easy
2–3 hours
Suitable for people with basic fitness who can paddle for a few hours; mostly gentle water with some mild paddling effort.
Paddle through Arizona’s Black Canyon on a stable and comfortable single sit-in kayak. Explore the scenic waters of Willow Beach and discover Emerald Cave’s stunning beauty.
1 Adult - 250lbs Maximum Weight • Daily Rentals • Designed for beginners!
Experience the thrill of kayaking with the Single Sit-in Kayak, designed for stability and comfort. Its durable construction and spacious cockpit make it perfect for beginners. Explore the stunning Black Canyon National Water Trail, including the enchanting Emerald Cave, while enjoying the beauty of nature and the serenity of the water.
The Single Sit-in Kayak is built with stability and endurance in mind. With its durable triple layer hull that stands the test of time, leave your worries behind as you enjoy the water for all it has. The extra roomy cockpit combined with optimal stability make the sit-in a reassuring ride for those first learning to paddle.
• Passengers: 1 Adult • Maximum Weight: 250 lbs gear & person • Adjustable Foot Braces • Paddle Holder • Rear Bungee All paddle craft are outfitted with life jacket(s) & paddle(s)
General • For each sit-in rented, upon arrival, marina will hold a $85 security deposit at check-in to be released upon returning each watercraft in good faith. • Person paying for rental (renter) must be 18 years of age or older and have valid government-issued ID present with them. • Party size may not exceed total passenger count of vessel(s). Pets & Small Children count towards total passenger amount.
Operating Requirements One person per paddle craft rented must be 18 years of age or older and present a valid government-issued ID.
Life Jackets Each person will be required by law to wear a Personal Floatation Device (Life Jacket) at all times while operating a paddle craft. We provide Life Jackets for your use! You may use your own as long as it is US Coast Guard approved.
Rental Time Your rental begins at the earliest by the start of marina's operating hours and must be returned at the latest 1 hour before the end of marina's operating hours on the date of your return. A watercraft may be picked up after this start time, but no extra time or refund will be given for your rental. Willow Beach Marina operates on Arizona Mountain Standard Time. Please allow some time in your plans for safety information and paperwork signing.
Cancellations If you must cancel your small watercraft reservation, you must notify us at least 72 hours prior to your departure date to avoid a cancellation penalty. Any cancellations received within 72 hours of your departure date will result in the loss of your deposit, up to the 1-day rental rate.
All paddle craft are recommended to only travel North of Willow Beach Marina towards Hoover Dam for safety reasons. It's best to go against the current (North) of the river when you have energy and ride the current back once tired. Going south (with the current) at the start of the day can leave you too tired to return back to the Marina in a timely fashion and be subject to late fees.
Emerald Cave Situated inside the Black Canyon National Water Trail is a vibrant small natural cave that glows an emerald green depending on the angle of the sunlight shining in. A favorite stop of kayakers all around, generally taking 3 hours round trip from the marina and back. With multiple historic sites nearby to explore, beaches to relax at and picturesque canyons will leave you in awe of all there is to explore and see.
$30 per Hour Hourly rentals are available first-come first-serve to walk-ins only and as inventory allows. Minimum rental time is 2 hours. Reserving for the Day is the only Guaranteed way to have a boat waiting and ready for you, but if you only have few hours and willing to take the risk, an Hourly rental may be just the thing for you!
Willow Beach Marina & Campground is a private concessionaire within Lake Mead National Recreation Area which is managed by National Park Service. For policies and laws of the national recreation area visit their website for more info!
Always wear a properly fitted life jacket for safety, especially given variable river currents.
The Arizona sun can be intense, so apply sunscreen frequently and carry plenty of water.
Wind and sudden weather changes can impact your kayaking; verify forecasts ahead of time.
Keep phones, cameras, and other valuables dry by using waterproof storage options on board.
Willow Beach has been a fishing and transportation site for Native American tribes and later became a popular recreational spot.
Efforts are in place to protect the Black Canyon's delicate desert ecosystem by encouraging responsible paddling and limiting litter.
Provides safety and is required for all paddlers.
Keeps valuables like phones, cameras, and snacks dry while on the water.
Protects skin from harsh sun exposure during the hotter months.
summer specific
Allows you to adjust warmth as temperatures drop in early mornings or late afternoons.
fall specific