Are you planning your next family adventure in the Outer Banks? Kayaking through these serene waters offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and make unforgettable memories. Kitty Hawk Kites provides a range of family-friendly kayak tours, each offering a different experience tailored to your interests and skill levels. Here’s a guide to the best spots to paddle and explore, highlighting why the Outer Banks is a kayaker’s paradise.
- Alligator River Kayak Tour
Alligator River is a gorgeous Wildlife Refuge located just west of the Outer Banks. Our tour is designed for exploration and creature sightings. Don’t be surprised if you catch a glimpse of the elusive black bear, endangered red wolves that roam the area, or even the occasional alligator. This tour is perfect for all ages and skill levels, making it an excellent option for families. The calm waters and abundant wildlife make this a mesmerizing experience that encapsulates the essence of kayaking in the OBX. The Alligator River Kayak Tour offers a peaceful escape into one of the most unique ecosystems in North Carolina.
2. Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest
The Maritime Forest, located in Kitty Hawk, NC is perfect for families and individuals seeking a peaceful escape into nature. As you glide along the gentle currents, you’ll be enveloped by the scenic beauty of the sound’s surroundings, rich with diverse wildlife and beautiful coastal vegetation. This tour not only offers a relaxing paddle but also provides an opportunity to learn about the local ecosystem and the history of the area, making it an educational and enjoyable experience for kayakers of all skill levels.
3. Northern OBX: Corolla & Duck
The Northern Beaches of the Outer Banks have a lot to offer. From the wild horses of Corolla to the charming streets of downtown Duck, the upper communities of this spread of coastline are filled with things to do. Chief among them are activities on the water! Kayak the waters of the picturesque Currituck sound in both Corolla and Duck. We send out multiple tours a day from morning til the sun sets! Come join and soak in the beautiful scenery.
4. Hatteras Island
Cape Hatteras National Seashore is one of the most captivating features of the Outer Banks. Stretching over 70 miles, this protected shoreline is home to rich history and unbeatable scenery. Hatteras Island offers paddlers miles of untouched coastal marshland. Areas along the Pamlico Sound offer incredible access to unparalleled bird life and other wild life that seek refuge in the salt marshes. Our tour launches just south of the quaint town of Salvo and is relaxing and full of great sites to see. The marshlands provide cover from harsh winds, making the current easy to follow and a perfect adventure for a variety of skill levels.
5. Roanoke Island
This memorable tour leaves from downtown Manteo and provides excellent photo opportunities of the Elizabeth II (a recreated 16th century sailing ship), Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse and the Historic Manteo Waterfront. Once we reach more open water, a panorama of the Outer Banks moves into view, and Jockey’s Ridge (the tallest sand dune on the East Coast) becomes visible across the Roanoke Sound. The waters surrounding Manteo are calm and serene, making this tour perfect for a kayaker of any level
Why Choose Kitty Hawk Kites for Your Kayak Tours?
Kitty Hawk Kites and our partners at Kitty Hawk Kayak and Surf School are dedicated to creating uplifting experiences for all visitors. Our kayak tours are designed to be family-friendly, safe, and educational. We pride ourselves on providing high-quality equipment and knowledgeable guides to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time on the water.
Kayaking in the Outer Banks offers more than just a paddle in the water; it’s a way to explore the rich ecosystems, enjoy breathtaking scenery, and even learn a bit about the local history and wildlife. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a beginner, our tours are designed to accommodate all skill levels and interests. We hope to see you out on the Water.
For the complete list of kayaking spots in the Outer Banks, click here!