Jun 23, 2022
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Lake Las Vegas Water Sports for the Summer

kayaking in the las vegas water

Participating in water sports is always an exhilarating and memorable experience. But doing physical activities in a glamorous location surrounded by desert landscapes is even more fun and satisfying! Are you looking for an unforgettable destination to visit this summer? Come to Lake Las Vegas for an adrenaline-fueled water adventure. 

Visit Lake Las Vegas and the Nearby Waterways

Las Vegas' climate is primarily hot and dry, making it an amazing destination for those who want to get moving and enjoy the great outdoors. Take advantage of the warm summer months and engage in several heart-pumping water activities with your loved ones.

Among Sin City's various waterways is Lake Las Vegas, a 320-acre artificial lake about 25 miles from the Las Vegas Strip. It's situated at the heart of a luxurious residential community and recreational hub, alongside condominiums, restaurants, shopping centers, casinos, hotels, and golf courses.

Lake Las Vegas is an oasis in the middle of a vast desert city — a top destination for water sport enthusiasts who don't want to travel far from the bright neon lights of the city.

And if you do want to travel to even more eye-catching locations, you certainly have options. After getting your fill of water sports around Lake Las Vegas, you can go further and travel to other waterways in the area. Emerald Cave, Lake Mead, Hoover Dam, and the Black Canyon are some of Nevada's most attractive places for water sports.

6 Water Sports You Can Do in Lake Las Vegas During Summer

If you want something to do in Las Vegas that isn’t gambling, here are six ways to cool down in the water.

1. Kayaking 

Kayaking is a water sport where people use narrow, small boats and a double-bladed oar to move through the water. There are several kinds of kayaks that you can use, depending on the environment you want to travel in. Kayaking is a great way to cruise around, but it’s still an outdoor activity that will challenge your body and give you a little workout.

Kayaking tours are available in Las Vegas all year long, and not just in Lake Las Vegas. Some of the best tours start from the Hoover Dam base and head into the Colorado River, with frequent stops to explore and photograph nearby hot springs, caves, and side canyons. It can be a calming and exhilarating experience, so it’s perfect for different kinds of people looking for a unique way to have fun.

People on a guided kayak tour in Las Vegas

Want to know more about what your options are outside of Lake Las Vegas? Check out Evolution Expeditions’ guided kayak tours.

2. Stand-Up Paddle Boarding

Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) is exactly what it sounds like! The person stands up on a board (instead of kneeling or lying) and holds the oar in their hands to paddle/steer. It's an excellent way to sightsee and exercise, allowing you to go at a moderate pace and improve your endurance. Some people like to spice it up even more and do yoga on their board. You can even bring your dog!

Paddle around Lake Las Vegas with your friends or use your paddle board as a resting spot while snorkeling in Lake Mead. Don’t forget your SPF — the Vegas sun is very unforgiving.

paddle b o

While the goal is to stay on your feet, beginners often find it helps to begin by kneeling.

3. Pedal Boating

A pedal boat is a human-powered watercraft designed for two to four people. All you need to do is position yourself properly on the boat and step on the left and right pedals to steer it in the right direction. With a durable boat, the right weight capacity, and safety accessories, you’ll have a fun, safe pedal boating experience.

In Lake Las Vegas, you can rent a pedal boat and move through the water with three companions, including the kids! Pedal boating is a relaxing activity you can try with the entire family. Your legs and feet do all the work, so you can grab every opportunity to take photos and videos. 

4. Jet Skiing

Since a jet ski is a high-speed watercraft used in more extreme sports, driving one can be intimidating for many. But if you feel the need for speed, you’re going to love it. Be aware that many states in the US, including Nevada, have age requirements and ask people to pass a boater education course to use or rent one.

Lake Mead is one of the best places to jet ski in Las Vegas. Rent a watercraft in a marina, and revel in the scenic views as you feel the wind on your face and water splashes underneath. However, the first time can be nerve-wracking. Thus, before riding, it’s best to acquaint yourself with jet ski controls and safety guidelines to ensure a smooth ride. 

5. Wakeboarding

Wakeboarding is an extreme water sport wherein the rider stands on a wakeboard and is towed by a boat that “drags” it through the water. The most challenging parts? Standing up on the wakeboard, moving sideways, and getting comfortable in the right position. It has a steep learning curve, but it gets easier over time.

To make things more manageable, start wakeboarding at a cable park. Lake Las Vegas has its own cable wakeboarding park, where they pull riders through an overhead cable system instead of towing them with a boat. This is far more feasible since you’ll be towed at the most comfortable speed. Beginners are also given detailed instructions before hitting the water. 

6. Tubing 

When people go tubing, they position themselves in the middle of a floating device and float their way down the river. Those who want to relax choose to free-float around. Meanwhile, people who want a more thrilling adventure prefer to be towed by a motorboat, just like in wakeboarding.

Try going tubing on Lake Las Vegas! Instead of a boat, riders can be launched via a cable line for a heart-pumping glide in the lake. River tubing can be dangerous for first-timers, so starting in a controlled environment is best. 

Spend Your Summer at Lake Las Vegas

Lake Las Vegas is a playground for water sport enthusiasts of all ages, abilities, and experience levels. Be prepared for an action-packed summer escapade amid palm trees, mountains, and a Mediterranean Italian-themed village!

Ready to kick things up a notch this summer in Las Vegas? Learn more about our guided kayak tours and reserve your spot with Evolution Expeditions.

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