Boating, Cruising, and Paddle Rentals
Austin boasts stunning lakes, sunny skies and a relaxed atmosphere that make it perfect for aquatic adventures. Whether you’re eager to navigate the waters on a boat, paddle a kayak, or float and soak up the scenery, Austin offers an ideal backdrop for all your water activities.
Jump to listings.
Boating & Cruises in Austin
Lady Bird Lake
Located in the heart of the city, Lady Bird Lake provides calm waters and breathtaking views of the Austin skyline, making it an ideal spot for leisurely boat rides and evening cruises. The lake's serene environment is perfect for a relaxing day on the water, whether you're paddling a kayak, renting a pedal boat, or enjoying a guided tour.
Of particular note are Austin’s bat tours, featuring the emergence of approximately 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats from under the Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset. These nightly bat-watching sunset cruises, available spring through fall, offer an unparalleled view of this incredible wildlife spectacle, with the added bonus of captivating narration and history provided by your captain. Companies such as Capital Cruises, Austin Tour Company, and Lone Star Riverboat offer this unforgettable experience, and prior reservations are strongly recommended.
Lake Austin
Lake Austin is characterized by its clear blue waters and lush greenery, offering a tranquil day on the water. This lake is a favorite among locals for boating and cruising (like the popular Floaties Floatin Saloon). Popular spots in lakefront parks include Commons Ford Ranch and Emma Long Metropolitan Park. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to enjoy the calm waters and avoid the midday heat. The Austin 360 Bridge, also known as the Pennybacker Bridge, offers easy access to the water with nearby boat rentals available, making it a perfect spot for both enjoying the scenic views and engaging in water activities on Lake Austin.
Lake Travis
Lake Travis is renowned for its clear waters and stunning limestone cliffs, making it a prime destination for boating in Austin. This expansive lake offers numerous scenic spots perfect for a day of adventure on the water. Popular boating activities include wakeboarding, tubing, and sailing. Notable spots such as Devil's Cove are ideal for anchoring and socializing with fellow boaters. Summer is defnitely the peak season, with warm waters perfect for a refreshing paddleboard or kayak session. Check our local rental companies like Lake Travis Yachts or Alpha Boat Rentals for more information.
Paddle Rentals (Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Canoeing)
When the weather is right, boat rentals in Austin are a fantastic option for getting out on the water. At Lady Bird Lake, popular rental services like Rowing Dock and Texas Rowing Center provide a wide range of paddle equipment. For a more adventurous paddling experience, Lake Travis boating offers expansive waters and scenic coves. Rental services like Austin Paddleboard & Kayak cater to explorers. Finally, Lake Austin’s serene environment and lush surroundings are perfect for paddle rentals. Services like ATX Peace Paddling offer everything needed for a day on the water.
Whether you're boating, cruising, or paddling, Austin's lakes offer a wealth of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. So, grab your gear, rent a vessel, book a tour, and embark on a memorable adventure on Austin's stunning waterways.