Kayaking + paddle boarding are great ways to explore the Charleston area. Tomorrow is the first day of summer, so we thought it’d only make sense to dive in to a few local spots to get your paddle on in the Holy City.

First, we should talk about paddling safety, so you don’t capsize. DYK Charleston County Parks offers classes on need-to-knows for your outdoor excursion? Register for the next class.

If you’re a first-timer or just looking for a little extra guidance, check out these local guides to enjoy your adventure. Note: This isn’t a comprehensive list.

Nature Adventures, 1 Shrimp Boat Ln., Mt. Pleasant | Choose between two, three, four, and five to six-hour tours through the Charleston waterways.
Coastal Expeditions, locations vary | Reserve a paddle board or kayak on Shem Creek or Isle of Palms and learn the basics from the pros.
Charleston Outdoor Adventures, 1871 Bowens Island Rd. | Let the pros show you the ropes on a two-or-three hour guided kayak tour of the saltwater creeks behind Folly Beach.
Charleston Paddle Co., locations vary | Explore the Charleston Harbor, Kiawah + Seabrook islands, Folly Beach, or Shem Creek on a tour from one of six launch sites.
Charleston SUP Safaris, 873Center St., Folly Beach | Try your hand at stand-up paddle boarding through Folly Beach waterways.
Water Dog Paddle Co., 1880 Andell Bluff Blvd., Johns Island | Try an on-water yoga experience for a change of pace.

Here are a few local county parks + public boat landings to get your feet wet:

Palmetto Islands County Park, 444 Needlerush Pkwy., Mt. Pleasant | Head to this 943-acre park + use the kayak launch or reserve a slip.
James Island County Park, 871 Riverland Dr. | Rent a kayak or paddle board starting at $4 per half hour.
Remleys Point, Mt. Pleasant | Check out the Cooper River + Wando River from this free, public boat launch in Mt. Pleasant.
Gadsonville, Awendaw | Paddle from this public boat landing to explore Copahee Sound.