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 Fee is $15 per person if you choose the shuttle option.
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
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
Self-Drive Double Kayak
Includes Snacks, fruit & water
Reviews
2,742 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Jennie was absolutely the...
Camilo N,
Sep 17, 2025
- Viator
5.00Jennie was absolutely the best tour guide! The river is stunning and all the fun facts she shared were so much fun! They offer transportation which is so easy and fast. Our family had a great time!
Great tour group that...
Dakota R,
Sep 16, 2025
- Viator
5.00Great tour group that made the adventure very easy and enjoyable. Quick transfer from the strip and overall great experience.
Great Fun
Kevin G,
Sep 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00The cave is really nothing special, but the trip to it and back are well worth it. Jonny was knowledgeable and entertaining.
We never got to try it,...
Jason B,
Sep 14, 2025
- Viator
1.00We never got to try it, so I gave it a 1 star review as N/A wasn’t available. The night before we received a text letting us know that meeting place on the Colorado River was closed, was offered a refund or to kayak on lake mead, opted to do lake mead. We took an Uber to (Mandalay Bay as we stayed off the strip) was there at 8:20, as we were asked to be ready to go at 8:50 bus left at 9AM. Received a call after 8:50 saying the van had a flat tire and they were 2 miles out. So we waited only to receive another call at 9:45 saying they were unable to jack the van up high enough to change the tire. Was offered to do the trip a different day but Friday was our only day to do this. Disappointed it didn’t happen and disappointed we spent money on a Uber for a trip that didn’t happen.
Great experience
Deanna H,
Sep 12, 2025
- Viator
5.00We had a great day kayaking on the Colorado River, really worthwhile and fun experience. Something different being away from the strip for the day, it was really enjoyable, the views were incredible and we would definitely recommend it. It’s advised you bring a hat to wear and I couldn’t agree more with wearing one. I don’t usually wear them but I’m glad I took the advice and bought a cheap cap prior to the trip as being out in the heat all day definitely required it. Our host Jonny was really friendly, helpful and very experienced. He made an effort to chat to everyone on the trip and expressed a genuine interest. One of the best things we did whilst in Vegas.
Related Experiences
Operated by Las Vegas SUP Kayak Club