Viator Rating : 5 (58 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.1/10 (Verified Excellent)
Austin
Austin Paddleboard Sunset Tour: Bats & City Views!
150
Overview
Downtown Austin Giant Paddleboard Sunset Tour with Bats offers a unique way to see Austin's famous bats. Forget kayaks! This tour uses a giant paddleboard that fits up to 6 people, so everyone stays together. This makes it perfect for families and groups who want to share the fun.
The tour starts with amazing views of downtown Austin during the day. As the sun sets, the sky turns beautiful colors. Then, the main event: watching 1.5 million bats fly out for the night! After seeing the bats, enjoy a relaxing paddle back under the glow of the city lights. For a special treat, book the July 4th tour to see fireworks from the water.
This experience is similar to the popular "kayaking with the bats" tour, but on a much bigger and more stable board. Don't worry about falling in! People can sit, stand, or even lie down on the board. As a bonus, after booking, customers receive a personal guidebook to Austin, full of tips for planning their entire vacation. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (9 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (8 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (5 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Highlights
See Austin's Bats!: Witness 1.5 million bats take flight at sunset.
Giant Paddleboard Fun: Stay together with your group on one big, stable board.
Stay Dry and Comfortable: No need to worry about getting wet unless you want to!
Amazing City Views: Enjoy epic downtown views during the day and city lights at night.
Perfect for Groups and Families: Share the experience of paddleboarding together.
Bonus Guidebook: Get a free guidebook to help plan your Austin vacation.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers love the unique experience of seeing the bats from a giant paddleboard.
-
The tour is family-friendly and great for groups.
-
Many people found it easy to stay dry and comfortable on the board.
-
The guides are friendly and helpful.
Some customers found the paddling tiring.
-
A few mentioned the water conditions were not ideal.
The Journey
Downtown Austin
Downtown Austin serves as the starting point, offering views of the city's skyline before transitioning to the river for the sunset and bat watching experience.
Colorado River
The Colorado River is the main waterway for the tour, providing views of the sunset and bat emergence. The river is also aligned with the sunset during March.
Congress Avenue Bridge
While not explicitly a stop, the tour focuses on observing the bats emerge from under the Congress Avenue Bridge, home to a colony of 1.5 million bats.
Know Before You Go
This experience includes a giant paddleboard, life jackets for everyone, paddles, photos, and a dry cooler for storage and seating. It excludes any personal items and transportation to the meeting point. Meetup location is given after booking.
Hot Tip
Customers suggest bringing a waterproof bag for phones and valuables. It's also a good idea to wear comfortable clothing and shoes that can get wet, just in case. And don't forget the sunscreen and bug spray!
Review Summary
Customers find this tour to be a fabulous and highly-rated experience (4.9/5 stars based on 53+ reviews), with travelers praising the stunning views of the sunset, downtown Austin skyline, and the spectacular sight of 1.5 million bats taking flight[1][2]. The most frequently mentioned positive points include the intimate group setting, the advantage of staying dry and together as a group on one board, knowledgeable guides, and the guide's willingness to assist paddlers on the return journey if needed[1][2]. Some travelers note that the paddle back can be more challenging than the outbound journey, though guides can tow guests if necessary[1].
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Waco
$84.5
Waco's Fixer Upper Tour: See Silos & Hidden Gems!
5.0
(2987 reviews)
Duration: 150
minutes
Fixer Upper + City Tour: Discover why this Waco tour is ranked among the Top #4 experiences in the United States, according to TripAdvisor! This fun 2.5 to 3-hour tour shows guests the fascinating story of Waco, with highlights from the popular show 'Fixer Upper'. See beautiful neighborhoods and hidden treasures that most visitors miss.
What to Expect: Guests will visit famous spots like Magnolia Market at the Silos and Silos Baking Co. The tour also includes visits to the Dr Pepper Museum and Baylor University. Guests can explore Cameron Park, the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, and see the Branding of the Brazos Bridge. Plus, take a peek at McLane Stadium and Balcones Distilling. All this while enjoying a craft coffee or ice cream!
This small-group tour is in an air-conditioned Mercedes Benz Sprinter van, led by a trained guide and driver. Enjoy free photos and over $300 in coupons for local businesses. The tour includes free beverages. This tour is designed to be one of the most fun and memorable parts of any Waco visit.
