Austin: Congress Avenue Bat Bridge Kayak Tour at Sunset

Summary

Kayak under Congress Avenue Bridge as bats fill the Austin sky

You’ll paddle out onto Lady Bird Lake with a local guide and learn how to handle your kayak before drifting beneath Congress Avenue Bridge at sunset. Watch as Austin’s famous bat colony takes flight overhead and listen to stories about their role in the city. Expect laughs, skyline views, and that strange hush before nature takes over.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what 1.5 million bats sound like when they wake up? I didn’t, honestly, until we were floating under the Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin, waiting for sunset. Our guide, Marcus, had already shown us how to hold the paddle without looking like total beginners (I still managed to splash myself a few times). The air smelled faintly of lake water and sunscreen — that mix you only get when it’s still hot out but the sun’s sliding down behind the skyline.

I kept drifting sideways because I was staring at the buildings lighting up: Hotel Van Zandt over there, The Austonian poking up higher than I expected. There was this weird hush right before it started — even the other kayakers got quiet. Then suddenly, a ripple of wings and these tiny shapes pouring out from beneath the bridge, east toward downtown. It looked almost smoky at first, then you realize it’s just…bats. So many bats you can actually hear their wings if you stop paddling for a second.

Marcus told us about how these Mexican free-tailed bats keep Austin’s bugs in check (he called them “the city’s best pest control”), and someone asked if they ever crash into people. He laughed and said no — “They’re better drivers than most of us.” I tried to get a photo but mostly ended up with blurry streaks and my own hand in the frame. Honestly though, I kind of loved that part — just sitting there with everyone else, watching this wild little nightly ritual happen right above us. I still think about that sound sometimes when it gets quiet at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Kayak tour to see bats and skyline

• Meet professional guide
• Paddle near Congress Avenue Bridge
• Observe largest urban bat colony
• Watch bats emerge at sunset
• View Austin skyline buildings

Top questions

What time do the bats emerge from Congress Avenue Bridge?

The bats usually take off around sunset, heading east across downtown Austin.

How long does the bat bridge kayak tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours from start to finish.

Is food or drink included on this kayak tour?

No, food and drinks are not included; bring your own water bottle if needed.

Do I need kayaking experience for this tour?

No prior experience is needed; a paddle lesson and safety instructions are provided at the start.

What should I wear for the Austin bat bridge kayak tour?

Wear a swimsuit or lightly layered synthetic clothes, plus a windbreaker jacket if needed. Bring sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, bug repellent, towel, and an extra change of clothes.

Are life jackets provided during the tour?

Yes, life jackets are included for all participants.

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?

No hotel pickup is provided; meet at the designated starting point near Congress Avenue Bridge.

Can travelers with health issues join this kayak tour?

This activity isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health; moderate physical fitness is required.

What’s included

Your evening includes a paddle lesson and safety instructions from your professional guide before heading out on Lady Bird Lake with all kayaking gear and life jackets provided—just bring your sense of adventure (and maybe dry clothes for after).