Kiawah Island is an unspoiled paradise with 10 miles of pristine beaches and some of the bluest water found on the South Carolina coast. What better way to explore and enjoy the island than jumping right in!
Kayak/SUP
The backside of the island is perfect for paddle sports like kayaking and standup paddleboarding. Hit up Water Dog Paddle Co., SeaCoast Sports and Outfitters in Freshfields Village, or Tidal Trails Tours for a guided tour or rental. These low-impact sports get you out on the water and close to nature.
Surfing
Riding a wave creates an adrenaline rush unlike anything else. Tidal Trails Tours teaches surfing on Kiawah Island, and has been for more than a decade. Sign up for private or group lessons or Surf Camp this summer. The instructors at Carolina Salt Surf Lessons can also get you riding waves in no time. Don’t expect big swells (unless there’s a storm), but the small saves are fun for beginners and novice surfers.
Jet Skiing
Crank things up a bit with faster water sports. Jet Skis brings the thrill of motorcycle riding to the open water. Tidal Wave Water Sports rents personal watercraft at Bohicket Marina. Tidal Wave also provides a Safari Tour that takes riders to the barrier islands.
Parasailing
If you’ve dreamed of flying above the water, Tidal Wave Water Sports also offers parasailing excursions. Fly by the pair and soar over the ocean for spectacular views and an extraordinary sensation. You may even catch sight of a sea turtle in the water below.
Flyboard
One of the newer watersports is the flyboard, allowing users to hover up to 20 feet in the air. Accomplish these feats by wearing a board that propels a high volume of water. Hydronow offers 20-minute flights that come with a lesson to get you started. If you fall, well, it’s into the water.
Wakeboarding
Hydronow also offers wakeboarding tours that come with equipment, gear, and one-on-one instruction. The wakeboard boat holds up to six people, or enjoy the view from their Tiki Hut while waiting your turn riding the wake. If the balancing act is not your thing, hop on the tube which holds up to three people.
Swimming
Of course, you can don a swimsuit, grab the sunscreen and jump into the water. Rent a luxury property with a private pool for a first-rate vacation.