AUSTIN WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Clear Kayaks, City Lights, and Bats: Private Paddling on Lady Bird Lake
A private, guided kayak tour on Lady Bird Lake that paddles past Downtown Austin’s skyline, uses crystal-clear kayaks for underwater views, and—seasonally—offers bat emergence at sunset.
Clear Kayaks, City Lights, and Bats: Private Paddling on Lady Bird Lake.
Embark on a private kayak adventure on Lady Bird Lake, paddling through Downtown Austin’s skyline and lush shoreline in completely clear tandem kayaks. Guides steer small private parties past city landmarks and—on sunset tours—position paddlers to witness the emergence of North America’s largest urban bat colony while offering a distinctive view of the underwater world below the hull.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Lady Bird Lake
Paddle on the calm, tree-lined waters of Austin’s urban oasis and take in lakeside greenery and reflections of the city as your guide navigates the route in clear kayaks.
I-35 Bridge & Downtown Views
Many private tours launch near the I-35 corridor, offering an immediate view of Austin’s skyline as you set out and frame the city from the water.
South Congress Avenue Bridge & the Bats
On sunset and bat tours, guides position paddlers to watch the seasonal emergence of the largest urban bat colony in North America from the water beneath South Congress Avenue Bridge.
What the day feels like
What the tour feels like
The tour unfolds as a compact, guided paddle through downtown waterway scenery aboard completely clear tandem kayaks, suitable for all skill levels. Guides lead private parties past landmark bridges and city vistas, share local context, and time sunset departures to coincide with bat emergence when offered—creating a layered sensory experience of light, city silhouette, and wildlife.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and where limits apply.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Daytime and Sunset/Bat Watching Glow Tours run about 1.5 hours; Night Glow Tours run about 1 hour.
Bring sunscreen, a non-disposable water bottle, a phone for photos, and wear clothes or a swimsuit you don't mind getting wet. Shoes are not permitted to be worn in the kayak but can be placed in the back of the kayak. Bring a positive attitude.
The listed meeting location is 39 East Ave, Austin, TX 78701. Reservations are required for all tours; private tours may be available by request and the experience is offered for private party sizes as specified by the operator.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Is there a weight limit?
Yes! Our weight limit is no more than 250 pounds per person and no more than 425 pounds per 2 people that are in the same kayak. All of our kayaks are double kayaks. Unfortunately, our kayak manufacturer has given us this strict limit of 250 pounds per person and we cannot exceed this limit.
What should I bring on my tour?
A positive attitude ready for adventure! Please note that shoes are not permitted to be worn in the kayak, but can be placed in the back of the kayak. Non-disposable water bottle to stay hydrated A phone to capture those stunning shots! Wear clothes/swim suit you don’t mind getting wet
What skill level is needed?
Our tours are made for any skill levels to participate, we will have basic tips and tricks to help you maneuver the waterways. We try our best to paddle at a pace that is convenient for every paddler! We do require all guests to stay with the group.
Are the kayaks tandem or solo?
Each of our kayaks are tandem (made for 2 paddlers) however, if you have an odd number of guests in your party we can easily reconfigure the kayak to accommodate solos.
Is the price per kayak or per person?
This premium, private tour experience is for a party size of 1-12 people (adults and children) for the tour.
Are children allowed?
Of course! However, each person under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older in a kayak. If you have more children than adults in your party please contact us so we can determine if this scenario is doable at this location. We love having the entire family out and kids love this tour!
Can you swim?
There is no swimming allowed in Lady Bird Lake.