duration: 3 Hours
cancellation_summary: Cancellation policy applies to reservations individually for each person. Please read our cancellation policy carefully.
meeting_point: Cherry Grove Public Ramp
min_age: 4
group_size: 2-10 Paddlers
pricing: Sit on Top Kayak - $60
Tandem Kayak - $110
description: ## Waties Island Twilight Kayak Adventure

Set out just before sunset and paddle toward Waties Island as the sky transforms into a canvas of glowing color. This twilight journey blends peaceful marsh creeks, open-water paddling, and a secluded island landing where the evening comes alive. As the sun dips below the horizon, keep an eye out for our playful “cartoon crabs” scurrying across the sand, and enjoy the soft glow of colorful eco‑friendly lanterns lighting your kayak for the return trip. With wildlife encounters, sunset views, and family‑friendly exploration, this adventure delivers an evening filled with wonder and unforgettable coastal magic.

What You’ll Experience

• Paddle toward Waties Island as the sky erupts in sunset color
• Watch for playful ghost crabs—our beloved “cartoon crabs”—as they scurry across the sand
• Explore a quiet stretch of island shoreline perfect for photos, wandering, and relaxing
• Learn about the wildlife, tidal rhythms, and natural beauty that shape this unique coastline
• Enjoy a lantern‑lit paddle back through peaceful waterways as twilight settles in

Why Guests Love It

A vibrant, family‑friendly twilight adventure where sunset skies, glowing lanterns, island exploration, and charming wildlife encounters create an evening you’ll talk about long after the paddle ends.
itinerary: - Arrive and Check In
Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled start time to meet your guide, get fitted with gear, and prepare for launch as the mid-day sun weakens into a comfortable ambient temperature over the marsh.

• Learn the Basics
  Begin with a brief on‑land paddle instruction to get everyone comfortable with technique and safety before heading into the evening light.

• Paddle to Waties Island
  Slip into the calm water and enjoy a scenic sunset paddle through the salt marsh toward Waties Island. Your guide leads the way through channels shaped by the tides, pointing out wildlife and unique coastal features along the route (Approx. 1 hour paddle).

• Add Lanterns to Your Kayak
  As daylight fades, your guide outfits each kayak with colorful eco‑friendly lanterns, creating a warm twilight glow for the journey back.

• Explore the Island at Sunset
  Spend time walking the wide sandy beach, capturing sunset photos, searching for shells, or simply relaxing as the sky shifts into twilight over this untouched coastal habitat (Approx. 1 hour on the island).

• Lantern‑Lit Paddle Back to the Ramp
  Begin the return trip through the marsh under the soft glow of your lanterns, taking in new views and evening wildlife activity as you make your way back to the launch point (Approx. 1 hour paddle).

All times listed in this itinerary are approximate. Because kayaking is a natural, outdoor activity and every group has a mix of abilities and paddling speeds, the exact timing of each segment may vary slightly. Your guide will keep the group moving at a comfortable, enjoyable pace for everyone.
highlights: - Sunset paddle to a secluded barrier‑island paradise
- Colorful eco‑friendly lanterns transform your kayak into a glowing twilight experience
- Playful encounters with ghost crabs—our beloved “cartoon crabs”—scurrying across the sand
- A perfect blend of adventure and serenity, ideal for families, first‑timers, and nature lovers

check_in_details: Please arrive 15 minutes early so you have time to park, check in, use the restroom, and get settled before the trip launches.
restrictions: ## Essential Eligibility Criteria
These guidelines follow the American Canoe Association’s standards to ensure every participant can take part safely and comfortably.
- Must be able to wear a properly fitted lifejacket (PFD) at all times on the water
- Must be able to follow instructions from guides (verbal or visual)
- Must be able to enter and exit a kayak independently or with minimal assistance
- Must be able to sit upright and maintain balance in a kayak
- Must be comfortable being in the water while wearing a lifejacket
- In the event of a capsize, must be able to:
- Remain calm while floating in a lifejacket
- Accept help from a guide during a rescue
- Must be able to manage personal care needs independently or with assistance from a family member
- Any medical conditions that could affect participation must be shared with guides in advance
- Participants must not be under the influence of alcohol or impairing substances during paddling hours
- Must be able to participate without presenting a danger to themselves or others
disclaimers: Outdoor activities involve inherent risks, and conditions such as weather, wildlife activity, water levels, and access to public lands may require adjustments to the route, timing, or overall experience. These decisions are made at the discretion of the guide to ensure group safety.

J & L Kayaking is not responsible for personal items that are lost, damaged, or left unattended during the trip. Participation is voluntary, and guests are expected to follow all safety instructions and disclose any medical conditions that may affect their ability to participate. By joining this experience, guests acknowledge these limitations and accept responsibility for their personal well‑being throughout the activity.

Weather can shape the feel of any trip, and some outings naturally end up easier than others depending on conditions and group abilities. No matter what the day brings, your guide will be right there with you—offering support, pacing the group appropriately, and helping whenever needed.