kayak tours galveston

Galveston Kayak & Boat Launches: Best Inshore & Bay Locations

Ready to explore the bays and coasts by boat or kayak? Then head on over to Galveston, Texas! There are plenty of boat ramps and launching spots so you can embark on an adventure. Whether it’s a peaceful paddle through the waters or some exciting fishing – there is something for everyone!

Taking your kayak or boat out on the water just got easier – we have picked all of the best launches and ramps in Galveston, TX. From Bolivar Peninsula to State Park Island, there’s something for everyone! Whether you’re a pro paddler looking for their next adventure spot or an amateur wanting to dip their toes into some new waters, this list has it all.

Ready to make waves? Let’s hit the water and check out some of Galveston, Texas’ best kayak launches and boat ramps. Don’t worry if you’re looking for a serene paddle or an adrenaline-filled fishing adventure – there’s something here for everybody! So come join us as we explore this incredible area – let’s get started!

Overview of Galveston Texas Waterways

Galveston, Texas is a water-lovers paradise! Miles of shoreline line the lush coast of the Gulf of Mexico, perfect for kayaking and fishing.

But that isn’t all – get ready to explore deeper with dozens of boat ramps around the expansive Galveston Bay complex. With its calm waters and abundant sea life, you’re in store for an outdoor adventure like no other when visiting this coastal city!

In addition to the Galveston Bay complex, there are many other waterways in the area. Some of the most popular include:

• Offatts Bayou
• Jamaica Beach
• San Luis Pass

Boating and kayaking in Galveston is a great way to get out on the water and enjoy yourself! West Bay is famous for providing amazing fishing opportunities, while San Luis Pass has some terrific waves that are perfect for surfing or just enjoying the ride.

Galveston is the perfect playground for water lovers! With plenty of boat ramps and kayak launches ready to go, you can explore an abundance of winding waterways that are sure to make your summer unforgettable. So get out there – it’s time to have some fun in this Texas hotspot!

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Kayak Launches and Boat Ramps for Galveston Texas Bays

To ensure a successful kayaking or boating excursion in Galveston, it’s essential to be aware of where to launch your vessel. Luckily, there are several options available, including various kayak launches and boat ramps situated in both the bays and inshore areas.

The Christmas Bay Paddling Trail is one of the most favored kayak launches, and it offers awe-inspiring views of the Galveston Bay complex as it loops around Christmas Bay. This launch is available year-round and is situated at the Christmas Bay Coastal Preserve.

If you’re keen on exploring West Bay, the Galveston Island State Park kayak launch is an excellent option for kayaks and canoes. Moreover, larger vessels, including those with trailers, can use the park’s boat ramps.

The Galveston Island Nature Tourism Council provides several additional kayak launch options, such as the Lafitte’s Cove Nature Preserve launch, the Galveston Island State Park Gulf-side launch, and the 103rd Street Kayak Launch. Each of these launches grants access to inshore areas of Galveston Bay and offers distinctive opportunities to witness local wildlife.

The Galveston County Parks and Cultural Services Department maintains several boat ramp locations in the bays and coastal areas, including the Bayshore Park Boat Ramp, the Bay Street Park Boat Ramp, and the Jones Bay Boat Ramp. These ramps provide access to varying parts of the bays and inshore waters and offer ample parking for vehicles and trailers.

It’s crucial to follow all local regulations and guidelines when using any of these kayak launches or boat ramps. This involves obtaining necessary permits or licenses, practicing safe boating techniques, and respecting the local wildlife and environment.

Kayak Launches and Boat Ramps for Galveston Texas Inshore Areas

For those seeking to explore the inshore areas of Galveston County, Texas, there are several excellent options available for kayakers and boaters. Here are some of the top kayak launches and boat ramps in the region:

If you’re searching for exceptional kayak launches and boat ramps to explore Galveston County’s coastal areas, look no further. Bayshore Boat Ramp is an ideal choice, providing a kayak/canoe launch, ample parking, and tie-up space. Additionally, Galveston Island State Park is a popular location with canoe/kayak launches and a fish-cleaning station. For a serene paddle, Armand Bayou is a gorgeous destination situated approximately 30 minutes from downtown Houston. Bay Area Park offers a concrete boat ramp and parking lot for launching.

