I'm planning to take my kayaks to Tybee Island, GA this summ...

I'm planning to take my kayaks to Tybee Island, GA this summer. There will be several in the group who don't have much paddling experience. We want to paddle out to the cockspur lighthouse and I need advise on tidal currents, etc. I plan to launch from Lazaretto Creek. I know I want to go during low tide, but should we launch while the tide is going out and plan to come back in when the tide is coming in? Any info is appreciated. Slowpoke

That is usualy the best plan by riding the out and in coming tides it makes paddling easier. What you do want to check for is local currents because sometime the outgoing tide can be dangerous. Winds will also play a factor. I would check the web for paddleclubs around Tybee or even sites sites such as Connyak or JSSKA. Post to ask specific questions about the place you plan to paddle. Tybee is a popular place and there is lots of info about it,Myself I have never paddled there(Several in my club JSSKA have many times) Another plan is to Paddle out during slack tide and ride the incomming tide in. Jules

Have you ever paddled that area before?

Local knowledge is always best. So I defer to Jules recommendations.

One source that may help is Coast Pilot 4 http://www.nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/nsd/ coastpilot_w.php?book=4 . It can provide some general information about the waters around the area you are interested in.

Another site that may help is: http://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov/ Here you will be able to locate some current and tidal direction and speed information for the area. May help with your initial planning for the timing.

Daniel