Lake Mead and the Colorado River offer surprisingly good paddling options near Vegas. The best guided tours head to Emerald Cave and Black Canyon, where towering canyon walls create unforgettable views.
I especially love the Black Canyon tours – they’re well-organized and include thoughtful touches like shuttle service and healthy snacks. For independent types, self-guided rentals let you explore at your own pace, though guided trips are worth the extra cost for their local expertise and included amenities.
The hot springs access on select tours is a special treat, especially in cooler months.
Let’s explore the top kayaking tours around Las Vegas.
Key Points
- Emerald Cave Tour: A 5.5-hour excursion with panoramic views, wildlife spotting, and a private group experience.
- Black Canyon Tour: A 6-hour tour with 3 hours on the water, shuttle service, basic instruction, and healthy snacks.
- Twilight Kayak Tour: A 4-hour tour with stunning views, wildlife spotting, and a campfire experience for up to 14 participants.
- Willow Beach Rentals: Self-guided kayaking experience with essential equipment and a low-price guarantee.
- Hoover Dam Kayak Trip: An 8-hour journey covering 12 miles downstream, including hot springs, waterfalls, and scenic paddling.
Lake Mead Kayaking From Las Vegas
Visitors seeking an immersive experience on the serene waters of Lake Mead can embark on a kayaking adventure from Las Vegas.
At $174.38 per person, this 10 AM tour provides a performance touring kayak, paddle, and personal flotation device. Healthy lunch options, snacks, and bottled water are included, along with professional guide services and basic paddling instruction.
The tour accommodates up to 10 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s suitable for those with moderate fitness. With a convenient meeting point in Boulder City and optional hotel pickup, this 4.5-star rated experience offers an enjoyable introduction to the natural beauty of Lake Mead.
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Las Vegas Kayaking Rentals – Self Drive
Travelers seeking a self-guided kayaking experience can discover the serene waterways of Willow Beach, Arizona, located just over an hour’s drive from Las Vegas.
Las Vegas Kayaking Rentals offers a hassle-free option to explore the area’s natural beauty. The rental package includes all necessary equipment like paddles, life vests, and waterproof phone cases.
Customers can launch their kayaks from the Kayak Beach meeting point and enjoy the scenic Colorado River. However, there are some health and fitness restrictions, so it’s essential to review the guidelines before booking.
With a 5-star rating and a low-price guarantee, this self-drive kayaking adventure is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts near Las Vegas.
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From Las Vegas: Kayak Rental With Shuttle to Emerald Cave
For those seeking a more guided kayaking experience, the From Las Vegas: Kayak Rental With Shuttle to Emerald Cave tour offers an opportunity to explore the stunning Colorado River and Emerald Cave.
This 5.5-hour excursion includes a roundtrip shuttle from Las Vegas, a private group experience, and the rental of either a single or double kayak. Participants will enjoy panoramic views, spot wildlife, and paddle the turquoise waters of Willow Beach.
The tour also covers the national park entry fee and provides basic kayaking instructions.
With an overall rating of 4.4/5 and positive reviews, this guided adventure is a great way to experience the beauty of the Colorado River.
Read our full review: From Las Vegas: Kayak Rental With Shuttle to Emerald Cave Review
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From Las Vegas: Emerald Cave Kayak Tour
The Emerald Cave Kayak Tour from Las Vegas offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the stunning Black Canyon along the Colorado River. Priced at $139 per person, the 6-hour tour includes 3 hours on the water and a shuttle service from Mandalay Bay.
Limited to 15 participants, the tour allows you to kayak through the canyon, observe wildlife, and visit the renowned Emerald Cove. Guides provide basic kayaking instruction and share interesting facts about the area.
Healthy snacks, fruit, and water are included. With an impressive 4.7/5 rating based on 172 reviews, this tour is a must-try for adventure-seekers seeking a unique Las Vegas experience.
Read our full review: From Las Vegas: Emerald Cave Kayak Tour Review
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From Las Vegas: Black Canyon Twilight Kayak Tour
Embarking on the Black Canyon Twilight Kayak Tour from Las Vegas, adventurers can enjoy a captivating journey through the serene waterways of the region.
This 4-hour activity offers a chance to explore the majestic Black Canyon by kayak, with stunning views of towering cliffs and desert flora. Paddlers can spot wildlife, including bighorn sheep, and enjoy a campfire experience with hot dogs and s’mores under the stars.
