Paddle boarding is immensely popular in Austin. With Lady Bird Lake (also known as “Town Lake” by long-time residents) located in the center of the city, it’s common to see people engaging in paddle boarding or kayaking activities as they stroll along the trail that circles the lake.
Despite the colder winter months, paddle boarding remains a year-round activity in Austin. The mild Texas winters, coupled with the scenic beauty of Lady Bird Lake, make it a favored spot for enthusiasts to keep enjoying their sport every season.
Can You Paddle Board In Austin In The Winter?
Yes, paddle boarding in Austin during the winter is definitely possible. Lady Bird Lake is particularly popular among paddlers year-round. Even on rare snowy days, you can see people out on the water enjoying the calm surface and stunning views of the Downtown Austin skyline. The mild winter temperatures in Texas make paddle boarding an attractive option for residents and visitors.
Austin’s winter weather can vary greatly. It’s essential to dress in layers as temperatures can swing from 35°F one day to 75°F the next. For city dwellers and tourists alike, keeping an eye on the weather forecast is crucial.
There are plenty of warm days during the winter when temperatures can reach up to 80°F. These pleasant days offer fantastic opportunities to enjoy the water and embark on an aquatic adventure within the city. Paddle boarding is not only a popular recreational activity for locals but also a wonderful way for visitors to experience the charm of Austin from the water.
Here are a few tips for paddle boarding in Austin during winter:
- Dress in Layers: As temperatures can shift quickly, dressing in layers will help you stay comfortable.
- Check the Weather App: Austin’s winter weather is unpredictable, so frequent checks will ensure you’re prepared.
- Stay Safe: Always bring a life vest. Texas law requires children under 14 to wear one, and it’s recommended for everyone else, especially non-swimmers.
The combination of calm waters, inviting weather, and scenic landscapes makes Austin an ideal place for paddle boarding, even in the cooler months.
What To Wear When You Paddle Board In The Winter
Dress to stay warm and comfortable. On colder days, wear a moisture-wicking top like polypropylene, followed by a fleece and a water-resistant jacket. For the lower body, choose longer leggings or tights and waterproof winter pants. Don’t forget a beanie to keep your head warm, and sneakers work well for footwear. Always wear a life jacket and bring sunscreen and snacks.
All About Lady Bird Lake
Lady Bird Lake, nestled in the heart of Austin, Texas, is a hub for outdoor activities. Created from the Colorado River, this tranquil reservoir attracts both locals and visitors daily. It’s flanked by the downtown Austin skyline to the north and Zilker Park and Auditorium Shores to the south.
People engage in various water sports here, including kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. The calm waters make it an excellent place for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.
The Boardwalk Trail offers a scenic route for walking, jogging, running, and biking around the lake. This trail provides beautiful views and connects several parks and recreational areas, including Festival Beach and the Congress Avenue Bridge. Picnic tables and restrooms are conveniently located along the route.
Local wildlife can often be seen along the shoreline, adding to the serene environment. The lake’s popular spots include the secluded Red Bud Isle and the bustling Auditorium Shores, offering something for everyone.
Where To Rent Paddle Boards In Austin
- Rowing Dock: Located on Lady Bird Lake, this company offers a wide range of stand-up paddle boards for various ages and skill levels.
- SUP ATX: Find them at 1541 West Cesar Chavez Street, but the actual rental spot is on Stephen F. Austin Dr.
- Bat Tours Austin: Besides bat tours, they provide paddleboard and kayak rentals on Lady Bird Lake behind Cidercade.
- EpicSUP: Specializes in paddleboard and kayak rentals on the east side of Lady Bird Lake at 2200 South Lakeshore Blvd.
Rowing Dock
Rentals:
- Stand-up paddleboards: $25/hour
- Canoes: $30/hour
- Pedal kayaks: $30/hour
- Kayaks: $20 to $25/hour
Parking:
- Parking lot available
- Nearby parking garage
- Street parking
Rowing Dock is a top choice in Austin for renting paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes. Besides offering rentals, they provide four different guided kayak tours that last between 2 to 3.5 hours. These tours can be booked online and are led by engaging local guides. A unique feature is their monthly Full Moon Paddle, a self-guided experience that lets participants enjoy paddling during the golden hour and into the night.
Location: 2418 Stratford Dr, Austin, TX 78746
EpicSUP
View this post on Instagram
EpicSUP offers a mix of stunning Austin scenery and the excitement of paddleboarding and kayaking. Located at the quieter east end of the Austin Boardwalk, it provides visitors with a peaceful experience on Lady Bird Lake. Rental rates are affordable, with paddleboards priced at $14/hour or $34/day, single kayaks for $10/hour or $24/day, and double kayaks for $10/hour or $24/day.
Parking is convenient, featuring free vehicle spaces in a small shared lot, and plenty of secure bicycle parking. The site recommends parking only in designated spots to avoid tickets or towing.
EpicSUP is situated at 2200 S Lakeshore Blvd, Austin, TX 78741. It’s an ideal spot for quality kayaks, boards, and paddles, adding a unique touch to Austin’s iconic lifestyle and natural beauty.
SUPATX
View this post on Instagram
Prices for Rentals:
- Weekdays:
- $15 per hour
- $35 for a full day
- Weekends:
- $20 per hour
- $40 for a full day
SUP ATX, known as the biggest stand-up paddleboard company worldwide, boasts an impressive inventory of over 400 boards. Conveniently located along Lady Bird Lake, it’s accessible via the hike and bike trail between Mopac and Lamar Blvd. Their mission is to spread the love of paddleboarding across lakes, rivers, and oceans globally. The team at SUP ATX is highly knowledgeable and passionate about the sport, making it a top choice for paddleboard rentals in Austin.
Location: 444 E St Elmo Rd. Austin, TX 78745
Live Love Paddle
View this post on Instagram
Located near the boardwalk on Lady Bird Lake, Live Love Paddle offers a wide range of watercraft rentals. Their selection includes single kayaks ($10/hour on weekdays and $15/hour on weekends) and tandem kayaks ($15/hour on weekdays and $20/hour on weekends). Paddle boards are available for $15/hour during weekdays and $20/hour on weekends. Canoes can be rented for $20/hour on weekdays and $25/hour on weekends. For those looking for a longer adventure, NuCanoes are offered for $60 for a half-day trip, which lasts 3 hours.
Live Love Paddle not only provides rental services but also organizes various activities on Lady Bird Lake. Highlights include the popular kayak tours to observe bats under the Congress Avenue Bridge. They also offer corporate team-building events, all-day kayaking trips down nearby rivers, overnight camping trips, and a two-hour Urban Kayaking Tour through Downtown Austin.
Visitors benefit from free parking, including a complimentary parking garage, making access convenient.
Austin Rowing Club
View this post on Instagram
Austin Rowing Club (ARC), the oldest rowing club in Texas, offers a variety of water activities on Lady Bird Lake, including rowing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Whether you are a local or visiting, ARC provides a fantastic way to enjoy the lake’s stunning scenery. They offer hourly rentals for single and double kayaks as well as stand-up paddleboards. The club operates seven days a week. Note that there is no parking available at the boathouse. Visitors can find parking along downtown streets or at the nearby Convention Center garage.
Location: 74 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78701.
Conclusion
For those wondering if paddle boarding in Austin during the winter is feasible, the answer is a resounding yes. With proper gear and a bit of preparation, paddle boarders can take advantage of the less crowded lakes and rivers. Austin’s beautiful waterways, combined with its pleasant winter weather, create an ideal environment for paddle boarding enthusiasts looking to stay active and enjoy nature throughout the year.