Top 5 Things to Do at Willow Beach in Las Vegas
Looking for the best things to do at Willow Beach? This blog covers the top experiences, from scenic views to relaxing time on the water. If you want to see the area at its best, kayaking is the way to go. It gives you a closer look at the shoreline, calm water, and the beauty of Black Canyon. Many visitors use this location as a base to Kayak Emerald Caves and explore the hidden gems along the river.
Evolution Expeditions offers several options to explore Willow Beach. Our Willow Beach kayaking tours give visitors more time on the water, stunning wildlife views, and added inclusions along the way. If you prefer to paddle at your own pace, kayak rentals are also available.
Where Is Willow Beach Located?
Willow Beach is in Arizona, along the Colorado River, inside the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. It is about 45 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip and roughly 30 minutes from Boulder City.
That makes it an easy day trip for visitors who want to get away from the city and spend time on the water. Set below steep canyon walls near Lake Mohave, Willow Beach is best known for kayaking, boating, fishing, and scenic river views.
The 5 Best Things to Do at Willow Beach
So, you’re planning a day trip to Willow Beach az. Smart idea! What kinds of things should you include on your agenda? Here are five suggestions.
1. Kayaking
Appreciate the beauty of nature from a one-of-a-kind perspective through kayaking, without going through the overwhelming process of acquiring permits. In Willow Beach, you don’t need any permit to paddle in the river. You only need to buy a national pass park, as this location is within Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
But why don’t we kick things up a notch? Kayaking at Willow Beach is nice… but what about the Emerald Cave? There’s so much more to explore — but it’s worth having someone else manage all the logistics for you. Whether you’re a beginner kayaker or a seasoned pro, joining a guided kayak tour can help you make the most out of the experience. Several of our tours start at Willow Beach, leading to mesmerizing destinations like the Emerald Cave, or even the historic Hoover Dam. In addition, you can explore Black Canyon in general and take stunning photos of wildlife, clear waters, and steep canyon walls.
We’ll handle all of the permits and equipment for you. We’ll also teach you the kayaking basics you’ll need to know. All you have to do is show up and have a good time.
2. Fishing
Fishing has long been one of the top things to do at Willow Beach, and it remains a favorite for visitors exploring this scenic stretch of the Colorado River in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Anglers come here for year-round fishing and the chance to catch rainbow trout, striped bass, largemouth bass, channel catfish, and other species in the cool waters near Willow Beach Marina. You can also stop by the Willow Beach National Fish Hatchery, which is located just north of the marina and offers tours.
Before you go, make sure you have a valid Arizona or Nevada fishing license for Lake Mohave. Fishing is allowed from the shore, from watercraft, and from the fishing pier at Willow Beach, while bait, tackle, and supplies are available at Willow Beach Marina.
3. Camping
Willow Beach Marina & Campground offers both tent and RV camping. This makes it a convenient place to stay if you want more time to explore the river, fish, or paddle. The area also has marina services and access to the water. Thus, it works well for both short getaways and longer outdoor trips.
Willow Beach is part of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, which has more than 900 camping and RV sites across 15 different locations. Around Lake Mohave, the park has three campgrounds and three RV village parks. Around Lake Mead, it has six campgrounds and four RV village parks. Willow Beach sits in a quieter part of the park near Black Canyon. So, it often feels more peaceful than busier recreation areas.
Pro tip: Before you camp, review campground rules, bring the gear you need, and follow basic camping etiquette to help protect the area.
4. Swimming
Besides kayaking, Willow Beach is also a place where visitors can swim in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Water at Willow Beach averages around 55°F throughout the year. This is because it comes from deep below the Hoover Dam.
However, swimming in Lake Mead requires caution. The activity is prohibited in marinas and launch areas. Some coves are larger than they appear, and boat traffic can make certain spots unsafe. The National Park Service recommends wearing a life jacket, even while swimming. It’s also important to check conditions carefully before entering the water.
5. Sightseeing
Even if you do not have time to camp, fish, or enjoy Willow Beach kayaking, the place is still worth visiting for its scenery and easy river access. The area is surrounded by steep canyon walls along the Colorado River. It includes beaches, coves, picnic tables, grills, and scenic spots for relaxing by the water in Black Canyon.
Willow Beach also has a designated picnic area with 9 picnic tables, 5 grills, restrooms, and drinking water. Pets are allowed there. However, they must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet. There are no hiking trails at Willow Beach itself. However, visitors can paddle upriver from Willow Beach Marina by canoe or kayak to reach Arizona Hot Springs.
Plan Your Willow Beach Adventure Today
Willow Beach and the entire Lake Mead National Recreation Area host year-round recreational outdoor activities for locals and tourists alike. It’s an adventurer’s paradise, offering people a fulfilling escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Ready to explore the magic of Willow Beach and beyond? Book a guided kayak tour with Evolution Expeditions today. Our experienced guides will make sure you enjoy the moment to the fullest while always staying safe, whether you want to explore Emerald Cave, Willow Beach, the Black Canyon, or the Hoover Dam. See you on the water!