Explore Lady Bird Lake in clear tandem kayaks with skyline views and local history
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Up to 12 people
Kayak, Guide, Safety gear
Glide across Lady Bird Lake in clear tandem kayaks as you explore downtown Austin's skyline, bridges, and local history. Suitable for all skill levels.
Each kayak is tandem. Weight limit is 250 lb per seat and 425 lb per boat. Guests under 18 must be in a kayak with an adult.
Is there a weight limit?
Yes. The limit is 250 pounds per person and 425 pounds per two people in the same kayak.
What skill level is needed?
All skill levels are welcome, and guides share basic tips to help you paddle with the group.
Are the kayaks tandem or solo?
Kayaks are tandem. If your group has an odd number, they can be reconfigured to accommodate a solo paddler.
What should I bring on my tour?
Bring a non-disposable water bottle, a phone for photos, and clothes or a swimsuit you do not mind getting wet. Shoes are not permitted to be worn in the kayak but can be placed in the back.
Is the price per kayak or per person?
The tour is priced per person.
Can you swim?
Due to water depth, this route does not support swimming in the river.
Trips canceled by the operator due to inclement weather will be refunded. No-shows are not refunded.
39 East Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Get Up And Go Kayaking offers a memorable way to experience Lady Bird Lake, with guided tours that frequently include bat watching and stunning views of the Austin skyline. Guides like Nora, Journey, Drew, and Star consistently earn praise for being knowledgeable, patient, and creating a relaxed atmosphere. The LED-lit clear kayaks add a special touch to evening tours, and reviewers appreciate that the pace feels comfortable for all ages and skill levels, including complete beginners and older participants. The tours run smoothly overall, with easy check-ins and peaceful paddling experiences. However, there's a significant concern worth noting: one reviewer claims the company operates without proper permits from Austin Parks and Recreation Department and has issues with last-minute location changes. A few others mentioned minor hiccups like difficulty finding the launch spot or occasional equipment problems. Most guests leave thrilled with their experience though, calling it perfect for date nights, family outings, or simply getting a unique perspective on the city from the water.
It was a stunningly beautiful Austin evening on Lady Bird Lake with Nora as our kayak guide on our evening glow tour. It was so peaceful to row out and under the bridge in our lit up kayaks to find the Austin skyline also all lit up, as well as the recreational trail on the other side of the lake. Nora was such a patient guide (as I was a slow kayaker)! She shared so many interesting things about the trees and the birds and the fish, and the bats (which had already migrated) and how lady bird lake came to be. I didn’t realize it was a dammed portion of the Colorado River—not to be confused with the larger Colorado River—and it was originally called Town Lake until 2007 after Lady Bird Johnson died. What a beautiful tribute to her! And what a beautiful way to experience Austin. Thank you Nora!
Liz McCloskey
November 15, 2025
It was a stunningly beautiful Austin evening on Lady Bird Lake with Nora as our kayak guide on our evening glow tour. It was so peaceful to row out and under the bridge in our lit up kayaks to find the Austin skyline also all lit up, as well as the recreational trail on the other side of the lake. Nora was such a patient guide (as I was a slow kayaker)! She shared so many interesting things about the trees and the birds and the fish, and the bats (which had already migrated) and how lady bird lake came to be. I didn’t realize it was a dammed portion of the Colorado River—not to be confused with the larger Colorado River—and it was originally called Town Lake until 2007 after Lady Bird Johnson died. What a beautiful tribute to her! And what a beautiful way to experience Austin. Thank you Nora!
Liz McCloskey
November 15, 2025