Whether you’re seeking a tranquil paddle or a day of fishing, Galveston County’s coastal areas offer a plethora of options for kayak launches and boat ramps. Don’t miss out on exploring these top locations during your next adventure.

Kayak Launches for the Galveston Bays and Inshore Areas

• Galveston Island State Park: At Galveston Island State Park, you’ll discover a trio of kayak launches listed, each boasting shallow sandy entries for easy access. Positioned on the park’s eastern side is a convenient kayak launch, complete with a parking lot and even a fish cleaning station. Simply follow the brief trail to the right, and you’ll be on your way to the ultimate kayaking adventure. (source:  Kayaking West Galveston Bay – Galveston Island State Park )
• East Beach: East Beach is the perfect location for novice water enthusiasts, thanks to its calm and gentle waves. This spot is complete with an abundance of sandbars to recline and unwind, making it an ideal destination for a stress-free day on the water. (source:  Where to Kayak Fish in Galveston? – Boating Buddy )
• Sportsmans Road: At the end of Sportsmans Road in West Bay, you’ll discover a bustling hub for kayaking enthusiasts. This prime launch site attracts many visitors and offers ample parking to accommodate a steady flow of eager kayakers. Get ready to launch into the serene and picturesque waters, and immerse yourself in the beauty of West Bay. (source:  Galveston Launch Locations – TexasKayakFisherman.com )
• 8 Mile Road: Discover the hidden gem of 8 Mile Road, located on the edge of West Bay, and unleash your inner kayaking enthusiast on an enchanting expedition through this picturesque wonderland.(source:  Galveston Launch Locations – TexasKayakFisherman.com )
• Offatts Bayou: Embark on an unforgettable kayaking journey with Artist Boat Galveston Kayak Outfitters, who offer expertly guided tours and rentals launching from the most picturesque destinations, including Galveston Island State Park and Offatts Bayou. Their services promise an unparalleled and immersive experience for all water enthusiasts. (source:  Best Kayak Outfitters in Galveston – Kayak Help )
• Artist Boat Galveston Kayak Outfitters: Explore the Galveston waters in style with this kayak outfitter, offering guided tours and rentals launching from various picturesque locations like Galveston Island State Park and Offatts Bayou. (source:  Best Kayak Outfitters in Galveston – Kayak Help )
• Beach Town Tours: Set sail on a remarkable journey with Beach Town Tours, a premier kayak outfitter offering both rentals and expert-guided tours. With launch points spanning across different locales, including Jamaica Beach and Galveston Island State Park, this outfitter provides endless possibilities for exploration and adventure. (source:  Best Kayak Outfitters in Galveston – Kayak Help )
• Bayou Vista: Nestled on the serene eastern side of the bay, you’ll stumble upon the charming community of Bayou Vista. At the end of Bayou Vista Drive, you’ll discover a quaint kayak launch, ideal for launching your vessel and setting sail on a tranquil adventure through the peaceful waters. (source:  Bayou Vista Community )
• Dickinson Bayou: On the northern bank of the bayou, you’ll find Dickinson Bayou, a cherished embarkation point for kayakers of all skill levels. With its ample space and accessibility, it’s no surprise that this is a sought-after launch site for those seeking an epic paddling experience in Galveston. (source:  Kayaking Dickinson Bayou – Texas Paddling Trails )
• Clear Creek: Sitting pretty on the north side of the creek, Clear Creek is a beloved haunt for kayakers looking for an ideal launch site. This picturesque location offers a dreamlike setting to kick off your paddling excursion. (source:  Kayaking Clear Creek – Visit League City )
• San Leon: Tucked away on the eastern side of the bay lies the charming community of San Leon. Here, you’ll discover a quaint kayak launch positioned at the end of 23rd Street. Though small in size, this launch provides easy access to the glittering waters. (source:  Kayaking and Canoeing near San Leon )
• Blue Water Highway: Embark on an unforgettable coastal journey along the Blue Water Highway, a picturesque drive that offers several access points for kayaking. This route is lined with awe-inspiring sights and sounds of the ocean, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for your kayaking experience. Explore popular launch sites such as Surfside Beach, Follet’s Island, and San Luis Pass, and immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of Galveston County’s coastline. (source:  Blue Water Highway )

A word of caution: while this list is comprehensive, there may still be additional kayak launches and boat ramps to be discovered. Always remember to exercise prudence by checking local rules and conditions before setting out on your kayaking adventure.

