Best Spots for Paddle Boarding Austin

Austin is a SUP paradise—from calm urban lakes to spring-fed creeks and hill country reservoirs. Here are five of our favorite paddle boarding locations in and around town, complete with what makes each unique, insider-known tips, and fun stops to complement your adventure.

1. Lady Bird Lake

What makes it special: The quintessential Austin paddle experience—flat, motor-free water with downtown skyline views, tree-lined shores, and easy access points like Zilker Park and Red Bud Isle.

Tips: Launch from Zilker Park Boat Rentals, The Rowing Dock, or Texas Rowing Center.

Go early to avoid crowds and catch calm, glassy water. Sunset paddles are especially stunning near the Congress Avenue Bridge—with the famous bat colony flying out at dusk.

Consider joining a bat tour or glow paddle at night for a unique experience.

After-Paddle: Relax with a cold drink on a riverside deck or explore South Congress for tacos, live music, and shopping.

2. Lake Austin

What makes it special: A scenic reservoir carved from the Colorado River, lined by lush hills and waterfront homes. The water is typically calm and clear—ideal for an easy, picturesque paddle.

Tips: Launch from Emma Long Park or Loop 360 Boat Ramp to access quieter stretches.

Best for intermediate paddlers looking to cover distance or explore secluded coves.

Watch for boat traffic—especially on weekends.

After-paddle: Swing by nearby picnic areas or head into the Hill Country vineyards or breweries nearby for food and a cold pint.

3. Barton Creek

What makes it special: A spring-fed tributary flowing into Lady Bird Lake. You’ll paddle through lush greenery, limestone cliffs, and natural swimming holes like Sculpture Falls and Twin Falls.

Tips: Warp paddles if water levels are high; else some shallow spots and obstacles may appear.

A shallow fin is handy to avoid snagging vegetation.

Launch near Zilker Park where Barton Creek meets the lake.

After-paddle: Cool off with a dip in nearby Barton Springs Pool or grab tacos and cervezas around South Austin.

4. Lake Walter E. Long

What makes it special: A large, lesser-known reservoir northeast of Austin (~1,200 acres), offering wide open water and vibrant city views in the distance.

Tips:

Best paddled in the early morning or weekday evenings when winds are minimal.
The water can get choppy later in the day—plan accordingly, especially in cooler months.

After-paddle: Pack a picnic and enjoy the park’s grassy shoreline, or explore nearby trails for a little hike and lookout views.

5. Lake Travis

What makes it special: The biggest and deepest lake in the Austin area (~18,000 acres) surrounded by cliffs, waterfront neighborhoods, and scenic parks.

Tips:

Mornings are best for calm waters; afternoons bring wind and boat traffic.
Ideal for long-distance paddles or adventurous explorers.

After-paddle: Visit Volente Beach, have drinks at The Oasis overlooking the lake, or enjoy the surrounding vineyards and shops.

Pro Tips for Paddle Boarding Austin

Tip	Why It Helps
Beat the crowds	Go early—ideal for calmer water and better light.
Know local launch spots	Use Zilker Park, Rowing Dock, Emma Long, or Hippie Hollow depending on your paddle location.
Bring a shallow fin	Vital for Barton Creek paddling to avoid plant tangles.
Inflatables boards	Great for hopping between lakes without hauling a hard board.
Watch water levels and wind	Lakes like Travis and Lake Austin vary—plan your time accordingly.

From cityscape glides on Lady Bird Lake to peaceful creek canopies at Barton, or reservoir vistas on Lake Travis and Austin, paddle boarding austin gives you a fresh perspective on this energetic city. Whether you're paddling for fun, fitness, or exploring the beauty around you—Austin’s waterways deliver every time.

Need a board? Check out the Paddle North fleet to find one that's right for you.