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Beat the Heat: 5 Reasons Kayaking is Austin’s Coolest Summer Escape ☀️ 🚣

Austin summers are no joke — with temps often hitting triple digits, finding ways to stay cool is a must. While hiking trails turn into sweat fests, kayaking offers the perfect escape. Here’s why hitting the water with Get Up and Go Kayaking is the smartest way to beat the heat this summer.

1. Water Temps Stay Refreshing

While pavement burns, Austin’s waterways stay naturally cool. Lady Bird Lake averages a comfortable 75-80°F in summer—perfect for dipping your feet or taking a quick swim mid-paddle.

a bridge over a body of water

Pro Tip: Start early! Our sunrise paddles (before 10 AM) avoid peak Texas heat.

2. Shaded Routes = Natural AC

Some of Austin’s best kayaking spots offer built-in shade:

  • Barton Creek: Tree-lined banks keep you covered.
  • Red Bud Isle: A hidden oasis with overhanging branches.

No sunburn, no sweat—just peaceful paddling.

3. Sunset & Twilight Paddles

Avoid midday scorchers with evening adventures:

  • Lady Bird Lake at dusk: Watch the skyline light up.
  • Sunset and Bats at Congress Bridge: Paddle under 1.5 million bats taking flight (June-August)

a group of people swimming in a body of water

Bonus: Twilight temps drop 10-15°F — ahhh, relief.

4. No Crowds, No Stress

Unlike packed pools or splash pads, Austin’s waterways stay blissfully uncrowded. Find
solitude at:

  • Walsh Boat Landing (quieter section of Lady Bird Lake)
  • McKinney Falls State Park (limited motorboats)

5. Kayaking Burns Calories Without the Burn

Paddling is a low-key workout (200-400 calories/hour) that won’t leave you overheated.

Compare that to running on scorching trails—no contest!

Ready to Cool Off? Book a sunrise or sunset kayak tour today!