I had booked a tour because I wanted the expertise of a guide. I found it strange that all other tours were congregating in one area, yet our group was far removed from them. I'm not sure if the guide was new or had it wrong, but once the bats started pouring out, he finally moved us closer - but by then there were crowds of boats and it was hard to get a good spot. Also, other tour guides brought large red spotlights to shine on the bridge so that we could see the bat movement. Our guide didn't have one! So once the other tours started heading out, they obviously left with their own red spotlights and then our group couldn't really see anything. I would highly recommend going to watch the bats, but not sure this is the best tour group.
Evening Bat Watching Kayak Tour
At a glance
- Duration
- 1 hour
- Price from
- $41 / person
- Rating
- 4.9 / 5 · 80 reviews
- Languages
- EN
- Group
- Small group, up to 24
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation
- Meeting point
- Our store is located in the AMLI South Shore Complex.
- Confirmation
- Instant
Prices checked on Sep 11, 2026Things to do in Austin
Description
Kayaking to see the bats is a unique way to view this urban phenomenon, and seeing the Austin skyline from the water is a highlight of the trip! We are the original kayak tour operators to see the bats! We are a family-owned business that has been doing this for over 15 years. We have the most knowledgeable guides and dock staff! This is a great tour for families, date nights, tourist and locals alike!
Tour Options
Itinerary
On our Evening Bat-Watching Kayak tour, guest paddle from our dock to the Congress Avenue Bridge. The views of downtown Austin are amazing! Our guides will get you in the best spot to see the nightly departure of the Largest Urban Bat Colony in the world! They will give you the history to the bat colony and other local landmarks, all while enjoying the sunset. After watching the bats for awhile, we all paddle back to our dock. The trip is 2.5-3 hours depending on the bats!
One of the highlights other than the bats is seeing the downtown skyline from the water. On the paddle out, you will be enjoying the sun going down and the different hues it creates on the ever growing skyline. After the bats fly and you are paddling back to the dock, you will see the buildings lit up against the water.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Total tour time includes paddle instructions and gear distribution.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Evening Bat Watching Kayak Tour take?
Evening Bat Watching Kayak Tour lasts about 1 hour. The itinerary has 2 stops.
How much does Evening Bat Watching Kayak Tour cost?
Prices start at $41 per person for this Austin experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
Can I cancel Evening Bat Watching Kayak Tour for free?
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is Our store is located in the AMLI South Shore Complex. . Hotel pickup is not part of this experience.
What languages is Evening Bat Watching Kayak Tour offered in?
The experience is available in EN.
Is this a private or a group tour?
It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 24 participants.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Wheelchair accessible All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Reviews(80)
John and Ross were amazing! We thoroughly enjoyed the excursion. The staff was incredibly knowledgeable, the tour was interesting and engaging, and the entire experience was truly one for the memory books. We had such a wonderful time!
Made our trip so fun! Amazing experience and recommend to everyone. :) Went on a fun date experience and now have to go back and take my kids next time.
This was great! I 100% recommend you take this trip with this team. What could have truly been a logistical nightmare was a fun and super pleasant experience. My wife and I had a blast!
We went at such a great time and saw so many bats at the bridge. The experience was enjoyable and the tour guides made sure we were safe and having a good time. The tour guides also gave great background information about the bats and their migration and life cycle.
So glad you enjoyed the tour! Thank you for taking the time to leave the review!
The Who process was well organized. Tour guides were knowledgeable about the bats, and some local history. They kept the crowd engaged. Photo opportunities were a nice touch. The cost of the experience was very reasonable. I would recommend this trip for anyone from experienced kayakers to novices.
We really appreciate the review! Thank you and glad you had a good time!
Fantastic paddle to the bridge. The guides were super informative and took pics of us with the Austin skyline in the background. Amazing sunset and lots of bats! Definitely check this out! Easy booking and great communication. I’d definitely go again!
So glad you enjoyed it! It would be wonderful to see you again! Thanks!
Mi experience necessary to paddle the lake. The bats were great! Not scooby doo scary at all
Glad you enjoyed the tour!
The bats were supposed to be the main event, but they were so tiny, that part of it was underwhelming. The trip itself, however, was wonderful. Our main guide was friendly and full of fun information about Austin and its history, and the bat colonies. Fellow kayakers were friendly. Downtown Austin in the water at night was enchanting. I can’t think of a better way to enjoy its beauty and highly recommend this kayak trip. It’s a great arm workout, too. Our muscles are sore today.
Very glad you enjoyed the entire tour! There are so many parts that make it great! Thank you so much for your review!
Great experience with a caring team.
Merci!
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