Scenic 2HR Austin Guided Lake Tour: Small Group & Full Sun Shade

Austin , United States of America

Scenic 2HR Austin Guided Lake Tour: Small Group & Full Sun Shade

Active

(161 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Come experience the beauty of Lake Austin on a small-group, partially guided pontoon boat tour — equipped with a dual canopy for full sun shading and comfort! Whether you choose a morning, afternoon, or sunset departure, you'll be joined by an engaging captain with insightful commentary.

This tour is ideal for individuals, couples, and small groups or families looking for an affordable way to explore Lake Austin without booking an entire boat. Cruise alongside other adventure-seekers as you take in miles of scenic shoreline — just a short drive from downtown Austin.

Along the way, you'll pass iconic sights like the Pennybacker Bridge, the historic Tom Miller Dam, and a stunning stretch of private, luxury waterfront and cliffside homes. The lake’s constant-level water and intimate setting offer incredible photo ops and views.

Whether for the sights, the sounds, or the stories, this boat tour offers a relaxing and memorable way to experience one of Austin’s most beautiful waterways.

Available options

Lake Austin Pontoon Boat Tours

What's included

Use of life vests

Full overhead sun shading

2-hour boat tour

Free cold bottled water

Fuel

Captain/guide

Detailed itinerary

This beautiful & scenic 22-mile public lake known for its clear, constant-level water features privately owned waterfront and cliffside homes, several shoreside restaurants, is home to world champion wake surfers Ashley Kidd and Raleigh Hager & just a 20 minute drive from downtown Austin.

This steel arched bridge built in 1982 is an iconic Austin landmark. Spanning the distance of Lake Austin (1,150 ft long), it connects the North & South sections of the Capital of Texas Highway. The bridge's arched design was created to avoid having support columns that would otherwise interfere with water skiers, wake surfers and boaters on the 22 miles of water below.

This Italian-style lakeside villa built in 1916 was home to Clara Driscoll, a philanthropist who was instrumental in the preservation of the Alamo. Today the 14 acre site is home to The Contemporary Austin and is comprised of an outdoor sculpture park, the Laguna Gloria art museum and an art school.

This 35-acre wildlife preserve located on Lake Austin's waterfront is a refuge for rare, endangered or threatened species and is open to the public through guided tours.

This private golf club is located on the banks of Lake Austin. It features a challenging 18-hole course and hosts tournaments, including the popular WGC Dell Match Play. It was designed by architect Pete Dye and is home to golf legend Harvey Penick.

This dam, named after a former Mayor of Austin, began operation in 1940. It was constructed for the purpose of flood control & hydroelectric power generation. On its upstream side is Lake Austin and on its downstream side is Lady Bird Lake. Both reservoirs are a result of the dam's construction.

Stop 7 Pass by

This beautiful 5-acre park located almost 800 feet over Lake Austin. The cliffs of Mount Bonnell provide a vista for viewing not only the Lake from atop, but the expansive hills surrounding Austin.

What's not included

$5 park entry fee per person, payable by cash only ($3 for ages 62+). No fee for ages 12 and under.

Captain gratuity (highly encouraged)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

115 reviews

5★

104

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

46 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Plan to arrive 30 minutes early for parking & entry

There is no restroom on the boat - please use facilities prior to boarding

Food and alcoholic beverages are permitted (glass containers are prohibited)

Waiver of Release and Liability will be required to sign prior to boarding

This is a public access boat ramp operated by Travis County, from which we depart & return only. Parking is limited on weekends. We HIGHLY encourage using a ride share service on Saturdays and Sundays.

Smoking is not permitted

$5 park entry fee per person, payable by cash only ($3 for ages 62+). No fee for ages 12 and under.

The boat is equipped with an overhead (front to back) dual canopy for full sun shading. As with any outdoor activity, we do recommend coming weather prepared with sun protection (hat, sunscreen, etc).

Any changes made less than 24 hours* before the experience's start time will not be accepted. *Cut-off times are based on the experience's local time.

If you cancel less than 24 hours* before the experience's start time or no call/no show the day of the experience, the amount you paid will not be refunded. *Cut-off times are based on the experience's local time.