Other Resources

Additional resources for kayaking and boating in Galveston include:

• The Map of Bait Camps & Boat Launches : This is an excellent resource for finding kayak launches and boat ramps in the Galveston area, including those in bays and inshore areas.
• Visit Galveston: This organization offers boat rentals and tours, with a wide selection of boats available, including kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and motorboats.
• Christmas Bay Paddling Trail: For those planning a trip to Galveston, this trail offers a scenic and picturesque route perfect for kayaking and offers breathtaking views of the Texas coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about kayak launches and boat ramps in Galveston, Texas::

Galveston Island State Park Paddling Trail and Christmas Bay Paddling Trail are popular launch points for kayaks. Both offer scenic views and multiple launch locations.

Bayshore Boat Ramp, and Dickinson Bayou Boat Ramp.

Yes, you need a permit to launch your boat in Galveston. But, non-powered kayaks do not require a license to operate in Texas. However, those born after September 1, 1993, must successfully complete a Boating Education Course to operate a motorboat.

Get ready to explore some of the most gorgeous bays and waters in Texas! Galveston County is a haven for anyone who loves kayaking or boating.

With plenty of boat ramps throughout, you can start your next adventure from any one of them – 61st Street Boat Ramp, Bayshore Boat Ramp…just name it! It doesn’t matter if you’re into fishing, birdwatching or just like leisurely paddling; there’s something everyone here – making this truly an unforgettable experience.

Calling all water lovers heading to Galveston! Get ready to embark on an unforgettable aquatic journey by checking out our all-inclusive list of the finest kayak launches and boat ramps. With a plethora of options at your disposal, you’re guaranteed to find the ultimate launch point to set sail on your kayaking or boating excursion and immerse yourself in the unrivaled splendor of Galveston County’s stunning bays and inshore areas.

Tracy, a seasoned Texan angler with over 30 years of experience, has been sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for saltwater fishing and kayak fishing since 2018. Through comprehensive guides, tips, and articles, he helps fellow outdoor enthusiasts make the most of their fishing adventures in Texas.

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• Destinations

Kayaking In Galveston – Ultimate Guide 2024

Escaping to the Texas Gulf Coast is on the minds of many central Texans when the heat really turns up in the northern part of the state. If you’re planning on heading down to the coast soon, we hope you’ll appreciate our ultimate guide to kayaking in Galveston.

With cooler weather and lots of marine wildlife to see, kayaking in Galveston offers a unique experience you won’t find elsewhere in Texas. You can bring your ocean fishing kayak down here or just take a short paddle in a recreational kayak .

You can paddle on the protected waters of the bay or fight through the surf to get into some open ocean paddling. There are lots of options down here, so let’s get into the finer details of kayaking in Galveston.

Photo by 2frAAmes via Shutterstock

Where to Launch When Kayaking in Galveston

Salt marsh mazes, fort san jacinto, pleasure pier, pelican cut, the sunken s.s. selma, offatts bayou, artist boat, galveston kayak outfitters, beach town tours, k6 island sports, kayak fishing in galveston, boat traffic, final thoughts, share on pinterest.

Photo by Photobyt via Shutterstock

First of all, Galveston is a fairly large city and the bay itself covers a total area of roughly 618 square miles. So there is no shortage of places to explore, but getting on the water safely is always a kayaker’s first step.

Galveston’s East Beach is one of its most popular stretches of sandy beach for all sorts of activities. The free parking area at the end of Apffel Park Road makes getting your kayaks down to the water pretty easy, but you may want a kayak cart for rough terrain if you don’t want to drag your kayak through the sand.

If you drive a little bit to the west, you’ll find Galveston Island State Park and its collection of paddling trails . The park has three paddling trails to choose from — Dana Cove, Oak Bayou, or Jenkins Bayou — and your starting location will differ depending on which trail you choose.

