Celebrate the 4th of July with a private kayak tour on Lady Bird Lake, watching Austin's famous fireworks and bats light up the night. Discover why this event is a must for families and friends!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; participants should be comfortable sitting and paddling for up to 3 hours.
Wildlife
History
The Congress Avenue Bat Bridge hosts North America's largest urban bat colony, a key Austin landmark since the 1980s.
Conservation
Lone Star Kayak Tours emphasizes eco-friendly practices to protect Lady Bird Lake’s water quality and local wildlife habitats.
Lone Star Kayak Tours
Celebrate the 4th of July with a private kayak tour on Lady Bird Lake, watching Austin's famous fireworks and bats light up the night. Discover why this event is a must for families and friends!
Lone Star Kayak Tours operates guided kayak and paddleboard experiences on Austin’s Lady Bird Lake, specializing in sunset skyline paddles and bat-bridge viewing trips.
The company runs nightly guided kayak tours that combine urban ecology education with local history, led by trained guides who provide a 20-minute safety and skills orientation before every trip. Tours are suitable for all ages and ability levels; reservations are recommended to secure spots on popular departures.
Main experiences include the Sunset Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Tour, Sunset Skyline Tour, Austin Skyline Tour, Paddle Board Bat Tour, All Day Skyline and Swimming Hole Tour, 4th of July Fireworks Tour, Halloween Bat Tour, Austin Sunrise Kayak Tour, and guided Eco and historic tours of downtown landmarks. Trips vary from two to two-and-a-half hours, with options for paddleboarding or kayaking and seasonal special events timed to bat emergences and holiday fireworks.
Safety equipment, life jackets, and instruction are provided on every tour. Guides share facts about the Mexican free-tailed bat colony under Congress Avenue Bridge, local wildlife such as snapper turtles and native birds, and Austin’s architectural history. The company emphasizes low-impact paddling practices to protect the urban ecosystem while delivering memorable city views and photo opportunities.
Guests find the evening hours especially serene due to fewer boats on the water. Lone Star Kayak Tours communicates exact tour times by phone and recommends advance booking for peak dates and special events. Private and custom group tours are available on request for corporate groups and celebrations year round.
Nightly Tours
Daily Evenings
Sunset paddles most nights
Tour Length
2–2.5 hrs
Includes 20-min orientation
All Ages
All Levels
Suitable for families and beginners
Popular Stops
Lady Bird Lake
Congress Ave Bridge & skyline
Limited spots for sunsets, bat emergences, Halloween and 4th of July events — book ahead to secure a slot.
Reserve Early
Spaces fill up fast for the 4th of July Fireworks Tour, so book your spot weeks in advance.
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking near Lady Bird Lake can be limited on the 4th of July, so plan to arrive early to secure a spot.
Bring a Waterproof Light
Carry a small waterproof flashlight or headlamp for safety as it gets dark during the tour.
Dress in Layers
Even summer nights by the lake can get cooler after sunset, so wear layers for comfort.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Provides safety and is required during the kayak tour.
Waterproof Camera or Phone Case
Protects your devices while capturing vibrant fireworks and scenic views.
summer
Layered Clothing
Helps you stay comfortable as temperatures cool down after sunset.
summer
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the tour, especially in warm weather.