Giant Mantaray SUP Tour to Emerald Cave from Willow Beach
Paddle a four-person Mantaray from Willow Beach and glide into the glow of Emerald Cave on this beginner-friendly, 4-mile round-trip SUP tour. Guides, gear, snacks, and multiple swim stops make it a relaxed, social way to experience Black Canyon’s river-carved rock and clear green water.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early to beat heat and traffic
Parking and the Lake Mead entrance station can clog midday—arrive 30–45 minutes early and bring cash or card for the park fee.
Wear sun-protective layers
The canyon offers short stretches of shade; a long-sleeve sun shirt and brimmed hat will keep you comfortable during long exposure.
Bring a dry bag and water bottle
Guides supply bottled water, but store phones and snacks in a small dry bag to keep them safe during swims.
Weight and balance matter
Distribute group weight evenly on the Mantaray and listen to guide instructions when boarding to avoid tipping the platform.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small side coves near Echo Cave that are quiet for quick cliff jumps and snorkeling
- •A boulder-strewn bench halfway to Emerald Cave that offers a shaded picnic spot at low tide
Wildlife
- •great blue heron
- •desert bighorn sheep (seen on distant cliffs)
Conservation Note
Operators follow Lake Mead National Recreation Area guidelines to limit disturbance—avoid entering marked closures and pack out all trash to protect riparian habitat.
The Colorado River here was historically a route for steamboats and miners; Willow Beach developed as a river access and later as a recreational launch for Lake Mead visitors.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the mouth of Emerald Cave facing upstream
- • Onboard the Mantaray looking back at canyon walls
- • A short stretch of shoreline near Echo Cave for low-angle water reflections
What to Bring
Dry bagEssential
Keeps phone, keys, and spare layers dry during swims and splashes.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin from strong desert sun without harming aquatic environments.
Water shoesEssential
Makes scrambling on rocky shorelines and getting in and out of the water safer and more comfortable.
Light sun shirt or rashguard
Provides UPF protection and dries quickly after swims.
Common Questions
Do I need prior SUP experience?
No—this tour is guided and designed for beginners; guides offer basic instruction and the Mantaray’s stability reduces the learning curve.
Is there a weight limit for the Mantaray?
Outfitters request weight information at booking; the platform holds multiple adults but guide staff will set safe capacity per trip.
Can children join the tour?
Yes—families are welcome, but operators typically require children to be supervised and wear properly fitted lifejackets.
What happens in bad weather?
Trips run in most conditions; cancelation policies allow a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours ahead—operators may adjust or cancel for severe weather.
Are restrooms available at the launch?
Basic facilities are available at the Willow Beach launch area, but amenities are limited once you’re on the water.
Is the trip wheelchair or accessibility friendly?
The launch area has uneven terrain and water access steps; discuss mobility needs with the operator before booking to confirm suitability.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Willow Beach, Arizona
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires basic balance and the ability to paddle while standing or sitting for short intervals.
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