Friday Night Music Cruise on Lake Travis in Austin, TX
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the adventure mainly involves relaxing on a pontoon boat with minimal physical exertion.
Overview
Set sail on a scenic pontoon ride across Lake Travis every Friday night. Enjoy live music, food, and drink specials at top lakeside spots with friends under the Texas stars.
Details
Celebrate your Friday nights in style with the Friday Night Music Cruise on Lake Travis, hosted by Tide Up Boat Rentals. This unique five-hour adventure takes you on a scenic pontoon boat ride across the beautiful waters of Lake Travis to two popular local hotspots, Shack 512 and Beachside Billy's. Along the way, you'll capture breathtaking views of the Austin skyline and scenic hill country surroundings. At each stop, enjoy delicious food, refreshing drink specials, and live music that makes for an energetic atmosphere perfect for unwinding with friends or meeting new people. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just looking to kick off the weekend with a memorable night, the cruise combines the best of Texas summer evenings – fresh air, good tunes, and scenic boat cruising. The relaxed vibe aboard the pontoon and the vibrant waterfront venues make this a summer favorite, showcasing Lake Travis as a prime destination for fun and music lovers alike.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Boarding
Make sure to arrive 15 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process and get a good seat on the pontoon boat.
Stay Hydrated and Use Sunscreen
Evening sun on the water can still be strong, so protect your skin and keep a water bottle handy.
Bring a Light Jacket
Lake breezes can get cool after sunset, so a lightweight jacket or sweater is advised.
Respect Venue Rules
Each stop has its own policies for food, drink, and noise – follow these to ensure a great experience for everyone.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Sunset Picnic Cove for quiet views
- Emerald Point Park for a peaceful lakeside walk
Wildlife
- Great Blue Heron
- Texas Spiny Softshell Turtle
History
Lake Travis was formed in the 1940s by the Mansfield Dam and has since become a major recreational hub in the Austin area.
Conservation
Tide Up Boat Rentals promotes responsible boating practices to protect Lake Travis' water quality and habitat for native wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Pontoon boat deck
- Dock at Shack 512
- Beachside Billy's shoreline
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from strong sun exposure during pre-sunset cruising hours.
summer specific
Light Jacket or Sweater
Keeps you warm against cool breezes on the open lake after sundown.
fall specific
Comfortable Footwear
Allows easy movement on and off the pontoon and at lakeside stops.
Water Bottle
Stays hydrated throughout the cruise, especially on warm evenings.