In the other direction, the beach across from the East End Lagoon Trailhead is another great place to launch your kayak. This location is ideal for folks that want to paddle into Galveston Bay or West Bay.

For those that want to start at a slightly more inland location, check out Seawolf Park . It’s also a great park for some of the family to hang at while you get your kayak out for an hour or two.

Finally, there is also a small sandy beach at the end of Airway Lane for those that want quick access to West Bay and Offatts Bayou . Be aware that local parking regulations may restrict how long you can leave your vehicle at this location.

Things to See When Kayaking in Galveston

Now that you know some of your possibilities of where to launch your kayak in Galveston, it’s time to consider some of the sights and landmarks you can paddle to. Your preferred destinations will largely dictate where you end up launching your kayak!

Photo by K I Photography via Shutterstock

If nature is your jam, the salt marsh mazes around Galveston Island should be your top priority. Some of the best mazes are within Galveston Island State Park and they are particularly fun at high tide.

You’ll find lots of wading birds and coastal fish throughout the mazes. If you’re looking for another location, East Beach isn’t bad for salt marsh mazes, but you might have to ignore the shipping containers just over the berm.

Photo by Alex Luyckx via Flickr

For those launching from East End Lagoon, the historic Fort San Jacinto is a short paddle away. This fort was first built in 1901 by the United States government as a coastal defense fortification.

It was named for Texas’ victory over the Mexican army and later became the original headquarters for Galveston’s harbor defenses. Between 1918 and 1926, a 17-foot high seawall was constructed on the gulf side of the fort.

Oddly enough, the fort was converted to an electrical repair shop for the United States Coast Guard after World War II. It was also later used by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers during efforts to dredge silt from the Galveston shipping channel in 1986.

Photo by Ramiro Reyna Jr via Shutterstock

Pleasure Pier is one of the top attractions in Galveston for family fun and adventure. If you launch from the gulf, however, you can paddle under the pier during the day and build up enthusiasm for an afternoon or evening visit.

The pier is home to many fun rides and amusement attractions , including Pirate’s Plunge, the Gulf Glider, and the Sky Shooter. If you’re feeling a bit hungry after your paddle around the pier, you can also stop at Bubba Gump Shrimp Company on the pier or Rainforest Cafe nearby.

Photo by Johnny Brown via Flickr

For those that are successful launching from Seawolf Park, Pelican Cut is about a three-mile paddle up to the north. This location is a great little park for fishing and birdwatching, but be aware of plenty of boat traffic in this region.

For the experienced and fit kayaker, you can also circumnavigate the entire Pelican Island, which will be about a nine-mile paddle. This will take you through the cut as well as through Galveston Channel and you’ll pass by the Texas A&M University at Galveston campus, the Rolls Royce Commercial Marine Supply Store , and other sights along the way.

Photo by Dario Failla via Shutterstock

Originally built in 1919, the S.S. Selma was an oil tanker that now rests about a mile north of Galveston Island. It was one of 24 concrete vessels approved by President Wood to be built by F.F. Ley and Company, but only 12 were eventually completed.

The ship launched on June 28, 1919, which just so happened to be the same day that Germany officially surrendered by signing the Treaty of Versailles. So the ship never saw any war service and was converted to serve as an oil tanker in the Gulf of Mexico.

Less than a year after it was launched, the ship struck a jetty off the coast of Tampico, Mexico, and ripped a 60-foot hole in the hull. Attempts were then made to repair the ship’s hull but they ultimately proved unsuccessful.

The government then tried to sell the ship to a private investor but that also failed, which led them to intentionally scuttle the ship in its present location. To this day, it is the only permanent and prominent wreck along the Houston shipping channel.

Photo by Craig Kelso via Flickr

Offatts Bayou is a strait to the northwest of Galveston Island and it is a popular location for local guide companies that run sunset tours in the area. Its location makes it an ideal place to catch the sunset over West Bay from the water.

The Lee and Joe Jamail Bay Park is a decent place to launch your personal kayak to explore the bay. If you don’t have a personal kayak and need to rent one, this park is also close to Finney Boat and Watersport Rentals .

