As summer winds down and the school year gears up, it might feel like the season of lake days is coming to a close—but in Austin, the water fun doesn’t have to stop. There’s no better way to experience the city than by getting out on the water. Whether you’re into paddleboarding, boat parties, or peaceful nature walks, Austin’s three main lakes—Lake Austin, Lady Bird Lake, and Lake Travis—offer something for everyone, all year long. Here’s your go-to guide for making the most of each, even as the seasons change.
Lake Austin is a constant-level lake that's ideal for a more laid-back lake day. Stretching through the heart of west Austin, it’s a hotspot for boaters, water skiers, and locals cruising in pontoon boats.
What to Do:
- Boat Rentals & Cruises: Book a private boat tour or pontoon rental with Float On, Lake Austin Watersports & Rentals, or Austin Rental Boats for a stress-free experience.
- Water Sports: Try wakeboarding, tubing, or waterskiing—Lake Austin's calm waters are ideal for it. Check out Lake Austin Calm connected to Mozart’s Coffee for donut boat rentals, paddleboards, or some floating yoga.
- Fishing: Known for its healthy population of largemouth bass, the lake is a favorite among local anglers. Click here to find the best local spots!
- Swimming: While much of the shoreline is privately owned, Emma Long Metropolitan Park offers public access for swimming and picnicking.
- Boat Drop Off's: Drop your own boat in at Walsh Landing.
Where to Eat:
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Ski Shores Cafe – Ski Shores Café has been a laid-back Lake Austin favorite since 1954, serving up classic burgers, tacos, and drinks right on the water.
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Hula Hut – A quirky, tiki-style restaurant on the water with Tex-Mex fusion and tropical drinks.
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Mozart’s Coffee Roasters – Enjoy a relaxed vibe, shaded deck, and artisan coffee.
Insider Tip: Visit on weekdays or early mornings to avoid the weekend rush and enjoy serene paddling or cruising.
Lake Austin Hydrilla Update: Hydrilla, a non-native invasive plant, has started to regrow in coves and backwaters near Loop 360, covering about 5% of the lake.
To control it, the City of Austin is releasing 350 sterile grass carp, which feed on hydrilla and help protect native plants. The goal is to manage growth early and preserve the lake’s health.
Lake activities are not affected, and most areas remain clear, open, and safe to enjoy.
Often mistaken for a river, Lady Bird Lake is a dammed-up stretch of the Colorado that runs directly through downtown Austin. With no motorized boats allowed, it’s a haven for paddlers, joggers, and photographers.
What to Do:
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): Easily one of the most iconic Austin activities. Try rentals from Texas Rowing Center, Live Love Paddle, or Austin Rowing Club.
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Kayaking/Canoeing: Explore the lake’s many coves and pass under Austin’s most famous bridges.
- Hike & Bike Trail: This scenic 10-mile loop is great for runners, cyclists, and dog walkers. Don’t miss the boardwalk section for skyline photos. Use this interactive guide!
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Bat Watching: From March to November, catch the nightly bat emergence from Congress Avenue Bridge—a must-see for first-timers.
- Yoga on the Water: Try SUP yoga with Peace Paddling for a unique, zen-like workout.
Where to Eat or Chill Nearby:
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Terry Black’s BBQ – A short walk from the water and a local legend.
- Alta’s Café – A low-key café right on the lake with coffee, snacks, and lake views.
Insider Tip: Early mornings offer the smoothest water for paddling and the best chance to spot herons, turtles, and even the occasional otter.
Lake Travis is the largest and most dynamic of the three, stretching over 60 miles through the Texas Hill Country. Known for its deep waters and steep cliffs, it’s the ultimate lake for big energy and breathtaking scenery.
What to Do:
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Boat & Party Cove: Rent a speedboat or join a party barge headed to Devil’s Cove, Austin’s most notorious floating hangout.
Boat Rentals:
Lake Travis Boat & Jet Ski Rentals
Centex Boat Rentals Lake Travis
- Cliff Jumping: Brave the ledges at Pace Bend Park—a thrill for experienced swimmers (always check water levels first).
- Ziplining: Soar across the lake with Lake Travis Zipline Adventures, the longest and fastest zipline in Texas.
- Scuba Diving: Yep, Travis is deep enough for diving. Explore sunken boats, structures, and underwater cliffs. Get set up at Lake Travis Scuba!
- Sunset Sailing: Charter a sailboat and catch an unforgettable Hill Country sunset on the open water. Either rent your own sailboat at Austin Sailboat Rentals or get a captain to take you around with sailATX.
Beaches & Parks:
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Volente Beach Resort – A family-friendly water park with lake access and a sand beach.
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Hippie Hollow – A clothing-optional park with gorgeous limestone outcrops and open-water swimming.
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Mansfield Dam Park – Ideal for picnics, scuba, and watching boats cruise through the dam area.
Where to Eat:
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The Oasis on Lake Travis – Known as the “Sunset Capital of Texas,” it’s a multi-deck restaurant with stunning panoramic views.
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Captain Pete’s Boathouse – A huge floating restaurant and bar on Lake Travis at Point Venture, Texas.
- Sundancer Grill – A hidden gem with boat-up access, great burgers, and shaded patios.
Insider Tip: Water levels can vary drastically depending on rainfall, so always check lake conditions before planning high-adventure activities.
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From downtown paddleboarding to lakeside dining and high-energy boat parties, Austin’s lakes each offer a unique vibe. Whether you're looking for quiet reflection or high-speed thrills, there’s a lake in Austin waiting for you. So pack the sunscreen, grab your shades, and let the water be your weekend guide.
