Lake Mead: Sunset Kayaking Tour with Dinner and Campfire

If you’re looking for a way to combine stunning desert scenery with a peaceful water adventure, the Lake Mead Sunset Kayaking Tour offers a pretty special experience. From what we’ve gathered, it’s a great option if you want to enjoy a beautiful sunset on the water while sipping a drink, sharing a meal, and even roasting marshmallows by the fire. It’s not a strenuous activity—more about soaking in the atmosphere and making some fun memories.

What we really like about this tour is the chance to paddle in illuminated kayaks at night, creating a gentle, glowing trail back across the water. Plus, the dinner and campfire add a cozy, social element that turns a simple kayak trip into a full evening affair. On the downside, the tour is fairly limited in its scope—no hotel transfers are included, so you’ll need to plan your transportation.

This experience seems best suited for those who enjoy relaxed outdoor evenings, whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or in a small group of friends. If you’re after an active, adrenaline-packed boat ride, you might want to look elsewhere. But if a gentle paddle, stunning views, and some good old campfire fun appeal to you, this could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Beautiful sunset views over Lake Mead and the Boulder Islands.
• Evening paddling with illuminated kayaks that add a magical touch.
• Includes a catered dinner and s’mores, making it a full outdoor experience.
• Perfect for a romantic date, family outing, or small group looking for a relaxed evening.
• No hotel pickup included, so plan your transportation.
• A 3-hour round-trip activity, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect During the Tour

The adventure begins at Hemenway Harbor, a spot that’s easy to find once you’ve turned off Boulder City Parkway onto Lakeshore Road. The meeting point is straightforward: follow Hemenway Road for about three-quarters of a mile, then look for the parking lot on the right, with the “Evolution Expeditions” van ready to roll. Here, your guide will equip you with gear, and you’ll hop into your kayak.

Paddling to Boulder Islands

The highlight of the tour is paddling out to the Boulder Islands, a cluster of rocky outcroppings surrounded by crystal-clear water. This is a fantastic spot for soaking in the sunset, with the desert landscape turning shades of pink and orange as the sky shifts. The water here is refreshingly cool, and you’ll have time to swim or relax on the islands if you like.

Dinner with a View

Once anchored near the island, you’ll enjoy a catered dinner from a local deli. The menu isn’t specified, but the focus is on quality comfort food—think sandwiches, salads, or similar fare. The combination of good food and stunning scenery makes for a pretty memorable dining experience. Many reviews mention that the dinner is “simple but satisfying,” which suits the laid-back vibe of the tour.

Campfire and S’mores

After dinner, the group gathers around a campfire, roasting s’mores and sharing stories. This part of the experience adds a warm, social element that many find charming. The fire is set up at the island, providing a cozy centerpiece against the twilight.

More Great Tours Nearby

Glowing Paddle Home

As night falls, you’ll switch on your illuminated kayaks for the return trip. Paddling back under the stars, the water lights up beneath your strokes, creating a quiet, almost meditative atmosphere. The glow of your kayaks combined with the darkening desert sky makes for a peaceful, almost otherworldly experience.

The Value of This Tour

At $189 per person, this tour offers more than just the kayaking. It’s a blend of gentle adventure, scenic beauty, and relaxed social time, all packed into a 3-hour experience. The price covers all gear, the kayaks, dinner, snacks, s’mores, water, and park entry—so there are no hidden costs. The inclusions mean you can focus on enjoying the moment without worrying about extra fees.

While you might find other water-based activities in the area, this one stands out because of its emphasis on atmosphere and the sunset experience. The small group format, guided by a live English-speaking guide, ensures a personal touch and the chance to ask questions or get tips.

The Practical Side

Keep in mind, hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, so you’ll need to organize your own transportation. The meeting point is well-marked, and the guide’s van is easy to spot. The tour generally takes place in the evening around 5:00 pm, timed to catch the cooling air and the sunset spectacle.

The experience includes all necessary gear, so there’s no need to worry about packing or renting equipment. Just bring a camera to capture the gorgeous sunset, and water shoes for comfort on the water.

What We Like and What to Consider

Based on reviews and the tour details, we love the serene paddle at sunset—the glowing kayaks make it feel almost magical, and the campfire with s’mores is a fun way to unwind. People also appreciate the relaxed pace and the natural beauty of Lake Mead and the surrounding desert landscape.

However, some might find the lack of hotel pickup inconvenient, especially if you’re staying outside the immediate area. Also, since the dinner is catered and straightforward, it’s probably best for those who enjoy simple, hearty food rather than gourmet fare.

In terms of suitability, this tour appears perfect for those wanting a low-key, scenic evening adventure—families with older children, couples, or small groups of friends. It’s less about physical exertion and more about soaking in the atmosphere and spending quality time outdoors.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic, and slightly whimsical evening on Lake Mead, this Sunset Kayaking Tour ticks a lot of boxes. The combination of paddling, dining, campfire fun, and starry paddling is a refreshing break from the more high-energy Vegas excursions. It’s especially appealing if you love water, nature, and a good sunset.

For travelers seeking a peaceful outing that blends adventure with social warmth, this tour offers genuine value. The setting is gorgeous, the experience unique, and many reviews highlight how memorable the evening can be. Just remember to plan your transportation, bring your camera, and be ready for an hour or so of gentle paddling under the open sky.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No. The tour includes all gear and equipment, so you just need to show up prepared to paddle and enjoy.

Is the dinner included?
Yes, a catered dinner from a local deli is part of the package, along with snacks and s’mores.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, there’s time for swimming and hanging out on the islands, which many guests enjoy.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed as a relaxed experience, but it’s best suited for older children comfortable with paddling and outdoor activities.

Are the kayaks illuminated?
Yes, the kayaks are lit up, creating a glowing trail back from the islands—adding a magical touch to the return paddle.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, water shoes, and perhaps layers for the cooler evening air. No alcohol or drugs are permitted.

This Lake Mead Sunset Kayaking Tour combines the best of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and relaxed social fun. Whether you’re celebrating a special night or just want to enjoy the desert and water at dusk, it’s a solid way to create some memorable moments—without overdoing it.

You can check availability for your dates here: