Giant paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake is an exhilarating way to explore Austin’s natural wonders. Glide through the serene waters, taking in the stunning skyline views and spotting local wildlife. With knowledgeable guides, this adventure offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re seeking a group outing or a peaceful solo experience, the Giant Paddleboarding tour at Austin’s Springs and Party Island is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- The tour includes paddleboarding on the serene waters of Lady Bird Lake, with stunning views of the city skyline.
- Participants can spot local wildlife like birds, turtles, and fish during the guided paddleboarding experience.
- The tour includes a visit to the iconic Barton Springs Pool, a natural swimming hole with refreshing 68-70°F water.
- The large paddleboards provide stability and comfort, allowing for a peaceful cruise or a lively social adventure.
- The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for a wide range of participants.
Tour Overview
The Giant Paddleboarding Tour on Lady Bird Lake provides a guided experience for visitors to cruise on giant paddleboards, swim at Barton Springs Pool, and observe local wildlife.
The tour has a group setting, with boards combined for small groups of less than four participants. Guests will receive all necessary equipment, including paddleboards, paddles, and life jackets.
The tour starts and ends at the meeting point, 2100 Stephen F Austin Dr, Austin, TX 78703, USA. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.
Infants must sit on laps, and the maximum number of travelers is 112.
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Paddle Through Lady Bird Lake
As participants embark on the Giant Paddleboarding Tour, they’ll glide across the serene waters of Lady Bird Lake, marveling at the stunning cityscape that surrounds them.
Guided by knowledgeable instructors, they’ll navigate the lake’s peaceful waters, spotting local wildlife like birds, turtles, and fish along the way.
The group’s large paddleboards provide a stable and comfortable platform, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the scenic views.
Whether it’s a peaceful cruise or a lively social experience, the Paddle Through Lady Bird Lake promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Austin.
Explore Barton Springs Pool
After traversing the serene waters of Lady Bird Lake, participants make their way to the renowned Barton Springs Pool. This iconic natural swimming hole, fed by underground springs, offers a refreshing respite from the Texas heat. Swimmers can observe the local wildlife, including turtles and fish, as they enjoy the cool, 68-70°F waters. The pool’s accessibility features, such as wheelchair access and stroller access, ensure an inclusive experience for all.
Barton Springs Pool | ||
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Water Temperature | 68-70°F | Year-Round |
Size | 3 Acres | Olympic-Sized |
Depth | Maximum 18 Feet | Average 3-4 Feet |
Hours | 5AM – 10PM | Daily |
Admission | $5-$9 | Varies |
Spotting Local Wildlife
What wildlife can visitors expect to see during the Giant Paddleboarding Tour? The calm waters of Lady Bird Lake provide the perfect environment to observe a variety of local flora and fauna:
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Colorful birds such as herons, egrets, and cormorants gracefully glide across the surface or nest in the surrounding trees.
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Turtles of all sizes bask on fallen logs and rocks, occasionally diving into the water as the paddleboards approach.
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Schools of fish dart beneath the boards, their scales shimmering in the sunlight.
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Dragonflies and other insects flit across the water, while wildflowers bloom along the shoreline.
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With patience and a keen eye, paddlers may even spot the elusive river otter or a curious beaver.
Group Paddleboarding Experience
The Giant Paddleboarding Tour offers a unique group experience, allowing participants to cruise together on oversized paddleboards.
The guided tour ensures direction and safety, with boards combined for groups of less than four. This collaborative setting allows visitors to bond while observing local wildlife and swimming at Barton Springs Pool.
The included amenities, such as paddleboards, paddles, and life jackets, make the experience hassle-free.
With a maximum of 112 travelers, the tour provides a flexible yet intimate group adventure on Lady Bird Lake, culminating in a visit to the renowned Party Island.
Included Amenities and Accessibility
The Giant Paddleboarding Tour conveniently provides all the necessary equipment, including paddleboards, paddles, and life jackets, ensuring a hassle-free experience for participants.
The tour is also accessible to a wide range of travelers:
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Infants can join, though they must sit on laps
- The tour has a maximum capacity of 112 travelers, accommodating groups of all sizes.
With these inclusive amenities and accessibility features, the Giant Paddleboarding Tour caters to diverse adventure-seekers, making it an enjoyable and inclusive experience for all.
Booking Details and Options
When it comes to booking the Giant Paddleboarding Tour, participants have flexible options to suit their needs.
The tour is priced at $59 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and a video tour of the meeting point is provided afterwards.
Travelers can enjoy the flexibility of reserving their spot, as the tour accommodates up to 112 people. Whether it’s a last-minute decision or a carefully planned adventure, the booking process is straightforward and convenient.
What to Expect on the Tour
Although the Giant Paddleboarding Tour takes place in a group setting, participants can expect a guided and safe experience on Lady Bird Lake.
The tour includes:
- Cruising on giant paddleboards to Barton Springs Pool and Party Island
- Swimming at the natural spring-fed Barton Springs Pool with other visitors
- Observing local wildlife like birds, turtles, and fish along the way
- Use of provided paddleboards, paddles, and life jackets
- A flexible return to the meeting point at the end of the tour
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.
With a maximum of 112 travelers, the group experience offers an opportunity to connect with nature and fellow adventurers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Paddleboard?
No, participants cannot bring their own paddleboards. The tour provides all necessary equipment, including paddleboards, paddles, and life jackets, as part of the included amenities. Participants must use the supplied equipment for the guided group experience.
Is a Changing Room Available at Barton Springs Pool?
Barton Springs Pool has changing rooms available for visitors. These changing rooms allow you to get ready before and after swimming in the natural spring-fed pool.
Are There Any Weight or Height Restrictions for Participants?
The tour doesn’t mention any specific weight or height restrictions. However, participants should be able to comfortably balance on and propel the giant paddleboards. It’s best to contact the tour provider for more details on participant requirements.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour provider allows outside snacks and beverages to be brought along, as long as they’re for personal consumption and don’t create litter or disturbances.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time. Customers receive confirmation of their booking and can make flexible reservation changes as needed.
Sum Up
Giant paddleboarding at Austin’s Springs and Party Island offers a unique and unforgettable experience on Lady Bird Lake. Glide along the serene waters, take in the city skyline, and spot local wildlife – all while enjoying a lively social atmosphere. It’s an ideal outing for groups looking to combine relaxation and adventure in the heart of Austin.
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