AWENDAW KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Cat Island on the Wando: A Tidal Paddle to Sandy Beaches and Shark Teeth
A half-day guided paddle from Paradise Island Boat Landing to Cat Island that combines a scenic Wando River crossing, a short nature walk through maritime forest, beach time for swimming and fossil (shark-tooth) hunting.
Cat Island on the Wando: A Tidal Paddle to Sandy Beaches and Shark Teeth.
Cat Island sits on the upper Wando River, a small island defined by a wide sandy beach and a pocket of maritime forest. The outing pairs a scenic paddle with on-the-beach exploration — relaxing, swimming and hunting for fossils, especially shark teeth — and a brief nature walk that highlights the area’s wildlife and local history.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Sandy Beaches and Maritime Forest
Cat Island’s shoreline offers a broad, walkable sand beach for relaxing and swimming, backed by a compact maritime forest perfect for a short interpretive stroll.
Fossil Hunting — Shark Teeth
The island is noted as one of the best local spots to hunt for fossils, with beachcombing frequently producing shark teeth and other relics washed up on the sand.
Scenic Wando River Crossing
The guided paddle out of Paradise Island Boat Landing follows tidal currents on the Wando River while the guide interprets local wildlife and the region’s maritime history en route to the island.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
The day begins at a boat landing and moves into a steady, tide-assisted paddle along the Wando River. Guides share natural and historical context on the crossing; arrival at Cat Island opens into beach time for lunch, swimming and fossil hunting, with an optional short nature walk through the island’s maritime forest before returning with the changing tide.
THE LANDSCAPE
Sandy Beaches and Maritime Forest
Cat Island’s shoreline offers a broad, walkable sand beach for relaxing and swimming, backed by a compact maritime forest perfect for a short interpretive stroll.
THE SEARCH
Fossil Hunting — Shark Teeth
The island is noted as one of the best local spots to hunt for fossils, with beachcombing frequently producing shark teeth and other relics washed up on the sand.
THE PADDLE
Scenic Wando River Crossing
The guided paddle out of Paradise Island Boat Landing follows tidal currents on the Wando River while the guide interprets local wildlife and the region’s maritime history en route to the island.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip is appropriate for — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring a packed lunch, plenty of water, sunscreen, and any snacks or drinks you want while on the island. A dry bag or phone bag is recommended to keep valuables dry.
Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet and water shoes; closed-toed water shoes are preferred, though sandals and flip-flops are acceptable. A hat is recommended for sun protection.
Sunscreen is essential; in summer bring bug repellent for the landing/meeting area (bugs are less of an issue on the water). If anyone has severe insect allergies, bring medications and alert the guide.
Guides may offer souvenirs such as hats for sale if you want mementos from the trip.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Where and when do we meet?
Meet at Paradise Island Boat Landing at 9:45 a.m.; departure is around 10:00 a.m.
How long is the trip?
The full outing is advertised as a roughly half‑day paddle with an overall duration of about five hours.
What should I bring for the island stop?
Bring a lunch, water, sunscreen, appropriate clothing and footwear for paddling and the beach, and a dry bag or phone bag for valuables.
Are children allowed?
Children are allowed if they are over 4 years old and at least 30 lbs; one person in the party must be over 18.
Can I paddle alone or are there weight limits?
Participants 14 and older may paddle alone. Craft weight limits are single kayaks 325 lbs, tandem 550 lbs, canoes 700 lbs, and paddleboards 250 lbs.
What if someone in my party has insect allergies?
If anyone has an allergy to stinging insects or ants, bring necessary medications (for example an epipen) and make the guide aware before departure.