WILMINGTON KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Shark's Tooth Island to Smoke on the Water: Kayaking for Teeth, Tides and Quiet Islands
A 2.5–3 hour guided kayak tour around Shark's Tooth Island that combines easy, shallow-water paddling with island hopping, beachcombing for real shark teeth and a lunch stop at Riverlights Marina.
Shark's Tooth Island to Smoke on the Water: Kayaking for Teeth, Tides and Quiet Islands.
Paddling through calm, shallow stretches of the Cape Fear River, this guided outing threads together tiny spoil islands and sandbars where beachcombing yields real shark teeth and fossils. The route mixes relaxed on-water time with short on-foot explorations of Shark's Tooth Island, Keg Island and nearby Dot Islands, with naturalist interpretation from guides and a scenic pause for lunch at Riverlights Marina.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Search for real shark teeth and fossils
The tour centers on beachcombing the spit and shorelines of Shark's Tooth Island and nearby islets for authentic shark teeth and fossil fragments — a primary draw of the paddle.
Island hopping across shallow sandbars
Expect short landings on tiny islands and sandbars — Keg Island and the Dot Islands among them — with time to explore on foot between calm stretches of paddling.
Relaxed, guided paddling with naturalist interpretation
The experience is paced for relaxed exploration with guides providing instruction, interpretation and photo opportunities as you ride the tide to and from Marina Village at Riverlights and River Road Park.
What the day feels like
How the paddle unfolds
Over roughly two and a half to three hours, guides lead a shallow-water circuit that alternates short, easy paddles with on-foot searches of spoils islands and sandbars. The outing emphasizes relaxed exploration and photography, riding the tide as it carries small groups between Riverlights Marina, River Road Park and the islands that harbor shark teeth and fossils.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The tour runs approximately 2.5–3 hours.
Meet at Shark's Tooth Island in the Wilmington / Wrightsville Beach area for the guided paddle.
The route includes a relaxed stop at Marina Village at Riverlights where participants pause for lunch and regroup.
Follow operator guidance for any recommended personal items and gear.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The guided paddle lasts about 2.5–3 hours.
What will we be looking for?
Participants search shorelines and sandbars for real shark teeth and fossils during beachcombing stops.
Do I need prior kayak experience?
No — the tour is paced for relaxed exploration and takes place in calm, shallow water, suitable for most skill levels.
Are guides provided?
Yes — guides provide instruction, naturalist interpretation and photo opportunities throughout the outing.
Where does the tour go and where is the lunch stop?
The route visits Shark's Tooth Island, Keg Island and the Dot Islands with a relaxed lunch stop at Marina Village at Riverlights.
Is the trip covered by membership?
Enter your membership number upon booking; the headline context indicates 100% cost coverage with membership.