Exploring Austin, Texas? Here’s Why You Should Book with Get Up and Go Kayaking - Austin

easy Difficulty

Kayaking Austin’s Lady Bird Lake offers an accessible yet adventurous way to engage with the city’s vibrant outdoor scene. Booking with Get Up and Go Kayaking combines expert guidance, quality gear, and scenic waterways, making it a top choice for paddlers of all skill levels.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Calm Waters

Mornings offer smoother water and fewer crowds, enhancing both safety and wildlife encounters.

Wear Quick-Drying Clothing

Choose lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics and water shoes for comfort and grip on wet surfaces.

Bring Reusable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated on the Texas sun-drenched water with easy-to-access water during your paddle.

Listen to Instructors’ Safety Briefings

Understanding paddle techniques and local water flow keeps you safe—especially if new to kayaking.

Exploring Austin, Texas? Here’s Why You Should Book with Get Up and Go Kayaking - Austin

Austin's Colorado River, locally known as Lady Bird Lake, calls to those craving more than just city sights. It dares you to step onto its shifting currents, where the water pushes forward, alive with the energy of downtown and the calm of nature blending. Booking with Get Up and Go Kayaking offers a practical and immersive way to explore this vibrant urban waterway. Their guided tours strike a balance between adventure and accessibility—ideal for first-timers and seasoned paddlers alike.

The tours start right in the heart of Austin, making it easy to jump into your kayak without hassle. Expect to cover 2 to 5 miles on the water, depending on your chosen route, with calm waters that allow the river to playfully ripple beneath your paddle rather than challenge you with fierceness. Along the way, you’ll pass under iconic bridges and through quiet coves where turtles and herons watch silently. The shoreline is a green ribbon, trees dipping their branches like hands inviting you in.

What sets Get Up and Go Kayaking apart is their focus on safety, education, and gear quality. They provide all necessary equipment—lightweight kayaks, life vests, and paddles—and their instructors offer solid tips on paddling technique and river etiquette. This practical edge ensures your time on the water is as smooth as it is exhilarating. Whether you want a relaxed morning paddle or an energetic sunset tour, they have options timed to match.

Prepare for your trip by wearing quick-dry clothing and water shoes; the river’s edge can be slippery where you launch and land. Hydration matters too—bring water, especially in the Texas heat, when the sun can be relentless. Early morning or late afternoon trips reduce sun exposure and often reward you with calmer waters and better wildlife viewing. These hours also provide the best lighting for photographers seeking crisp reflections and soft colors.

Austin’s urban river isn’t just a place to paddle; it’s where the city’s pulse meets natural rhythm. The currents push you forward but invite you to pause—watch herons stalking the shallows, kayaks skimming past buzzing downtown walls painted with street art, and the skyline rising steady and unyielding. You engage not just with the water, but with a space fiercely itself, demanding respect and offering reward in equal measure.

Booking with Get Up and Go Kayaking gives you more than a rental—it hands you a ticket to explore Austin’s outdoor spirit practically and adventurously. You learn to read the water, respect the environment, and enjoy a unique perspective of a city that thrives on mixing nature with culture. This is kayaking designed for adventure, framed by clear guidance and thoughtful experience that equips you for the thrill and challenge of an active day on the water.

Nearby Trips

Adventures near Austin

Discover the unique and memorable adventures that make Austin special.

No landmarks available

We're still collecting detailed landmark information for Austin. Check back soon for updates!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior kayaking experience to book a tour with Get Up and Go Kayaking?

No experience is necessary. Get Up and Go Kayaking offers beginner-friendly tours with thorough safety briefings and guidance to help you feel confident on the water.

What wildlife might I see during the tour?

Expect to spot herons, turtles, and occasionally otters along the riverbanks. Birdwatchers appreciate the variety of species that patrol the waterside habitats.

Are the tours family-friendly?

Yes, the calm water and guided instruction make these tours accessible to families with older children, generally ages 8 and up, depending on experience and size.

How should I prepare for Austin’s summer kayaking tours?

Wear sunscreen, a hat, and quick-dry clothing. Plan for early morning or late afternoon departures to avoid the midday heat and bring plenty of water.

Is parking available near the tour launch site?

Yes, there are public parking lots near the downtown launch points. Arriving early helps secure prime spots, especially on weekends.

Can I rent gear if I don’t have my own?

Absolutely. Get Up and Go Kayaking supplies kayaks, paddles, and life vests as part of their rental and guided package.

Recommended Gear

Lightweight Kayak

Essential

Easy to maneuver and launch, a stable kayak supports both beginners and experienced paddlers.

Life Vest

Essential

Mandatory for safety, provided by the outfitter to ensure proper fit and buoyancy.

Quick-Dry Clothing

Essential

Protects against sun and moisture, optimizing comfort on warm Texas days.

Water Shoes

Essential

Help maintain grip on riverbanks and docks, and protect feet from sharp rocks or debris.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • "Pease Park—a nearby green space offering shaded trails and quiet picnic spots just a short paddle from downtown."
  • "Hippie Hollow Cove—secluded and peaceful, a lesser-known area where the water calms and nature feels undisturbed."

Wildlife

  • "Great Blue Heron"
  • "Texas Spiny Lizard"
  • "River Otters"
  • "Turtles basking on logs"

History

"Lady Bird Lake was created in 1960 after damming the Colorado River and named in honor of Lady Bird Johnson for her conservation efforts. The lake revitalized Austin’s urban riverfront and turned it into a hub for recreation."