About this experience
Trade the Las Vegas lights for a guided 5-mile round-trip kayak adventure to Emerald Cave, complete with canyon views, a fun hike, and laid-back beach time at Willow Beach. Paddle with a group of 12 or fewer, led by experienced guides who make everyone—beginners and first-timers included—feel welcome and safe for an exciting and scenic escape. With kayaking, hiking, swimming, and plenty of time for photos, this 3-hour, all-levels tour is a perfect combination of adventure and relaxation just an hour out of Vegas.
At a glance
- Duration: 5 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 5 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Local guides to help you plan
Las Vegas beyond the marquee: a guide to the whole city
A practical framework connecting the Strip, Downtown, creative neighborhoods, and the Mojave edge without turning the trip into a checklist.
Downtown Las Vegas on foot: neon, museums, and 18b
A street-scale Downtown framework moving from daylight context through Fremont and the Arts District.
Planning a Red Rock Canyon day from Las Vegas
Build a Red Rock day around current BLM guidance, real conditions, group ability, and a safe return margin.
What is included
- Bottled water
- Fun Guaranteed!
- Complimentary Round-Trip Shuttle Service
- Professional Guide
- Kayaks, Paddles, Life vests
- bananas, granola bars
Not included
- National Park Fee: $15 per person (free with NPS Pass, Military/Veteran ID, kids 15 and under)
- Tips are always appreciated
Itinerary and highlights
Escape the Las Vegas Strip and discover one of the most popular kayaking adventures near Las Vegas on the Colorado River. Your experience begins with a complimentary shuttle pickup from the Mandalay Bay Valet & Tour Bus Pick-Up Area, followed by a scenic one-hour drive to Willow Beach in Black Canyon.
After a short safety briefing, launch your kayak and begin a 3-hour guided paddle through the crystal-clear waters of the Colorado River. This small-group tour (maximum 12 paddlers) offers a relaxed and personal adventure surrounded by towering canyon walls and peaceful desert scenery.
A highlight of the tour is the famous Emerald Cave, known for its glowing green water when sunlight reflects inside the cave. Along the way you may spot Desert Bighorn Sheep, bald eagles, blue herons, falcons, and turtles.
You will also stop at a historic overlook in Black Canyon, where a short walk reveals incredible views of the Colorado River. Relax on the beach, cool off in the water, and enjoy snacks and bottled water while learning about the Colorado River and Hoover Dam.
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- Pickup Time: 9:00 AM Pickup Location: Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino – Valet & Tour Bus Pick-Up Area Address: 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV Please arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time. Your guide will arrive in a white Ford Transit van. A reminder text message with full pickup instructions will be sent one day before your tour.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Las Vegas Kayak
Accessibility and practical details
- Service animals allowed
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
What are the pickup arrangements?
Pickup Location: Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino – Valet & Tour Bus Pick-Up Area
Address: 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV
Please arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time. Your guide will arrive in a white Ford Transit van.
A reminder text message with full pickup instructions will be sent one day before your tour.
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What accessibility information is provided?
What is the cancellation policy?
Traveller reviews and photos
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