Outer Banks: Bodie Island Clear Kayak Tour

If you’re looking to explore the Outer Banks in a way that combines natural beauty, wildlife sightings, and a touch of local history, the Bodie Island Clear Kayak Tour from Get Up and Go Kayaking might just be your perfect fit. This two-hour guided experience offers a fresh angle on the region’s scenic waterways, letting you see beneath the surface and get closer to the ecosystem than a typical boat trip.

What makes this tour stand out are a couple of key features: the crystal-clear kayaks that give an unobstructed view of the water’s depths and the knowledgeable guides who bring the area’s history to life. We also appreciate the small-group setting, which makes for a more intimate and relaxed outing.

However, keep in mind that this experience requires a moderate level of physical comfort—since you’ll be paddling for two hours—it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues. Still, if you’re eager to combine adventure with education, this tour is well-suited for nature lovers, curious travelers, and anyone eager to see the Outer Banks from a different angle.

Key Points

• Unique Viewing Experience: Transparent kayaks provide clear views of underwater wildlife and scenery.
• Educational Content: Guides share insights into Outer Banks history, adding depth to the adventure.
• Wildlife Spotting: Expect to see local animals and aquatic life beneath and around your kayak.
• Accessible for All Levels: The tour is designed to be suitable for most paddlers, with limited group size for personalized attention.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind.
• Perfect Duration: Two hours is just enough to enjoy a substantial experience without feeling rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Bodie Island Clear Kayak Tour

The Outer Banks boasts some of the most iconic lighthouse views in the East Coast, and this tour puts you right in the middle of it. The Bodie Island Lighthouse serves as a stunning backdrop, and paddling a clear kayak allows you to see directly beneath your boat—an opportunity to observe underwater life and the water’s ecosystem in a way that traditional kayaks can’t offer.

This tour is offered by Get Up and Go Kayaking, a company known for small-group adventures, which means you’ll likely get more personalized attention from your guide. With a maximum of 10 participants, the group size helps keep the experience relaxed and allows guides to answer questions and share local insights more effectively.

What to Expect from Your Kayaking Experience

The tour kicks off at a convenient location near Bodie Island Lighthouse. After a quick safety briefing, you’ll be fitted with your double, clear kayak—these are sturdy, stable, and designed to give you unobstructed views. The kayak’s transparency means you’re always aware of what’s happening beneath you—whether it’s a curious fish, a graceful crab, or the changing water plants.

As you glide along the calm waters, your guide will point out features of the landscape and share stories about the area’s history. The Outer Banks has a storied past, from shipwrecks to the evolution of the local communities, and your guide’s commentary helps you appreciate the significance of what you’re seeing.

Expect to spend part of your time quietly paddling and observing, with pauses to take in the scenery and perhaps snap photos of the lighthouse or wildlife. The tour’s design makes it suitable for all skill levels, including those new to kayaking.

Wildlife and Scenic Highlights

One of the main attractions of this tour is the opportunity to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. From beneath your kayak, you might see various fish, crabs, and perhaps seabirds. The Outer Banks’ ecosystem is a vibrant mix of salt marshes, shallow waters, and estuaries, all teeming with life.

Plus, you’ll have a stunning view of the Bodie Island Lighthouse, an 1872 structure that’s both photo-worthy and historically significant. The unobstructed water views allow you to appreciate the lighthouse’s scale and beauty from a fresh perspective.

Practical Details and What to Bring

As with any outdoor activity, preparation matters. The tour recommends bringing comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a towel, sunscreen, water, comfortable clothes, and water shoes. These items will help you stay comfortable during the paddle and ensure you can enjoy the scenery without worry.

The tour lasts about two hours, making it a manageable addition to your day. It’s ideal for those wanting a short but meaningful encounter with the Outer Banks’ natural environment.

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Pricing and Value

The tour’s price offers good value considering the rarity of clear kayak experiences and the inclusion of guided commentary. It’s a chance to see the region from a different angle without having to rent equipment or organize a self-guided trip. The small-group setting enhances the value, providing personalized attention and a more engaging experience.

You also have the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, which is always reassuring when planning outdoor activities.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and history buffs who want more than just a scenic boat ride. It suits families with older children (over 2 years old), groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a peaceful, engaging paddle. If you enjoy learning about local history and want a closer connection to the environment, this tour checks both boxes.

Those who prefer active, outdoor experiences will find this a rewarding outing, especially since it’s accessible for most levels of paddling skill. However, if you’re uncomfortable on the water or have mobility issues, you might want to consider whether a more stationary experience is better suited.

The Sum Up

The Outer Banks Bodie Island Clear Kayak Tour offers a distinctive way to experience this beloved region. Its highlight—the see-through kayaks—provides a novel perspective to appreciate the waterway’s wildlife and scenery. The knowledgeable guides enrich the journey with local stories and ecological insights, turning a simple paddle into an educational adventure.

This tour balances leisure and exploration, making it a good choice for those wanting a relaxed yet engaging outdoor activity. Its short duration and small-group setting ensure a personal touch, ideal for travelers seeking authentic and memorable experiences.

While the activity requires a modest physical effort, the payoff—the chance to see beneath the water’s surface and learn about the area’s history—is well worth it. For anyone eager to enjoy the Outer Banks from a fresh vantage point, this clear kayak tour offers a fun, educational, and visually stunning outing.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 2 years old can participate, but keep in mind the activity might be more enjoyable for kids who are comfortable on the water and able to sit for two hours.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for getting a little wet, water shoes, and bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a towel. The water and climate can be warm, but it’s best to be prepared.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour is designed to be accessible for most paddlers. It involves paddling a double kayak for about two hours, so a basic level of comfort with water activities is recommended.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change unexpectedly.

Are the kayaks stable?
Yes, the double kayaks are designed for stability and ease of paddling, even for beginners.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see fish, crabs, and seabirds. The ecosystem is vibrant and active, offering plenty of chances to spot interesting creatures beneath your kayak.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Absolutely—reviews highlight that guides are well-informed about the region’s history and ecology, enhancing the overall experience.

What if the weather is bad?
In case of poor weather, check with the tour provider about rescheduling or refunds, as safety always comes first.

This clear kayak tour in Bodie Island offers an uncommon and engaging way to enjoy the Outer Banks. It’s a memorable option that combines scenery, wildlife, and history—all in just two hours. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a family, or exploring with friends, it’s an experience that’s likely to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby