I love paddling. Most of my kayak adventures are in northern Minnesota, exploring the Boundary Waters. But in early April, a thick layer of ice makes it pretty difficult to paddle the lakes of northern Minnesota. So, to get my fix – I headed south to the intercoastal of Sunset Beach, North Carolina.
Kayaking Sunset Beach, NC: A Hidden Intercoastal Adventure
I was surprised to find a whole new wilderness between the small town of Sunset Beach and the island. A marshy grassland occupied by water fowl, fish, dolphins, and sometimes even alligators stretch as far as the eye can see. There were numerous grassy channels to explore. Despite the muddy, brackish water, the air was crisp and fresh. And the best part (at least in April), was that there were no mosquitos (in MN the mosquito is considered the state bird)!
The Sunset Beach Intercoastal made the perfect day trip. My son and father in-law took a tandem and I used a single kayak. We headed out an hour before high tide. This way the current pushed us into the grassy channels. There was plenty of marshy wilderness to explore, but we also checked out some of the expensive beach houses along Sunset Beach Island. We paddled for an hour and then headed back. By this time the tides turned and the current was pulling us back to our original destination.
Tide Tips: Why Timing Your Paddle Matters
Being mindful of the tides is important when navigating and planning your intercoastal kayak adventure. If you get stuck in a shallow area during low tide, you may find yourself walking through a mud pit carrying your kayak – and no one wants that. Thankfully, we planned ahead and set out when the water was high.
I check the Sunset Beach Tides at tides4fishing.com. There are plenty of tide charts out there, but this is where I go.
Wish I Had Brought a Fishing Pole… Lessons Learned
I wish that I had brought a fishing pole with me because there was fish jumping out of the water everywhere. The three previous days I spent surf fishing on the beach and I only caught two fish. I learned that a lot of the fishing action on the North Carolina coast is not on the surf but in the intercoastal.
Where to Launch Kayak to Explore the Sunset Beach Intercoastal
We checked out several launch points near Sunset Beach, but by far the best opportunity was Sunset Beach Park / Public Landing. It’s easy to park your car and you can choose whether to launch from the boat landing or on a clamshell beach.
Sunset Beach, NC Kayak Rentals
We rented our kayaks from hightidebeachrentals.com. I would highly recommend renting from them. The kayak came with a life vest, paddle, waterproof bag, safety whistle, and anchor. They even delivered the kayak right to the park landing!
When dropping the Kayak off, the owner, Joe gave us a rundown of where we should go and even gave some of his fishing tips for free. He told me he had several fishing Kayaks in inventory with gear. Next trip, I am going to rent a fishing Kayak from him.
✅ Family-Friendly Kayak Trip Checklist – NC Coast Edition
If you are like me, part of the fun is sharing the experience with my kids. I have been in some character-building moments on the water with my children. My number one goal is to keep them safe on the water and have a great time. Whether you’re paddling through the intercoastal marshes of Sunset Beach, exploring creeks near Ocean Isle, or cruising the sound in North Myrtle, here’s everything you need to plan a safe, fun, and memorable kayak trip with the kids.
🧭 Trip Planning Essentials
- ☐ Check tide charts (aim for launching an hour before high tide)
- ☐ Look up wind & weather conditions (ideal: calm, under 10 mph winds)
- ☐ Choose a protected launch spot (minimal boat traffic + easy access)
- ☐ Plan a short route with landmarks—1–2 hours max for younger kids
- ☐ Call ahead for rental availability (ask about tandem options)
- ☐ Let someone know your float plan (just in case)
🛶 Gear to Bring
- ☐ Kayak (tandem for littles, singles for older kids)
- ☐ PFDs/life jackets (Coast Guard-approved, properly fitted for kids)
- ☐ Paddles (child-sized if needed)
- ☐ Dry bag for phones, keys, snacks
- ☐ Waterproof phone case or floaty
- ☐ Anchor or stakeout pole (optional for breaks)
- ☐ Paddle leash (so no one throws it overboard mid-snack)
🧴 Comfort & Safety Must-Haves
- ☐ Sunscreen (reef-safe, water-resistant)
- ☐ Hats with brims + sunglasses (with straps!)
- ☐ Insect repellent (especially in marsh areas)
- ☐ Reusable water bottles (everyone gets their own)
- ☐ Towels or change of clothes (especially if someone “accidentally” jumps in)
- ☐ First aid kit (just in case of oyster cuts or mystery scrapes)
- ☐ Waterproof whistle or safety signal device
🍿 Kid-Friendly Survival Kit
- ☐ Easy snacks (granola bars, crackers, fruit pouches)
- ☐ Binoculars or nature journal (for spotting birds, dolphins, etc.)
- ☐ Waterproof camera or GoPro (for memories + distractions)
- ☐ Small fishing net or shell collecting bag
- ☐ A reward for after the paddle (ice cream works wonders)
🐟 Optional for Fishing Families
- ☐ Spinning rod or push-button rod for kids
- ☐ Compact tackle box with basics (hooks, jigheads, soft plastics)
- ☐ Bait bucket or cooler
- ☐ Kayak-mounted rod holders (if using a fishing kayak)
👪 Final Tips
- ✅ Do a dry run—let kids practice paddling near shore before heading out
- ✅ Build in breaks—let them explore sandbars or take a snack stop
- ✅ Keep it fun, flexible, and leave room for wonder
- ✅ Always double-check tide times and avoid low-tide traps
Final Thoughts
If you love to get out on the water and are around North Myrtle Beach, Calabash, Sunset Beach, or Ocean Isle – then you should consider taking a day trip in the intercoastal waters. I was surprised how much solitude I found near these busy beaches. Soaking in the sun and feeling the cool breeze will rejuvenate your soul without getting caked with sand.
🚣♂️ Planning your own coastal kayak adventure?
Grab this checklist and hit the water with confidence! Whether you’re paddling with little ones or teens, a little planning makes all the difference.
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