What’s better than a hot summer day in Austin, Texas? Spending it on the water, of course! In this article we will answer the commonly asked question “Where To Paddle Board In Austin?”
Best Places To Paddle Board In Austin, TX
Whether you’re an experienced paddle boarder or have never tried it before, you will want to know where to paddle board in Austin, TX and we are here to help! Here are the best places to SUP in Austin, TX.
Lady Bird Lake
Feed your need for adventure with a paddle boarding adventure on Lady Bird Lake. With 750 acres of water, you can paddle board for hours on end while experiencing incredible views.
When paddling its beautiful waters, be sure to take time to stop at some of the access points and enjoy the views from the water. The scenery is beautiful and provides plenty of photo ops.
The breathtaking views make this a picturesque spot to enjoy the fresh air and stunning scenery in Austin, TX. This pristine lake gives you plenty of space to explore by yourself or with your family and friends for miles around!
The lack of waves makes it a great spot for beginners to learn how to paddle board as well! Lady Bird Lake is an amazing destination for paddle boarders of all experience levels.
Lake Travis
Located about 30 miles northwest of Austin and only 20 minutes from downtown, this 18,000-acre lake offers some spectacular views with plenty of places to stop along the way. You’ll paddle board over deep, clear water and enjoy the sights of wildlife.
This lake is a great place to paddle board for beginners. There are no waves on this lake, which means it’s perfect for newbies and those looking for an easy paddle. The water is deep enough that you’ll be able to paddle all the way out to where the water meets the bank of the shore.
There are plenty of access points along the banks of the shore, making it fairly easy to hop off your board and have a quick break before continuing on your journey. If you need a break, you can stop at McCraney Point Park or visit Black Rock Cove.
Lake Austin
Just outside of downtown, Lake Austin is a perfect sport for beginner paddle boarders. This spot provides an ideal location for starting a new paddle boarding hobby with calm waters and easy access to the Colorado River.
Lake Austin will transport you to another world. The views are absolutely stunning, making it feel like you’re in a painting with tall limestone cliffs and lush green trees all around. You can paddle board out into the middle of the lake, where there is plenty of room to explore off-shore caves and swim through cool blue.
If you want something more challenging, head up to Lady Bird Lake or Barton Creek once you’ve got some experience under your belt.
Barton Creek
This creek is smooth and slow-moving. Keep in mind that some creek portions can be shallow or rocky, so you’ll want to stay on paths towards the middle.
If you’re looking for a challenge, Barton Creek offers something that you can enjoy as well. You’ll paddle over huge rocks and explore some awesome caves that make it worth your while!
Of note, Barton Creek flows through an undeveloped area with no public access points outside of its mouth at Ladybird.
Austin Riverwalk
Paddle boarding on the Austin Riverwalk is a great way to enjoy nature in a new way. Access to the river walk is easy and paddle board friendly.
The wide, shallow banks of the river offer some great spots for beginners because you can easily paddle out into deeper water without feeling pressured by waves or rocks.
If you’re looking for more of a challenge, there are also many channels with moving water that are perfect for experienced paddle boarders.
Red Bud Isle
The Red Bud Isle is a great place for paddle boarders to spend time on the water paddling upstream. The channel is situated between a one-mile stretch of the Colorado River and Lake Travis and is where you’ll find some of the best wildlife in Austin.
The Red Bud Isle is a favorite for paddle boarders because the current can be tricky to navigate. The narrow channel provides some great challenges that are sure to make you feel accomplished!
Every July, an event called “The Big Paddle” takes place on the Red Bud Isle. It’s a full day of outdoor activities, including kayaking, fishing, canoeing, paddle boarding, hiking, and camping.
You can also go on guided tours around this scenic area with biologists and ecologists as your tour guides!
Colorado River
The Colorado River is the perfect spot for any experienced paddle boarder looking for a new challenge. The river currents will be moving swiftly, so you’ll need to keep your balance as you move downstream.
While navigating down the Colorado River, keep your eyes peeled for turtles, beavers, ospreys, and even deer on the banks!
This is also an excellent place to try out paddle boarding tricks, as you’ll find plenty of waves in areas that are perfect for surfing.
Secret Beach
Paddle boarding at Secret Beach in Austin offers an escape from the city and a chance to enjoy nature. The shore is a dirt sand bar that’s off the radar from tourists, so it’s a nice place to be away from crowds. It provides clear water with plenty of wildlife such as herons, turtles, and many more.
It’s a great spot for beginners and experienced paddle boarders alike, as there are plenty of access points to allow you to explore the area. The shores are shallow, so they’re perfect for beginners to paddle out and explore.
You’ll enjoy some great views from this location and be able to find an incredible beach that is hidden from public view!
Spring Lake
Spring Lake in Austin boasts all the benefits of an inland lake with almost none of the disadvantages. The water is calm, there are no waves, and paddling in this area will be easy for beginners.
You’ll be able to catch some great views of the lake and have a nice escape from crowds that often come with lakes. The water is also very clear in this location, so you can see all the wildlife without having to go too far out into the deep end!
Onion Creek
Onion Creek is a calm creek that flows at a leisurely pace and provides great views of the Texas Hill Country. The water is shallow and fun for beginners. One of the best parts about this spot is that there isn’t much pressure, so it’s easy to get comfortable as you learn how to paddleboard here.
If you’re looking for more of a challenge, there are spots upstream where the current will be stronger and rougher.
Where Will You Paddle Board In Austin, TX?
Austin offers a variety of gorgeous backdrops to explore as you paddle board. Whether you’re just starting or looking for something more challenging, there are plenty of places to explore throughout town where you can enjoy your favorite hobby!
Austin is home to some of Texas’s best paddle boarding opportunities, and we’re here to share our favorites with you. Have a favorite spot that didn’t make this list? Please share it with us below!
