It’s summertime and the living is easy. Regardless of whether or not you have a big, out-of-state excursion planned or you’re just looking to unwind at home, Nevada has water adventures aplenty that are sure to provide a memorable and hydrating refresh on even the hottest summer days.
These are Nevada’s best water adventures to enjoy and help make a splash this summer.
Jet boat under the London Bridge
Laughlin
One of the finest water excursions of the Southwest involves a jet boat, the London Bridge and miles of pristine, untouched desert landscapes. Odd as it may seem, all of these elements are uniquely combined through the London Bridge Jet Boat Tours—a Laughlin-based adventure that takes travelers 58 miles down the Colorado River through Topock Gorge and en route to the London Bridge in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, all via a classic jet boat. For more information, visit www.laughlinboattours.com.
Seek adventure with Lake Las Vegas Water Sports
Las Vegas
When it comes to finding unique water adventures in Nevada, you pretty much can’t go wrong with Lake Las Vegas Water Sports. The Henderson-based company offers everything and all in the heart of Nevada. From flyboarding and electric boat rentals to kayaking, paddle boarding, e-foiling and even yachting (for those looking to indulge in a more luxurious water excursion), Lake Las Vegas Water Sports has just about every water sport rental available for hourly, daily and even week-long reservation options. For more information, visit www.lakelasvegaswatersports.com.
Hike to the Kings Canyon Waterfall
Carson City
While this water adventure requires a bit more work to enjoy the final (and notably refreshing) result, locals, visitors and avid hikers alike all seem to agree that Kings Canyon Waterfall is well-worth the extra trek. Situated in Carson City and located only a five-minute drive west of downtown, the falls run year-round and have proven to be a water source to Carson City residents. Besides a scenic hike through the neighboring desert, hikers on the Kings Canyon Waterfall trailhead will eventually be treated to sweeping scenes of the lush, 25-ft. falls at the end—the perfect gem for refreshing yourself after a long hike and marveling at a true desert oasis. For more information, visit www.visitcarsoncity.com.
Make a splash at Cowabunga Bay Water Park
Henderson
No summer is complete without a trip to the local waterpark. And fortunately for tourists and locals alike, Nevada is home to a number of must-visit waterparks and resorts—including Cowabunga Bay Water Park. With a locations in Henderson and Summerlin, this water-centric destination features a wave pool, multiple slides and an area reserved just for the kiddos. And for those looking to extend their visiting opportunities to the waterpark, you can even invest in a season pass—which includes priority early entry, unlimited admission, free parking, a 15 percent food and drink discount, and so much more. For more information, visit www.cowabungavegas.com.
Kayak across Lake Mead
Elko County
Lake Mead really is one of Nevada’s national treasures. And even better, the pristine lake area can even be enjoyed right on the waters—with the help of a kayak or canoe rental, no less. The national recreation allows adventurers of all levels to tap into their own serene or adrenaline-inducing excursion—from paddling across the relaxed waters of Lake Mead to canoeing down the Black Canyon National Water Trail, there really is a water adventure for everyone to enjoy at Lake Mead. For more information on rentals and water trails, visit www.nps.gov.
Cliff jump by Bonsai Rock
Carson City
Nothing screams summer quite like hiking to the peak of a rock butte and then cliff jumping into lush, nearby waters. At Bonsai Rock, cliff jumping is taken to new (even more beautiful) heights, all in one of Lake Tahoe’s most hidden and treasured coves. Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe, Bonsai Rock is an iconic granite boulder that makes for one of the most picturesque spots in all of Nevada. Best of all: the area is sheltered in by a number of cliff jumping-friendly boulders. And if you’re really feeling adventurous, visitors can also swim to the stunning Bonsai Rock and cliff jump into the waters on the southeastern side of the formation.
Ride the waters with Laughlin River Tours
Laughlin
While a road trip through the desert might be the more traditional form of transportation while in Nevada, there are a number of water-centric ways to take in the sights of the state, too—with Laughlin River Tours proving to be a popular alternative for tourists and locals, alike. From scenic dinner cruises to steamboat weddings, daytime charters and even routes that take boat riders up the Colorado River and right up to the iconic London Bridge, Laughlin River Tours gives you the opportunity to appreciate any and every water oasis tucked within Nevada’s expansive desert. For more information, visit www.laughlinrivertours.com.
Lounge beachside at Lake Tahoe
Reno
Contrary to popular belief, Nevada actually does have its own beaches—they just come in the form of lakeside gems settled all around Lake Tahoe. Sure, California might just be a state away. But adventurers hoping to dip their toes in the sand and lounge in style (all without having to leave the comforts of their own state) will appreciate the relaxation provided by Lake Tahoe. Nevada Beach, in particular, features a half mile of a sandy beach shoreline that’s elevated by the backdrop of the surrounding Sierra Mountains. Pull up to the destination for a picnic, get your tan on lakeside or head out into the crystal clear waters for a refreshing swim—perfect for adults and kiddos, alike. For more information, visit www.tahoesouth.com.
Parasail through Zephyr Cove Marina
Lake Tahoe
The Zephyr Cove Marina is situated well within the grounds of Lake Tahoe, and has no shortage of water-friendly activities provided by the marina retailers—with rentals that cover everything from boating and fishing to swimming, paddle boarding and, yes, even parasailing. For those looking to appreciate the waters of Nevada from a more distant vantage point, parasailing provides memorable sights and adventure aplenty. For more information, visit www.zephyrcove.com.
Relax at Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs
Dyer
If you’re looking for a less tame water adventure (think more off-the-beaten-path), then you can’t go wrong with a jaunt to Dyer’s Fish Lake Valley Hot Springs—a county-managed hot spring settled on Nevada’s western border near the California state line. This rugged destination is a hotspot (quite literally) that offers free and public access for a memorable nature soak, plus a variety of camping areas that allow adventurers to set up camp right within 100 feet of the hotspot—and marvel at one of the state’s premier dark sky hubs come nighttime. For more information, visit www.travelnevada.com.