If you’re searching for adventure near Las Vegas, Willow Beach is the hidden gem you’ve been missing. Located just 45 minutes from the Strip along the stunning Colorado River in Arizona, this desert oasis offers some of the best outdoor recreation in the entire Southwest. From secret coves to emerald waters and dramatic canyon views, it’s a peaceful, nature-filled escape from the noise of the city.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a full weekend of exploration, here are the top 5 things to do at Willow Beach — starting with the #1 activity for families, couples, solo adventurers, and beginners alike: Willow Beach paddle board rentals.
The best way to explore Willow Beach is from the water — and nothing beats the freedom and serenity of paddleboarding. Willow Beach paddle board rentals let you discover the scenic beauty of this quiet stretch of the Colorado River at your own pace.
You’ll paddle past colorful canyon walls, through glassy water, and toward remote inlets where wildlife, tranquility, and hidden beaches await. Rentals are available right on the shoreline from Las Vegas Paddleboard’s Willow Beach location, giving you everything you need: top-quality boards, adjustable paddles, life jackets, dry bags, and helpful launch tips from local staff.
Why this is the #1 activity at Willow Beach:
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Beachfront access – No hauling equipment or long walks
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Up to 8 hours included – Plenty of time to explore and relax
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Perfect for all skill levels – The calm water is beginner-friendly
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Photo-worthy views – Ideal lighting, reflections, and canyon backdrops
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Escape the crowds – Much more peaceful than Lake Mead
Paddleboarding at Willow Beach gives you the chance to slow down and connect with nature in a way that few activities allow. Whether you’re floating silently by a heron on the shoreline or resting in the shade of a cliff wall, you’ll understand why Willow Beach paddle board rentals are the area’s top-rated activity.
Book a Guided Paddle Board Experience to Emerald Cave
For those looking for a little adventure and guidance, a guided Emerald Cave paddle board tour is the highlight of many people’s visit to Willow Beach. The Emerald Cave is a beautiful glowing cavern about two miles upstream from the marina. It gets its name from the magical green light that reflects off the riverbed when the sun hits it just right — usually between 12 and 2 PM depending on the season.
Unlike busy kayak tours with large crowds and rushed itineraries, Las Vegas Paddleboard offers private paddle board tours that move at your pace. Your certified guide will take you to the cave, help you get great photos, point out wildlife like bighorn sheep or bald eagles, and stop at swimming spots or scenic coves along the way.
Why the Emerald Cave paddle board tour is unforgettable:
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Private and flexible – Your group, your pace
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Spectacular views – Golden canyon walls, turquoise water, and cave light reflections
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Safe and beginner-friendly – Guides provide instruction and support
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All gear included – Just show up and paddle
Along the way, you’ll also hear interesting stories about the history of the Black Canyon, geology of the region, and native wildlife. You’re not just paddling — you’re learning and connecting with the area on a deeper level. For the perfect blend of fun, education, and stunning scenery, this Emerald Cave paddle board tour is a must-do experience.
Learn to SUP with a Willow Beach Paddle Board Lesson
Want to paddle but not sure where to start? A Willow Beach paddle board lesson is the ideal introduction. This location is one of the most beginner-friendly SUP environments in the Southwest: calm water, gentle currents, wide open space, and no boat wakes to throw off your balance.
Las Vegas Paddleboard offers 2-hour beginner lessons taught by fun, knowledgeable instructors. These lessons are small and personalized, so you’ll get plenty of one-on-one attention. You’ll learn everything from how to stand up and stay balanced to how to turn, stop, and paddle efficiently.
What’s included in a paddle board lesson:
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Certified instructor – Learn the right way from day one
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Complete gear – Board, paddle, life vest, dry bag
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Step-by-step instruction – Standing, paddling, turning, falling safely
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Free 1-hour rental after – Practice what you learned on your own
You’ll also learn important safety tips, how to re-mount the board if you fall, and how to read water conditions. The instructors are passionate about paddleboarding and love helping people of all ages and fitness levels get started. After your Willow Beach paddle board lesson, you’ll not only feel confident—you’ll feel inspired to keep paddling and exploring more of the area.
Cool Off and Swim in Crystal Clear Colorado River Water
Willow Beach offers some of the cleanest, clearest water in the entire region—and it’s perfect for swimming. Unlike the busy beaches at Lake Mead, Willow Beach has a quieter, more natural shoreline with hidden spots and coves you can discover on your own, especially by paddle board.
The water here is clean and clear, with visibility down to the riverbed. While the water is cold year-round, it’s welcome and refreshing during spring, summer, and fall — especially after paddling for a couple hours.
There are plenty of great swim spots near the main marina, but if you have a Willow Beach paddle board rental, you can find your own private swimming cove just a short paddle away. These tucked-away areas are peaceful, shaded, and rarely crowded — offering the ideal environment to float, swim, or just soak in the views.
Why swimming at Willow Beach is a must:
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Crystal-clear water – Rare visibility and clean river flow
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Cool year-round – Great contrast to desert temps
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Natural escape – Relax away from crowds
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Perfect combo with SUP – Paddle, park, and plunge
Bring along a dry bag with snacks, water, or even a waterproof speaker to make it a full-day getaway. Some visitors even set up picnic blankets on small beaches they discover mid-paddle. Swimming here isn’t just refreshing—it’s an experience of its own.
Try a Group Adventure with a Giant Mantaray Rental
Looking for something adventurous, Instagram-worthy, and perfect for groups? The giant Mantaray paddle board rental is a must-try. This massive, multi-person board is one of the most fun and unique ways to explore Willow Beach together. It’s wide, ultra-stable, and designed to carry up to 6 people at once, making it perfect for families, friend groups, or special occasions.
Whether you want to paddle in unison, relax in the sun, have a mid-river picnic, or jump off into the water, the Mantaray makes it all possible. It’s not just a novelty — it’s surprisingly easy to paddle and ideal for creating unforgettable memories.
Why the Mantaray is a fan favorite:
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Unmatched group fun – Everyone can ride together
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Perfect for photos and celebrations – Great for birthdays, bachelorette trips, or just goofy river games
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Great for kids and beginners – Extremely stable and safe for all ages
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Doubles as a floating island – Paddle it, relax on it, swim off of it
Your Mantaray rental launches right from the shoreline, so there’s no heavy lifting or setup hassle. It’s a great way to add a playful twist to your visit and works beautifully in combination with other rentals. Want something different? Pair your Mantaray ride with a standard Willow Beach paddle board rental and get the best of both worlds.
Plan Your Willow Beach Paddle Board Adventure Today