As the vibrant capital of Texas, Austin is widely recognized for its eclectic music scene, tasty food, and amazing outdoor activities. Among the abundance of outdoor activities available, paddleboarding has emerged as a beloved pastime, thanks to Austin's abundant lakes, rivers, and waterways. Whether you possess the skills of a seasoned paddle boarder or are a novice seeking new horizons, Austin offers a tapestry of scenic destinations to explore. Here, we'll navigate you through the top five places to paddle board around Austin, Texas, and highlight some charming spots where you can enjoy a meal or a drink afterward.
Arguably the most popular SUP spot in Austin, Lady Bird Lake offers calm, flat water – perfect for beginners and seasoned paddle boarders. This reservoir, formed by the Colorado River, has an impressive city scape backdrop of the Austin skyline. You can rent a paddle board from one of the conveniently located rental shops nearby. One of the highlights of a paddleboarding adventure on Lady Bird Lake is the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Congress Avenue Bridge bat colony. This bridge is home to the largest urban bat population in North America, and during certain times of the year, thousands of bats take flight in the evening, creating a unique display against the Austin skyline. Paddlers can witness this natural phenomenon from the safe vantage point of their paddleboards, adding an extra layer of magic to your day on the water. In addition to the incredible bat show, Lady Bird Lake plays host to lively summer flotillas that add to the vibrant atmosphere. Throughout the summer, flotilla events bring together paddleboarders, kayakers and anything that’ll float, creating a colorful and communal paddling experience. Joining one of these flotillas adds a social element to your paddleboarding adventure, allowing you to connect with fellow watermen while enjoying the warm Austin sun.
Interesting Fact: Did you know that Lady Bird Lake was originally created in 1960 by the construction of Longhorn Dam? It was named after Lady Bird Johnson, former First Lady of the United States and an advocate for beautification and conservation efforts.
After your paddle: Head to Caroline’s on South Congress Avenue for a post-paddle pick-me-up, whether it's a coffee, brunch, dinner, or cocktail.
Lake Austin's waterway, lined with beautiful houses and green hills, is a picturesque backdrop for your paddleboarding adventure. It spans over 22 miles in length and offers ample space for exploration while the lake's reputation for tranquil waters provide suitable conditions for all skill levels, inviting novices and experts alike. One of the highlights of Lake Austin is along its expansive shoreline, where you can ogle at the beautiful lake front homes.
Interesting Fact: Lake Austin, also known as the Colorado River, is a constant-level lake formed by the Mansfield Dam on the western edge of Austin. It's a popular spot for water sports and recreation, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
After your paddle: Treat yourself to some delicious coffee and baked goodies at Mozart’s Coffee Roasters while soaking in the serene lake views.
A little farther out, Lake Travis is the largest in the chain of Highland Lakes, spanning over 18,000 acres and the most visited flat water destination in Texas! It’s an excellent spot for paddleboarding, especially if you're after clear water and a beautiful sunset views. The meandering nature of the lake offers plenty of areas to explore including secluded beaches and hidden coves, all surrounded by scenic cliffs and rolling hills. For a daring adventure, consider paddleboarding towards the renowned Hippie Hollow, a clothing-optional beach on the shores of Lake Travis.
Interesting Fact: Lake Travis is one of the clearest lakes in Texas, with visibility up to 10-20 feet in some areas. It's a hotspot for boating, fishing, and water activities, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from near and far.
After your paddle: Enjoy the stunning sunset views at The Oasis on Lake Travis, known as the "Sunset Capital of Texas," and savor Tex-Mex dishes to refuel after your adventure.
If you’re in for an adventurous paddleboarding session, Barton Creek Greenbelt should be on your list. You’ll have to wait for a good rain to get the creek levels high enough, but when it’s flowing, the greenbelt transforms into a scenic SUP route. When the flows are good, start at the Barton Springs Pool for a pre-paddle swim, then continue downstream and look out for the rope swings along the way! Finish off your day with some well-deserved craft beers at Pinthouse Pizza, renowned for their award-winning brews and mouthwatering pizzas.
Interesting Fact: Barton Creek Greenbelt is a beloved natural area in Austin, known for its limestone cliffs, lush greenery, and refreshing swimming holes. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, rock climbing, and of course, paddleboarding opportunities.
After your paddle: Reward yourself with craft beers and mouthwatering pizzas at Pinthouse Pizza, a local favorite known for its award-winning brews.
For those who enjoy combining paddleboarding with fishing, the waters of McKinney Falls State Park provide an excellent opportunity to reel in a variety catches, including bass, catfish, and sunfish. Beyond its fishing appeal, the park offers a range of land-based activities as well. Those looking for a land based adventure can go on an invigorating hike through the park's well-maintained trails, taking in the natural beauty at their own pace. While those seeking an overnight experience can opt to set up camp at one of the park's 81 campsites, each equipped with the essential such as water and electricity.
Interesting Fact: McKinney Falls State Park is named after Thomas F. McKinney, a prominent figure in Texas history who played a significant role in the state's early development. The park offers not only paddleboarding and fishing but also hiking, camping, and picnicking opportunities.
After your paddle: Grab a filling breakfast at Ovenbird coffee shop before hitting the waters, and indulge in a seasonal French toast cappuccino to kickstart your day.
As you wrap up your paddleboarding adventure, consider making a pit stop at the REI store in Austin. Located in the heart of the city, REI is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide array of high-quality outdoor apparel and sporting goods. Whether you need a new paddleboarding accessory, hiking gear, or simply want to browse the latest in outdoor fashion, REI has you covered. The store not only provides a great opportunity to gear up for your next outdoor adventure but also offers a chance to soak in the vibrant outdoor culture that Austin embraces.
Yes, many of these paddleboarding spots offer rental services where you can easily rent paddleboards and other equipment for your adventure. Be sure to check ahead for availability and pricing.
Absolutely! Each of these locations offers suitable conditions for paddleboarders of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced paddlers. Just be sure to choose a spot that matches your comfort level and always prioritize safety.
While paddleboarding is generally allowed at these locations, it's essential to be mindful of any rules or regulations specific to each area. This may include designated launch points, watercraft restrictions, or park entry fees. Be sure to familiarize yourself with any relevant guidelines before embarking on your paddleboarding adventure.
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