Last Updated on May 11, 2023 by Editor
Welcome to Austin, Texas! A city of historical charm and contemporary vibrancy, established on the 27th of December, 1839, that proudly stands as the capital of the second-largest state in the US. Austin is a city of music that pulses with an electrifying rhythm, where live bands set the night ablaze in countless bars, and the echo of melodies fills the air. But don’t let the tunes distract you from the city’s natural beauty, with parks and lakes sprinkled like jewels across its expanse.
For those with a love for water and adventure, Austin reveals itself as a haven for Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP). With a plethora of top-tier companies vying to offer you an unparalleled SUP experience, and an abundance of idyllic paddleboarding spots, you’re sure to find something tailored to your taste. Whether you’re a novice paddler dipping your toes into the water for the first time, or a seasoned SUP veteran, Austin’s stunning weather and tranquil, flat waters create an ideal playground for all.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the crème de la crème of local SUP businesses, as well as spotlight some of the best SUP spots for those wanting to chart their course on Austin’s beautiful waterways. So, let’s dive in!
Stand up Paddle board rentals & shops in Austin
SUPatx- A wide range of different SUP’s are available for purchase either online or in-store; they also have many different Paddle Board must-have accessories like PFDs and leashes. If you don’t want to fork out a massive amount for a Paddleboard there are always offers on their website furthermore you can rent a SUP in store for a set price per day! This company is clearly trying to provide their customers with the best possible value when it comes to buying and renting Paddleboards, and have been successfully doing so since founder Nick Matzorkis realized there was a gap in the Austin market after trying Paddleboarding in Malibu!
Austin paddle sports– The second company on our list has helped to teach hundreds if not thousands of people in Austin learn how to paddleboard and continues to offer professional SUP lessons to locals and tourists alike. Austin Paddlesports also offer amazing group Paddling, which in our opinion would be a great idea for a workplace trip and an opportunity to get closer to colleagues. They also have SUPs available for rental if you don’t have your own. If you are looking to buy a paddle board, they also offer a ‘try before you buy’, which is great for sup beginners. View our best inflatable paddle board reviews before you make your final decision.
Peaceful Paddling– Another fantastic company that offers Paddle Boarding experiences as well as many different services, such as kayaking and boat trips. If you are a tourist and are looking to find out more information on the local area, and its history and see some of But, they also provide paddle boards for rent should you want to explore the beautiful lakes of Austin from a unique point of view.
Live love Paddle– This enthusiastic company are in the heart of Austin and offer some amazing tours of the city, in areas such as Congress Bridge and lady Bird Lake and group tours of the city. If you’re looking to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this is the perfect opportunity to learn more about Austin and burn calories simultaneously. If you are confident and decide you want to make your own route on your paddle board, Live Love Paddle also offers rentals at $10 an hour. They also offer nighttime paddling which will show you some unique and wonderful views of the lit up city, also full moon kayaking and a live music tour!
Best places to paddle board in Austin (TX)
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Lake Georgetown
This stunning lake is an ideal place to take the whole family, even if they don’t like paddleboarding there are some beautiful views on the 26.5-mile hike that can be done around the water.
Local companies such as Georgetown Paddle company offer both SUP rentals as well as lessons if you don’t have your own board or aren’t confident in you paddling ability. You could leave half the family doing one of the many other activities such as bike rides, hikes, and a boat ride that the Reservoir has to offer whilst you have a fun yet tiring water workout!
Texas Rowing Center
A perfect Paddleboarding spot for begins and more experienced paddlers alike. With the Rowing Centre itself offering some amazing prices on SUP rentals; at just $15 an hour or $35 dollars for the day it’s hard to say no. As I’m sure you guessed by the name you can also rent rowing boats, Kayaks, and Canoes! There are also Rowing lessons available but unfortunately, there aren’t and SUP lessons at the official club yet.
Although it won’t be hard to find a teacher in the local area. On the Lake, you can take in some of the wildlife whilst enjoying the beautiful views of the forest.
Lady Bird Lake
The number 2 thing to do in Texas on TripAdvisor is one of the best Paddling spots in Austin! This is an ideal spot to have a peaceful workout not only on your paddleboard with plenty of space but there is also a great place to Hike or go on a Bike ride. There is an enchanting view of the Austin Skyline and some historic status around the Lake. This has to be one of our favorite SUP spots!
Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) on Lady Bird Lake, Austin, TX - The Daytripper
Lake Travis
A pristine gem in the heart of Texas, Lake Travis is the mecca for paddleboarding enthusiasts in Austin. This vast reservoir on the Colorado River is not just breathtakingly beautiful but also a safe haven for paddleboarders of all skill levels, thanks to its calm, crystal-clear waters. As you glide on your board, soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding hills, and don’t be surprised if you spot a few friendly wildlife locals. With a myriad of coves to explore and the perfect balance of seclusion and community, Lake Travis is a SUP paradise waiting to be discovered.
Secret Beach
Tucked away in the Roy G. Guerrero Colorado River Metro Park, Secret Beach is truly one of Austin’s best-kept secrets. This tranquil hideaway offers a unique paddleboarding experience, surrounded by lush vegetation and teeming with local wildlife. Paddle along the gentle river currents, bask in the serenity, and enjoy a picnic on the sandy shores when you need a break. Remember, though, that part of the charm of Secret Beach is its peacefulness, so please respect the tranquility and leave no trace.
Lake Austin
Snaking through the city, Lake Austin provides a vibrant backdrop for your paddleboarding adventure. Flanked by the city’s bustling life on one side and the serene beauty of nature on the other, this lake offers the best of both worlds. From sunrise paddling sessions that paint the sky with hues of pinks and oranges, to moonlit expeditions under the stars, Lake Austin guarantees a memorable SUP experience.
Spring Lake
Nestled in the heart of San Marcos, a short drive from Austin, Spring Lake is a natural spring-fed lake with crystal-clear waters and teeming underwater life, making it a unique spot for paddleboarding. The lake is part of the Meadow Center for Water and the Environment, and it maintains a commitment to preserve its natural state, ensuring a serene and unspoiled environment for SUP enthusiasts. Glide over the glass-like water, peer into the clear depths to spot turtles and fish, and let the gentle currents guide you through this aquatic wonderland.
Map of paddle boarding locations and SUP Rentals in Austin
Austin is an amazing place to visit in general, but if you are looking to go to some amazing Paddle spots and meet some enthusiastic people simultaneously, you should take a trip to Austin. We hope this article has informed you of some local businesses you can utilize to have the easiest and best time while Paddleboarding. Don’t forget to take a bottle of water with you as this may use more energy than you expected, and the Sun Cream if it’s a hot day!
