Captain Sam's Spit Kayaking Expedition: Is It Worth It?

Captain Sam's Spit is a dynamic barrier island located at the southern tip of Kiawah Island. Named after an 18th-century mariner, Captain Sam’s Spit is a critical habitat for many species, including loggerhead sea turtles, bottlenose dolphins, and numerous shorebirds.

Its ever-changing landscape, shaped by tides and storms, makes it a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts. However, this pristine area faces ongoing threats from proposed developments, which could disrupt the delicate ecosystem and the wildlife it supports. Conservation efforts are crucial to preserving this unique environment for future generations.

After your adventure on the water, unwind with a visit to Low Tide Brewing. This local brewery offers a range of craft beers, perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Sample some of their signature brews while soaking in the friendly, laid-back atmosphere.

For dinner, head to one of the best-kept secrets outside of Charleston: The Wild Olive. This charming Italian restaurant offers a farm-to-table dining experience, featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients in their delectable dishes. End your day with a delicious meal, reflecting on the natural beauty and rich history you’ve experienced on Johns Island.

If the Captain Sam's Spit kayaking adventure is up your alley, check out some of our top summer destinations featured in the 2024 Thrill-Seekers issue.

If you want to know what it feels like to swim in a sea of LEGOs, check out Brick Fest Live!

Brick Fest

The ultimate hands-on LEGO event is coming back to Charlotte! Brick Fest Live will take place at The Park Expo and Conference Center on August 10-11, 2024, showcasing over a million LEGO bricks ready for play and exploration.

Brick Fest Live offers families the chance to marvel at incredible creations from around the globe, all made entirely of LEGO bricks. Both children and adults will be amazed by life-sized LEGO models and interactive building activities designed to ignite creativity and imagination.

This event is perfect for family bonding, as kids can build alongside their parents, siblings, and even grandparents. It’s an inspiring experience that encourages the next generation of artists, engineers, and leaders.

In addition to the awe-inspiring models and exciting building challenges, attendees can:

• See life-sized LEGO models
• Contribute to a Guinness World Record-setting floor mosaic
• Express creativity at hands-on build zones
• Race brick-built cars down a 35-foot derby ramp
• Shop for rare and hard-to-find LEGO merchandise
• Build collaborative LEGO mosaics with other attendees
• Enter the GLOW ZONE to build with bricks that shine under blacklight
• Meet LEGO Masters from the hit TV show
• Play in a massive Brick Pit filled with hundreds of thousands of LEGO bricks

When: Saturday and Sunday, August 10-11, 2024
Where: The Park Expo and Conference Center, Charlotte, NC

For tickets and more information, visit Brick Fest Live.

Exclusive Offer for Carolina Traveler VIP Subscribers: We have two free tickets available on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact us to claim your tickets and enjoy this unforgettable LEGO experience!

Need a unique summer date idea? The Andrews Valley Rail Tour is a perfect day trip!

Andrews Valley Rail Tour

If you're searching for a unique and memorable summer day trip just as exciting as an adventure to Captain Sam's Spit, Andrews Valley Rail Tours offers an unparalleled experience. Nestled in the scenic Great Smoky Mountains, these rail tours provide a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty and rich history of the NC mountain region.

Tours leave daily, Wednesday through Sunday, at 8:30 am, 11:30 am, and 3 pm from the Andrews Train Depot. There are three options for riding the rails at Andrews Valley Rail Tours, each for only $59.99 per person.

For those looking for a physical challenge similar to a Captain Sam's Spit paddle, we suggest booking your tour on the 4-person railbike, an electric assisted bike allowing you to do a gentle pedal on the 8.5 mile journey through the Andrews Valley. If you want to be on the same rail bike as your friends and family, please be sure to book in the same booking!

Learn more about the Andrews Valley Rail Tour thrill-seeking experience

Lake Lure is one of the best places to beat the summer heat in the Carolinas

The Best Lakes in the Carolinas: #6 Lake Lure

Lake Lure, nestled in the heart of North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, is renowned as one of the state's most beautiful and versatile lakes, making it an ideal summer destination. Its shimmering waters, framed by lush green mountains and iconic rock formations, provide a stunning backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities.

One of the most popular activities at Lake Lure is boating. Visitors can rent pontoon boats, kayaks, or paddleboards to explore the lake's tranquil waters and hidden coves. Fishing enthusiasts will find the lake teeming with bass, trout, and catfish, offering an excellent opportunity for a relaxing day on the water.

Swimming at the Lake Lure Beach is a must-do, with its sandy shore and crystal-clear waters perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. The beach also features a water park with slides and water games, making it a hit with families.

For those who prefer to stay on land, the surrounding area boasts numerous hiking trails, such as the nearby Chimney Rock State Park. The park offers trails of varying difficulty levels, all providing breathtaking views of the Hickory Nut Gorge and the expansive landscape below.

Golfers will appreciate the nearby Rumbling Bald Resort, which offers two championship courses set against the stunning mountain scenery. After a day of adventure, visitors can enjoy dining at one of the many lakeside restaurants, where fresh, local cuisine is served with a side of panoramic lake views.

Lake Lure's combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and charming local attractions makes it a quintessential North Carolina summer getaway.

Interested in planning more summer vacations at the best lakes in NC and SC? Check out our previous highlights below:

Discover #10  Lake Jocassee SC

Discover #9 Lake Nantahala NC

Discover #8 Lake Norman NC

Discover #7 Lake Keowee SC

Get first dibs on free tickets, top-secret summer destinations, and other travel opportunities when you sign up now to become a Carolina Traveler VIP subscriber! We're regularly giving away tickets and prize packages to Carolina VIP subscribers and members of our Carolina Traveler Facebook group.