If you’re looking for a quiet, scenic paddle just minutes from downtown Charleston, Coburg Creek is a perfect choice. Nestled in West Ashley, this tidal creek winds through salt marshes and shady backyards, offering peaceful water, abundant wildlife, and two great access points for kayakers and paddleboarders.
Whether you’re a weekend paddler or looking for a new route off the beaten path, here’s how to launch, navigate, and enjoy Coburg Creek by paddleboard or kayak.
📍 Where to Access Coburg Creek
1. Wappoo Road Bridge (Informal Launch Spot)
Located near the intersection of Wappoo Road and Edgewater Drive, this is a hidden gem of an entry point. While there’s no official launch facility here, locals often access the creek from a grassy area just off the bridge.
What to Know:
- Park carefully along the roadside (obey signage).
- Carry your kayak or board down the gentle slope near the water’s edge.
- Great for short trips into Edgewater Park and for a calm, quick paddle.
Tip: This is a fantastic spot for an early morning paddle. The light filtering through the trees makes for a dreamy start.
2. Wappoo Cut Boat Landing (Formal Access)
Located just off Wappoo Drive, this public boat landing gives you direct access to the Wappoo Cut, which connects to Coburg Creek via a short paddle.
Why Launch Here:
- Paved parking lot
- Restrooms and trash bins
- Room to launch even during busy boating hours
From the boat ramp, paddle west and follow the waterway into Coburg Creek. You’ll pass under the Savannah Highway bridge and skirt the edge of marsh and waterfront homes before entering the quieter waters of the creek.
🛶 What to Expect on the Water
Coburg Creek is:
- Calm and protected – Great for beginner paddlers
- Tidal – Watch the tide chart; low tide can expose mudflats
- Full of wildlife – Look for dolphins, herons, egrets, fiddler crabs, and even the occasional otter
The water winds past Edgewater Park, Avondale backyards, and into shaded, tree-lined sections perfect for quiet reflection or photography.
📅 When to Go
- Best time: Within two hours of high tide (to avoid getting stuck in the mud or shallow flats)
- Early mornings or evenings offer the best light and least boat traffic
- Avoid paddling on extremely windy days or just after heavy rains
Use a tide app like Tides Near Me or check the NOAA tide chart for Wappoo Cut to plan your launch.
🧭 Suggested Paddle Routes
🟢 Quick 1-Hour Loop
- Launch from Wappoo Road Bridge
- Paddle into Edgewater Park, loop past docks, and return
🔵 Half-Day Explorer Route
- Launch from Wappoo Cut Boat Landing
- Paddle into Coburg Creek, drift past Edgewater Park
- Optional: Continue until the creek shallows, then return
Bring snacks, water, and sun protection if you’re staying out longer.
🧺 Pack This Before You Go
- Paddleboard or kayak
- Paddle leash (especially for SUPs)
- Dry bag with phone, keys, snacks
- PFD (life jacket) — required by law
- Tide chart
- Sunscreen & bug spray
- Water shoes (for muddy landings)
💬 Final Thoughts
Paddling Coburg Creek is like discovering your own personal water trail—peaceful, picturesque, and full of Charleston charm. Whether you sneak in from the Wappoo Road bridge or set off from the main boat landing, this is one Lowcountry paddle you’ll want to return to again and again.
Have you paddled Coburg Creek? Got a favorite launch spot or wildlife story? Drop a comment below and share your experience!
Tags: Coburg Creek, Paddleboarding Charleston, Kayaking West Ashley, SUP, Wappoo Cut, Lowcountry Paddling, Charleston Waterways