Recreation for Seniors
“You don’t stop playing because you grow old, you grow old because you stop playing.” —Ben Franklin
At Kiawah Island Golf Resort, we believe that guests of all ages are entitled to the full enjoyment of all of our recreation programs. Although all of our nature programs and activities are available for everyone, we have highlighted some that may be more enjoyable for our senior guests. Please call the Recreation Department at (843) 768-6001 if there are any special accommodations we can make to ensure a pleasurable experience for you on any of our nature tours and activities during your stay.
For a complete schedule of tours and events, please view the Events Calendar.
(1/5 – 5/5)
Denotes the level of physical exertion required for each of our trips.
The lower number out of 5, the lower the physical exertion, the higher number out of 5 the higher physical exertion.For more detailed information, please call the Heron Park Nature Center (843) 768-6001.
Paddling Tours
Glide at a dolphin’s pace while navigating the shifting currents of the Kiawah River and its maze of tidal creeks. View wildlife and learn about Kiawah’s pristine salt marshes while experiencing the silent tranquility of paddling. Led by knowledgeable Kiawah Island Naturalists, paddling adventures are an enjoyable way to take a unique look at this incredible island. Paddling options include: Single or Double Sit-On-Top Kayaks.
For more information and a weekly schedule, please visit our Paddling Tours page.
Adult Sunset Paddle (5/5)
Enjoy a leisurely paddle at sunset on the Kiawah River. Paddle with a partner in a stable double kayak. Moderate physical ability required. Participants must be 16 years of age or older, under 18 accompanied by an adult.
- Duration: 2 hours
Marsh Kayaking (5/5)
Although a little more strenuous, enjoy the freedom and ease of paddling in a single kayak. This is a faster paced tour with moderate physical ability required. Participants must be 16 years or older, under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Duration: 2 hours
Motorboat Charters
All motor boat tours require only a 150 foot walk down a slightly sloped boardwalk to board the boat. Assistance is available upon request. Our motorboat tours leave from Mingo Point, bathrooms and water refill station on site. Sunscreen and bug spray available for purchase. Bring beverages of your choice, including alcohol (no glass). Captains have cooler space and ice. Wine and Champagne must be poured into a plastic cup. There is room for bags and personal items on board our 24’ bay boat.
For more information and a weekly schedule, please visit our Motorboat Charters & Excursions page.
Deveaux Bank Seabird Sanctuary (1/5)
The Lowcountry Salt Marsh and its surrounding tidal creeks, oyster beds, and mud flats provide an abundant array of migratory, shore, and wading birds. Come join us as we cruise the river on our way to the South East’s largest shorebird nesting site, Deveaux Bank. Located at the mouth of the North Edisto River, this Sandspit island provides vital habitat to thousands of nests of dozens of different species of migratory and ground nesting shore birds.
Dolphin Encounters (1/5)
Board our custom built eco-tour boat as we search Kiawah’s inlets, creeks and marshes for Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin. Learn more about their habits and behaviors, getting an up-close and personal experience like no other.
Holy City Harbor Cruise (1/5)
Join us as we travel the back way into Charleston’s Harbor. Once there, we’ll see where pirates were hung, where the first shots of the civil war were fired, and the many steeples highlighting the skyline. Get an up close look at Castle Pinckney, Ft. Sumter, and the USS Yorktown as your captain navigates the historic waters.
Sunset Cruise (1/5)
As the sun sets over the marsh, colors come alive. The tranquility of the water brings peace to the day. Relax and be among friends and family, this is what Kiawah is all about.
Fishing Tours (2/5)
Inshore Fishing Charter, Near Coastal and Reef Fishing, and Shark Fishing are all available. For more information please visit the Fishing Tours & Charters page, and for reservations call the Heron Park Nature Center at 843.768.6001.
Van Tours
For more information on our Van Tours, please visit the Walking Tours & Adventures page.
Alligator Adventure (2/5)
Travel with us as we search our naturalists’ favorite gator hangouts for these impressive predators. This is a fantastic way to observe and learn about these amazing, and often misunderstood animals in their natural habitat. You will be getting in and out of the van approximately 3 to 4 times and doing some moderately paced walking to search for these reptiles.
Back Island Birding (3/5)
We’ll use the van to reach several remote island habitats to seek out dozens of bird species, both large and small, and learn about the natural history of our diverse avian wildlife. If you are new to birding join us on a Birding for Beginners walking tour. Binoculars and field guides are provided, but you are welcome to bring your own. Moderate physical ability required.
Bicycle Tours
All bike tours utilize our island style “Beach cruisers” and explore the Island’s 30 miles of flat paved bicycle trails and 10 miles of hard packed beach. Bicycles come equipped with a small tote bag for carrying drinks, phones, cameras, and smaller personal items. Baskets and helmets are available upon request. For more information on our Bicycle Tours, please visit the Walking Tours & Adventures page.
Historical Sunset Cycle (5/5)
Less than a 3 mile round trip with frequent stops to get on and off the bike. Upon availability adult trikes can be requested. A gently paced biking tour with some on-foot exploration. Have you ever wondered where the name “kiawah” came from, or when Kiawah became an island? This tour will explore the history, ecology, and beautiful views of our unique island. Timed with the sunset, we will be able to enjoy relaxing landscapes to escort us back to the nature center. (Available upon request.)
Wildlife in the Wetlands (5/5)
Join a Naturalist on a 7-mile bike tour to discover the fascinating world of wildlife that inhabits Kiawah’s diverse ecosystems. While enjoying a leisurely bike ride, you’ll gain a better understanding of the beach, dunes, maritime forest, ponds, and salt marsh that stretch across the island. This tour offers a great opportunity to see much of the island in just a few hours. Moderate physical ability required.
Walking Tours
The nature of Kiawah’s five major ecosystems provides an ideal setting for outdoor walks. Enjoy the natural beauty and discover amazing wildlife while exploring remote areas of the island. From sand dunes to salt marshes and maritime forests, observe firsthand why this barrier island continues to flourish and protect native species. For more information on our Walking Tours, please visit the Walking Tours & Adventures page.
Birding for Beginners (2/5)
Just beginning your bird watching endeavor? This walking tour is just what you need to learn the birding basics. A Naturalist will lead you on a walk through various types of habitats to learn which birds are found where, and what to look for when identifying each species.
Gator Walk (2/5)
Less than a mile walk with a Kiawah Naturalist to explore the life of the American Alligator. As we search the ponds and waterways for alligators of all sizes, your Naturalist will explain how alligators survive and thrive on Kiawah. A great tour for the entire family! Have the opportunity to pet one of our live, captive, baby alligators! Offered seasonally.
Night Beach Walk (2/5)
Come join a naturalist on an evening beach walk to learn all about the biology of our native Loggerhead Sea Turtles and many other species. Once the sun sets you will discover a nocturnal world that is very different from the one seen during the day. Listen for owl calls and spotlight for alligators on the walk back. Live turtle nesting is unlikely. Offered seasonally.
Swimming Pools
*For the Exclusive use of Kiawah Island Golf Resort guests and Governor’s Club Members
For more information and a list of pool hours, please visit the Pools page.
Night Heron Family Pool
Being the largest pool in the complex, the family pool is a 25m Jr. Olympic Pool, with space for lap swimming and an aqua sundeck for lounging. Large sunning areas, shaded areas, changing facilities and close proximity to the beach make this a great facility! Heated in spring and fall through Thanksgiving.
Night Heron Children’s Pool
This new and exciting pool offers a beach entry with sand chairs and for those feeling adventurous, try out one of the two exciting open flume slides.
West Beach Pool
The West Beach Tennis and Pool Complex, built in 2012, is a great addition to the West Beach area. It is located across from Villa Check-In and offers a 5 foot deep swimming area, an aqua playground with interactive play features and kiddies slides and an enclosed tube slide for the adventurous type!
Fitness Classes
For a full list of fitness classes and a current schedule, please visit our Health & Fitness Page.
Yoga (2/5) (Seasonal)
This class will focus on gentle stretches, balance, and building strength. All levels are welcome.
Sunrise Yoga on the Beach (3/5) (Seasonal)
This Yoga class will provide the perfect start to your day! Increase your strength and flexibility and clear your mind in this incredible setting. No yoga experience needed.
Leisurely Activities
Beach Services
Join Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s Recreation Staff for beach chairs and umbrellas to make the most of your beach experience. Offering a wide variety of beach amenities, complimentary beach towel service, great rates and friendly beach attendants. Beach sets can be rented at Boardwalk 22, 27 and west of the Sanctuary Beach Access..
Turtles’ Nest Art Studio (1/5)
The Island’s spot for an Art workshop, Turtles’ Nest is a great indoor area to take a break during rainy days or just plain hot ones! We offer a variety of crafts and activities weekly. For more information and a weekly class schedule, please visit the Turtles’ Nest Art Studio page.
Glass Fusing 101
Learn techniques on how to cut glass in order to create a unique glass fusing project that will last a lifetime. Class includes one pendant or a 3×3″ glass tile.
Bicycle Rentals
Explore Kiawah Island By Bike
With 10 miles of beach and over 30 miles of paved trails, a bicycle is the best way to get around the island! If you want to explore Kiawah by bike, but desire the added stability and comfort of a three wheeler, then our adult tricycle is the right bike for you. This user friendly trike gives you an extremely low step thru for easy on and off the bike access. Tricycles are quipped with coaster-style brakes, large saddle seats, wide handlebars and a basket. 24″ adult tricycle is designed for guests 4.5″ and taller. Due to limited availability, please call the Heron Park Nature Center directly at (843) 768-6001 for reservations.