Richardson: New Year, New Day: A sunrise paddle and adventures at Sands Beach
Lowcountry waterways are at their most mysterious just before sunrise.
The predawn hours on tide-pulled creek or river have long been the domain of fishermen, duck hunters and those whose business carries them over the waves while others stir in their beds. In the darkness, black water giggles around dock pilings, marsh grass whispers in a faint breeze, water birds flutter overhead and the unmistakable exhale of a dolphin breaks the silence with the effect of a jogger passing a doughnut shop.
The hour is perfect for kayaking.
I believe it was Mark Twain who said, "The secret to getting ahead is getting started." This will never be more rewarding for you than when you take a predawn paddling trip -- and there is no shortage of good venues around here to do so. Finding the sunrise in the flat Lowcountry is not difficult but planning it properly can be very helpful. Pick a location that will offer you nice eastern views that are free of tall pines, power lines or waterfront condos that may obscure photos or require you to paddle a great distance to avoid. Be aware of boat traffic in places such as the Intracoastal Waterway and the strong pull of the tide. This last factor will be important as you could find yourself enjoying a spectacular sunrise view but be punished for it with a long, difficult paddle back against a notoriously unforgiving tidal current. Of course, a clear sky and nice weather are important -- not just for celestial viewing but wind and rain can turn any paddle into a challenge or even prove dangerous. Lastly, do not go alone. Not only is it safer to have a companion, an early morning paddle is often best when shared -- like a fireworks show or a holiday light display.
Recently I greeted the dawn by kayak with a group of friends. We put in at the famous Sands Beach in Port Royal and were blessed by an incredible Lowcountry winter sunrise as well as some bonus features. In the still air, nature made its presence known but the bright notes of the Marine Corps band reached us from across the marsh on nearby Parris Island. As the bright sun rose, the shrimping fleet docked at Port Royal reflected the colors of the sunrise seemingly as a city of white paint, masts, nets and gear. This was the Lowcountry at its finest and we had it practically all to ourselves.
As you plan your new year, I encourage you to seek new venues and adventures. Bluffton and the surrounding area are filled with opportunities to explore history, nature and the unique culture of Lowcountry life. The only thing you need to do is to simply get started.
Getting there
The Sands Beach is popular with boaters and beachcombers and is located right off 6th Street and Sands Beach Road in downtown Port Royal. It is a public park and boat landing that is accessible year-round and open from dawn to dusk.
From Bluffton, take S.C. 170 East across the Broad River Bridge to Shell Point Road. Take a right on Shell Point Road to Parris Island Gateway. A right on Parris Island gateway takes you past the eponymous Marine Corps training depot and into Port Royal. Take a right on Paris Avenue to 6th Street and follow signs for Sands Beach.
The Sands Beach: Local Destination for Lowcountry Adventure
The Sands Beach in downtown Port Royal has been one of the best-kept secrets of the Lowcountry for decades. It is a stretch of sand and shell that has been present since ancient days where the marsh meets the land at the confluence of Battery Creek and the Beaufort River.
Visitors can launch boats, enjoy picnics, explore nature and find prehistoric artifacts such as fossilized sharks' teeth.
A boardwalk was constructed more than 20 years ago, and it serves both fishermen and explorers alike as visitors can climb the multi-level observation tower for commanding views of the surrounding marsh and islands.
The Sands Beach is host to a number of local events and has long been a holiday destination as an ideal spot to view fireworks displays on Independence Day and other times. If you get a moment or a free afternoon, make a visit to The Sands. You will not be disappointed.
Bluffton resident Matt Richardson enjoys taking day trips with his family and exploring the Lowcountry. To see more pictures from his adventures, go to www.Flickr.com and search on the username "greenkayak73." He can be reached at greenkayak73@gmail.com.
This story was originally published January 6, 2016 at 2:02 PM with the headline "Richardson: New Year, New Day: A sunrise paddle and adventures at Sands Beach."