Charleston: Folly Beach Stand Up Paddleboard Dolphin Safari

Charleston’s Folly Beach offers a unique opportunity to explore its captivating wildlife. The Folly Beach Stand Up Paddleboard Dolphin Safari promises an unforgettable 2-hour adventure, where visitors can paddle alongside playful bottlenose dolphins and observe vibrant shorebirds in their natural habitat. Led by experienced guides, this tour provides an introductory stand-up paddleboarding experience, equipped with all necessary gear. Whether you’re a beginner or a nature enthusiast, this tour invites you to learn about Folly River’s diverse ecosystem and witness the beauty of Charleston’s wildlife up close. What awaits those who embark on this adventure might just surprise you.

Key Points

• Experience a 2-hour paddleboard adventure on the Folly River to observe playful bottlenose dolphins and diverse shorebirds.
• Receive instruction on stand-up paddleboarding basics from experienced guides and explore the river’s vibrant ecosystem.
• Enjoy flexible scheduling with morning, afternoon, and sunset tour options, with all necessary equipment provided.
• Capture a group photo to commemorate the experience and leave with lasting memories.
• Explore the historical remnants and lush marshlands along the Folly River during the guided tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

What’s the Folly Beach Stand Up Paddleboard Dolphin Safari all about?

It’s a 2-hour adventure where you’ll paddle alongside bottlenose dolphins and native shorebirds on the Folly River. Priced from $55 per person, this introductory experience teaches the basics of stand-up paddleboarding.

Led by experienced guides, the tour offers options for morning, afternoon, and sunset outings. All necessary equipment, including paddleboards, paddles, and life jackets, are provided.

While children under 8 and those with mobility issues can’t participate, the tour welcomes all skill levels. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can book now and pay later to secure your spot on this unique Folly Beach excursion.

Tour Highlights

Paddlers can look forward to an engaging and immersive wildlife experience on the Folly Beach Stand Up Paddleboard Dolphin Safari.

The tour highlights include:

• Paddling alongside bottlenose dolphins and native shorebirds as they roam the Folly River.
• Learning the basics of stand-up paddleboarding from an experienced instructor.
• Exploring the river’s diverse flora and fauna.
• Capturing a group photo opportunity to commemorate the adventure.

With options for morning, afternoon, and sunset tours, guests can choose the experience that best suits their schedule and preferences.

Equipment and Safety

The tour equipment is provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. A personal flotation device (PFD) is mandatory and supplied for all participants. In addition, sturdy paddleboards and high-quality paddles are included.

What’s Provided	What to Bring
Paddleboard	Swimwear
Paddle	Towel
PFD	Sunscreen
	Water
	Water shoes or flip-flops

The tour is not suitable for children under 8 years old or individuals with mobility impairments. Proper attire and footwear are essential for navigating the waterways safely.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The meeting point for the Folly Beach Stand Up Paddleboard Dolphin Safari is located at 83 Center St, Folly Beach, SC 29439, USA.

The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off for your convenience.

The logistics are as follows:

1. The meeting point is centrally located in Folly Beach.
2. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour package.
3. Gratuities and food/drinks aren’t included in the tour price.
4. Guests are advised to arrive at the meeting point a few minutes early to ensure a smooth start to the adventure.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Guests consistently praise the Folly Beach Stand Up Paddleboard Dolphin Safari, with an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 42 reviews.

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable, experienced guides who provide excellent support for beginners and an enjoyable wildlife experience.

The tour’s transportation services also receive top marks, with a 5/5 rating.

Customers appreciate the value for money, with a 4.7/5 rating, noting the reasonable price for the immersive two-hour tour.

Whether paddling alongside dolphins and shorebirds or learning the basics of stand-up paddleboarding, guests consistently leave the Folly Beach adventure with lasting memories and high recommendations.

Exploring Folly River

As guests embark on the Folly Beach Stand Up Paddleboard Dolphin Safari, they’re treated to a scenic exploration of the Folly River.

The tranquil waterway offers a glimpse into the area’s vibrant ecosystem, where visitors may encounter:

1. Playful bottlenose dolphins dipping in and out of the water’s surface.
2. Graceful birds, like egrets and herons, gliding across the river.
3. Lush, verdant marshlands teeming with diverse plant life.
4. Remnants of Folly Beach’s rich history, such as weathered docks and pilings.

Guided by experienced instructors, paddlers can confidently navigate the river, learning the basics of stand-up paddleboarding while seeing the natural beauty that surrounds them.

Learning Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Exploring the Folly River sets the stage for guests to learn the basics of stand-up paddleboarding. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, visitors learn proper paddling techniques and balance.

They’ll practice stepping onto the board and maintaining stability as they glide across the calm waters. Even first-time paddlers can feel confident, thanks to the provided personal flotation devices and the shallow, protected nature of the river.

With the Folly River’s diverse wildlife as a backdrop, guests enjoy the tranquil experience, preparing for an up-close encounter with the area’s famous bottlenose dolphins.

Spotting Dolphins and Wildlife

On their stand-up paddleboard safari, guests marvel at the captivating sights of the Folly River.

As they glide across the gentle waters, they encounter a mesmerizing array of wildlife.

The highlights include:

1. Graceful bottlenose dolphins, their sleek bodies cutting through the waves, delighting onlookers with their playful antics.
2. Majestic great blue herons, their long necks and elegant feathers commanding attention as they hunt for prey.
3. Vibrant shorebirds, their colorful plumage contrasting against the backdrop of the lush riverbanks.
4. A diverse ecosystem of flora, from towering palmettos to delicate marsh grasses, providing a glimpse into the rich natural tapestry of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Stand-Up Paddleboard?

While the activity provider supplies all necessary equipment, guests are generally not permitted to bring their own stand-up paddleboards. This ensures consistent quality and safety for all participants during the guided tour.

Do I Need Prior Experience in Stand-Up Paddleboarding?

No, prior experience in stand-up paddleboarding isn’t required. The activity is suitable for beginners, with an experienced instructor providing guidance and support throughout the tour. Even first-time paddlers can participate and enjoy the dolphin-watching experience.

Are There Any Age or Weight Restrictions for Participants?

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 8 or individuals with mobility issues. However, no specific weight restrictions are mentioned, so most adults should be able to participate comfortably.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if I Want to Spend More Time on the Water?

Yes, participants can extend the tour duration. The tour operator offers flexible options, so guests can tailor the experience to their preferences and spend more time on the water if desired.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available for Larger Groups?

The tour operator does offer group discounts for larger parties. Guests can inquire about package deals when booking to take advantage of reduced rates for 4 or more people. Discounts may be available depending on the group size.

Recap

Paddle through the tranquil Folly River, marvel at the playful dolphins, and learn the art of stand-up paddleboarding on this enchanting Charleston adventure. Led by experienced guides, you’ll learn about the vibrant ecosystem, spotting shorebirds and exploring the diverse wildlife. Whether a beginner or nature enthusiast, this Folly Beach Dolphin Safari offers an unforgettable experience to connect with Charleston’s captivating coastal charm.

You can check if your dates are available here: