Emerald Cave Kayak Tour: Scenic Paddle - Vegas Shuttle Available
Overview
Available languages
6 hours
Mobile ticket
This 3-hour guided kayak tour is ideal for all skill levels, covering a scenic 4 to 5-mile roundtrip journey from Willow Beach to the magical Emerald Cave—complete with a stop for snacks, swimming, and a brief hike. Tours are small-group and led by experienced guides, giving plenty of attention whether paddling solo or with friends, and wildlife sightings are common along the Black Canyon’s dramatic volcanic cliffs. For added convenience, optional shuttle service from Mandalay Bay means stress-free transport and park entry is included with the shuttle package, making it an easy and memorable adventure just outside Las Vegas.
Additional Info
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Maximum weight limit is 300lb/person
What to bring? Hat, sunglasses, sunblock, water shoes, comfortable clothing, swimsuit (under clothes)
It's a family friendly group activity, NO ALCOHOL OR SMOKING ALLOWED
Only service animals are allowed on this tour with SELF-DRIVE option only
Please note that if you bring any electronics with you during the tour, it is highly recommended to bring a waterproof case
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Snacks, banana, granola bar, bottled water
Round Trip Transportation from the Mandalay Bay Hotel (if 'With Shuttle' option selected)
Professional kayak tour guide
Single or double kayak and life vest
Round-Trip Transportation (if SELF-DRIVE option selected)
National Park entry is free for kids, NPS card holders and military; For adults it is
If you meet us at the launch site, National Park charges a $25 entrance fee per vehicle.
Natinal Park Entrance is FREE with NPS Card, Millitary ID, Veteran ID and kids under 16.
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
What To Expect
Embark on a 3-hour, 5-mile round-trip kayak tour of the stunning Black Canyon. Start your adventure at Willow Beach, where your U.S. National Kayak Champion guide will prepare you for an unforgettable day. This small-group tour, limited to just 12 paddlers, ensures personalized attention as you explore the canyon’s beauty. Paddle through Black Canyon and keep an eye out for Desert Big Horn Sheep and Bald Eagles. Your first stop is a one-mile upstream historical overlook, offering breathtaking views of the legendary Colorado River, with a 5-6 minute hike included. Learn about the river's historical significance from your guide, then conclude your tour with a visit to the enchanting (and very insta-worthy) Emerald Cave. Fun and adventure are guaranteed—book your Emerald Cave kayak tour today!
Options
With Shuttle Single Kayak
Includes Snacks, fruit & water
Single Kayak
Meeting Point: Mandalay Bay Hotel - Valet Pick-up area, Lower Level
Pickup included
With Shuttle Double Kayak
Includes Snacks, fruit & water
Double kayak
Meeting Point: Mandalay Bay Hotel - Valet Pick-up area, Lower Level
Pickup included
Self-Drive Single Kayak
Includes Snacks, fruit & water
Self-Drive Double Kayak
Includes Snacks, fruit & water
Reviews
2,779 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great experience with Awesome views
Trevor H,
Oct 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00Our tour guide Zen was exactly as advertised, great communication, informative and knowledgeable on the entire excursion. Little work paddling back into the wind but was an incredible experience and would definitely recommend for families. My 14 and 17 year old had a blast and learned a lot as we're definitely not experienced in kayaking. Felt like it by the end tho. Lots of facts on the countryside on the trip out there and back.
Absolutely beautiful! ...
John A,
Oct 5, 2025
- Viator
5.00Absolutely beautiful! Zen was an amazing guide. Very knowledgeable and made sure we saw all the sights (including wildlife).
A great opportunity to get away from the strip
Angela I,
Oct 5, 2025
- Viator
5.00Our guide Zen was fantastic. Very upbeat, always letting us know what the plan was. He was great with instruction and pointing out things of interest too. This was a really great activity. The route was 4.5 miles but easily suitable for a novice, would not hesitate to recommend.
So Happy 😊
Nora G,
Oct 4, 2025
- Viator
5.00I had no problems booking the trip online- Website was informative enough to let you know what to bring.. But......The 1of the best parts was the help I received with questions, Every one was answered and with such kindness. THE BEST part was Jason our guide, he was very helpful, kind and let us all have a great time...Thank you is not enough!!!
Great experience!
Kristine C,
Oct 4, 2025
- Viator
5.00We had such a great time! The tour guide was very knowledgeable and the scenery was incredible. We had a group of 5 of us, ages 70 to 12 and everyone was able to keep up and enjoyed.
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Operated by Las Vegas SUP Kayak Club