Austin
$49
Austin's Best: Small-Group Driving Tour with Local Guide
4.9
(2262 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
The Best of Austin Small-Group Driving Tour with Local Guide offers a fantastic introduction to the city in just two hours. This "bucket list tour" takes guests to major landmarks and hidden gems that only locals know about. Get ready to explore real neighborhoods and even enjoy a sweet treat along the way!
Your guide will share insider knowledge about Austin's art, music, culture, food, history, and parks. Learn about famous residents and discover how the city earned its "Keep Austin Weird" motto. Key stops include the iconic Texas State Capitol, the lively Bungalow Bars, and the vibrant street art scene. Visitors will also cruise down South Congress Avenue (SoCo) and see the Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Plus, don't miss the chance to spot bats under the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge (Bat Bridge)!
This curated bus tour ensures a comfortable and comprehensive city overview. The experience includes a knowledgeable driver/guide to show the best of Austin. Please note that gratuities, hotel pickup/drop-off, and a $10 parking fee are not included.
Waco
$49
Waco's Top-Rated Fixer Upper Tour: See the City!
4.9
(2095 reviews)
Duration: 150
minutes
Top Waco Fixer Upper/City Tour: Experience Waco like never before on this award-winning tour! It starts at the old Harp Design shop. You might even get to step inside a real home from the famous show! This tour won the 2024 TripAdvisor Traveler's Choice Award and the 2022 Viator Experiences Award as one of the Top 20 experiences in the USA and #1 attraction in Waco.
See landmarks and surprises from the HGTV show *Fixer Upper* while exploring Waco, Texas. During this 2.5-hour tour, guests often get the special chance to go inside a home designed by Chip and Joanna!
What to Expect: Explore key spots like the Harp House (Former Clint Harp Workshop), JDH Iron Designs, the 3 Little Pigs House, and Chip and Joanna's Castle. The tour includes water to keep you refreshed. Please note that car seats are needed for young children. These are not provided. Gratuity (tips) is also not included. For lodging, vacation rentals from the *Fixer Upper* TV show can be booked on the Brazos Tours website.
Austin
$69
Savor Hill Country: BBQ & Wine Shuttle Adventure from Austin!
4.9
(946 reviews)
Duration: 270
minutes
From Austin: Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle offers an affordable escape to Salt Lick BBQ and two wineries. Enjoy transport in a Mercedes Sprinter with a local guide. Experience the best of Texas Hill Country's food and wine culture on this half-day tour. An Excellent Quality small group cultural tour.
Austin
$30
Unearth Austin's Dark Past: A Haunted Ghost and Murder Tour
5.0
(169 reviews)
Duration: 120
minutes
Austin’s Haunted Ghost and Murder Tour unveils the city's eerie past. Explore haunted locations and hear chilling tales of ghostly encounters and unsolved crimes. Visit the Driskill Hotel and other spooky sites with an expert storyteller. Ideal for history and paranormal enthusiasts seeking a thrilling, intimate experience.
Waco
$64
Waco's Brazos River Boat Adventure: History & Sunset Views
5.0
(283 reviews)
Duration: 105
minutes
Amazing Brazos River Morning or Sunset Boat Adventure in Waco offers a unique way to discover Waco's charm. Instead of walking, float along the Brazos River and learn about the city's past and present. This relaxing boat tour is perfect for anyone who wants to see Waco from a different angle and spot local wildlife.
On this tour, passengers can expect to see some of Waco's most iconic spots. These include Baylor University's McLane Stadium, the beautiful Baylor University campus along the Brazos River, and the historic Waco Suspension Bridge. The tour also highlights the natural beauty of the Brazos River landscape, where passengers might see local wildlife and the meeting point of the Brazos and Bosque Rivers. The morning tour showcases the river waking up, while the sunset tour offers stunning sunset views and city lights reflecting on the water.
The experience includes bottled water, life vests for safety, and free parking. There are plenty of photo opportunities. Gratuity is not included, and guests are asked to use the restroom before arriving, as there are no restrooms at the dock.
Nearby Events
Bass Concert Hall
Nov 14
7:00 PMBook Tickets: Nurse John Live at Bass Concert Hall
Nurse John: Against Medical Advice Tour brings John Dela Cruz to Bass Concert Hall in Austin, TX, offering a unique blend of comedy and immersive storytelling that captivates global fans. Widely recognized for his brand-new comedy tour, Nurse John has sold out iconic venues like OVO Wembley Arena in London, cementing his status as a top international performer in the comedy and arts scene.
The event showcases Nurse John’s signature style: raw, therapeutic humor that resonates deeply with audiences while redefining the boundaries of live performance. Bass Concert Hall, a premier venue for Texas Performing Arts and world-class entertainment, provides an ideal setting for this unforgettable experience.
Aztec Theatre
July 15
7:30 PMKail Lowry: Fatherless Behavior Tour San Antonio
Kail Lowry brings her Fatherless Behavior Tour to the Aztec Theatre in San Antonio, featuring the podcast host and media personality in an intimate live experience. Known for her candid discussions on motherhood, relationships, and personal growth through her popular podcast, Lowry connects with audiences through authentic storytelling and engaging dialogue. This tour represents a unique opportunity to experience her dynamic presence in a theatrical setting as she explores themes central to her brand and loyal fanbase.
Kail Lowry has built a substantial platform as a content creator and podcast host, with millions of followers across social media who engage with her unfiltered perspective on life and entertainment. The Aztec Theatre, located in the heart of San Antonio, is an iconic venue known for hosting intimate performances and cultural events that draw both local and visiting audiences seeking authentic entertainment experiences.
Frost Bank Center
Sep 13
8:00 PMBook J. Cole Tickets at Frost Bank Center
J. Cole: The Fall-Off Tour at Frost Bank Center brings one of hip-hop’s most talked-about voices to San Antonio for a major arena night built around sharp lyricism, deep catalog cuts, and the energy of a global headline run. The tour supports J. Cole’s seventh studio album, The Fall Off*, and marks his first solo headline tour in five years, making this a high-demand stop for rap fans.
The event spotlights an artist known for introspective storytelling, platinum-level hits, and a live show that balances momentum with precision. Frost Bank Center is one of San Antonio’s premier indoor venues, known for hosting large-scale concerts and major entertainment events in a modern arena setting.
Boeing Center at Tech Port
Sep 24
8:00 PMBook Tickets: TNA Wrestling Live at Boeing Center San Antonio
TNA Wrestling brings its electrifying 2026 live event schedule to the Boeing Center at Tech Port in San Antonio, Texas, featuring high-stakes matches and legendary rivalries. As one of the most anticipated events on their full 2026 tour, the show showcases the brand's return to major arenas with a fresh lineup of top-tier wrestlers and dramatic storylines that have captivated fans nationwide.
TNA Wrestling, originally known for launching superstars like Jeff Hardy and Christian Cage, continues to define modern wrestling with its unique blend of athleticism, charisma, and unpredictable outcomes. The Boeing Center at Tech Port is a premier entertainment destination known for hosting world-class concerts, sports, and live events in San Antonio's growing Tech Port district.
Alamodome
Sep 12
7:00 PMMy Chemical Romance at Alamodome: Black Parade 2026
My Chemical Romance brings The Black Parade 2026 Stadium Tour to San Antonio's Alamodome on September 12, 2026, marking a monumental celebration of the band's legendary 20th-anniversary album. This is one of 17 new stadium dates across North America, UK, and Europe, following the massive success of their Long Live: The Black Parade tour, which grossed over $72 million and attracted 365,000 attendees. The iconic rock band will perform the complete album in full, delivering an unforgettable experience for both longtime devotees and new fans discovering their era-defining work.
The Black Parade, released in 2006, revolutionized alternative rock and established My Chemical Romance as one of the defining bands of their generation. Each show features a unique opening act, creating a one-of-a-kind experience tailored to its location. The Alamodome, San Antonio's premier multi-purpose venue, provides the perfect stadium setting for this theatrical and sonically powerful performance.
Emo's Austin
Aug 20
5:00 PMBook Boundless Life Podcast Live at Emo's Austin: Ben Greenfield
Boundless Life Podcast brings their live event, Boundless Live with Ben Greenfield, to Emo's Austin in Austin, TX, offering an immersive experience for fans of fitness, nutrition, and biohacking. As one of Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies of 2026, the team merges cutting-edge health advice with real-life storytelling, creating a unique blend of education and entertainment that resonates globally.
The podcast, hosted by Ben Greenfield, is renowned for its authoritative guidance on fat loss, anti-aging, and biohacking, drawing listeners from BenGreenfieldLife.com and Spotify who seek transformative health strategies. Emo's Austin, a historic live music venue known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse programming, provides the perfect backdrop for this dynamic gathering.
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in San Antonio
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in San Antonio From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate & Rock in San Antonio. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View San Antonio Activities