The tour includes pickup from the Las Vegas Strip, all necessary equipment, and a professional guide. With a limited group size of 14 participants, this twilight kayak adventure provides a tranquil and unforgettable experience for those seeking an outdoor escape from the city.
Read our full review: From Las Vegas: Black Canyon Twilight Kayak Tour Review
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LAS VEGAS: Scenic Escape: Guided Kayaking – Self Drive
Venturing out from Las Vegas, visitors can enjoy a scenic kayaking experience at Willow Beach, Arizona.
The 2.5-3 hour guided tour offers a chance to explore the emerald waters and admire the Black Canyon of the Colorado River. Priced from $99.75 to $133 per person, the activity includes roundtrip transportation, professional guides, and all necessary equipment.
Suitable for families, the tour features a 15-minute safety briefing, 45-minute guided kayaking sessions, and a break for lunch and sightseeing. Participants must be at least 5 years old and under 260 lbs.
With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, this guided kayak tour provides a tranquil escape from the Las Vegas hustle.
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From Las Vegas: Guided Emerald Cave Kayak Tour
From Las Vegas, visitors can embark on a captivating 3-hour Guided Emerald Cave Kayak Tour.
This experience takes paddlers through the stunning Black Canyon, where they’ll witness 900-foot volcanic walls and have the chance to swim in the Colorado River within the Emerald Cave.
Along the way, they’ll explore historical sites and keep an eye out for wildlife.
The tour includes a certified guide, all necessary equipment, and light refreshments.
With a rating of 4.7/5 based on 17 reviews, this tour is suitable for beginners and advanced paddlers alike, offering an excellent value for money.
Read our full review: From Las Vegas: Guided Emerald Cave Kayak Tour Review
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Lake Mead: Stand up Paddle Board Tour to Boulder Island
Visitors to Las Vegas can experience the tranquil beauty of Lake Mead through a 3-hour Stand Up Paddle Board Tour to Boulder Island. The tour costs $119 per person and departs from the Personal Watercraft Beach in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, just 30 minutes from the Strip.
Paddlers of all skill levels can enjoy the guided tour, exploring the shoreline of Boulder Island, swimming in emerald green swimming holes, and discovering hidden coves. The tour includes all necessary equipment, a bottle of water, and a shuttle service to and from hotels.
Participants should bring their own sunglasses, swimwear, and other essentials for a fun and relaxing day on the water.
Read our full review: Lake Mead: Stand up Paddle Board Tour to Boulder Island Review
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From Las Vegas: Emerald Cave Kayak Tour With Shuttle Pickup
Travelers looking to escape the bright lights of Las Vegas can embark on the Emerald Cave Kayak Tour, a 3-hour adventure through the stunning Black Canyon along the Colorado River.
Priced from $159.99 per person, this tour includes round-trip shuttle service from select Las Vegas hotels, kayaks and all necessary gear, snacks and water, as well as entry fees.
Guests can paddle through the canyon, spot wildlife like desert bighorn sheep and bald eagles, and visit the emerald green waters of Emerald Cave.
With a live English-speaking guide, free cancellation, and a reserve now/pay later option, this tour offers an exceptional value for adventurous travelers.
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Hoover Dam Kayak Trip 45-Min From Las Vegas 6-Hot Springs
This 8-hour Hoover Dam Kayak Trip takes adventurous travelers on a 12-mile downstream journey along the Colorado River.
Launching from the Hoover Dam base, the trip includes exploring Sauna Cave, visiting Boyscout Canyon, and paddling by the Gauging Station and Willow Beach National Fish Hatchery.
Highlights include a quick dip at Goldstrike Hot Springs, a lunch break at Arizona Hot Springs Beach, and a scenic paddle through Emerald Cave.
The trip features 6 hot springs and waterfalls, including Infinity Hot Springs and Paradise Falls.
Suitable for participants aged 6 and above, the tour requires bringing your own water, snacks, and lunch.
Shuttle transportation from Willow Beach to the launch site is provided.
Read our full review: Hoover Dam Kayak Trip 45-Min From Las Vegas 6-Hot Springs Review
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The Sum Up
Las Vegas may not be the first place that comes to mind for kayaking, but there are actually quite a few great options nearby. From guided tours to self-drive rentals, visitors can explore Lake Mead, the Emerald Cave, and the Black Canyon. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely paddle or a more adventurous experience, there’s a kayak excursion to suit your interests near Sin City.