Guided or self-guided paddling through the tidal marshes of the Hampton River, with dolphin sightings in calm, protected waters.
$40-$65 per person
Book direct via the vendor website
Two hours of paddling through the tidal marshes between Sea Island and St. Simons, with resident dolphins working the creeks alongside you.
The Hampton River and its surrounding marshes are sheltered enough to make this accessible for first-time kayakers and paddleboarders. The marshes are the point. Paddling the narrow channels at low tide brings you eye-level with oyster beds, marsh grass, and wading birds, and bottlenose dolphins are resident in these waters and appear regularly during morning sessions. Sightings aren't guaranteed, but they're common. Seeing the coastal Georgia landscape from water level rather than a cart path provides a different sense of the place than golf does. Guided tours and self-guided rentals are both available through the warmer months.
Roughly two hours from launch to return. $40 to $65 per person, which is among the more affordable Sea Island activities. Weather dependent. Morning departures generally offer calmer water and better wildlife sightings. Reserve through the resort or a local outfitter, especially in peak season. Wear something that can get wet, and apply sunscreen before launching. An easy pairing with a morning or afternoon round at Seaside or Plantation.