Half-Day Emerald Cave Kayak Tour with Optional Hotel Pickup
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Experience the dazzling beauty of the Colorado River with a guided kayak tour through the picturesque Black Canyon and into the breathtaking Emerald Cove. Paddle crystal-clear waters, marvel at towering canyon walls, and relax in the serene glow of this hidden grotto—an unforgettable highlight of your Las Vegas getaway. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this tour includes snacks, bottled water, and convenient hotel pick-up, with a self-drive option also available. Discover why kayaking Emerald Cove is one of the top outdoor adventures near Las Vegas. Book your Black Canyon kayak tour today and make incredible memories just minutes from the Strip!
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please be advised hotel pick-ups commence 60-90 minutes before the posted departure time
Most days, tours fill up but in the event minimum numbers are not met, you will be offered another date or offer a full refund
Emerald Cave is not a paddle through cave but more of a grotto style.
By booking a tour, you assume all risks of your participation in this activity, whether known or unknown to you, including travel to and from the Activity or any events incidental to this Activity. You also agree to the release of images/video for the operator to use at their discretion
National Park entry fee is only included with HOTEL PICKUPS, NOT SELF DRIVE!
Please advise your kayak preference in the Special Requirements field at the time of booking (single or tandem)
Weight limit is 260 lbs
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Cold, premium bottled spring water
All Safety Equipment
National Park Entrance Fees (Hotel pickups only)
A variety of tasty snacks including an array of granola and protein bars, a wide variety of chips, and fresh fruit!
Kayak Tour in Single (1 person) or Tandem (2 person) Kayaks
Pick-up and drop off from select hotels (if option selected)
Hotel pick-up and drop off (if self-drive option selected)
Lunch
National Park Entrance Fee (Self-drive only)
Gratuities
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
What To Expect
Willow Beach Marina
Begin your kayak adventure at Willow Beach Marina, where you’ll paddle the clear waters of the Colorado River surrounded by stunning desert scenery. Guided and suitable for all skill levels, this tour promises an unforgettable outdoor escape just outside Las Vegas. Experience the beauty of the river and its dramatic canyons, an absolute highlight for both new and seasoned paddlers.
Colorado River
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of Black Canyon as you kayak along the emerald-green waters of the Colorado River, framed by soaring cliffs and striking desert landscapes. This guided paddling adventure offers a peaceful escape into nature, perfect for all skill levels. Discover the hidden beauty of Nevada’s wilderness just outside Las Vegas on this unforgettable outdoor experience.
Options
Kayak Tour - Hotel Pickup
Hotel Pick-up Time: Pick-up is approximately 90 minutes prior to listed launch times
Kayak Size: Please advise your kayak preference in the Special Requirements field at the time of booking (single or tandem)
Pickup included
Kayak Tour - Self Drive
Hotel pick-up is NOT included: You must make your own way to the departure point via rental car. There is no cell reception to arrange your return ride
Kayak Type: Please advise your kayak preference in the Special Requirements field at the time of booking (single or tandem)
Reviews
4,727 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Best part of our vegas trip
Adam W,
Sep 16, 2025
- Viator
5.00Absolutely fantastic experience. We loved everything from the pre information through to the breath taking views, and everything in between. Highly recommend anyone visiting vegas to take a day away from the bright lights and go paddle the most amazing venue. Thank you to Haley who was exceptional. Thank you for making the experience even more memorable. She is a great host. Thank you
Super fun outdoor experience to get off the strip
Lauren G,
Sep 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00Our tour guide Gabby made this experience so fun! The hotel pickup was easy and she entertained us on the way to the river. The kayaking was gorgeous and she made sure everyone was comfortable with the pace. We had perfect weather and so many good photo ops! We had 11 people in our group total which was perfect for a small group. Thanks Gabby!
Would definitely do it again!
Trent P,
Sep 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00Amazing experience. From the beautiful views of the desert/mountain terrain to the colors of the Colorado. The guides were very informative, experienced and attentive. GPS may say it takes about an hour and a half drive from LAS, but it was about 45 minutes. It’s a worthwhile day trip.
Great
Jason P,
Sep 13, 2025
- Viator
5.00It was great and more than expected but still amazing in every way possible. Water was definitely colder than expected but since it was so hot water felt amazing
Three strikes against us. Verify optimal conditions
Karen M,
Sep 11, 2025
- Viator
3.00Because the regular launch point was closed by the park system, River Dogs chose another launch and coves to visit. It was too windy and the river, wide like a lake, was whitecapping with 2-3 foot waves. Our guide cut our trip short, but other groups with the same company too a risk and tried to hit another cove. That group struggled to get back and required multiple guides to go help ppl who capsized and struggled. The guides were paddling themselves without any power aid. We waited about 2 hrs in the sun and heat. They should have canceled these trips. The kayaking was a struggle. If conditions were better it seems like they were prepared with good safety plans, snacks etc but our day was more bust than Success. 😩 Before the trip they were excellent communicators. So bad launch point, rough wind and water and long waits, oh and a tough van ride made for a less than stellar day. Haven’t heard from then since. I’m sure the operators were beat and frustrated too, but before you go make sure that the optimal conditions are in place.
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Operated by River Dogz