Our Guide to Kayaking in Atlantic Beach

Atlantic Beach provides the ideal haven for your next getaway. Experience true rest and relaxation among the gorgeous shorelines, taste decadent local seafood in all the best restaurants and find the most unique souvenir to help you remember your travels. If you’re a nature lover, one of the best ways to immerse yourself in your journey is by kayaking. Atlantic Beach vacations just wouldn’t be complete without taking some time to jump in the water and find everything it has to offer.

Best Places to Kayak

Whether you’ve been kayaking plenty of times or are a total beginner, there are plenty of places to kayak in Atlantic Beach that will suit your skill level. Those new to kayaking will enjoy Whitehurst Creek Paddle, a 2.3-mile journey beginning at Straits Boat Landing that will put you right in the middle of countless bird species, such as pelicans, osprey, terns, and more. Another incredible option is the Rachel Carson Reserve Paddle across Taylor’s Creek. The Rachel Carson Reserve is a great place to rest and explore nature even further before finishing the 8.4-mile trip.

A couple doing some kayaking near our Beaufort NC rentals

For intermediate paddlers, Thorofare and Styron Bay Paddle is a 9.4-mile trip that’s ideal for those wanting a bit of solitude. If you want a little history, try the Whale Creek Paddle, which takes you over Harkers Island Bridge and into a whaling community from the 19th century. Advanced kayakers have options like Cedar Island National Refuge Paddle, starting from Monroe Gaskill Bridge and extending 13 miles into some unforgettable nature. You could also try the 2.7 mile Beaufort to Shackleford Banks Paddle to spot the majestic wild horses.

Where to Rent a Kayak in Atlantic Beach

If kayaking is one way you’re looking to enjoy the waters on your Atlantic Beach vacation, you’ll be happy to know that there are a few kayak rentals in Atlantic Beach, NC.

Both beginners and experienced paddlers, Kayakers can choose from several scenic routes, including Whitehurst Creek Paddle, Whale Creek Paddle, and Cedar Island Natural Refuge Paddle, covering two- to more than 13 miles. You can sightsee, explore nature, take in some wildlife, and maybe even learn local history.

AB Watersport

Fun on the waves is what AB Watersport is all about. AB Watersports lives up to its six-time #1 ranking for topwater fun in Atlantic Beach by TripAdvisor for renting boats, jet skis, paddleboards, and kayaks.

Single- and double kayaks are available. Rental options are either three hours or a full day. Additional days (extra charge for each day) for kayak rentals are offered. These kayak rentals allow you to explore areas such as secluded waterways that would be unreachable by any other means.

AB Watersport is open from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. every day.

Beaufort Paddle

Located in Beaufort, one of the small towns comprising the Crystal Coast, Beaufort Paddle allows you to rent single and tandem kayaks by the hour, half-day, or full-day. Additional days can be added.

If desired, you can start your journey from the shop’s private dock. Not an experienced paddler? You can use Beaufort Paddle’s private harbor to get used to your rental before starting on your adventure.

If you want to combine kayaking and fishing, you can go with a rental from Beaufort Paddle. The Perception Tribe kayak is wide and stable and is intended for use as a fishing kayak. If you have the proper permits and your fishing gear, be sure to ask about these particular rentals, so you get the best of both worlds!

Finally, Beaufort Paddle can deliver your kayak rental to wherever you’d like for an additional fee.

Island Watersports Rentals

Island Watersports has what you need, whether you want a single or double kayak for an hour, a day, a day, or multiple days. Multiple-day rentals get free delivery to any location on the island except on major holidays.

Launch from their dock or your vacation beach home or condo. Kayaks can be taken into the Sound or on the ocean. While they don’t supply tour guides, Island Watersports will provide you with detailed charts so you’ll know where to go to see ecosystem highlights.

Life jacket and whistle come with all Atlantic Beach kayak rentals from Island Watersports, which is open Tuesday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Down East Kayaks

Boasting proximity to both The Straits and the Sound, the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, and the National Seashore, Down East Kayaks make it easy to reach your destination when you choose a rental from their Harkers Island location.

You can head out on a self-tour or choose to let Down East’s kayak guide lead you along the shorelines and through the marshes and open waters on a detailed, knowledgeable ride as you get up close to the wildlife (dolphins, egrets, heron, and ducks to name a few) and enjoy the scenery.

Copies of a paddle trail map outlining 16 paddle trails are available. Delivery of your rental is offered anywhere in Beaufort. Rental options include two hours, half-or full-day, weekly, or multiple days. 

Soundfront Vacation Rentals

After your long day out on the water, you’ll want to return somewhere cozy and comfortable to unwind and spend some quality time with your loved ones. Our Atlantic Beach oceanfront rentals offer you the perfect solution. Enjoy amenities like spacious living areas, laundry facilities inside your rental, luxury kitchens, and more. The best part? Simply step outside to enjoy your morning coffee watching the sunrise over the water or take an evening stroll collecting seashells with your sweetheart. No detail has been overlooked in preparing your getaway home.

Whether you’re renting an oceanfront home or condo in the Down East area or Harkers Island, you’ll find plenty to like: full kitchens, spacious rooms, flat-screen TVs, barbecues, large decks, and big backyards. These secluded two- and three-bedroom vacation rentals are perfect for getting away from it all while still bringing it all: some rentals are pet-friendly! Homes with pools are also available.