Boat Tours
Vacationing in Hilton Head provides ample opportunity to enjoy the water. Getting out on the water at high speed is a great way to have some fun. Wave Runners, Jet Skis, and parasailing give action lovers the perfect opportunity to get their adrenaline pumping. Beginners can learn to water ski or kneeboard while more experienced participants can get some advanced instruction locals who have been surfing and sailing these waters for years.
If it isn't an adrenaline rush you are after, taking a canoe or kayak out on the water is a wonderfully peaceful way to explore the local inlets, estuaries, and tidal creeks. As you silently slip through the inlets and lagoons you will get up close and personal with the local flora and fauna. Canoeing and kayaking make a great island activity for visitors of all ages. First timers are always welcome and receive instruction before launching. Most of the outfitters offer guided tours of the area pointing out local wildlife and plants. Dolphin trips are very popular and are a very eco-friendly way to enjoy dolphins in their natural habitat. During the summer months a kayak cruise is a memorable way to view the fireworks that light up the night sky.
Waterdog Outfitters
(843) 686-3554
If you're looking for a little adventure, the fine folks at Waterdog Outfitters are the ones to give it to you. In addition to scenic and fireworks tours, they offer a guided kayak tour through the backwaters of the New River. The three-hour tour takes you where the alligators live. Sightings are frequent.
Palmetto Dunes Outfitters
(843) 785-2449
Palmetto Dunes Outfitters, located in Palmetto Dunes, is a great place to rent a kayak or canoe in which to go exploring. They offer lessons for beginners and also have guided tours led by trained naturalists. Open daily.
Outside Hilton Head
(800) 686-6996
This Kayak outfitter offers several options for their guided tours. In addition to the common two-hour tours they also have four and six hour tours. Some specialty-tours include Teen Tours, Sunrise Tours and the popular Full Moon Paddle.
Kayak Hilton Head
(843) 684-1910
Kayak Hilton Head offers tours and kayak rentals. Daily summer tours last about two hours. You can also sign up for a fireworks tour. Dolphin sightings are common and Dave, the owner is a wealth of information about local wildlife and he and his dog Jordan are great with kids.
H2O Sports
(843) 671-4386
Located in Harbour Town Marina at the Sea Pines Plantation, H2O Sports offers parasailing, water skiing, wave runners, knee boarding, and more. Every one of the friendly staff is certified by the Commercial Watersports Operators Association. Reservations are required.
Live OAC
(843) 384-4384
Live OAC, the outdoor adventure company, is a great place to come for your water sports needs. They have wake boards, water skis, kneeboards, and tubes large enough for two adults or three children. They are located just minutes from remote waters that are protected from the winds that can cause choppy water.