Paddle through the serene waters of Assateague Island National Seashore on a guided kayaking adventure. Expert guides lead the way, facilitating encounters with diverse wildlife like the famous Chincoteague ponies. Explore the island’s unique ecosystem, try your hand at fishing and clamming, and learn about the natural beauty of this stunning coastal landscape. It’s an experience that outdoor enthusiasts won’t want to miss.
This experience made our article of 3 Must-Try Canoe & Kayak Experiences In Maryland.
About the Tour
The Assateague Kayaking and Wildlife Discovery Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Assateague Island National Seashore.
Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour takes guests on a scenic kayaking adventure where they’ll have the chance to spot local wildlife like ponies, crabs, mussels, clams, and a variety of birds.
The tour is suitable for both new and experienced kayakers, with single and tandem kayaks available.
Guests will receive all necessary equipment, including a dry bag and personal flotation device, as well as the Assateague Island National Seashore entrance fee.
Kayaking Experience
Participants embark on an immersive kayaking experience as they glide through the serene waters of Assateague Island. Equipped with single or tandem kayaks, paddlers explore the island’s vast network of waterways, encountering a diverse array of wildlife along the way.
From spotting wild ponies grazing on the shoreline to observing crabs, mussels, and clams in their natural habitats, the tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with the island’s delicate ecosystem. Guided by knowledgeable experts, participants engage in activities like fishing and clamming, gaining a deeper appreciation for the local marine life.
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Wildlife Encounters
Throughout the guided kayaking tour, participants have numerous opportunities to observe the diverse array of wildlife inhabiting Assateague Island.
The tour often spotlights:
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The famous Chincoteague wild ponies, grazing peacefully along the shores.
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Inquisitive crabs scurrying across the sandbars.
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Succulent mussels and clams peeking out from the mudflats.
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A variety of coastal birds, from graceful herons to playful ospreys, soaring overhead.
These intimate wildlife encounters allow visitors to gain a deeper appreciation for the delicate ecosystem of Assateague Island.
Exploring Assateague Island
As the guided kayaking tour ventures deeper into Assateague Island, participants can’t help but marvel at the serene and untamed natural beauty that surrounds them. The island’s pristine beaches, towering dunes, and lush maritime forests offer a glimpse into a world untouched by human development. To enhance the exploration, the tour includes the following activities:
| Activity | Description |
| — | — |
| Fishing | Visitors can try their hand at catching local species such as striped bass and bluefish. |
| Clamming | Participants can learn how to properly harvest and cook fresh clams found in the island’s tidal flats. |
| Wildlife Viewing | The tour provides opportunities to spot the famous Chincoteague wild ponies, as well as a variety of shorebirds, crabs, and other marine life.
Tour Inclusions and Logistics
The guided kayaking tour includes all the necessary equipment for a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. Participants will receive:
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A single or tandem kayak
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A dry bag to keep belongings secure
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A personal flotation device for safety
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A paddle to propel the kayak
The meeting point is at the upcycled shipping container building, after entering Assateague Island National Seashore and making a right onto Bayside Drive.
The tour returns to the same location, and the entrance fee for the national seashore is included in the price.
Meeting and Pickup Details
The meeting point for the Assateague Kayaking Tour is at the upcycled shipping container building, located after entering Assateague Island National Seashore and making a right onto Bayside Drive.
The meeting point for the Assateague Kayaking Tour is at the upcycled shipping container building, located after entering Assateague Island National Seashore and making a right onto Bayside Drive.
Guests should follow the directions to the end of Bayside Drive to find the meeting point. The tour will return to this same location at the end.
Participants must arrive at the meeting point on time, as the tour will depart promptly.
Free parking is available at the meeting point, and the entrance fee to Assateague Island National Seashore is included in the tour price.
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Guest Accessibility and Testimonials
Is the Assateague Kayaking Tour accessible for all guests? The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. Most travelers can participate, though the tour isn’t recommended for children under 3 years old.
Here’s what you can expect from the guest experience:
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Wildlife Sightings: Guests consistently report positive experiences with spotting an array of wildlife, including ponies, crabs, mussels, clams, and a variety of birds.
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Suitable for All Skill Levels: The tour caters to both new and experienced kayakers, ensuring an enjoyable outing for everyone.
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Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers praise the friendly and knowledgeable guides who enhance the overall experience.
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Engaging Activities: Along With kayaking, guests can look forward to activities like fishing and clamming during the tour.
The Sum Up
The Guided Assateague Kayaking and Wildlife Discovery Tour is an exceptional opportunity to take in the serene beauty and diverse wildlife of Assateague Island. Paddling through the tranquil waters, guided by knowledgeable experts, participants can encounter the famous Chincoteague ponies and other captivating creatures while exploring the island’s unique ecosystem. With all necessary equipment and activities included, this tour caters to both new and experienced kayakers seeking an unforgettable adventure.
📍 This experience made our list of the 3 best Canoe & Kayak Experiences in Maryland
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