Trip Logistics
South Coast Paddling offers guided tours with knowledgeable and friendly guides, or self-discovery tours where you are free to explore our mapped waterways on your own. South Coast Paddling also offers customized team-building services, educational programs and other custom tours and packages to fit your needs. Call us or email for more information!
Reservations are not required but are encouraged and appreciated. Reservations are confirmed with a 25% nonrefundable deposit. All participants must be age 5 and up for tours. Under 12 must be in a tandem kayak with an adult. Anyone under the age of 18 must have written permission of parent or guardian.
General Information
Guided Tours
The friendly and knowledgeable guides at South Coast Paddling Company are here to provide an interpreted tour of our beautiful water trails while providing safety and comfort to you and your group. Our guides are trained under certification guidelines of the American Canoe Association. All trips are offered under Leave No Trace Guidelines.
We offer half day trips (up to 4 hours), full day (up to 8 hours) and overnight camping opportunities.
Self-Discovery Tours
Self-Discovery tours are offered for several designated/interpreted locations in Ocean Springs for half day trips (up to 4 hours) and full day (up to 8 hours).
Kayak Lessons
For those new to kayaking or interested in taking it to another level, South Coast Paddling Company offers two levels of kayak lessons.
Basic, 2-hour, 2 person minimum
Advanced, 4-hour, 2 person minimum
Custom Trips
South Coast Paddling Company is pleased to work with you to develop a customized experience for your needs. Examples include team building, youth and educational groups, special overnight camping events or hotel tour packages. We also offer trips for special interest groups such as birders or wildflower watching.
Rain date policy
In the case of inclement weather or other acts of God, we will issue a rain check for another date.
Trip Descriptions
See our Trip Reports
Old Fort Bayou
For a full day's paddle, the 12 mile trip from Gulf Hills Hotel & Resort to The Shed BBQ Joint, is a day of enjoyment on the first designated coastal blueway in South Mississippi. A black water bayou, Old Fort Bayou has a rich history and scenic environment traveling through coastal marsh and pine savanna. Shorter trips on Old Fort Bayou are available.
Davis Bayou
Paddle through a coastal black water bayou surrounded by tall marsh grass for a half day paddling adventure or extend your trip into the nearby Davis Bay and other waterways such as Heron Bayou or Simmons Bayou adjacent to the Gulf Islands National Seashore Park.
Deer Island
Deer Island is a small island at the mouth of Biloxi Bay, and a short paddle out to the island will allow you plenty of time to explore the interior bayous and the island itself. With a rich cultural history and many interesting bird species, Deer Island is listed as an Important Bird Area (IBA) and is a treat for kayakers.
Pascagoula River
As one of Mississippi's truly undiscovered treasures, the Pascagoula River is the largest undammed river in the lower 48 states. This unique river system offers a stunning array of opportunities including dozens of large and small tributaries to explore. Or stay in the main river for more incredible scenery including beautiful sandbars and over 300 species of birds!
Climate
Mississippi's moderate southern weather encourages outdoors activities year 'round. The state experiences four distinct seasons, but temperatures are mild all year. For local weather conditions and weather forecasts for specific southern cities, please visit weather.com.
Ocean Springs has average temperatures of 50 degrees - 60 degrees (Fahrenheit) in the winter months; 60 - 75 degrees in the spring; 80 - 90 degrees in the summer; and 60 - 80 degrees in the fall.
What We Provide
South Coast Paddling will provide shuttle service, PFD, paddle and brief kayak instruction for all our customers. For guided trips, South Coast will provide snacks and meals for full day and overnight trips.
We have small (cell phone size) and large (5 gallon) dry bags for rent or purchase through our company store.
What You Should Bring
Your safety is paramount. Please wear appropriate river shoes and clothing for the time of year you will visit. For cold weather kayaking information, click here. If you have specific questions about clothing or other gear, please call us!
Other recommendations: sunscreen, water bottle, hat, sunglasses, personal camping gear for overnight trips
2335 Government Street, Ocean Springs, MS 39564
228-872-2030
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