Paddle out from Austin’s Lady Bird Lake as dusk settles, watch the Congress Avenue bats, then stay after dark as LED boards paint the water. This VIP glow paddle pairs skyline views, guided photos, and a unique bat-watching vantage point.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The skyline softens to gold as your group slides out onto the water, glow boards humming beneath your feet and the city lights rising behind you. On Lady Bird Lake—downstream from Congress Avenue Bridge—the crowd thins, the air cools, and the famous Mexican free-tailed bats begin their evening exodus, a dark ribbon that punctuates the skyline. This VIP glow paddle extends past most sunset tours: you start just before dusk, linger to watch the bats, and stay out long after dark to paint the water with LED colors.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Basic balance and light paddling fitness; able to kneel or stand for several short intervals
Wildlife
History
Lady Bird Lake (formerly Town Lake) was created in the 1960s by damming the Colorado River; Congress Avenue Bridge’s bat colony has become an urban wildlife icon since the 1980s.
Conservation
Minimize disturbance by avoiding flash photography during bat emergence, pack out all trash, and follow guides’ instructions to protect shoreline habitat.
Reserve your spot on the Giant Glow Paddleboarding the Downtown Skyline with Bats today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive 15–20 minutes early
Give yourself time for a brief safety orientation, fit your life jacket, and stow phones in a dry bag.
Protect electronics
Use a waterproof case or dry bag — guides take photos but you’ll want personal backups.
Respect the bats
Avoid bright flashes and loud noises when bats emerge to reduce disturbance.
Request guide photos
Ask your guide before lights go on — they’ll often take staged shots of your group on the illuminated boards.
Waterproof phone case or dry bag
Keeps phones and small items dry during splashy entries and after-dark photos.
Non-slip water shoes
Protects feet while launching from ramps and provides traction on wet boards.
Headlamp or small flashlight
Useful for moving around launch areas before sunrise/sunset and for packing up in the dark.
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Light, windproof layer
Evenings on the water cool quickly—bring a thin jacket to stay comfortable after sunset.
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