Giant Paddleboarding & Kayak Bats Tours with BoatsandBats Austin
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for beginners in decent physical shape; some balance on board required
Overview
Paddle beneath Austin’s skyline as 1.5 million bats take flight. BoatsandBats offers giant paddleboard and kayak tours capturing this urban wildlife spectacle alongside tubing adventures in Austin’s spring water.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Best Bat Viewing
Get to the launch point at least 30 minutes before sunset to secure your spot and settle in for the bats’ emergence.
Wear Bright or Reflective Clothing
Glow paddleboards include lighting, but it’s wise to wear visible clothing for safety during dusk paddling.
Apply Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect skin from UV rays without harming the spring water ecosystem by choosing eco-friendly sunscreen.
Secure Loose Items Against Wind
Evenings by the water can get breezy; use dry bags or leave valuables onshore to avoid loss during the paddle.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mexican free-tailed bats
- Great blue herons
History
Austin’s bat colony gained fame after Congress Avenue Bridge was retrofitted to serve as a bat habitat in the 1980s, creating a protected home for millions.
Conservation
BoatsandBats practices eco-friendly tours with strict wildlife respect guidelines, minimizing disturbance during the bat emergence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Water Shoes
Protect feet on rocky launch points and provide grip on wet surfaces.
summer specific
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Keeps you warm and blocks breezes during cooler evening paddles.
fall|winter specific
Headlamp or Waterproof Flashlight
Useful for navigating docks and parking areas before and after twilight tours.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during your paddle, especially when the Texas sun is strong.