Adventure Brief
Kayak through Austin’s cityscape on a fun, 2-hour guided tour from Downtown to Barton Springs. Perfect for all skill levels with lessons and gear included!
2 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Kayak through Austin’s cityscape on a fun, 2-hour guided tour from Downtown to Barton Springs. Perfect for all skill levels with lessons and gear included!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; basic paddling endurance recommended.
Wildlife
History
Congress Avenue Bridge has been home to the largest urban bat colony in North America since the 1980s, attracting many visitors during summer nights.
Conservation
Austin Rowing Club supports local waterway conservation efforts by promoting eco-friendly paddling and encouraging visitors to respect the wildlife and habitats.
Austin Rowing Club
Kayak through Austin’s cityscape on a fun, 2-hour guided tour from Downtown to Barton Springs. Perfect for all skill levels with lessons and gear included!
Austin Rowing Club operates guided kayak and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) experiences on Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin. The organization offers a variety of tours and rentals designed for visitors and locals seeking active, educational, and scenic paddling outings.
Signature offerings include the Sunset Bat Tour — a chance to witness approximately 1.5 million Mexican Free-Tailed bats emerge against the Downtown Austin skyline — and guided city tours that highlight architectural history and landmarks en route to Barton Springs.
Seasonal and special-event paddles feature the WaterWork Paddle at the Seaholm Intake Facility, a Solar Eclipse Paddle during astronomical events, and a 4th of July Night Paddle with glow sticks and fireworks viewing. Rentals and reservations for kayaks and paddleboards are available for self-guided exploration, typically offered in two-hour blocks. Guided tours include all necessary equipment, bottled water, paddling instruction, and knowledgeable local guides who share natural history, bat ecology, and urban insights.
Launch access is located minutes from the Congress Avenue Bridge, providing convenient proximity to the famous bat bridge and downtown attractions. Safety and visitor experience are prioritized through professional equipment maintenance, guide training, and clear pre-trip briefings. The club partners with local organizations such as The Trail Conservancy for community-focused events like WaterWork.
Austin Rowing Club attracts paddlers of varying skill levels with approachable instruction and well-organized logistics, making Lady Bird Lake access simple for those seeking memorable outdoor recreation framed by Austin’s skyline and natural urban wildlife. Booking is available online and by phone for convenience today.
Location
Minutes from Congress Ave Bridge
Launch point near the bat bridge
Guided Tours
Guided kayak & SUP tours
Knowledgeable local guides
Special Events
Sunset Bats, WaterWork, Eclipse, 4th of July
Unique seasonal experiences
Tour Length
2-hour tours available
Typical guided tour duration
Secure spots for Sunset Bat Tours, city tours, and special events — reservations recommended for peak nights.
Wear sun protection
The tour takes place on open water with limited shade, so apply sunscreen and wear a hat to protect yourself.
Stay hydrated
Bring a water bottle or use provided water to stay hydrated during your paddle, especially on warmer days.
Arrive early for check-in
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before departure to complete check-in and get fitted for your kayak gear smoothly.
Listen to your guide
Pay close attention during the paddling lesson and safety briefing to ensure a fun, safe adventure.
Water-resistant sunscreen
Protects your skin during extended exposure on the water.
summer
Lightweight, breathable clothing
Keeps you cool and comfortable while paddling.
summer|null
Water bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial during physical activity.
Waterproof phone case
Protects your electronics while capturing photos on the water.