Moab is famous for its jaw-dropping red rock scenery and outdoor adventures, but it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy a memorable lunch experience. Whether you’re looking to combine a bit of adrenaline with a hearty meal or prefer a relaxed day floating along calm waters, Moab has options tailored for all tastes. Among the top picks, we particularly like the Full-Day Rafting Adventure with BBQ Lunch for its perfect mix of excitement and laid-back dining, especially with its scenic riverside setting and extensive reviews praising the experience.
While Moab is best known for its rugged landscapes, its river-based tours offer a unique way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty. The Moab Full Day Rafting Trip with Lunch stands out because it’s beginner-friendly, with a safety orientation and gentle Class II rapids, making it ideal for families and first-timers. If you’re after a more exclusive experience, the Colorado River: Full-Day Rafting with BBQ Lunch in Arizona offers a luxurious riverside meal and options for paddling or kayaking. Each of these tours offers a different slice of the Moab (or nearby) water adventure, but all deliver memorable lunch experiences amid stunning scenery.
1. Full-Day Rafting Adventure with BBQ Lunch
At number one, this full-day rafting trip from Moab Adventure Center combines scenic paddling with a delicious BBQ lunch at a riverside ranch. The trip lasts around 7 hours and takes you through the iconic red rock canyons of the Colorado River, a backdrop made famous in countless movies. You’ll enjoy paddling through mild rapids, with plenty of time to soak in the views of Fisher Towers and other geological marvels.
What makes this tour special is the balance between adventure and relaxation—it’s perfect for families or travelers seeking a laid-back yet exciting day. The BBQ lunch is served at a ranch, providing a hearty, classic outdoor meal that complements the day’s outdoor theme. With a 5.0-star rating based on 352 reviews, it’s clear guests love the combination of scenery, food, and friendly guides. The guides are experienced and share engaging stories about the landscape, adding an educational touch to the trip.
Bottom Line: This tour offers great value for a full day on the water with a substantial meal, making it ideal for those wanting a lively adventure with good food in a stunning setting.
2. Moab Full Day Rafting Trip with Lunch — Colorado River
Number two on our list is a gentle yet scenic rafting experience designed for beginners. This full-day trip also lasts about 7 hours and includes a deli-style lunch on the riverbank. It’s perfect if you prefer a more relaxed pace, with an emphasis on the geology and natural beauty of the Colorado River.
The tour stands out because it’s explicitly designed for first-time rafters, with no experience necessary and a thorough safety briefing. Guides averaging over 2,000 miles of rafting experience ensure a smooth, informative trip. The itinerary involves paddling through Class II rapids, which are manageable but still fun, especially for families or those new to water sports. Highlights include floating past Fisher Towers and other natural landmarks while learning about the area’s history and ecology.
Guests frequently praise the friendly guides, with one noting, “Luis was a fantastic guide! We really enjoyed his knowledge of the landscape and wildlife.” This trip offers a good balance of adventure, education, and downtime, topped off with a relaxed, tasty lunch.
Bottom Line: This tour is excellent for beginners wanting a scenic, low-stress rafting day with a dependable meal and plenty of opportunities to take photos and learn about the landscape.
3. Colorado River: Full-Day Rafting with BBQ Lunch
In third place, this full-day river trip in Arizona offers a slightly longer experience—about 7.5 hours—culminating in a hot-off-the-grill BBQ lunch at a scenic ranch. It combines the thrill of mild rapids with peaceful stretches of calm water, giving a well-rounded water adventure.
Unique to this tour is the option to choose between paddle rafts or two-person kayaks, allowing you to tailor the experience to your comfort level. The lunch at Red Cliffs Lodge includes classics from the grill, all served in an outdoor pavilion with views of the river and surrounding cliffs. Guests love that this trip delivers both adventure and relaxation, with plenty of time to take in the spectacular scenery.
Although it’s slightly more expensive ($138 per person), many find the value well worth it for the combination of personalized options and a memorable meal. While it’s based in Arizona, it’s a good option if you’re exploring the wider Moab region and want a more luxurious riverside lunch.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want the flexibility of paddling options and a more exclusive dining experience amid stunning landscapes.
$138 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Adventure in Moab
When selecting the best lunch experience in Moab, consider your budget, physical comfort, and interest level. If you’re after a full-day adventure that mixes excitement with hearty food, the Full-Day Rafting Adventure with BBQ Lunch offers great value and a lively atmosphere. For a more laid-back, beginner-friendly trip, the Moab Full Day Rafting Trip with Lunch is ideal, especially if you want to learn about the landscape while floating gently down the river.
If you prefer a more luxurious experience with customizable paddling options and a scenic riverside BBQ, the Colorado River: Full-Day Rafting with BBQ Lunch in Arizona might be the best fit. Remember to book early during peak seasons to secure your spot, especially for these popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Moab offers a variety of lunch experiences that combine outdoor activity with good food and spectacular scenery. If you’re looking for a full-day adventure on the water, the Full-Day Rafting Adventure with BBQ Lunch tops the list for its lively atmosphere and excellent reviews. For those wanting a gentle introduction to rafting or a family-friendly outing, the Moab Full Day Rafting Trip with Lunch offers a relaxing yet engaging day. Meanwhile, the Arizona-based Colorado River: Full-Day Rafting with BBQ Lunch provides a more exclusive, flexible option with top-notch scenery and cuisine.
No matter which you choose, these trips promise a memorable way to enjoy Moab’s natural beauty while delighting in a hearty meal. Booking early is recommended, especially for peak season, so start planning your water adventure now and get ready for a delicious midday break in this stunning corner of the Southwest.