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
We provide bottled water, bananas and granola bars - if you have any food allergies or sensitivities please bring your own snacks
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 Double Kayak
Includes Snacks, fruit & water
Double kayak
Meeting Point: Mandalay Bay Hotel - Valet Pick-up area, Lower Level
Pickup included
Self-Drive Double Kayak
Includes Snacks, fruit & water
With Shuttle Single Kayak
Includes Snacks, fruit & water
Single Kayak
Meeting Point: Mandalay Bay Hotel - Valet Pick-up area, Lower Level
Pickup included
Self-Drive Single Kayak
Includes Snacks, fruit & water
Reviews
2,818 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Emerald Cave tour
608brendag,
Nov 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Such an incredible day with Justin as our tour guy, it was so much fun, 4 miles round trip stopping by the beach after the cave , lot of learning and entertainment… can’t wait to do it again
Get out of the city with this amazing tour!
Ruby E,
Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Easy to book, clear directions and expectations for the day. Got picked up from Mandalay Bay, quick 1hr drive to the destination. Tour guide Juston was AWESOME! Very knowledgeable about the area and history. Super personable with everyone and very patient when it came to participants who had never been kayaking before and needed some extra support. Fairly easy paddle out, nice snack/swim/hike break. Main restrooms & gift shop close at 3:30, but there are another set of bathrooms
Perfect outing
504seemam,
Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a lovely day kayaking on the Colorado river. The views were gorgeous. Perfect paced trip. Juston, our guide was great, friendly and full of cool info about the area. Highly recommend this tour!
Paddle experience at emerald cave!
katecE1983YJ,
Nov 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I’ve always wanted to go to do this kayak tour! Although it was not the time to go, as our guide said the best time to go is during the summer to fully experience the beauty of the emerald cove, it was still a wonderful experience paddling through the beautiful scenery with lots of wildlife that we don’t normally see. Juston, our guide was the best and made the tour enjoyable with his friendly presence, humor, and fun facts! Will definitely visit again during the summer.
Emerald Cave Kayaking on the Colorado river
James H,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Be prepared to paddle for 4 miles….It was well worth it to see the Green water at the cave….Robby took the time to point numerous things….He was fantastic
Excellent tour and guide
stephaniesK8342CQ,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Wonderful kayak trip on the Colorado river. Beautiful scenery. Our tour guide Robby was amazing. Super informative and well organized. Would highly recommend this tour.
Great escape from the hustle of Las Vegas
bbees2018,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing kayak trip with our guide Kwane. Communication prior to the trip was excellent, picked up on time and arrived as scheduled. Good instructions on how to kayak for beginners and safety was a priority. The scenery was spectacular and was very enjoyable day, one to be repeated.
Fantastic Time
John T,
Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Fantastic experience. Our guide Kewami did a fantastic job and pointed out some really cool history. Guide was on time, and fun to be with.
Just amazing experience, Fantastic way to spend my 60th birthday, what a treat!
Ian M,
Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This was a wonderful day on the Colorado River, beautiful water, amazing cowboy country terrain and a wonderful guide called Robbie. Fantastic!
Justin is a KEEPER!
servingthrupt,
Nov 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Justin was an awesome guide for our Emerald Cave Kayak Tour. This was our first time kayaking, & between his instructions, guidance, "narrating," & comedic relief,😁 we are seriously considering purchasing a kayak, & possibly returning to try SUP. THANKS for a wonderful experience!
From $89.00
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Operated by Las Vegas SUP Kayak Club