Paddleboard on Lake Mead and the Colorado River

1. Where to Rent Paddleboards

Taken by Lauren Hyde

First, you ll need to get some paddleboards before heading out to the lake. There are several places that you can rent stand-up paddleboards from for the day or by the hour. Desert Adventures in Boulder City offers rentals that they can transport for you or that you can load up in your own car. Lake Mead Marina also offers paddleboard rentals making it easy; they ll help you get going right from the dock. Of course, if you have your own personal paddleboards, you can go ahead and hit the lake!

2. Where to Launch your Boards

Taken by Lauren Hyde

Be aware that there are fees per vehicle when entering Lake Mead National Recreation Area. Once inside, you can access Hemenway Harbor, where you can put your boards in off the dock and paddle around safely. Right next to the harbor is Boulder Beach, which is also a great place to paddle without worrying about too many boats.

Further south is Lake Mohave, which is a part of the Colorado River. Willow Beach Marina offers paddleboard rentals that can be put in the water right at the pier. You can paddle up or float down the river. This is a peaceful place that makes paddleboarding a serene experience.

3. Bonus: Rent a Pontoon Boat

If you plan on spending the day on the water with a group, it s a good idea to rent a larger boat that everyone can hang out on. You can bring the boards on the boat and take turns paddling on the river. When everyone s ready for a break, you can stop, have lunch on the boat, and go for a swim. When you re all done, it s no hassle to return the rentals.