Austin Rowing Club has been sharing the magic of Lady Bird Lake for more than twenty years, welcoming everyone from first-time paddlers to seasoned crews. As a community-focused nonprofit located steps from downtown, ARC turns the...
Austin Rowing Club has been sharing the magic of Lady Bird Lake for more than twenty years, welcoming everyone from first-time paddlers to seasoned crews. As a community-focused nonprofit located steps from downtown, ARC turns the...
With an exceptional reputation built on nearly perfect ratings, this lakeside operation delivers exactly what paddlers are looking for: affordable rentals, friendly service, and a genuinely fun time on the water. Staff members like Ethan, Holden, and Ruby consistently earn praise for their welcoming personalities and knowledge, particularly on the popular sunset kayak and bat-watching tours where guides share entertaining history and fun facts while timing the experience perfectly for the evening bat show. The equipment is well-maintained and easy to use, even for complete beginners. A couple practical notes: parking can be a bit tricky, and signage from the lot could be clearer (one visitor nearly thought they'd missed their tour). Some paddlers wished for more detailed directions to spots like the cold spring, though exploring and finding it added to the adventure. The process itself is straightforward and quick, with rentals requiring return by 8:30 PM, which still leaves plenty of time for paddling and bat viewing during the cooler evening hours.
Do you love turtles? We saw baby turtles, turtles in the water, turtles on logs, and turtles on rocks. I have never seen so many turtles in the wild! 5/5 highly recommended for turtle lovers of all ages. The service, equipment, and location were also excellent.
Tina S
May 23, 2026
Do you love turtles? We saw baby turtles, turtles in the water, turtles on logs, and turtles on rocks. I have never seen so many turtles in the wild! 5/5 highly recommended for turtle lovers of all ages. The service, equipment, and location were also excellent.
Tina S
May 23, 2026