Best Kayak Outfitters in Galveston

If it’s your first time visiting Galveston, you should consider the benefits of a guided adventure. There are several great kayak guide companies in, or close to, Galveston. Here are a few of our favorites.

PC Artist Boat

Artist Boat is a non-profit, eco-tour company that is way more than a guide company. They are dedicated to preserving and restoring a 1,400-acre stretch called the Coastal Heritage Preserve on West Galveston Island.

They are also involved in the community with efforts to educate locals and visitors about the fragile coastal and marine habitats on the Texas Gulf Coast. Their eco-art kayak tours last about four hours and they are open to the public.

Their two tour options focus on either the East End Lagoon or the Coastal Heritage Preserve. Both locations are great for exploring Galveston’s natural wetlands or marshes and the routes cover approximately three miles.

PC Galveston Kayak Outfitters

Galveston Kayak Outfitters offers both kayak rentals and guided tours. Their guided tours focus on sunrise and sunset times and offer a three-hour paddle along the bay and shorelines of the Galveston wetlands.

Group sizes are currently limited to four, which means you’ll get a very personalized experience led by one of their senior staff members. The tour cost is $45 per person, which is actually the same as their daily flat rate for a single kayak rental.

They do rent tandem kayaks as well if you are your partner are looking to get out on the bay on your own. Tandem rentals start at $60 per day and include paddles , PFDs , and free delivery to any location on the island.

PC Beach Town Tours

Beach Town Tours offers daytime tours at 10 am and 12 pm every day throughout the year. They also offer various evening tour times associated with sunset times or special events like the Galveston Festival of Lights .

In addition, they offer specialty kayak tours at sunset or under the full moon for Valentine’s Day if you and your lover want to paddle a tandem kayak to celebrate your special day. All of their guided tours start at $50 per person and last 1.5 to 2 hours.

They also offer kayak rentals if you have experience and want to take yourself on a self-guided adventure. Rentals start at $50 per person for two hours and reservations are required to hold your preferred kayak.

Before showing up for your tour or picking up your kayak rental, make sure to look at their page detailing what to bring on your kayaking tour. Also, see what others are saying about this tour company before booking.

PC K6 Island Sports

K6 Island Sports is exclusively a rental outfitter, but they offer some of the best lightweight fishing kayaks on the island. They offer daily and weekly rental rates and will also deliver anywhere on the island at no additional charge.

Plus, kayaks aren’t the only thing you can rent here. You can also get a golf cart to help you get around more easily or rent boards for surfing, skimboarding, boogie boarding, and standup paddling.

Photo by Mark Taylor Cunningham via Shutterstock

Kayak fishing is one of the most popular activities around Galveston Island. Although the “freeze” that hit Texas in 2020 had a pretty sizeable impact on the coastal fish population, things are slowly rebounding and there are still plenty of massive redfish out there.

Some of the other species you’ll find in the Galveston area include speckled trout, flounder, black drum, sheepshead, and more. Seawolf Park and Galveston Island State Park are two of the best locations in the city to start your kayak fishing adventure.

Experienced anglers suggest some sort of artificial bait when fishing in the shallower waters of the bays and salt mazes around Galveston. Some examples of artificial lures for these locations include gold spoons, gulp shrimp, and corkys.

If you’re fishing in the deeper parts of Galveston Bay or West Bay, however, most anglers recommend some sort of popping cork with live bait. These tend to work better because they make a louder and, therefore, more attractive noise in deeper water.

If you’re looking for a more protected fishing area, be sure to check out Offatts Bayou. As long as you have your essential kayak fishing and safety equipment , you should enjoy kayak fishing in Galveston.

Environmental Factors When Kayaking in Galveston

Some of the environmental factors you’ll need to consider when kayaking in Galveston will be similar to other destinations . A few, however, will be unique to Galveston and these pointers will help you be as prepared as possible for your kayak excursion.

Photo by Timothy L Barnes via Shutterstock

The tides in and around Galveston will play a large role in when and where you are able to launch your kayak. Some places will only be accessible at high or low tide and there’s nothing worse than showing up ready to paddle only to find that the water is too high or low for safe launching.

