sunday, may 5

Paddlepalooza

As a thank you to the Austin community, join Rowing Dock for our free-to-the-public Paddlepalooza on Sunday, May 5. From open to close, Rowing Dock will provide one hour of FREE kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding to community members on a first come, first serve basis (no advance registration required). Following the first free hour, customers who are interested in staying out longer will be charged at regular rental rates. Any extra time is charged upon your return in half-hour increments.

All experience levels are welcome, whether you're a paddling pro or you're never been paddling. The Paddlepalooza will run from 9am - 8pm. Last boat out is at 7pm, but we recommend arriving by 6:30pm to ensure you're able to get on the water in time!

BOAT SELECTION

Kayaks
Canoes
Stand Up Paddleboards

READY TO GET ON THE WATER?

Our rentals are on a first come, first serve basis (don’t worry, we have a ton of them). All you have to do is show up at our dock in Zilker Park. Bring a valid photo ID, credit card, and fill out a rental waiver at the dock. Pick your boat, put on a life jacket and hit the water.

Find Us

What to bring

We require each of these before you hit the water, no exceptions – but keep in mind our dock doesn’t have secured storage for additional items.

Photo Id

MATCHING CREDIT CARD

Rental Waiver

(provided at dock)

Learn More About What to Bring

RULES & GUIDELINES FOR SMOOTH SAILING

Rule number one, obviously, is to have fun. Alas, there are a few more things to know before you row.

Read all the rules & guidelines

paddlepalooza FAQs

How do I get to Rowing Dock?

Given limited parking options throughout Zilker Park, we heavily encourage ride-sharing, biking, or public transit via CapMetro. There is a large gravel lot East of Mopac for easiest parking, with a 5-10 minute walk to Rowing Dock ($7/vehicle). We ask that all are respectful of our neighbors including the Nature and Science Center, and do not park in their bus/handicap lane. If you do plan to attempt to drive closer, there will be limited parking on a first come, first serve basis in the Rowing Dock parking lot or under the Mopac bridge. Due to an increase in theft in the area, please do not leave any valuables in your car.

What happens after the first hour? Will I get charged?

The first hour of rentals is free, and additional time after that will be prorated by the ½ hour. At least one member in your party is required to provide a valid driver's license and matching credit card. Additional time exceeding the first hour will be applied at Rowing Dock’s standard rental rates to the credit card on file upon the party’s return.

Are all ages welcome?

Yes, as long as parents are on the water with children and feel comfortable taking them, children of all ages are welcome. We do require children to wear life jackets and have sizes specifically for infants, youth, and children, in addition to adult life jackets. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian on the water. Additional age restrictions apply for stand up paddle board (SUP) rentals. Minors 8-15 years old may SUP only if a parent is on the water and will be next to the minor for the duration of the rental.

How old do I have to be to visit Rowing Dock without a parent/guardian?

If you are under 18 years old, a parent or legal guardian must sign your rental waiver for you. If you are under 16 years of age, a parent or guardian must accompany you on your trip.

I have never been paddling. Will I receive instruction?

Yes, all participants will receive basic paddling instruction, and will be paired with a paddle and life jacket that best fits their size. Paddling is an activity for all, whether you’re a pro or a first-timer!

How does the first-come, first serve structure work?

We recommend joining us early to avoid longer lines, and all are welcome on a first-come, first serve basis. We have plenty of boats and will do our very best to pair you with your desired boat of choice (kayak, canoe or stand up paddleboard). If we do run out of one particular vessel option, you are welcome to wait until boats return.

What are the event hours?

Paddlepalooza will run all-day, from open at 9am to close at 8pm. Last boat out is at 7pm, but we recommend arriving by 6pm to ensure you receive a boat!

View our full FAQs

Happening Rowing Dock Paddlepalooza