5 Places to Kayak in Las Vegas for the Holiday Season

Woman kayaking near Hoover Dam in Las Vegas

Embrace the beauty of the great outdoors this holiday season. Relaxing by a luxurious rooftop pool and dining in a five-star restaurant is amazing, but engaging in outdoor activities while relishing the cool weather is even more exciting and memorable. In Las Vegas, you can spend a more meaningful holiday break by kayaking scenic waterways not too far from the city.

Go on a Kayak Tour

Kayaking is undoubtedly a relaxing activity for a new outdoor adventurer. Las Vegas is known for its scorching summer heat and mild cold season, making its cooler months a great time to paddle without the heat and peak-season crowds. Here are some of the best Las Vegas kayaking locations to visit during the holiday season.

5 Best Las Vegas Holiday Kayaking Destinations

1. Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam is visited for its marvelous structural design, history, and beautiful landscapes. Just 45 minutes from the Strip, it is a popular day-trip adventure spot. Kayaking helps visitors discover attractions they cannot reach on foot.

Evolution Expeditions paddles from the base of the dam down the Black Canyon Water Trail and remote sections of the Colorado River. The seven-mile tour includes stops for hot springs, waterfalls, caves, and wildlife. Fall and winter can make the short hikes and paddling especially pleasant.

2. Emerald Cave

Emerald Cave sits on the Arizona side of the Colorado River a few miles south of Hoover Dam. It is known for intense green water, often visible around sunny middays when light hits at the right angle. Its tight passageways are best explored by kayak or other small boat with a guided tour.

3. Lake Mead

As part of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, one of the world’s largest artificial lakes is an outdoor playground for sightseeing, kayaking, swimming, camping, and hiking. Canoe/Kayak Beach along Hemenway Harbor is among the most accessible launch areas. The recreation area charges entrance fees, but non-motorized watercraft do not need launch permits except at the base of Hoover Dam.

4. Lake Las Vegas

Lake Las Vegas is a 320-acre manmade lake in a recreation hub about 25 miles from the Strip. Its calm, contained setting makes kayaking a peaceful way to enjoy desert scenery and resort architecture. A full-service marina rents single and tandem kayaks, with life jackets and instructions included.

5. Lake Mohave

Near Lake Mead, Lake Mohave is a 67-mile reservoir in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Its waters are bordered by steep canyon walls and historic sites with ancient petroglyphs. Family-friendly marinas, snack bars, rentals, and shoreline camping make it a memorable place to paddle and unwind.

Kayak Las Vegas this Holiday Season

Cool weather is no reason to stay indoors. Paddle Las Vegas’ scenic waterways with the people who matter most, and book a guided tour with experienced guides for a safer, more comfortable trip.