, canals, and sheltered islands and keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife in the area.

This is one of only a few maritime forests left along the Carolina Coast. The only way to view this area is on a kayak or paddleboard.

Get onto the clam waters of Bent Creek near the Biltmore property in Asheville on this self-guided kayak tour. Your kayaks, paddles, and life jackets are all provided for you, so all you need to do is show up ready to have an adventure. When you’re finished kayaking, wind down at the Outpost with a beer.

With more than 150 miles of shoreline—and resting at the base of the spectacular Linville Gorge— Lake James is a kayaker’s delight. With a guide, it’s even better: On this half-day adventure, you’ll explore with a naturalist, learning all about this region’s flora, fauna, natural history, and more. One of the most biodiverse areas on the planet, you’ll get grade-A time with Mother Nature, guaranteed.

Witness the stunning sunrises over Zeke’s Island, a 1,635-acre coastal reserve rich in natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. Paddle through a network of islands, fringing marshes, and tidal flats, while enjoying activities like bird watching and shell hunting. This family-friendly tour is perfect for all ages and includes all necessary equipment for a safe and enjoyable experience. With expert guidance and a focus on leisure, immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature as you explore the breathtaking landscapes of North Carolina. - 2-hour guided kayak tour suitable for all ages - Includes kayak, paddle, life vest, and safety demonstration - Ideal for families and novice paddlers - Arrive 10-15 minutes early for a smooth launch

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge provides habitat to an extensive list of over 300 living species. On our kayak tours, we get the chance to see a variety of birds like the Prothonotary Warblers, Wood Ducks, Northern Cardinals, Killdeer, and Pileated Wood Peckers. Oftentimes, we spot an alligator swimming in the distance or sunning on the shore. The refuge is also home to the largest concentration of black bears on the East Coast. Black Bears can sometimes be seen roaming or relaxing on land or climbing the trees.

Navigate the historic Cape Fear River on this 2 hour leisurely kayak tour, perfect for families and novice paddlers. Enjoy the serene beauty of North Carolina’s most famous river while exploring islands, including Shark Tooth Island. As you paddle, learn about the area's rich history and keep an eye out for local wildlife such as birds, turtles, and even dolphins. With included kayaks, paddles, and life vests, this tour offers a relaxing and educational experience for all ages. - 120-minute guided kayak tour suitable for families and beginners - Explore Shark Tooth Island and enjoy beach stops along the way - Learn about local history and wildlife from knowledgeable guides - All equipment provided; just bring water and appropriate footwear

Paddle through the Outer Banks' Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge for a fun adventure. Join a small group and learn about the old logging and whiskey distilling community that once thrived during Prohibition as you navigate the waterways. Keep your eyes peeled for several wildlife species including alligators, bald eagles, turtles, river otters, and even a black bear.

On this tubing adventure through Asheville’s on the French Broad River, the only finger you’ll have to lift is the one raising your drink. With your crew, you’ll start across from the fabulous Biltmore Estate, floating down the French Broad River, past the River Arts District, and beyond. Plunge when you need a refresh or simply kick back and relax—a couple hours later, you’ll be sun-soaked and chilled, ready for more Asheville fun.

During the Bodie Island Clear Kayak Tour, you’ll navigate through tranquil waterways, witness breathtaking coastal landscapes, and encounter a variety of wildlife. Available from April to October, this tour is perfect for all ages and lasts 1.5 to 2 hours. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife that calls this area home, and immerse yourself in the rich history surrounding the iconic Bodie Island Lighthouse.

Discover the natural beauty of Masonboro Island on this 2.5-hour kayak tour through the Intracoastal waterways. Navigate through intricate salt marsh estuaries and get close to diverse wildlife as you paddle towards the open Atlantic Ocean. This tour is perfect for confident kayakers looking for a unique adventure, guided by experienced instructors who ensure safety and provide insights into the local ecosystem. - 2.5-hour guided kayak tour exploring Masonboro Island and its waterways - Suitable for confident paddlers; crossing busy boat channels involved - Instruction and safety demonstration included before the tour - Kayak, paddle, and life vest provided; bring water and appropriate footwear

Explore the vibrant ecosystem of Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge on a guided kayak tour. Paddle through the serene Pamlico Sound, where over 365 bird species have been recorded. Spot majestic Brown Pelicans, elegant Blue Herons, and the stunning White Ibis as you navigate these picturesque waters. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the rich coastal environment and its fascinating marine life, including crabs, fish, and playful Stingrays. This experience is thoughtfully designed for all skill levels, ensuring an enriching adventure for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

This tour is a “ripper” opportunity, ever dreamed of being Moana or Indiana Jones? Well put your wide brimmed hats on and lets get busy exploring Shark tooth island and the Cape Fear River together. Obviously I can’t guarantee shark teeth on the island but just like life it’s all about the journey. We’ll get you to the Island in time for optimal Shark Teeth finding opportunities but along the way we’ll take in the famous Cape Fear River. We’ll also be on the lookout for jumping fish, a range of birds and butterflies and you’ll also hear a little history of the surrounding area from your guide. Don’t be a dag, book now so you don’t miss out.

A journey through Oregon Inlet unveils a rich tapestry of marine life and stunning landscapes. Paddle along the serene waters of Pamlico Sound, navigating between marshlands and sandy shoals. Look below to discover stingrays, crabs, and fish, while above, brown pelicans and egrets grace the skies. Clusters of clams and oysters dot the grassy marshes, and seashells line the sandy banks. With the possibility of spotting dolphins in the distance, this tour invites participants of all ages to connect with nature in a unique and tranquil setting. Each kayak comes equipped with paddles and life jackets, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure for everyone.

Kayak fishing can be a fun and rewarding experience, if you know where to go. Don’t waste time by paddling around aimlessly. This small-group tour takes you around Lake Julian in the company of a local guide who knows the waters well and can provide instruction if needed and capture photos for lasting memories. All equipment provided for a hassle-free experience.

Head out for an evening of drinking and dining with this immersive beer tour. You'll visit four different local breweries, where you'll get to sample craft beer and learn about the brewing process. This tour also includes a stop for a meal at Midwood Smokehouse.