BOULDER CITY KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Sunset Kayak to Boulder Island: A Three‑Hour Evening Paddle on Lake Mead
An evening, self‑drive kayak outing from Hemenway Harbor to the Boulder Islands that combines a leisurely paddle, swim, catered dinner and campfire under the stars—useful for planning timing, gear and logistics for this 3‑hour experience.
Sunset Kayak to Boulder Island: A Three‑Hour Evening Paddle on Lake Mead.
The Lake Mead Sunset Paddle is an evening kayak tour that launches from Hemenway Harbor and guides small groups across the cooling desert water to the Boulder Islands. Set against broad western sunsets, the itinerary pairs a relaxed paddle and swim with a shoreline campfire, a catered dinner and post‑dinner paddling beneath a starry sky.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Boulder Islands in a Surreal Desert Bay
The paddle threads through clear Lake Mead water to low, rocky islands that feel isolated in the desert; the setting amplifies the colors of sunset and the expanse of sky over the water.
Campfire at Sunset, Then Paddling Under Stars
After a leisurely approach to the island guests gather around a campfire to watch the sun drop, then finish the evening by lighting up kayaks and paddling the island’s backside as night falls.
Catered Dinner, S'mores and Easy Company
The outing includes a catered dinner option onshore and concludes with roasting s'mores—an element designed for date nights, family outings or company team‑building evenings.
What the day feels like
How the Night Unfolds
You meet at Lake Mead’s Hemenway Harbor in the early evening timed to sunset, then launch for a relaxed paddle to Boulder Island. Once ashore there’s time to explore and swim before a campfire and a catered meal; the night winds down with s'mores and a calm, phosphorescent return paddle beneath the stars.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this outing suits best—and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen; water shoes, sandals or old tennis shoes (no flip‑flops or slides); layered clothing including swimsuit and warm/UV layers (preferably no cotton or denim); camera/phone; cash for souvenirs and tips.
Expect to get wet up to your knees during shoreline activity—choose footwear that stays on in the water and quick‑dry, insulating layers for the cooler evening.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Sunset Paddle?
The tour is a 3‑hour round‑trip kayak outing.
Where do we meet for the tour?
Meet at the NDOW Decontamination Station at Hemenway Harbor in Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
When does the tour start?
Start times are set based on sunset; in summer the operator often schedules departures around 5:30 p.m. The exact time will be determined by sunset on the day of the tour.
What footwear is appropriate?
Wear water shoes, sandals or old tennis shoes—no flip‑flops or slides—because you will get wet up to your knees.
Is food provided on the trip?
Yes—guests are served a catered dinner of their choice on the island, and the evening concludes with roasting s'mores around the campfire.
How early should I arrive?
You must arrive 30 minutes before the tour start time to check in and prepare for launch.