↠ TOP RATED SAN MARCOS TOUR! ↞
BEST GUIDES
Soak up the sights – and some knowledge! Learn unique facts along the paddle about the local waterways, wildlife, and more from our awesome local guides.
SMALL GROUPS
Our max group size is 12 paddlers – the perfect size to hear our guides and enjoy conversations along the way. (Larger private parties may be available upon request. Group size may vary slightly by location.)
GREAT VIEWS
Don’t let a normal kayak hinder your view! Our clear kayaks are the absolute best way to view the surroundings, and there’s plenty of opportunities to snag some Reels or videos for TikTok!
↠ THE EXPERIENCE ↞
WHERE WE ARE LOCATED:
San Marcos is a great trip for those looking for crystal clear water in our crystal clear kayaks only a short distance from Austin and San Antonio, Texas! This adventure on the San Marcos River is beginner friendly including a relaxing drift downstream, with a slightly more challenging paddle back upstream to the launch site for intermediate enthusiasts.
ABOUT THE ADVENTURE:
Whether you join us during the day to experience the river’s beauty in the sunlight or embark on an enchanting adventure with glow lights illuminating your kayak and the waters below, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories! The first half of the paddle offers a relaxing downstream float, while the return trip provides a rewarding workout as you paddle upstream to finish strong. Along the way, we’ll make a few stops to give your arms a break and allow you to fully appreciate the stunning surroundings, wildlife, and limestone.
Our knowledgeable and experienced guides will lead you on a journey through one of the most picturesque locations in the state, while providing information about the local flora, fauna and the importance of preserving this unique ecosystem. You will have a chance to be up close and personal with the Endangered Wild Rice, only found on the San Marcos River, as you glide under bridges and disconnect from the daily grind.
POTENTIAL WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS:
Our tour will take you through the protected waters of the San Marcos River, where you’ll have the opportunity to see:
- beavers
- bats
- fish
- turtles
- birds
- deer
- racoons
Whether you’re a first-time kayaker or a seasoned pro, our clear kayak tour is suitable for all skill levels and provides an unforgettable adventure. Our kayaks are designed for stability and safety, and our guides are trained to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Reserve your spot now and book today to experience the beauty of San Marcos like never before! Not only will you enjoy a unique adventure, but also you’ll be contributing to the preservation of this unique ecosystem by supporting a sustainable tour that promotes conservation awareness.
↠ AS FEATURED ON ↞
Partnership with Visit San Marcos
Partnership with @atasteoftexas_
Partnership with @travelwithcielo
↠ Frequently Asked Questions ↞
-
All Sales Final: Once booked, all sales are final, and no cancellations are permitted unless specified otherwise.
Unsafe Weather: In the event of unsafe weather, we offer the option to reschedule, receive a gift card, or provide a full refund.
Trip Protection: Purchasing Trip Protection allows guests to cancel or reschedule their initial tour at any time for any reason up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled tour time. Guests will be reimbursed for the full ticket amount, less the cost of Trip Protection and any booking fees.
If Trip Protection is not purchased, all sales are final.
-
Our weight limit is no more than 250 pounds per person and no more than 425 pounds per 2 people that are in the same kayak. All of our kayaks are double kayaks. Unfortunately our kayak manufacturer has given us this strict limit of 250 pounds per person and we cannot exceed this limit.
-
Each of our kayaks are tandem (made for 2 paddlers). However, the seats are removable and if you have an odd number of paddlers in your party we are able to accommodate the kayak as a single.
Keep in mind, the same 250 pound PER person weight limit still applies even if taking a kayak out as a single.
-
Tips are greatly appreciated. We like to say, “If you enjoyed your ride, tip your guide!”
Standard US gratuity is 20%!
A mandatory gratuity of 20% will be added for groups 11 or more.
-
Alcohol is not allowed on any of our tours.
-
- We specialize in clear kayak eco tours and are the best experience on the water.
- Tours cap out at 10 participants, which is the perfect size to hear your guide and have conversations along the way. If even 10 is too many for you, we also offer private tours for a tailored experience.
- Our kayak care and cleaning methods ensure your kayak is clear so you can have unmatched visibility into the water. San Marcos has clear water, so you might as well be in the clearest boat!
- We only hire the best guides who are personable, knowledgeable, and help you find unique wildlife.
-
- A positive attitude ready for adventure!
- Shoes you don’t mind getting wet; please note shoes are not permitted to be worn in the kayak, but will sit beside or behind you.
- Non-disposable water bottle to stay hydrated
- A phone to capture those candid shots!
- Wear clothes/swim suit you don’t mind getting wet
-
Yes, but due to the experience level of the paddle being intermediate, we welcome children 6 years old and up to join. Each person under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older in a kayak. Due to the level of experience needed for this adventure we cannot accommodate groups that have more children than adults in their party on the tour. We love having the entire family out and kids love this tour!
-
Our tours are made for any skill levels to participate, we will have basic tips and tricks to help you maneuver the waterways. Some paddling may be considered intermediate as we paddle against a 3mph current and some mild rapids, but we try our best to paddle at a pace that is convenient for every paddler! We do require all guests to stay with the group.
-
Yes! We invite you to swim before or after your tour near our launch spot. The water depth typically ranges between 4-5 feet, though variations may occur based on the specific section of the river and recent weather conditions.
-
Yes! We love our furry friends! Please bring a towel for your pet to sit on during the tour to prevent any scratching of the kayak by their nails.
-
Yes! Parking is available at the lot we use, but please note that it is managed by a third party and starting July 1st, requires payment for all non-San Marcos residents. We recommend arriving 15-30 minutes prior to tour time to park, pay (through app or kiosk), and find your guides!
Parking is $10 for up to 2 hours and $15 for over 2 hours. On Texas State event days and holiday weekends (Friday through Monday for Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day), a $25 flat fee applies.
All parking details can be found here.
↠ SAN MARCOS ↞
Situated in the heart of Texas, the San Marcos River, the Mermaid Capital of the World, captivates adventure seekers with its crystal-clear waters. Originating from the Edwards Aquifer, the river’s constant 72-degree Fahrenheit temperature creates an ideal haven for diverse aquatic life. Renowned as one of Texas’ cleanest rivers, it’s home to endangered species like the Texas Wild Rice.
Get Up And Go Kayaking – San Marcos, a Texan Women-Owned & Operated Small Business, stands out as the sole watercraft operation open year-round. This ensures adventurers can immerse themselves in this enchanting experience at any time.
↠ OUR SAN MARCOS STICKER ↞

Collect the exclusive San Marcos sticker on the day of your tour from your guide! Collecting more location stickers can unlock some great rewards. Learn more about our loyalty program.
↠ MEET THE FOUNDERS ↞
Brooke

-
Brooke, an avid adventurer, holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science and is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Wildlife Management and Conservation. She possesses a profound passion for the outdoors and enjoys hiking, fishing, photography, art, and traveling. You might find her on the water during a tour, capturing content and educating others about the ecosystems of the San Marcos River.
Star

-
Born and raised in the heart of Texas, Star is a passionate psychology student with an insatiable curiosity about the human mind. When she’s not immersed in her studies, you can find her amid a sea of lush plants, nurturing her own little green oasis or trekking through the woods on adventurous hikes. Star is a dedicated plant enthusiast, finding solace and wonder in the world of flora whether inside or amidst the great outdoors. Her unwavering curiosity and zest for life drive her to continually learn and grow. Beyond her academic and outdoor pursuits, she enjoys losing herself in the pages of a captivating book, weaving wonders with her crochet hook, and strumming melodies on her ukulele – Star infuses every facet of her life with unparalleled creativity and adventurous spirit.
↠ GET IN TOUCH ↞
Send Us a Message
Call or Text Us

(737) 258-2879
(Available from 1:00pm – 9:00pm)
↠ CHECK OUT OUR RECENT BLOG POSTS ↞
Clear Kayak vs. Regular Kayak in San Marcos: Why Clear Kayaks Are the Better Choice
The San Marcos River is one of the most beautiful spring-fed waterways in Texas, known for its turquoise clarity, steady current, and abundant wildlife. While both clear kayaks and traditional kayaks will get you out on the water, clear kayaks completely change how you experience it. Here’s why clear kayaks stand out as the better…
May 7, 2026
Wildlife You’ll Likely See While Kayaking in San Marcos
At Get Up And Go Kayaking – San Marcos, paddling the clear waters of the San Marcos River is more than just a scenic float, it’s a journey through one of the most unique spring-fed ecosystems in Texas. Flowing through San Marcos and powered by the Edwards Aquifer, this river stays a constant 72°F year-round…
February 26, 2026
Couples Guide: Romantic Paddle Date Ideas in San Marcos
Looking to plan a truly memorable date in Central Texas? San Marcos is a hidden gem for couples who want to escape the ordinary and share something special together, and what better way to do that than from the seat of a kayak on the beautiful San Marcos River? Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion…
February 2, 2026