Paddle under Austin’s glowing skyline on giant illuminated boards and watch as thousands of bats take flight. An unforgettable nighttime adventure awaits!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic paddling ability preferred, but no advanced skills required.
Wildlife
History
Austin’s Congress Avenue Bridge hosts the world's largest urban bat colony, drawing thousands of visitors each year to witness nightly emergences.
Conservation
BoatsandBats promotes sustainable tourism practices to protect the bat habitat and keep the river clean, encouraging responsible interaction with nature.
BoatsandBats
Paddle under Austin’s glowing skyline on giant illuminated boards and watch as thousands of bats take flight. An unforgettable nighttime adventure awaits!
BoatsandBats is an Austin, Texas outfitter featured on The Adventure Collective that offers river tubing and giant paddleboard experiences in downtown Austin and the city’s spring-fed waterways. The company’s curated trips include Go Tubing in Austin’s Spring Water, Giant Paddleboard the Springs!, and Giant Glow Paddleboarding the Downtown Skyline with Bats. Each experience showcases Austin’s natural attractions, from Barton Springs Pool and Lady Bird Lake to downtown skyline views and the nightly bat flight.
Trips are designed for families, groups, and visitors seeking a memorable outdoor activity in Austin. Go Tubing in Austin’s Spring Water highlights bridge jumps, rope swings, and a lively Party Island; Giant Paddleboard the Springs! offers paddleboarding on spring-fed waters with opportunities to swim and spot turtles; Giant Glow Paddleboarding the Downtown Skyline with Bats delivers nighttime city views, bat sightings, and customizable glow-light colors.
BoatsandBats provides clear, experience-focused options that help visitors select the right outing for their time in Austin. Listing these trips makes it easy to compare daytime adventures and illuminated evening paddles. The company’s presence in central Austin and arrangements on well-known waterways make its tours accessible for locals and travelers.
As a business featured on The Adventure Collective, BoatsandBats appears alongside curated outdoor experiences, improving visibility for people researching authentic Austin activities. This placement supports trust by connecting the business to a recognized adventure platform and by highlighting specific, accurate descriptions of each offering. Visitors can find scheduling, availability, and booking details through the Adventure Collective listing and BoatsandBats contacts directly.
Location
Austin, Texas
Central Austin river and springs access.
Tours Offered
3 Trips
Tubing and paddleboard experiences.
Best Times
Day & Night
Daytime springs and evening glow tours.
Featured On
The Adventure Collective
Curated in adventure listings.
Search or book BoatsandBats trips to pick tubing, springs paddleboards, or glow-night paddles with bats.
Dress in lightweight, quick-dry clothing
Since you’ll be on the water at night, choose breathable garments that dry quickly in case you get splashed.
Arrive early to catch the bat emergence
The bats typically take flight just after sunset, so prompt arrival ensures you experience this natural spectacle.
Bring a waterproof phone case
Protect your devices from water and still capture glowing board selfies and skyline shots safely.
Follow safety instructions closely
Paddleboarding at night requires attentiveness; listen carefully to guides to remain safe and enjoy the tour.
Water-resistant jacket
Keeps you warm and dry during cooler evening paddles and unpredictable weather.
fall
Headlamp or small flashlight
Helpful for safe movement before and after paddling in low light.
all
Insect repellent
Protects against mosquitoes and other insects common near water in warmer months.
summer
Waterproof phone case
Allows you to capture photos safely without worrying about water damage.
all