Emerald Cave Kayak Tour
by
Kayak Lake Mead
Kayak Tours
Hiking Tours
Camping Tours
About Us
Kayak Lake Mead has been taking tours for Las Vegas and surrounding visitors since 2004!
Whether you are in the area visiting the Hoover Dam or Boulder City or Las Vegas, a visit to the Black Canyon home of the Emerald Cave is a must do!
Escape from the summer heat in the crisp 55°f crystal clear waters!
Skip the gym and come for a full day paddle or hike to the Arizona Hot Springs on the Colorado River!
Escape the crowds by visiting the Cranes Nest only 2 miles past the Emerald Cave!
See the stars or a full moon by going on
our Twilight and Moonlight Paddle kayak tour!
Wind Speed Color
Willow Beach Marina
Home of the Emerald Cave
Great Priced Convenience Store
Air Conditioned Restrooms
Delicious Café & Grill
Willow Beach Marina, nestled along the Colorado River in Arizona, is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape into nature. Located just an hour south of Las Vegas, this picturesque marina is a gateway to the Black Canyon region of the river, where towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters create an awe-inspiring backdrop perfect for kayaking adventures.
For those looking to stay overnight, the marina offers RV and tent camping sites with breathtaking views of the river. The nearby Willow Beach Campground provides modern amenities, including showers and picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable stay in the great outdoors. With its stunning scenery and array of activities, Willow Beach Marina is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a day trip.
Willow Beach Marina
Kayak Beach
Paddle-craft Launch Area
Kayak Beach is where the tour starts and is a prime spot for paddle craft enthusiasts seeking adventure on the Colorado River. This designated launch area provides easy access to the river's calm, clear waters, making it ideal for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. Surrounded by the stunning Black Canyon, Kayak Beach offers paddlers a serene starting point to explore hidden coves, towering cliffs, and abundant wildlife. Whether you're a beginner or experienced paddler, the gentle currents and breathtaking scenery make for an unforgettable experience. Kayak Beach is the perfect gateway to explore the natural beauty of Willow Beach and beyond.
Kayak Beach
Kayak Beach
Paddle-craft Launch Area
Kayak Beach is where the tour starts and is a prime spot for paddle craft enthusiasts seeking adventure on the Colorado River. This designated launch area provides easy access to the river's calm, clear waters, making it ideal for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. Surrounded by the stunning Black Canyon, Kayak Beach offers paddlers a serene starting point to explore hidden coves, towering cliffs, and abundant wildlife. Whether you're a beginner or experienced paddler, the gentle currents and breathtaking scenery make for an unforgettable experience. Kayak Beach is the perfect gateway to explore the natural beauty of Willow Beach and beyond.
River Gauger's Site
Snack, Swim, Hike
The half way point of the kayak trip to the Emerald Cave includes a stop to what some call Bob's Beach.
The River Gauger's site offers a unique vantage point along the Colorado River. Nestled within the scenic Black Canyon, this spot is a favorite among kayakers and paddleboarders exploring the area. The site is named after the historic gauging station used to monitor river flow, serving as a reminder of the river's rich history. Surrounded by towering canyon walls and crystal-clear waters, it's a peaceful stopover where visitors can take in the stunning natural beauty, enjoy a break, and soak in the serene atmosphere of the Colorado River.
River Gauger's Site
The Emerald Cave
Learn, Relax, Marvel
Emerald Cave, a hidden gem along the Colorado River, is a small, enchanting cave located within the Black Canyon near Willow Beach. Accessible by kayak or paddleboard, this natural wonder is renowned for its mesmerizing emerald-green waters, a result of sunlight filtering through the cave’s opening at just the right angle. The cave’s allure lies in its tranquility and the captivating interplay of light and water, creating a surreal, almost magical ambiance. Popular among paddlers, the journey to Emerald Cave offers stunning views of rugged canyon landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The Emerald Cave
The Emerald Cave
Learn, Relax, Marvel
Emerald Cave, a hidden gem along the Colorado River, is a small, enchanting cave located within the Black Canyon near Willow Beach. Accessible by kayak or paddleboard, this natural wonder is renowned for its mesmerizing emerald-green waters, a result of sunlight filtering through the cave’s opening at just the right angle. The cave’s allure lies in its tranquility and the captivating interplay of light and water, creating a surreal, almost magical ambiance. Popular among paddlers, the journey to Emerald Cave offers stunning views of rugged canyon landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Emerald Cave Kayak Tour?
The tour usually lasts between 3-4 hours, including the time to paddle to and from the cave, with some time to explore the surrounding Black Canyon water trail.
Where Does The Kayak Tour Start?
The Emerald Cave Kayak Tour starts at Kayak Beach , the paddle craft launch area.
Plan to arrive early so you have enough time to visit the Willow Beach Marina store and bathrooms.
How long is the drive?
The drive from the Las Vegas Strip to Willow Beach is about an hour.
If you are visiting during a holiday factor in an extra hour and arrive earlier.
If the park rangers are turning vehicles away at the entrance be sure to show them your reservation.
Are Pets allowed?
Pets are welcome! They must be 25 lbs or less and have
a life vest while in the kayak. *not provided
Do you offer shuttle pick-up from the Las Vegas strip?
We do not provide shuttle service at this time. For the best experience you should rent a vehicle on TURO or, KAYAK.COM has a great tool for comparing prices and booking a rental!
We highly recommend you do NOT take a ride share as you will not be able to get a ride out after.
There are other kayak tour outfitters that do provide transportation.
Can I Rent Instead of Going on A Tour?
We don't currently offer rentals as we provide high end equipment in our tours.
If you are set on renting we suggest checking with the local WILLOW BEACH MARINA.
What should I bring on the Emerald Cave Kayak Tour?
Essentials include at least 1L of water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a camera or phone, and appropriate clothing.
Is the Emerald Cave Kayak Tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is beginner-friendly. Our guide provides instruction, and the pace is generally relaxed.
What is included in the Emerald Cave Kayak Tour?
We provide you with a Kayak, Paddle, Life-Vest, snacks and a certified kayak tour guide.
Are there age restrictions for the Emerald Cave Kayak Tour?
The minimum age for our tour is 5 years old or 50lbs. We recommend children younger than 10 years old go in the front seat of a tandem kayak with an adult.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Trips run rain or shine. However, we reserve the right to cancel any tour departure for weather or safety reasons and will provide a full refund for any tour cancelled by us.
Is There A Weight Limit?
The weight limit for participants is dependent on height.
It's approximately 285 lbs. for someone over 6 feet tall, and about 15 lbs. less per inch for every inch below 6 feet.
If you are concerned about tipping we suggest using a tandem or a sit-on-top they both provide more stability. The sit-in singles, while more streamlined, can be less stable and require better balance.
Do I need to book the Emerald Cave tour in advance?
Yes, booking the Emerald Cave tour in advance is required to secure your spot. Outfitters are not allowed to accept on-location bookings.
What should I wear for the Emerald Cave tour?
Wear comfortable, moisture-wicking clothes, a swimsuit, and water shoes for the Emerald Cave tour. Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself while enjoying the sunny Colorado River.
