Kiawah Island's reputation as a recreationally diverse and nature based vacation destination has continued to evolve since the resort's inception in 1976. The resort's ongoing commitment to providing new services and tours that enlighten guests about the island's complex ecosystem plays a big part in why Kiawah continues to remain a favorite of nature lovers and families.
This year is no different as a variety of new inshore charters and eco tours are available, all aboard a 24 foot Sea Pro bay boat.
Already one of the most popular tours is the Dolphin Encounters, which explores the habitat of the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin. Captain Chad Hayes, the tour's guide, conducted a freelance research project on Kiawah's resident dolphins to catalog and document the individuals and behavior. Due to the intimate nature of this excursion and Hayes' knowledge of the salt marsh ecology and dolphin behavior, this encounter is unlike any other.
Hayes also conducts two cruises: one at sunset throughout Kiawah's most scenic locations; the other to one of the area's oldest and most historic landmarks the Morris Island lighthouse, which was the scene of the most significant battles of the Civil War.
Another resident expert and seven time Charleston Angler of the Year, Captain Mike Waller, conducts the new inshore fishing charter. Participants use Shimano spinning rods and reels to catch Redfish, Speckled Sea Trout, Flounder, Sharks and other seasonal species. During the warmer summer and fall months, fishing is done in the many creeks and rivers surrounding Kiawah Island. However, during the cooler winter months, anglers travel to near shore reefs for the best fishing the area has to offer.
These new additions complement the resort's existing water based activities, which have always been one of the finest ways to enjoy Kiawah's tranquil setting and natural environment. The paddling tours take in Kiawah's maze of tidal creeks and marshes, and are a great way to bond with family members. Each tour is conducted by a resort naturalist who will stop at certain areas to explain the importance of the marsh to the island's ecology. The resort also has a kayak rental program for those with previous paddling experience. Participants are provided with a detailed map, safety guidelines and brief instructions.
The Family Kayaking program runs throughout the year, so if busy schedules have families constantly traveling in opposite directions, this is a fun and unique way to bring everyone back together. Double kayaks allow paddlers to buddy up so the whole family can enjoy the unique thrill of salt marsh kayaking. Children must be 10 years of age or older; under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult.
From May through October, the resort offers a Parent Child Kayak Sampler. This program gives even the youngest paddlers a kayaking option. Using sit on top kayaks, families get an introduction to kayaking and also learn some basic salt marsh ecology. Children must be at least 4 years old and at least 30 lbs. Each child must be paired with an adult.
'Many families have difficulty comprehending the Kiawah family experience until they get here and become absorbed by it,' says Dylan Jones, Kiawah's director of recreation. 'At Kiawah, you can pursue your interests individually then get back together for family activities in the evening. This all takes place within our island's safe embrace a secluded barrier island planned for activities and exploration.'
Indeed, the choices are immense. Not only do Kiawah's renowned golf and tennis programs offer family and children's programs, but there are also 30 miles of bike trails and 10 miles of beach on which to safely bike. Then there is the choice of accommodations: families love the flexibility of either staying in a private home or villa, or the hotel environment of The Sanctuary.
Depending on location, there are two centers to learn more about what types of family activities Kiawah offers. The Discovery Room, located at The Sanctuary, allows parents, teens and youngsters alike to discover Kiawah's many mysteries and adventures through interactive displays and talks by some of the island's naturalists. At Night Heron Park, the resort's Nature Center is considered the hub for most recreational programming. Night Heron Park, which features a junior Olympic size pool, a soccer field, basketball and volleyball courts, is also the location for nightly family entertainment and events.
For children aged 3 11, Kamp Kiawah rotates a program that incorporates many different entertaining and educational offerings. For example, on Wednesdays children can enjoy Nutty about Nature, which includes crabbing, a scavenger hunt and flowerpot decorating. On Thursdays, they can take part in Clownin' Around, where face painting and parachute games are on the agenda. Some of Kamp Kiawah's other activities include: Blackbeard's Treasure, Backyard Campout, Kiawah Idol, Icky Sticky Island, Mystical Science and Kiawah Spies.
There is just so much for children to enjoy,' says Jones. 'Whether they're participating in Kamp Kiawah, enjoying the beach or participating in a family oriented activity with their parents, there's never a dull moment.'
For older children, there are a variety of organized activities, including sports events and socials. However, many teens enjoy the nature oriented programming, much of which is available for the whole family.
Recreation, Nature & Kamp Kiawah Programming Schedule of Activities: For holiday weeks, a schedule of events is posted in the resort's activity guide and on Kiawah Island Golf Resort's website. For all other weeks, visit the Heron Park Nature Center upon arrival to the island, or call (843) 768 6001 or ext. 86001.
Reservations: Reservations are required for most Nature Programs. Guests may make advance reservations through the following services.
Via the Web: An up to date schedule of programs and activities is on the resort's website. Guests are encouraged to make advance reservations via the Internet at recreation.kiawahresort.com/activities.html.
By Phone: Make reservations over the phone by calling the Heron Park Center at (843) 768 6001 or ext. 86001. Before calling, please highlight your desired tours in daily order and have your resort identification/confirmation number or credit card number available.
Perfect ~ by Nature
Located in the Historic Plantation District, Poplar Grove is an escape to the only backyard that gives you 6,000 acres to play on. Just minutes from Downtown Charleston, yet so far away from the mainstream of traffic, Poplar Grove is home to some of the most natural amenities you’ll find anywhere.
Within the boundaries of the original walled city of Charleston, we are building a home of handsome romance ... an enchanting residence by Sintra Homes. Like a storybook, the sparkling new 4,700 square foot residence features tiered Juliet balconies, secret garden spaces and the most sumptuous spa-style bath in all of Charleston.
Executive Chef Randy Williams and Founding Chef Donald Barickman have created a new menu at Blossom focusing on fresh seafood with local flair. Distinctive flavors enhance seafood producing invigorated American cuisine with southern sensibility. Blossom is perfect for sumptuous seafood.
Visit The Sanctuary 
Perfect ~ by Nature
Located in the Historic Plantation District, Poplar Grove is an escape to the only backyard that gives you 6,000 acres to play on. Just minutes from Downtown Charleston, yet so far away from the mainstream of traffic, Poplar Grove is home to some of the most natural amenities you’ll find anywhere.
Within the boundaries of the original walled city of Charleston, we are building a home of handsome romance ... an enchanting residence by Sintra Homes. Like a storybook, the sparkling new 4,700 square foot residence features tiered Juliet balconies, secret garden spaces and the most sumptuous spa-style bath in all of Charleston.
Executive Chef Randy Williams and Founding Chef Donald Barickman have created a new menu at Blossom focusing on fresh seafood with local flair. Distinctive flavors enhance seafood producing invigorated American cuisine with southern sensibility. Blossom is perfect for sumptuous seafood. 
