Guest Information
Welcome to Charleston Outdoor Adventures! We’re thrilled to have you join us for an unforgettable adventure exploring the pristine beauty of the Lowcountry. Before you embark on your journey, we want to ensure you have all the information you need for a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience.
What to Bring
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
- Important Reminders for Your Adventure:
- Hydration is Key: Bring 2 to 3 bottles of water per person to stay hydrated during your time on the water. Staying hydrated is crucial for a enjoyable experience.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear clothes or a bathing suit made of synthetic material that can get wet. Avoid wearing cotton or jeans, as they can become heavy when wet.
- Footwear: Opt for water shoes, sandals, or tennis shoes that can get wet. If you’re paddleboarding, wear shoes with straps to ensure they stay on in the water.
- Sun Protection: Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses with a retaining strap to keep them secure during your adventure.
- Essentials: Bring any necessary medications and an extra pair of contact lenses if needed. It’s essential to be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.
- Capture Memories: Don’t forget your camera, GoPro, or cell phone to capture the unforgettable moments. We provide dry bags to keep your electronics safe from water.
- Be Prepared for the Weather: We’ll go out rain or shine, so bring rain gear as afternoon rain is common in the Lowcountry. In the spring and fall, consider bringing a light jacket for cooler weather.
By following these reminders, you’ll be well-prepared for an incredible adventure exploring the beauty of the Lowcountry. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to us. We can’t wait to see you out on the water!
Dolphin Eco-Tours
Important Reminders for Your Adventure:
- Hydration: Bring 2 to 3 bottles of water per person to stay hydrated on the water.
- Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses with a retaining strap as shade is not guaranteed on the boat.
- Personal Items: If relevant, bring an extra pair of contact lenses and required medications.
- Capture Memories: Don’t forget cameras, GoPro, and cell phones to capture your adventure.
- Weather Preparedness: We go out rain or shine, so bring rain gear as summer showers are common in the Lowcountry.
- Seasonal Considerations: In the spring and fall, a light jacket is recommended.
These reminders will help ensure you have a fantastic time exploring the beauty of the Lowcountry. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to ask. We look forward to your adventure!
Morris Island Lighthouse Tour
Important Reminders for Your Adventure:
- Hydration: Bring 3 to 4 bottles of water per person to stay hydrated on the water.
- Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses with a retaining strap as shade is not guaranteed on the boat.
- Footwear: Wear shoes that you do not mind getting sandy as you will be able to walk on the beach.
- Bag for Beach Finds: Bring a bag to carry shells and beach finds.
- Personal Items: If relevant, bring an extra pair of contact lenses and required medications.
- Capture Memories: Don’t forget cameras, GoPro, and cell phones to capture your adventure.
- Weather Preparedness: We go out rain or shine, so bring rain gear as summer showers are common in the Lowcountry.
- Seasonal Considerations: In the spring and fall, a light jacket is recommended.
These reminders will help ensure you have a fantastic time exploring the beauty of the Lowcountry. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to ask. We look forward to your adventure!
Fossil Hunting Tour
Important Reminders for Your Adventure:
- Hydration: Bring 4 to 5 bottles of water per person to stay hydrated on the water.
- Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses with a retaining strap as shade is not guaranteed on the boat or on Morris Island.
- Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes that you do not mind getting sandy as you will be walking on the beach.
- Bag for Personal Belongings: Bring a book bag or similar to carry personal belongings on the hike such as drinks & snacks.
- Bag for Beach Finds: Bring a ziplock bag for fossils, shells, and other beach finds.
- Personal Items: If relevant, bring an extra pair of contact lenses and required medications.
- For Small Children: If you are bringing small children, we encourage you to bring a beach stroller as the beach hike is multiple miles.
- Capture Memories: Don’t forget cameras, GoPro, and cell phones to capture your adventure.
- Weather Preparedness: We will go out rain or shine, so please bring rain gear as summer showers are common in the Lowcountry.
- Seasonal Considerations: In the spring and fall, a light jacket is recommended.
These reminders will help ensure you have a fantastic time exploring the beauty of the Lowcountry. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to ask. We look forward to your adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time of day to see wildlife?
You can spot wildlife at any time of the day; there’s no particular time that’s better than others.
What is the weather policy?
Our trips proceed rain or shine, but if conditions like lightning or high winds pose safety risks, we may postpone or cancel. For more detailed information, please see below.
Is there transportation available?
Transportation to our location is not provided. Rental cars and Uber are the recommended options. It’s advisable to schedule your drop-off and pickup in advance.
