Las Vegas: Kayak Tour to Cranes Nest Wash with Photos

Imagine paddling along the shimmering waters of the Colorado River, surrounded by towering canyon walls and lush greenery, all while learning about the desert’s unique plants and wildlife. This kayak tour from Willow Beach Marina offers just that—an engaging half-day adventure that combines natural beauty, mild physical activity, and a touch of history. For $180 per person, you get five hours of guided exploration through the Black Canyon, with plenty of opportunities to photograph wildlife and splash around in the river.

What we particularly love about this tour is the expert guidance and the access to spots that are difficult to reach on your own—like the Emerald Cave with its captivating colors and the private beach where you can relax or take a short desert hike. Plus, the complimentary photos provided throughout the trip help you remember this trip for years to come. The only potential drawback? It’s not suitable for non-swimmers or wheelchair users, so if those are your circumstances, this might not be the best fit.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy active, nature-based experiences with a good dose of scenic beauty and wildlife. It’s especially well-suited for those interested in a small group setting (limited to six participants) that feels more personal and less rushed than large group excursions.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Paddle through the Black Canyon with views that make you feel like you’re in a natural movie set.
• Wildlife spotting: Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep, waterfowl, and possibly bald eagles.
• Unique spots: Visit the Emerald Cave with its vivid waters, and enjoy a swim on a private river beach.
• Expert guides: Learn about desert flora, minerals, and wildlife from knowledgeable guides.
• Photo opportunities: Get free, high-quality photos taken along the route.
• Short hike included: A quick walk up a desert canyon adds a little adventure on the trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Meeting and Prep at Willow Beach Marina

Begin your adventure early by arriving at Willow Beach Marina, where you can browse the store for snacks or water—an easy way to stock up before heading out. The marina is a hub of activity, filled with trailers and bright white kayaks ready for the day’s adventure. It’s helpful to arrive at least 15 minutes early to settle in, put on your Personal Floatation Device (PFD), and listen to a brief safety and paddle instructions from your guide, likely someone named in reviews as friendly and knowledgeable.

Paddling Through the Black Canyon

Once everyone is geared up, your small group (limited to six participants) will launch into the calming, clear waters of the Colorado River. We loved how the guides enhanced the experience by sharing interesting facts about the area’s diverse plant life, minerals, and wildlife—making the paddle both scenic and educational. The Black Canyon’s towering walls cast dramatic shadows, and the often calm waters make it a pleasure for both novice and experienced kayakers.

Visiting the Emerald Cave

One of the tour’s main highlights is reaching the Emerald Cave, a vivid, jewel-toned water cavity accessible by kayak. The guides take photos here, capturing your group against the glowing waters, a true highlight for many travelers. As one reviewer put it, “The Emerald Cave photos were a favorite part—they’re so striking.” You’ll have time to snap your own photos and enjoy the surreal beauty.

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Approaching Cranes Nest Wash

After the cave visit, the group paddles a short distance to the Cranes Nest Wash, a secluded spot characterized by clear waters and lush greenery. This is a perfect place for wildlife watching—sometimes, bighorn sheep or eagles make an appearance. Here, you can take a short hike up a desert canyon for panoramic views or just relax and enjoy the scenery.

The Private Beach and River Swim

Midway through the trip, the group stops at a private beach on the Colorado River, where you can swim, rest, and refuel with snacks provided by the tour. The calm, warm waters make it an ideal spot for a refreshing break. Several reviews highlight how much they enjoyed this quiet, scenic spot—“It felt like a secret paradise,” one said.

Historic Landmarks & Scenic Walk

After the swim, your guide will lead you on a short walk up a desert canyon to view historic landmarks related to the Hoover Dam era. One reviewer noted the “awe-inspiring views and a little history lesson,” which added an enriching layer to this outdoor adventure.

Returning to the Marina

As the tour wraps up, you’ll paddle back to the starting point, passing more wildlife and striking canyon formations. Throughout, your guides will continue to share insights into the desert ecosystem and geology. To help preserve your memories, complimentary photos are shared via a Google Drive link, something many travelers appreciate for sharing with friends and family.

The Value and Practicalities

Price and Included Features

For $180, the cost might seem steep at first glance, but it covers five hours of guided kayaking, all necessary equipment, snacks, a swim in the Colorado River, and the photo package. Compared to other adventure tours, this provides a well-rounded experience blending activity, scenery, and education.

What’s Not Included

Be aware that the national park entry fee is not included, and gratuities are optional. It’s wise to bring extra water, sun protection, and a quick-dry change of clothes, especially if you plan to swim or hike.

Group Size and Guides

Limited to six participants, the small-group format ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Guides are generally well-reviewed for their friendliness and knowledge, making the tour both fun and informative.

Accessibility and Suitability

This experience is best suited for non-wheelchair users and non-swimmers due to the nature of kayaking and swimming in the river. It’s a physically moderate activity, but the scenic rewards are worth the effort.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This kayak trip shines because of its combination of natural beauty and educational value. The guides’ expertise enriches your understanding of the desert environment, and the photos help you share the results of your effort. Plus, visiting spots like the Emerald Cave and Cranes Nest Wash, which are challenging to reach independently, makes this tour stand out. The small group size fosters a more intimate experience, and the opportunity to see wildlife like eagles or bighorn sheep adds a real-world element of nature observation.

Who Will Love This Experience?

Travelers who enjoy outdoor adventure, scenic landscapes, and wildlife watching will find this kayak tour ideal. It’s also perfect for those wanting a small-group, personalized experience that combines physical activity with cultural and natural insights. If you’re looking for an active way to see the desert’s hidden gems and don’t mind getting your feet wet, this trip is a great choice.

This kayak tour from Willow Beach Marina offers a well-balanced mix of scenery, wildlife, and history, all within a manageable five-hour window. It’s a fantastic option if you love being on the water and want to explore remote parts of the Black Canyon that few visitors see. The guides’ local knowledge and the chance to photograph iconic spots like the Emerald Cave make it memorable. While it’s best suited for active, non-wheelchair users who enjoy small-group experiences, those who do join will likely walk away with lasting impressions of desert wilderness and river life.

The value lies not only in the stunning views but in the intimate, guided approach that makes this more than just a paddle—it’s a well-rounded, authentic adventure. Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers craving a bit of outdoor exploration away from the crowds, this tour provides a genuine taste of the Colorado River’s rugged beauty.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to accommodate a range of skill levels, and guides will provide safety and paddle instructions before leaving.

How long do we paddle each day?
You’ll spend most of the five hours on the water, including stops for exploring the Emerald Cave, swimming, and visiting the private beach.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No, all kayak equipment and safety gear are provided as part of the tour.

Can I participate if I am not a strong swimmer?
Participation requires being comfortable swimming in the river, as swimming is included during the break at the private beach.

What should I wear?
Quick-drying clothes, swimwear, water shoes, sunglasses, and sun protection are recommended. A windbreaker is also suggested for cooler moments.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or non-swimmers.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
Morning sessions are typically available and are recommended for better lighting and calmer waters.

Is there an age limit?
The description doesn’t specify age limits, but due to physical activity involved, it’s best for guests who can paddle comfortably and swim.

How do I receive the photos?
Photos taken by guides will be shared via a Google Drive link after the tour, so you can download and keep your memories.

This guided kayak journey offers a healthy dose of adventure, learning, and breathtaking scenery, making it a standout choice for those seeking an active outdoor experience near Las Vegas. Whether you’re into wildlife, photography, or just escaping into nature, this trip promises a memorable day on the Colorado River.

You can check availability for your dates here: