Looking for a fresh way to enjoy the striking scenery of Arizona’s desert landscape? The Giant Paddleboard Rental at Willow Beach offers just that—an opportunity to paddle, laugh, and relax on a 14-foot Mantaray board designed for up to four people. For $249 per group, you get about one to five hours of fun exploring the Colorado River, making this experience ideal for families, friends, or anyone eager to combine water adventure with quality time.
What we love most? First, the ultra-stable platform makes it accessible for all ages and skill levels, turning paddling into a group activity rather than a solo sport. Second, the scenic setting—with wildlife, petroglyphs, and nearby caves—really elevates the experience beyond just floating on water. One possible drawback? If you’re not already at Willow Beach or don’t have your own transport, arranging the trip may require some planning since transportation isn’t included.
This adventure suits those who enjoy relaxed outdoor activities, want to avoid the crowds of more commercialized tours, and appreciate a mix of gentle exploration and stunning desert scenery. It’s perfect if you’re looking to connect with friends or family, try paddleboarding in a safe, beginner-friendly way, or just want to enjoy Arizona’s natural beauty from a different angle.
Key Points

- Group-Friendly Design: The giant 14-foot “Mantaray” board comfortably fits up to four people, encouraging bonding and teamwork.
- Beginner-Friendly: Its ultra-stable platform makes it suitable for all ages and skill levels, even first-timers.
- Scenic Location: Willow Beach offers wildlife, petroglyphs, caves, and stunning desert views.
- Flexible Duration: You can rent for anywhere from one to five hours, tailoring your adventure.
- Inclusion of Essentials: Lifejackets, paddles, and guidance are provided, simplifying the experience.
- Additional Costs: Park entry fee of $25 per booking applies; transportation and snacks are not included.
If you’ve ever pondered how to make your day at Lake Mead or Willow Beach more memorable, renting the Giant Mantaray paddleboard might just be the answer. This isn’t your average paddleboard; it’s a massive, stable platform tailored for groups seeking a relaxed, social water adventure. Imagine four of you paddling together, laughing over the splashes, and sharing snacks while floating in Arizona’s warm sunshine.
The Location: Willow Beach
Located just a short drive from Las Vegas, Willow Beach offers a peaceful retreat into the wilderness, away from city noise. The shoreline features wildlife sightings, petroglyphs, and beaches perfect for swimming. Notable nearby attractions include Emerald Cave and Echo Cave, just two miles from the marina, making these great spots for a quick exploration after your paddle. Plus, the historic trail up to Gauger’s House provides stunning views of Black Canyon, accessible with a paddle of about a mile from the marina.
Planning more time in Arizona? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What the Rental Includes
Your rental package covers the Giant SUP Mantaray (14 feet long), lifejackets, paddles, and a certified guide who will give you all the necessary instructions. This focus on beginner friendliness means you won’t need prior experience—just a willingness to have fun. The guides are there to ensure safety and help you get comfortable handling the oversized board.
The Experience Itself
Once you’re on the water, you’ll quickly notice how easy it is to balance thanks to the wide and stable design. We loved the way it encourages cooperation—each person can paddle at their own pace, or you can all work together to explore coves or paddle to Boulder Island. The spacious platform means you can lounge, have a picnic, or just soak in the beautiful desert scenery.
What Makes It Special?
The highlight for many is the shared experience—being on the same giant board creates a sense of camaraderie. We appreciated how guides made sure everyone understood how to paddle, even offering tips for newcomers. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and made us feel confident about paddling. We loved the relaxed pace and the chance to explore at our leisure.”
Potential Drawbacks
While the experience is accessible and fun, it’s worth noting that transportation isn’t included. If you’re coming from outside the immediate area, plan ahead to arrange your own ride or consider staying nearby. Also, the $25 park fee applies per booking, so factor that into your budget.
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- Giant Mantaray Group Paddle Board Tour to Emerald Cave
Who Should Try This?
This tour appeals most to families with kids, groups of friends, or couples looking for a playful outdoor activity. It’s ideal if you’re new to paddleboarding but want to try something a bit different from traditional boat rentals. Those seeking quiet time in nature with a touch of adventure will also find this a great fit.
At $249 for a group of up to four, you’re paying roughly $62 each, which is quite reasonable considering the size of the board, the included gear, and the guided instruction. Compared to renting individual paddleboards, it offers a more social and cost-effective way to enjoy the water. Plus, the flexible rental time means you can go slow and enjoy your surroundings without feeling rushed.
The Views and Setting
One of the biggest draws is the visual feast—the vivid desert landscape surrounding Willow Beach, the chance to spot local wildlife, and the intriguing petroglyphs along the shoreline. It’s a peaceful, scenic setting that makes paddling feel like part of a nature adventure, not just a water sport. The Caves nearby add a splash of exploration to your trip, giving you options beyond just paddling.
The Guides and Safety
Having a certified guide adds peace of mind, especially for beginners or those unfamiliar with the area. They’re there to ensure safety, provide tips, and help you get the most out of your experience. This support can turn a potentially intimidating activity into a relaxed, enjoyable outing.
Flexibility and Customization
The ability to choose how long to stay—up to five hours—is a plus. Whether you want a quick hour of fun or a leisurely afternoon, the rental adapts to your plans. Keep in mind, if you opt for a shorter session, you’ll still enjoy the same scenic views and group bonding.
Authenticity and Experience Quality
While the tour doesn’t include meals or entertainment, the focus on authenticity—being on a large paddleboard with friends in a natural setting—is what makes it special. Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery as key highlights, confirming the experience’s genuine appeal.
This experience is perfect for groups of friends or families seeking an unusual water activity that encourages interaction. It suits beginners because of its stability and guided support, making it less intimidating than traditional paddleboarding. Nature lovers will appreciate the scenic backdrop and nearby landmarks, while those looking for a relaxed, social adventure will find it especially rewarding.
It’s also well-suited for travelers who want to combine outdoor fun with cultural and natural exploration, thanks to the proximity to caves, petroglyphs, and historic trails. However, if you prefer a more structured or comprehensive guided tour of the area, this might be more of a casual outing than an in-depth adventure.
The Giant Paddleboard Rental at Willow Beach offers a lively, social way to enjoy Arizona’s stunning desert scenery from the water. Its easy handling, group-friendly design, and beautiful location make it an ideal choice for those wanting to enjoy nature, bond with loved ones, or simply try something new. With the added bonus of knowledgeable guides ensuring safety and ease, it provides excellent value for a memorable outdoor experience.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a fun day in the sun, this adventure combines relaxation, exploration, and a dash of playfulness. Perfect for families, friends, and beginners alike, it’s a low-pressure way to spend quality time on the Colorado River in one of Arizona’s most picturesque settings.
Do I need prior paddleboarding experience?
No, the giant Mantaray board is designed to be very stable and beginner-friendly. Guides will give you instructions to help you feel comfortable on the water.
What’s included in the rental?
Your package includes the 14-foot giant SUP Mantaray, lifejackets, paddles, and guidance from a certified guide.
Is transportation to Willow Beach provided?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own ride to the meeting point at 25650 Willow Beach Rd.
What is the park fee?
A $25 per booking fee applies, which is included if you book transportation through the provider but not if you self-drive.
How long can I rent the paddleboard?
You can choose to rent the board for 1 to 5 hours, depending on your preferences, making it flexible for your schedule.
Are snacks or drinks included?
No, snacks and bottled water are not included, so bring your own refreshments to enjoy on the water.
Can children participate?
Yes, the activity is suitable for all ages, thanks to the stable design and guided instructions.
What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a hat, sunglasses, and perhaps a waterproof camera. The rental includes safety gear and paddles, so no need to worry about those.
To sum it up, this paddleboard adventure at Willow Beach offers a lively, scenic, and inclusive way to enjoy Arizona’s natural beauty. Its focus on group fun, beginner friendliness, and stunning surroundings makes it a standout choice for a memorable day on the water.
More Tour Reviews in Arizona
- Small Group Grand Canyon Tour From Sedona
- Giant Mantaray Group Paddle Board Tour to Emerald Cave
- 4-Hour Kayak Deluxe Tour in Emerald Cave with Catered Lunch
- Las Vegas: Guided Kayak Tour from Willow Beach to Emerald Cave
- Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Petrified Forest National Park
- Small Group Antelope Canyon Day Trip from Flagstaff