In general, there are four main types of tides: diurnal, semi-diurnal, mixed, and meteorological. For the most part, you’ll find diurnal tides in the Gulf of Mexico, which means you’ll experience one instance of high water and one episode of low water per day.

That being said, the Gulf Coast is also occasionally susceptible to meteorological tides. A prime example of this would be the storm surges that are often associated with hurricanes and tropical storms.

The U.S. Harbors website is a great resource for checking tides near Galveston . Keep in mind that the height of tides will differ depending on your exact location, so it helps to be as precise as possible when you are looking them up.

Photo by Kaisn via Shutterstock

Estimating wind speed and direction is a constant battle as a kayaker. The wind is arguably the biggest environmental factor that can negatively impact your paddling adventures in Galveston (and anywhere else for that matter!).

We recommend using an app like Ventusky or WindFinder to check the weather for your specific paddling location before your trip. Keep in mind that weather forecasts are usually only accurate about 24 hours in advance, so you’ll need to check and re-check the night before, and the morning of, your paddle.

Most kayakers can handle winds up to about 8-10 miles per hour, but above that things can get a little dicey. Even paddling into a headwind of eight miles per hour will tire you out so much more quickly than paddling on a calm day.

If you do have a little wind on your paddle day, make sure you plan appropriately and paddle into the wind when starting out. Of course, there’s no guarantee that the wind won’t shift, but you’ll put yourself in a better position if you can plan to have the wind at your back towards the end of your paddle.

Photo by JoshuaBrown via Shutterstock

The largest swells tend to hit Galveston in the winter months, but the average wave height rarely tops five feet in the Gulf of Mexico. Still, you may have to paddle out through some waves depending on where you launch your kayak from.

If you do have to paddle through some waves, make sure to time things up so you’re between sets. This will give you more time to get into your kayak and get moving before a big wave threatens to capsize your kayak.

When you return to shore, you’ll need to keep paddling to match wave speed and then use the blade of your paddle as a rudder to prevent your kayak from turning sideways. Also, never exit your kayak on the beachside if you are turned sideways as this increases the odds of a wave knocking your kayak dangerously into your legs.

The good news about the smaller waves in Galveston is that it makes things a little easier and also allows folks with surf kayaks to have a little fun. If you’re looking for a truly Texas experience, you can also paddle out into the channel to try your hand at oil tanker surfing .

Photo by Mallory Klippel via Shutterstock

One of the good things about Texas, in general, is that the flat terrain helps you see squalls of rain coming from a long way off. That being said, there are also those overcast days that don’t rain at all until you try to launch your kayak.

Spring and winter tend to be the least predictable when it comes to weather in Galveston. Remnants of nor’easters can roll through this port city and drop buckets of rain in a hurry.

Plus, when we think about the weather on the Texas Gulf Coast, we’d be negligent if we didn’t mention hurricanes. Hurricane season begins in late June but the height of the season is mid-August through September and officially ends on November 30th.

Photo by Kanokwalee via Shutterstock

Galveston is one of the busiest shipping ports in the entire nation. In fact, the 840-acre port receives more than 800 ship arrivals per year and it’s also the fourth-busiest cruise ship homeport in North America.

That means you could have a lot of boat traffic to look out for while you’re paddling in Galveston. Don’t just expect it to be small bass fishing boats or jet-skis either. Look out for those massive tankers because they take a long time to come to a stop once they shut down their engines and they don’t particularly maneuver quickly.

Photo by Olga Lyubochkina via Shutterstock

Getting down to the Texas Gulf Coast is a great idea almost any time of the year. Take your fishing kayak down there to go for redfish or roll down your kid’s kayaks so they can splash around while you relax on the beach.

Either way, kayaking in Galveston offers something for everyone and it can be a great way to escape the Texas heat in the heart of the summer. We hope you’ve enjoyed our ultimate guide to kayaking in Galveston and we wish you the best of kayak adventures in the Gulf!

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Peter Salisbury

Pete is the Owner of KayakHelp.com. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, he grew up kayaking, fishing, sailing, and partaking in outdoor adventures around the Great Lakes. When he’s not out on the water, you can find him skiing in the mountains, reading his favorite books, and spending time with his family.