When is the best time of day to see dolphins?
Dolphins are residents of the Charleston area and can be observed 24/7, 365 days a year. However, you’re more likely to witness strand feeding behavior during low tide.
On our Dolphin Eco Charter and the Morris Island Lighthouse tour, both conducted on our Carolina Skiff bay boat, you have a 99% chance of seeing dolphins. While dolphins may also be spotted on our other tours, these two tours offer the best chances of sightings.
Do you need experience to participate?
No prior experience is necessary. We frequently take out first-timers and provide thorough instructions before you embark on paddleboarding and kayaking adventures. Our goal is to ensure you feel confident and have an enjoyable time on the water.
Can trips be customized?
Yes, we highly recommend booking a private tour so we can tailor the experience to your preferences. Feel free to contact our office to discuss private tour options and pricing.
Do you need to know how to swim?
No, you don’t need to bring your own personal floatation device. It’s mandatory by law for kayaking or paddleboarding with us. We provide personal flotation devices on all our boats for your safety.
Do you offer group trips?
Yes, COA welcomes groups of all sizes, and we may offer group discounts. Please contact our office to arrange your group trip today.
Where do you launch kayaks and paddleboards you have for rent?
We have a private launch at our location, 1871 Bowens Island Road. Our staff will prepare and assist in getting your gear down to the water’s edge for a seamless experience.
Can I bring food or drinks on the tours?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring items with you, but we kindly ask that you avoid bringing anything in single-use glass bottles and be mindful not to litter. Thank you for helping us keep our environment clean and beautiful!
Can you go inside the Morris Island Lighthouse?
No, the historic lighthouse is not accessible to the public as it is surrounded by water.
Can I sign the waiver without printing it?
Yes. The waiver is electronic and you can sign it on your phone or computer. No need to print.
Do you offer gift certificates?
Absolutely! Our gift cards cater to any budget as they are available in any denomination and can be personalized with a heartfelt message. Conveniently, you can purchase them online through our website or simply give us a call to place your order over the phone.
Do you allow dogs?
Starting June 1, 2022, our new pet policy states that with the exception of service dogs, dogs or any other pets are not permitted on guided group tours. However, dogs are welcome on kayak rentals or private tours with prior approval. Please inform us if you will be accompanied by a service dog. This policy is implemented in consideration of the well-being of pets and the comfort of all our guests. Additionally, please note that dogs are not allowed on specific tours and rentals, including the Fossil Hunting Tour, Morris Island Lighthouse Tour, Dolphin Eco Charter, SUP rentals, guided kayak tours, or fishing charters.
Cancellation Policy
Due to the unique nature and small size of our groups, we must adhere strictly to our cancellation policy. On the day of your excursion, our team will be on-site, ready to serve you, with time and fixed costs already invested. We may also have turned down other customers to hold your space.
Cancellations made 24 hours or more prior to the scheduled tour date and time will receive a full refund. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled departure are non-refundable.
No-shows and late arrivals (checking in after the tour is scheduled to begin) are non-refundable and will be charged in full if not already prepaid. Same-day cancellations are considered a no-show and are non-refundable without exceptions. Same-day reschedules are subject to a 25% upcharge.
We reserve the right to cancel a public tour if the minimum number of reservations is not met. Customers will receive a full refund if the operator cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Please note that large parties, private tours, or groups with discounts are subject to a 48-hour cancellation policy. Check your confirmation email for specific cancellation policy details.
All marine activities are subject to water conditions. We strive to contact groups 24-48 hours in advance if we have serious weather concerns. Tours operate rain or shine as long as conditions are safe. Remember, you can cancel or reschedule outside of 24 hours with no penalty. If you don’t hear from us in advance, please dress for the weather and arrive on time. Weather decisions are typically made at departure and discussed at check-in. We provide free ponchos if rain is likely.
If we cancel a tour due to unsafe weather conditions, you will not be charged, or will receive a full refund if prepaid. You can reschedule for the next available slot. Our staff makes the final call on weather conditions. Remember, passing rain showers are normal in our area, and general forecasts often apply more to land areas. We constantly monitor weather reports and radar. Folly Beach’s weather can differ greatly from where you are. Please don’t decide not to come if it’s raining where you are, as you will be charged if the trip proceeds. If you have questions about weather conditions, please call us for assistance.
Captains, guides, and office staff have the right to deny service to guests who are inebriated, hungover, or unable or unwilling to comply with safety instructions. Passengers not meeting these requirements will not be allowed to participate and will not receive a refund.
Please call our office at 843-795-0330 with any questions or concerns about our policies.