LADY BIRD LAKE
Lady Bird Lake is perhaps the most popular spot to paddle board in the city because of its calm, motorized watercraft-free waters and stunning views of the city. Plus, there are plenty of launch points and boat rentals along the lake and easy paddling access to peaceful Barton Creek. One of our favorite drop-in spots is The Austin High School Boat Launch, it’s a nice wide dock with lots of street parking.
LAKE AUSTIN
You will have to deal with occasional motor boat traffic in Lake Austin, but there are still plenty of choice nature views. Launch from Walsh Boat Landing and paddle up the lake and back or try Emma Long Metropolitan Park for a quiet paddle surrounded by lots of nature, old trees and lakefront homes.
LAKE LBJ
Our personal favorite spot to get away is Lake LBJ. It’s located only 40 miles northwest of Austin and its southern shores are five miles west of historic Marble Falls. There are plenty of launch spots for paddle boarding from public parks to marinas to private boat ramps. For smoother water we recommend:
- Bluebriar Park in Granite Shoals at West Bluebriar Dr – offers swimming, picnic tables, a boat ramp, and picnic tables.
- McNair Park in Sunrise Beach at 211 Park Rd – offers swimming, picnic areas, a boat ramp, restrooms, pavilions, and two fishing piers. It is day use only and opens at 7 a.m.
- Kingsland Community Park in Kingsland at 155 Lions Park Rd – offers a boat launch and three boat docks, picnic tables, restrooms, and a pavilion for community gatherings.
Lake Travis is the deepest and largest lake in Austin, with a depth of 210 feet. Just be careful not to go a windy day! Launch at Mansfield Dam Boat Ramp, Tom Hughes Park, or Cypress Creek Park (all of which involve entry or parking fees).
Located about an hour Northwest of Austin, Inks Lake State Park at 3630 Park Road 4 West in Burnet is the perfect place to paddle. The state park also has hiking trails and a sprawling campground if you want to make a day or weekend of it. Don’t forget to take the paddle boards next time you drop off the kids at Camp Longhorn!