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Galveston Kayak Outfitters - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Join us on a kayak (tandem or single) with a local, well informed guide on a two hour unforgettable experience. Learn how the town of Kemah was founded, the impact of hurricanes, and the importance of Clear Lake. During your trip, your guide will fill you in on must-do activities such as where to eat and what to do while you’re in the area.

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Kayak, Surf, & SUP in Galveston

Enjoy some time on the water in Galveston, Texas with Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP), renting kayaks or canoes, surf lessons and more!

Put on some sunscreen, grab your towel and get ready to make a splash in some of Galveston’s most iconic water activities.

Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

Looking for something new to get your heart rate pumping while enjoying the beauty of Galveston’s crystal blue waters? Try out Stand Up Paddleboarding (otherwise referred to as “SUP.”)

SUP Gulf Coast provides all of your SUP rental needs, along with lessons that can get the whole family involved. Not to mention, they offer beach yoga, with incredible views that can top off the perfect fun-filled family activity.

Kayaks & Canoes

Kayaks and canoes are a popular way to get on the water in Galveston. The tranquil beauty, inviting waters, and accessibility of the sport make it a go-to for locals and tourists alike.

Surf Galveston

Often referred to as the “Third Coast,” the Texas surf scene has a lot going for it. Galveston’s beaches allow great access to the waves. With over 32-miles of beaches , there are many places you could go to catch a wave. Surfers tend to flock to the jetties, located at 37th, 47th, 51st, and 61st Streets. Another secret among surfers is riding the waves from large tanker ships, as Galveston has plenty of those coming and going to the many ports on the island.

New to surfing or wondering where to pick up a few lessons or rentals? C Sick Surfin’ offers surf lessons year-round, and even gives you the option of a photographer to prove to friends back home that you did find some waves in Galveston. Ohana Surf and Skate is a great option for everyone wanting to hang ten.

• Stand Up Paddle Board

13330 Settegast Rd Galveston, Texas 77554

6300 Seawall Blvd Galveston, Texas 77550

4230 County Road 208 Danbury, Texas 77534

29th Street @ Seawall Blvd Galveston, Texas 77550

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Take A Glow-In-The-Dark Nighttime Kayak Tour For An Unforgettable Texas Coast Adventure

A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.

More by this Author

The Gulf Coast of Texas is a treasure trove of natural wonders. But have you ever explored this area at night? Sign up for an evening adventure with GlowRow and you’ll enjoy this exact experience. GlowRow is a Galveston kayak rental company offering tours in Texas with a bit of a twist: the kayaks are completely transparent and radiate colored lights. The effect is a magical and educational experience in nature that you won’t soon forget. Ready to learn more? Then let’s go!

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So what are you waiting for? Sign up for a guided tour with GlowRow and let the adventures begin! Tour locations vary each week. For more information, including pricing, you can check out GlowRow online. You can also follow GlowRow on Facebook for exciting updates and more details.

Have you already embarked upon a GlowRow adventure? If so, what was your favorite part? We’d love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

If you’re still in the mood for more Texas adventures, take a look at this video:

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Featured Addresses

KAYAK FISHING

Come enjoy the texas gulf coast.

USCG licensed guide Capt. Clint Barghi and TPWD licensed paddle craft guide Cameron Barghi have logged countless hours in a kayak pursuing Texas' trophy trout and abundant redfish. Their expansive knowledge of seasonal gamefish patterns and unrivaled on-the-water work ethic have earned them the reputation as one of the foremost guide services in the Gulf Coast region. 

The Experience

The GlowRow ® tour will show you the unique Texas coast at night from a transparent kayak equipped with underwater LED lights, giving you a view like no other!

"It is the perfect date night atmosphere; we left the kiddos at home... it was magical under the star’s small plastic bottle of wine in hand and simply living in the moment of the magic. I couldn’t have had a more perfect night for someone like myself that loves the water.”

