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Kayak & Paddle Board Rentals on Lady Bird Lake

Quick Details

  • Ages: All Ages

From :

$ 20

Kayak and Paddle Board Rentals in Downtown Austin

Renting a kayak or paddle board on Lady Bird Lake is the easiest and most affordable way to get on the water in Austin. You launch right downtown with the skyline in front of you, paddle at your own pace, and there are no motorboats to deal with. Rentals start at $20 and are open to all ages, so it works for solo paddlers, couples, and families.

What You Can Rent

  • Single and tandem kayaks
  • Stand up paddle boards (SUP)

Every rental includes the paddle and a life vest. New to paddling? Lady Bird Lake is flat and calm, which makes it one of the best places in Texas to try a kayak or paddle board for the first time. Prefer a guide and some history along the way? Take a look at our guided Austin skyline kayak tour or the sunset bat tour instead.

Where You Launch and Park

We are on Lady Bird Lake (also called Town Lake) in downtown Austin at 200 E Riverside Dr. There is a paid parking lot at the launch. From the water you get the downtown skyline, the Congress Avenue Bridge, and the Ann and Roy Butler hike-and-bike trail along the shore.

What You Need to Rent

Bring with you:

  • A photo ID
  • A credit card
  • A signed waiver. All participants must sign a waiver, and minors under 18 must have a guardian sign for them. You can sign ahead here.

Good to Know

  • Reserve ahead to guarantee your equipment, especially on weekends. Walk-ups are welcome whenever gear is available.
  • Leave valuables at home or in your vehicle. We can hold your keys while you are on the water.
  • Drink water and wear sunscreen. There is no shade on the lake.
  • Dry bags are available for purchase for $20.
  • Alcohol is prohibited on Lady Bird Lake by city ordinance.

Kayak Rental FAQ

How much does it cost to rent a kayak in Austin?

Kayak and paddle board rentals on Lady Bird Lake start at $20. You can reserve online or walk up when equipment is available.

Do I need a reservation to rent a kayak?

No, walk-ups are welcome whenever gear is available, but we recommend reserving ahead on weekends and holidays so your equipment is guaranteed.

Where do I launch a rented kayak on Lady Bird Lake?

You launch from our location in downtown Austin at 200 E Riverside Dr, right on Lady Bird Lake, with paid parking on site.

Do you need experience to rent a kayak or paddle board?

No. Lady Bird Lake is flat, calm, and has no motorized boats, which makes it a great place for first-timers. We get you set up with a paddle and life vest before you launch.

Can kids rent kayaks?

Rentals are open to all ages. Kids paddle with an adult, and anyone under 18 needs a guardian to sign the waiver.

What should I bring?

Bring a photo ID, a credit card, sunscreen, and water. Leave valuables at home. Dry bags are available for purchase if you want to keep a phone with you.

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