Meeting point

Tour departs & returns at the Loop 360 Boat Ramp located under the south end of the Pennybacker Bridge. Parking underneath the bridge is free. $5 entry fee per person ($3 for ages 62+) collected by & paid to Travis County Parks. Cash only. No entry fee for ages 12 and under.

Important notes

• Please let the staff at the entrance booth know that you have a reservation with Wake Riderz.
• Present your ticket to the boat Captain prior to boarding the boat.
• Plan to arrive 30 minutes early for parking and entry.
• Late arrivals after departure time cannot be accommodated.
• There is a $5 park entry fee per person ($3 for ages 62+). No fee for ages 12 and under. This fee is collected by Travis County Parks, separate from your boat tour ticket(s) & payable by cash or check only.
• There is no restroom on the boat. Please use facilities prior to boarding. Restroom breaks are available on your tour if necessary.
• Food and alcoholic beverages are permitted. Note: Glass containers are prohibited.
• This is a non-smoking tour.
• This experience requires good weather. If it's cancelled due to poor weather, you'll be offered a different time/date or a full refund.
• Waiver of Release and Liability will be required to sign prior to departure.
• This is a public park and boat ramp operated by Travis County, from which we depart & return.

About Austin

Austin, Texas, is a vibrant city known for its live music scene, vibrant arts community, and outdoor recreational opportunities. With a unique blend of Southern charm and progressive culture, Austin offers a dynamic urban experience with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Top Attractions

Texas State Capitol

The Texas State Capitol is a historic building and the seat of the Texas government. It features beautiful architecture, a museum, and guided tours.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Zilker Park

Zilker Park is a large urban park offering a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, and picnicking. It is a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Nature Half-day to full day Free (some attractions may have fees)

South by Southwest (SXSW)

SXSW is an annual festival and conference that celebrates the convergence of the interactive, film, and music industries. It features live music, film screenings, and industry panels.

Entertainment 10 days (typically in March) Varies by event and pass type

Must-Try Local Dishes

Brisket

Slow-smoked, tender beef brisket, a staple of Texas BBQ, often served with sides like coleslaw, beans, and pickles.

Main course Contains meat, gluten-free if served without bun

Tacos al Pastor

Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, served on corn tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro.

Main course Contains meat, gluten-free if served without tortilla

Pecan Pie

A sweet pie made with pecans, corn syrup, and spices, often served with whipped cream or ice cream.

Dessert Vegetarian, contains gluten, nuts

Popular Activities

Hiking Biking Water sports Spa treatments Picnicking Strolling Museum visits Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

March to May and September to November

The best times to visit Austin are during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild and pleasant. These periods offer ideal conditions for outdoor activities and festivals.

18-32°C 64-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Central Time Zone (CT) (GMT-6)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Austin is generally a safe city, but like any major urban area, it has its share of crime. Visitors should take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
• Use reputable transportation services

Getting there

By air

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center

By train

Austin Amtrak Station

By bus

Greyhound Station, Megabus Stop

Getting around

Public transport

Capital Metro operates an extensive bus network that serves most of Austin. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around, but schedules can be limited in some areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown South Congress (SoCo) The Domain

Day trips

San Antonio

130 km (80 miles) • Full day

San Antonio is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage, the Alamo, and the River Walk. It offers a mix of history, shopping, and dining.

Fredericksburg

120 km (75 miles) • Full day

Fredericksburg is a charming small town with a rich German heritage, known for its wineries, historic sites, and shopping.

Lake Travis

30 km (20 miles) • Half day to full day

Lake Travis is a popular destination for outdoor activities, including boating, swimming, and hiking. It offers beautiful scenery and a variety of water-based recreation.

Festivals

South by Southwest (SXSW) • March (dates vary) Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival • October (two weekends) Formula 1 United States Grand Prix • October (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Texas State Capitol and other historic sites for a deeper understanding of the city's history and culture.
Explore the vibrant arts and music scene, with numerous live music venues, art galleries, and cultural events.
Take advantage of the city's outdoor recreational opportunities, with numerous parks, trails, and water-based activities.
Try local cuisine, including Texas BBQ, Tex-Mex, and Southern comfort food, as well as a diverse range of international options.
Use public transportation, biking, or walking to get around the city, as traffic can be heavy and parking can be limited in popular areas.