Self Guided Kayak Rental to Emerald Cave

Start your self-guided kayak adventure from Kayak Beach at Willow Beach Marina and paddle through Black Canyon to the Emerald Cave at your own pace.

After check-in, you’ll receive your kayak, paddle, and life vest before heading out onto the Colorado River. As you paddle through the canyon toward the Emerald Cave, keep an eye out for bighorn sheep along the shoreline or bald eagles overhead.

This option is ideal for those who prefer to explore independently without a guide, with the flexibility to move at your own pace and stop along the way.

Once you reach the Emerald Cave, take time to enjoy the glowing green water and capture photos before making your way back to Kayak Beach.

Tour Highlights

• Self-guided kayak experience
• 4-mile round-trip route
• Emerald Cave destination
• Scenic Black Canyon views
• Wildlife viewing opportunities
• Explore at your own pace

What’s Included

• Single kayak (1 person) or tandem kayak (2 people per kayak)
• Paddle and life vest

What’s Not Included

• Transportation to Willow Beach Marina
• Lake Mead National Recreation Area entrance fee ($25 per vehicle)

Rental Time & Return

Check-in starts at 9:00 AM to give you enough time to enjoy the full trip. All rentals must be returned by 1:30 PM.

If you are not back by the required return time, park staff may initiate a welfare check, which could result in additional fees. Please plan your time accordingly.

Getting There & Parking

Parking is available at Willow Beach Marina. The Lake Mead National Recreation Area entrance fee is $25 per vehicle.

From the parking area, it’s a short walk to Kayak Beach, where your rental begins.

Parking can fill up on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended.

Booking & Policies

By booking a tour, you assume all risks of your participation in this activity, whether known or unknown to you or any events incidental to this activity. You also agree to the release of images/video for Las Vegas Exclusive Kayak Tours to use at their discretion.

The inventory on our website is live and updated automatically as soon as someone makes a reservation. Please ensure you understand our change and cancellation policies.