Texas is packed with paddle-worthy water—urban lakes with skyline views, Hill Country reservoirs, calm river trails, and even surf breaks on the Gulf. We teamed up with Texas paddlers and ambassadors to pull together the spots that consistently deliver the best SUP days, whether you’re bringing an inflatable board or renting locally.

Below you’ll find our favorite places for paddle boarding Texas, plus practical tips on conditions, crowds, and what each location is best for.

• Big variety in one state: flatwater cruising, fishing-friendly coves, and coastal surf

• Easy access and rentals in major paddling hubs like Austin and the Hill Country

• Great for groups: beginner launches, swim breaks, shaded parks, and family vibes

Lady Bird Lake is peak Austin—outdoor energy, skyline views, and a constant flow of paddlers any day of the week. This dammed-off section of the Colorado River runs through the heart of the city, framed by downtown on one side and Zilker Park/Auditorium Shores on the other.

Why it’s a must:

• Calm water and no motorized boats

• Long, scenic routes perfect for distance paddling

• Multiple put-ins (eight official access points, plus plenty of casual launch spots)

If you’re chasing the classic Austin-on-the-water photo, this is the place. Rentals are widely available, and parking near Zilker Park is a big bonus.

Rentals: Rowing Dock, Austin Rowing Club

Louise Hays Park is a go-to Hill Country paddle for locals and a favorite spot to take out-of-towners. The water is calm and clean, the setting is beautiful, and it’s a great place to put in longer miles without feeling rushed.

It’s also a strong option for SUP fishing—just make sure your board is stable enough for reeling and gear:

• Wider board for stability

• Higher volume for carrying capacity

• Longer touring-style board if you want to cover distance

Launch access is easy, parking is close, and you can even drive up near the water’s edge so you don’t have to carry your board far.

Rentals: Kerrville Kayak & Canoe

Lake Travis brings big-water energy. With nearly 19,000 acres of surface area, clear emerald-green water, and tons of shoreline activity, it can feel a little like a Texas version of Lake Tahoe.

What to know:

• Weekends can get rough due to speedboats and jet skis

• Early mornings and weekdays are much calmer

• Plenty of coves for swim breaks and sheltered paddling

If you like lively energy, big views, and a mix of paddling + hanging out, Lake Travis delivers.

Rentals: Peace Paddling

This is one of the best family-friendly river paddles in the region, especially if you want a calm, scenic SUP route that feels like a mini adventure.

Key details:

• Launch is near a small dam by the old Seguin power plant (now a restaurant)

• Calm entry and mellow current

• Approx. 4–5 miles up-river to where Hwy 46 crosses

Expect a mix of parkland views, private homes, and some quirky sights (like the famously “stuck” boat in a tree from a prior flood). The exit setup is excellent: a concrete wall with stairs and ladders makes getting off the water easy, even with longer boards.

Rentals: Red Beard Boats

Medina Lake is typically clean, clear, and beginner-friendly with gradual shorelines that make launching easy. It’s a great spot for relaxed flatwater paddling.

One important caveat: water levels fluctuate significantly in some years, so conditions and shoreline access can change.

Tips for a smoother day:

1. Confirm public access points—private property surrounds parts of the lake

2. Plan for a 200–300 foot carry in some areas (bring a strap)

3. Launch/unload first, then park

Camping, picnic areas, and even cabins make this a good “all-day” destination.

Rentals: Wally’s Watersports

Paradise Canyon is a beautiful private park and one of the best places near San Antonio for a combined SUP + swimming + camping day.

What makes it special:

• Calm, shallow water areas that work for kids

• Deeper sections for adult swimming

• Big rocks for jumping (where permitted and safe)

• Tons of shaded picnic areas and easy park amenities

There is a vegetation-heavy section that can make paddling difficult and can limit an end-to-end paddle, but the main paddling and swimming areas are excellent.

Rentals: Paddle Canyon Lake

Want Texas ocean SUP? South Padre Island is the move. This barrier island resort town offers warm weather, sandy beaches, and reliable surf conditions for experienced paddlers.

This is best for paddlers who:

• Are comfortable in waves and currents

• Have solid balance and paddle control

• Prefer a shorter board better suited to surfing (often hard boards)

South Padre is also a fun destination if you want to combine paddling with a full beach vacation.

Rentals: South Padre Island Water Sports

Texas really does go big when it comes to SUP variety. Whether you want calm urban cruising in Austin, Hill Country paddling with shade and swim breaks, scenic river trails, or Gulf surf, you’ll find a spot that fits your style.