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Barton Springs Giant Paddleboard Tour

Guided
See all paddle board tours in Austin
Dog Friendly
Kid Friendly
Locally Owned
Beginner Friendly
Free Cancellation
Instant Book
Duration: 2 hours

Pricing

Regular Rate

Ages 3+

$50

All Prices

Regular Rate

Ages 3+

$50

Description

Austin Paddleboard Tour - Experience Barton Springs on Giant Paddleboards

Paddle into the heart of Austin on this laid-back giant paddleboard adventure through the crystal-clear waters of Barton Creek. Starting on Lady Bird Lake, your guide will lead you into the famous spring-fed waterway that flows from Barton Springs. The water here stays a refreshing 68 degrees year-round and is so clear you can often see straight to the bottom—perfect for spotting fish, turtles, and other wildlife swimming beneath your board.
Along the way you’ll experience one of the most lively and authentic stretches of water in Austin. Locals gather here to swim, jump from bridges, swing from rope swings, and relax along the banks of the creek. It’s the kind of place where something interesting is always happening—whether it’s a slackline strung across the water or an impromptu group floating the afternoon away. Your giant paddleboard makes the experience social and fun, allowing groups to paddle together while enjoying the sun and cool spring water.
You’ll also have plenty of time to jump in and swim, relax on the board, or simply take in the atmosphere. On weekends you may pass the famous “Party Island,” a sandbar gathering spot that brings a beach-like energy to the creek—easy to join if you’re looking for a lively vibe, or easy to avoid if you prefer a more relaxed experience. No paddleboarding experience is required, and with ultra-stable giant boards designed for groups, it’s one of the most fun and refreshing ways to experience Austin from the water.

Duration

2 hours

Location / Where to Meet

Austin High Boat Launch
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the tours start time. 

Ages & Requirements

  1. Ages 3+
  2. Suitable for all skill levels including beginners. Full paddling instruction provided.
  3. Maximum weight per board: 1,050 lbs total.
  4. Recommended group size: 3–5 adults per giant paddleboard. Smaller groups may share boards.
  5. Dogs welcome!

What's Included

  1. Giant paddleboard 
  2. Paddle
  3. Life jacket
  4. Drybox for belongings
  5. Professional guide with extensive paddling background
  6. High-quality photos taken during the tour (sent free after the tour)
  7. Paddling instruction and safety briefing
  8. Custom "Must Do in Austin" guide (sent via email after booking)

Not Included

  1. Transportation to meeting location
  2. Food and beverages
  3. Guide Gratuity

What to Bring / Wear

  1. Shorts and sandals that can get wet
  2. Towel and change of clothes (leave in car)
  3. Hoodie or light jacket (check weather forecast)
  4. Drink and snacks (no alcohol allowed on river)
  5. Sunscreen and hat
  6. Waterproof phone case (optional)
  7. Small dry bag for personal items

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY BoatsandBats

FAQs

How many people fit on a giant paddleboard?

Our giant 15-foot paddleboards are built for group adventures and comfortably fit 3–5 adults on one board. With a total weight capacity of around 1,050 lbs, the boards are extremely stable and perfect for friends, families, or small groups who want to paddle together.

Depending on the size of the group, a maximum of 6–7 people can fit on a single board, though we typically keep groups smaller so the board remains easy and fun to paddle. Paddling as a group also makes the experience more social as everyone works together to glide across the lake.

If you’re booking with a smaller group, you may be paired with other guests to help balance the board and create a more interactive experience on the water. No paddleboarding experience is required—our guides will show you everything you need to know before the tour begins.

Do I need paddleboarding experience?

No experience is necessary. Our giant paddleboards are extremely stable and designed for groups, making them much easier to balance on than traditional stand-up paddleboards. Your guide will give a quick lesson before we launch so everyone feels comfortable.

Can we swim during the tour?

Yes! Many guests bring swimsuits and jump in along the way. The water in Barton Creek comes from the same spring system that feeds Barton Springs Pool and stays a refreshing 68 degrees year-round, making it perfect for swimming on hot Austin days.

What wildlife might we see?

The water here is incredibly clear, so it’s common to see turtles, fish, and other aquatic life swimming beneath the board. You’ll often spot dozens of turtles sunbathing on logs along the creek.

Is this tour good for families?

Yes. The tour is great for families, friend groups, and anyone looking for a fun and relaxed outdoor activity. Kids ages 3+ are welcome when accompanied by an adult.

What is Party Island?

On weekends, you may pass a popular sandbar gathering spot known as Party Island, where locals anchor kayaks, float, and enjoy the water. It’s easy to join the fun if you want a lively atmosphere, or your guide can steer the group toward quieter areas if you prefer a more relaxed experience.

Will photos be taken during the tour?

Yes! Your guide will take high-quality photos during the paddle so you can focus on enjoying the experience. The photos are shared with you afterward.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are welcome on Giant Paddleboard tours! The large, stable boards can easily accommodate pets. Bring a leash and make sure your dog is comfortable around water.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancelation up to 7 days before your experience. No refunds inside a week except for weather related host cancelations. Any host cancelation due to weather is 100% refund.

WEATHER FORECAST AND CANCELATION POLICY

Click here for the current weather forecast and dress accordingly. If we cancel the tour due to weather you will be allowed to choose another day or get a full refund. We always wait til the day of the tour before making the call about weather related cancelations as the weather forecast will change a lot leading up to the trip. Please don’t ask me a week before your trip about the weather, it will change. No matter what the weather says we wait until at least 4PM to discuss canceling or not because it will change throughout the day.

NO REFUNDS FOR MISSING THE TOUR

You need to be about 15 minutes early. Out of respect for other guests, anyone more than 10 minutes late may miss the tour and will not be refunded. Do not miss the boat. Think of this as a cruise ship leaving the harbor!

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Availability

October 2026
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Reviews

Location

Address

1920 E. Riverside Dr. Suite A-120 #210

Austin, TX, 78741

US

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