Myrtle Beach: River Tubing Adventure

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Planning a day on the water in Myrtle Beach? This river tubing adventure with River Island Adventures offers a laid-back, scenic float that’s perfect for a warm afternoon. It’s a straightforward, relaxed experience designed for those who want to enjoy nature without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re a family looking for a gentle outing or a solo traveler craving some peaceful scenery, this tour might just be your ideal escape.

What makes this experience stand out are the comfort of the premium river tubes—complete with headrests—and the convenience of the pontoon boat ride back to your starting point. Plus, floating coolers and multiple departure times give you flexibility to enjoy your float when it suits you best. On the flip side, keep in mind this isn’t suited for those who want an active or paddling-intensive adventure. It’s all about drifting and taking in the views.

This tour is best suited for individuals or groups who appreciate a low-key, scenic experience with a touch of comfort. It’s particularly appealing if you’re traveling with family, friends, or just want a relaxing way to see the local river scenery. Not ideal if you’re after a more energetic or physically demanding activity, but perfect for lazy, warm afternoons.

Key Points

  • Relaxing float: Enjoy a slow drift down the river, perfect for unwinding.
  • Comfortable equipment: Premium tubes with headrests and cup holders make the ride more enjoyable.
  • Flexible scheduling: Three departure times between 2 pm and 5 pm give you options.
  • Convenient return: A pontoon boat takes you back, so no paddling or strenuous effort.
  • Additional gear: Floating coolers available to keep drinks cold for just $10.
  • Family-friendly: Suitable for non-swimmers and those looking for a peaceful day on the water.
You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Myrtle Beach River Tubing Adventure

The Itinerary and Flow of the Experience

Once you arrive at the Outpost, you’ll check in and be grouped into small groups for a 45-minute downstream float. The setup is straightforward: you’ll be provided with a premium river tube featuring a headrest, cup holder, and a small hole at the bottom for cooling—imagine drifting while sipping a cold drink without hassle. The float itself is designed to be gentle, with the main goal of soaking in the scenery and enjoying the peaceful ride.

The float begins at a designated starting point, where you’ll hop onto your comfortable tube. The trip downstream is leisurely, giving plenty of time to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The reviews praise how relaxing the experience is—”It was very relaxing,” one traveler writes—highlighting how this floating trip lends itself well to unwinding.

The Scenic Drift and the Return Ride

As you drift with the current, you’ll pass by the lush shoreline, perhaps catching glimpses of local flora and wildlife, or just zoning out with the water lapping against your tube. After approximately 45 minutes, you’ll arrive at a designated pick-up point. Here, a pontoon boat will come to collect your group and bring you back to the starting area.

This boat ride back is a crucial part of the experience, especially since it eliminates any need to paddle or walk back. The return journey, often described as comfortable and easy, is a highlight, especially for those who prefer not to exert themselves after the float. With three different departure times between 2 pm and 5 pm**, you can choose when to enjoy your float, fitting it neatly into your day’s plans.

The Equipment and Extras

The premium river tubes are designed for comfort, featuring headrests and cup holders—small touches that make the experience more pleasant. For an extra $10, you can rent a floating cooler with ice included, which is a smart way to keep your beverages chilled throughout the float. This added convenience is especially appreciated on hot days, making your relaxation even easier.

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What To Bring and Not To Bring

To maximize your enjoyment, pack a hat, swimwear, snacks, sunscreen, water, and a waterproof camera. Of course, there are some restrictions: no alcohol, drugs, glass objects, or littering are allowed. These rules help keep the environment clean and safe for everyone. Since the experience is designed for relaxation, it’s best suited for non-swimmers and those comfortable with floating in water.

The Real-World Experience

What do actual travelers say? Many highlight the laid-back vibe and friendly owner, Jeff. One reviewer notes, “The owner is very accommodating and nice,” and another mentions how their float was “very fun” and relaxing. Some suggest improvements, like adding a floating rope line near the end to help guide people out—something to keep in mind if you have mobility concerns or prefer a more guided finish.

Pricing and Value

At $54 per person, the tour’s cost is reasonable considering the comfort features and the overall relaxed pace. The floating cooler adds a small extra expense but enhances the experience significantly if you enjoy cold drinks. The price reflects the included equipment, the transportation, and the scenic nature of the float. It’s a good value for travelers seeking a peaceful, scenic break without a lot of physical exertion or complicated logistics.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for those looking for a chill, scenic float—families, couples, solo travelers, or seniors. It’s especially attractive if you prefer not to paddle or do strenuous activity but still want to enjoy the beauty of Myrtle Beach’s waterways. It’s not suited for thrill-seekers or those who want a more active water adventure, but that’s exactly what makes it appealing for a stress-free break.

Final Thoughts

This river tubing tour offers a straightforward way to unwind and enjoy Myrtle Beach’s natural beauty. The comfortable equipment, convenient boat ride back, and flexible schedule make it a hassle-free choice for most travelers. It’s a chance to slow down, soak up some sunshine, and enjoy the gentle flow of the river—perfect for those who want a peaceful retreat from the busier beach scene.

The real charm lies in its simplicity: float, relax, and take in the scenery with minimal effort. The friendly owner, Jeff, and the positive reviews from past travelers confirm this is a well-organized, enjoyable experience. It’s a great option for families, groups, or solo travelers who prioritize comfort and calm over adrenaline.

If you’re visiting Myrtle Beach and looking for a relaxing water activity that doesn’t require paddling or advanced skills, this river tubing adventure is well worth considering. Just remember to bring your sun protection, waterproof camera, and any snacks you might want to enjoy during the float.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, the tour is designed to be relaxing and is suitable for non-swimmers since you will be floating on a tube with a floating cooler and a gentle current.

How long does the float last?
The downstream float lasts approximately 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery before the boat picks you up.

Are there multiple departure times?
Yes, you can choose from three departure times between 2 pm and 5 pm, allowing you to pick the most convenient slot for your schedule.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers a premium river tube with a headrest, cup holder, and seat, as well as a life vest and the pontoon boat return service. The floating cooler is available for rent at an additional $10.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Bringing your own drinks is fine, but alcohol and glass objects are not allowed. The floating cooler rental helps keep your drinks cool during the float.

What should I bring?
We recommend a hat, swimwear, snacks, sunscreen, water, and a waterproof camera to capture the moments. Dressing appropriately will enhance your comfort and enjoyment.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case your plans change.

This Myrtle Beach river tubing adventure offers a calm, scenic, and comfortable way to enjoy the area’s waterways. Perfect for a relaxing day, it’s a simple pleasure that leaves you refreshed and ready for whatever’s next.

You can check availability for your dates here: