Kayaking in North Carolina

Kayaking Trips in North Carolina

North Carolina is packed with scenic water to paddle and quite a few possibilities for overnight trips, too! This coastal state has a lot of inland lakes in addition to the surf of the Atlantic. Check out all kayaking trips in North Carolina for every level of kayaker. Whether you're looking for a guided trip, kayak rentals, self-guided, day trip, multi-day trip, or anything in between, there's a kayak trip in North Carolina for you! If you've paddled North Carolina before, be sure to share your trip with the rest of us!

Planning the trip of a lifetime? Check out these safe paddling tips and always wear your life jacket


- Brought to you by the Water Sports Foundation and the SFRBTF administered by the U.S. Coast Guard -

Guide to Kayaking in North Carolina

While you can expect snow in the middle of the winter, North Carolina can be paddled year-round. In the warmer months, you will find lush vegetation and potential for humid conditions in many areas. Here are a few popular paddling destinations in North Carolina:

  • Price Lake
  • Dan River
  • Cape Fear River

Kayaking Locations In North Carolina

If you want to plot your own route, check out all paddling locations in North Carolina! Search thousands of put-in and take-out locations on our Paddling Locations Map and be sure to download the Go Paddling app where you can save favorites or create and share a float plan!

Plan a Kayaking Trip in North Carolina

Over the years, many of our paddlers have paddled throughout North Carolina and were so generous to share their paddling experiences with us in a community trip report. Read a few examples of North Carolina community trip reports below:

Connect with Paddlers in North Carolina

Are you looking to connect with other paddlers about going kayaking in North Carolina? Check out the Paddling.com Message Boards for resources to help you get started.

Kayak Outfitters in North Carolina

Looking to rent a kayak or go on a guided trip? Check out these outfitters in North Carolina: