Giant Mantaray SUP to Emerald Cave: Guided Group Paddle from Willow Beach
Paddle a four-person Giant Mantaray SUP through Black Canyon to see the glowing Emerald Cave. This beginner-friendly, guided 4-hour tour from Willow Beach blends easy paddling, swimming stops and desert-canyon scenery—perfect for families or friends.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start early for cooler temperatures
Launch in the morning to avoid peak heat and strong afternoon winds; the cave light is best before noon.
Wear reef shoes
Protected shoes make scrambling onto slick rocks and boarding easier after swims.
Bring a dry bag and phone case
Low-angle shots from the board are worth preserving—keep electronics sealed and close at hand.
Check weight limits with operator
Tours collect passenger weights for safe buoyancy and balance—declare accurate weights during booking.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Echo Cave’s echoing alcove—great for short, sheltered swims
- •Shallow side coves 5–10 minutes from the cave where cliff lizards sun and water is calm
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep on rocky ridges
- •Peregrine falcons and canyon wrens along the cliffs
Conservation Note
Visitors should remove all trash, avoid disturbing nesting raptors on cliff ledges, and clean gear to prevent invasive species like quagga mussels.
Black Canyon’s steep basalt walls are the result of volcanic flows later sculpted by the Colorado River; Hoover Dam and subsequent water management reshaped local water levels and access.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the center of the Mantaray facing the cave entrance
- • Low-angle, board-level shots of canyon reflections
- • At the cove mouth to capture the green wash inside Emerald Cave
What to Bring
Reef shoes or water sandalsEssential
Secure footing on wet rocks and ease when exiting the board for swims.
Dry bag (small)Essential
Keeps phone, keys and snacks dry on a low-profile board.
Rash guard or lightweight sun shirtEssential
Lightweight UV protection when the sun sits high over the canyon.
Reusable water bottle with filter or insulated bottle
Hydration is critical in the desert; refill with provided bottled water as needed.
Common Questions
Do I need prior paddleboarding experience?
No—this tour is beginner-friendly; guides teach basics and the Giant Mantaray is very stable.
What is included in the tour price?
Guides, the Giant Mantaray SUP, paddles, lifejackets, bottled water and snacks are included.
Are children allowed and is there an age minimum?
Children are welcome but must meet operator age/weight requirements and be supervised; check booking questions for specific age limits.
Where do we meet and is there parking?
Meet at Kayak Beach on Willow Beach Road; there’s parking nearby after paying the Lake Mead entry fee at the toll booth.
Is there a weight limit for the Mantaray board?
Yes—the operator requests passenger weights during booking to ensure safe load distribution; disclose accurate weights.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours may be cancelled for unsafe conditions; cancel at least 24 hours for a full refund per policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Willow Beach, AZ
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most people with basic mobility; you should be able to kneel, stand briefly, and swim.
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