Texas Paddle Board

"We had an awesome time. So relaxing out on the water. Definitely recommend 100%, we will be doing this often. Thank y’all a bunch. -Marissa Leyva"

"This nighttime kayak adventure was so fun! My husband and I have kayaked quite a bit in the Pacific Northwest, so the thought of night kayaking in warm waters was intriguing. GlowRow for the win! The equipment was amazing and the guide/owner did a great job. Thank you for an awesome paddle!"

"My wife and I had an awesome date night! The instructor was friendly and amazing!"

"Glow Row is great!! The guides help us navigate through the bay area, pointing out sealife and various birds. They both were knowledgeable and answered the variety of questions. I would recommend this tour to new comers and vacationers."

"We had a great time at the Port Aransas GlowRow last week! Fish were trying to jump in our boats! It was beautiful being on the water at night with the stars and just a few clouds. A really fun experience seeing the fish under and around our boats. A truly enjoyable experience!"

GLOWING KAYAK TOUR

If you are looking for a unique experience that ticks all the boxes on your adventure bucket list, come explore the incredible Texas Gulf Coast by night, in clear, glowing kayaks! 

Your GlowRow ® tour will guide you along one of several locations in clear kayaks lit up by special underwater LED lights that provide a lens in which you can observe the unique underwater world beneath you.

Each LED system has 7 different colors and settings to choose from, allowing you to choose your own vibe.

Your tour guide will point out unique landmarks and wildlife as you paddle under the stars, as well as share any unique or interesting history and facts about the area.

Some of the best adventures happen after the sun goes down!

A DIFFERENT KIND OF ADVENTURE

Have you always dreamed of kayaking the gulf coast at night?

Do you yearn for a different kind of adventure? One where you are immersed in the ethereal experience of being surrounded by nothing but water, nature, and your fellow explorers?

Have you ever been so close to dolphins that you were sure they were playing with you?

Have you ever been on a wildlife tour where a fish literally jumped right into your lap?

The GlowRow lighted kayak experience is something so different that it’s hard to explain. It’s not for everyone, but everyone that joins us has a story to tell by the end of the night!

FOR ENTHUSIASTS OF ALL TYPES

GlowRow is dedicated to introducing natives and tourists alike to the wonders of the Texas Gulf Coast by the light of the moon and stars. We even know a few constellations, like the three stars right in a line.  That’s Orion’s belt, we know that thanks to “Men in Black”.

Join one of our experienced guides for a tour of one of our many locations and get a new perspective on our coastal waterways.

This adventure is perfect for nature enthusiasts, water lovers, kayak lovers, and anyone that could use something different to spice up their life!

You’ll see an abundance of wildlife and learn things you never knew about each location as you paddle within feet of flounder, stingrays, and maybe even dolphins.

There is never a dull moment on a GlowRow tour, and our goal is to leave you with a magical experience that will keep you coming back to try our other kayak trails!

Important Information

• All GlowRow ® tours begin with a safety briefing and paddle instruction and then the fun begins!
• Prices start at $49.95 per person, NOT per kayak. Each kayak seats two people. If you book with an odd-numbered group you may be partnered with someone from another group or by yourself. Each kayak has a manufacturer-specified weight limit of 400lbs.
• Please arrive 20 minutes prior to your scheduled time. Look for the GlowRow ® trailer at the GPS coordinates provided for your tour location.
• All participants must be 18 years of age or older to sign the required waiver upon arrival.
• Please leave your valuables at home or in your vehicle. We will only hold your keys for you while you are on the water.

There is a minimum of 6 people required for the trip to take place. You are welcome to book with fewer than 6 people, in which case we will notify you the day of the event if there were not enough signups to make the tour happen.

For cancelations , please contact us at least 48 hours before your tour to receive a refund in full. We do not accept cancellations within 48 hours of your reserved time. For inclement weather, please see our terms and conditions (cancelation clause) for further details.

What to Bring

• Summer - Swimsuit or activewear that you don’t mind getting wet.
• Spring or Fall - Jacket or raincoat for cooler weather and possible rain.
• Easily removable shoes such as flip flops or water shoes/sandals - shoes are not allowed in kayaks (to reduce scratching), but you will want them for walking to and from your vehicle and along the beach.
• An extra change of clothes just in case (left in car)
• Towel (left in car)
• BYOB  - Must be 21+ to consume alcohol