AUSTIN
Ranked by traveller popularity
The 10 most popular kayak & paddleboard tours in Austin. Here's what they actually deliver, who runs them, and what they cost.
Kayak under Austin’s Congress Avenue Bridge to watch bats exit at sunset and enjoy downtown skyline lights with a beginner-friendly guide.
“We had a hard time hearing the guide. We thought we were going to get an inflatable kayak, but didn’t. We had never kayaked before & got no advice for beginners. We did get up close to the bridge and got a great view of bats exiting the bridge for the night.”
Sunset kayak on Lady Bird Lake to watch millions of Mexican free-tailed bats exit Congress Ave Bridge from below, with skyline views.
Paddle through downtown Austin at dusk to watch Mexican free-tailed bats launch from Congress Avenue Bridge. Gear and lights included.
“This was such a wonderful way to kick off our quick stop in Austin before our morning flight! The bats were absolutely incredible to see. The tour felt relaxed and intimate—there weren’t too many people on the water, so it almost felt like a private experience. Highly recommend!”
Crystal Kayak Glow Tour on the San Marcos River at night. Small group, spring-fed waters, admission included, and guided paddling.
“We enjoyed the whole tour, from beginning to end. Our tour instructor was great! He was very patient with a few that were not able to keep up and went back to help them out.”
San Marcos River clear kayak at sunset with LED glow lights, wildlife spotting, and spring views. Includes gear and dry bag, 1h15.
“Trip was amazing! My partner and I had a great time. All the couples seemed to really enjoy it. Trip constantly checked in on us and would help if we felt like it was hard. Will definitely be booking again on our next visit!”
Kayak Lady Bird Lake at Austin sunset for a small-group bat watch over Congress Ave Bridge, plus city skyline views.
“The bat kayak tour was very unique and informative. Ethan our guide was 10 out of 10. Check it out. The water was calm and easy to navigate.”
Paddle your own pace on calm Lady Bird Lake with a single or double kayak rental from Waller Creek Boathouse.
Kayak Lady Bird Lake for Austin skyline views, paddle lesson, and safety gear included. Small group tour with wildlife and bat stories.
“I went kayaking for the first time yesterday and it was an awesome experience!”
Paddle a 15-foot giant board at Austin’s sunset, watch bats burst from Congress Ave Bridge, then glide back through downtown lights.
“It was a great experience! Seeing the bats and the the city at night was truly amazing! The paddle back is tougher than when you head out — however the leader of the group can tow you if needed. 10/10”
Kayak Lady Bird Lake at dusk to watch Congress Avenue Bridge bats and Austin’s skyline. Guided tour with gear and $49 pricing.
“We took a Scout Troop (7 teenage girls and 3 leaders) on this adventure and we all had a great time. The guides (John and Dave) are fantastic and we loved that our kayaking group got to paddle the farthest--I believe it was 3 miles round trip. The only issue we had was what happened…”
