Willow Beach
A stunning desert oasis on the Colorado River, Willow Beach offers kayaking, fishing, and a refreshing escape near Las Vegas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Willow Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning desert oasis on the Colorado River, Willow Beach offers kayaking, fishing, and a refreshing escape near Las Vegas.
"Willow Beach is a hidden gem nestled in the scenic Black Canyon along the Colorado River."
🚗 Parking & Entrance Fee
Daily entrance fee applies, or use your America the Beautiful Pass. Parking can fill up quickly on weekends.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The desert sun is intense! Bring plenty of water, especially if hiking or spending extended time outdoors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Emerald Cove Exploration
Colorado River
Paddle through stunning canyons to a hidden emerald-green cave. A truly magical experience!
Striped Bass Fishing
Colorado River
Reel in impressive striped bass in the clear waters. A prime spot for anglers seeking a challenge.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Colorado River
Glide along the scenic river, surrounded by dramatic canyon walls. Rent or bring your own watercraft.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Kayak to Emerald Cove
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Entrance Fee
Daily entrance fee applies, or use your America the Beautiful Pass. Parking can fill up quickly on weekends.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The desert sun is intense! Bring plenty of water, especially if hiking or spending extended time outdoors.
🎣 Fishing Licenses
Ensure you have the correct Arizona or Nevada fishing license before casting your line.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Willow Beach is a great spot to bring your furry friends for some water play!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Entrance Fee
Daily entrance fee applies, or use your America the Beautiful Pass. Parking can fill up quickly on weekends.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The desert sun is intense! Bring plenty of water, especially if hiking or spending extended time outdoors.
🎣 Fishing Licenses
Ensure you have the correct Arizona or Nevada fishing license before casting your line.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Willow Beach is a great spot to bring your furry friends for some water play!
🛶 Guided Tours Recommended
For Emerald Cove, consider a guided kayak tour for ease and local insights.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Willow Beach for its serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery, making it a lovely spot for relaxation and family outings. The clear, albeit cold, water is perfect for swimming and water sports, and the fishing opportunities are a major draw for anglers. While some find the beach rocky and mention seaweed, the overall experience is highly positive, with ample parking and friendly wildlife adding to its charm.
"Willow Beach is very nice and quiet spot along the lake. We came here everyday to relax and sit by the water."
Topher Ellis
"Amazing small beach for family with little ones ."
Hatidza Coralic
"Lovely long beach, kind of rocky but otherwise very nice with clean water. There is a lot of long seaweed but it's easy to find deeper water without it; the ducks are very friendly and super cute. Not as busy as some of the beaches in Kelowna, with a lot of parking and bathrooms on-site."
Ebs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Willow Beach is conveniently located about 45 minutes to an hour's drive south of the Las Vegas Strip, making it an easy day trip.
Driving is the most common and recommended method. The beach is easily accessible via U.S. Highway 93.
Public transportation options are very limited or non-existent. Renting a car or using ride-sharing services from Las Vegas is advised.
Yes, you can drive to Willow Beach and there is parking available, though it can fill up on busy days.
The drive itself, especially along the Colorado River and through the Black Canyon, is quite scenic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a daily entrance fee, typically around $25, but it's free if you have the National Park Service's America the Beautiful Pass.
The America the Beautiful Pass provides free entry, which is a great option if you plan to visit multiple national parks and recreation areas.
For general beach access, advance booking isn't usually required. However, guided tours for activities like kayaking to Emerald Cove should be booked ahead.
Willow Beach is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific marina or facility hours may vary, so it's best to check locally if you plan on using services.
Yes, the America the Beautiful Pass is accepted for entrance fees at Willow Beach.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing for striped bass, swimming, boating, and hiking in the surrounding Black Canyon.
Yes, the water is generally clear and refreshing, though it can be quite cold, even in summer.
Yes, rentals are often available at the Willow Beach Marina or through tour operators like EZ Kayak Tours.
Emerald Cove is a stunning hidden cave accessible by kayak or paddleboard from Willow Beach. Guided tours are highly recommended.
Yes, there are opportunities for hiking, particularly along the Black Canyon, with some trails leading to historical sites.
🎫 🎣 Fishing
Willow Beach is renowned for its striped bass fishing. You can also find rainbow trout and other species. +1
Yes, you will need a valid Arizona or Nevada fishing license, depending on where you are fishing from.
Absolutely! Kayak fishing is very popular here, allowing anglers to access prime spots along the river.
Early mornings and late evenings are often the most productive times for fishing, especially for striped bass.
While not as common as in larger fishing destinations, some local outfitters may offer guided fishing trips, especially for striped bass. Inquire at the marina.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the dramatic Black Canyon landscapes, the emerald waters of Emerald Cove, and the vibrant sunsets over the Colorado River.
Yes, kayaking offers unique perspectives for photography. Ensure your camera or phone is protected from water.
Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, provides beautiful lighting for landscape and water photography.
The drive into Willow Beach offers stunning canyon views. Once on the water, the approach to Emerald Cove is particularly photogenic.
Drone usage may be restricted in national recreation areas. Always check current regulations with the National Park Service before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kayaking and paddleboarding are excellent activities for older children and teens, and guided tours can make it easier for families to explore. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and sunscreen is essential. While there isn't a large playground directly on the beach, the natural environment offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and fun. The friendly ducks are also a highlight for many kids.
🎣 Anglers
🐶 Pet Owners
+1 Remember to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Emerald Cove by Kayak
+2The emerald hue of the water inside the cove is truly mesmerizing, creating a unique and unforgettable photographic opportunity. Be prepared for the water to be cool, even on hot days, and ensure your electronics are protected from splashes. The experience is often described as magical and a must-do for anyone visiting Willow Beach.
+1When planning your trip, consider booking your kayak tour in advance, especially during peak season or weekends, as they can fill up quickly. The guided tours offer a safe and informative way to experience this natural wonder.
Fishing for Striped Bass
Anglers often use swimbaits and trout lures to entice the striped bass. Kayak fishing is particularly popular, allowing you to navigate the river and reach prime fishing spots that might be inaccessible from the shore. Remember to secure the correct Arizona or Nevada fishing license before you cast your line, as regulations are enforced.
The best times for fishing are typically early mornings and late evenings when the fish are most active. The scenic backdrop of the Black Canyon adds to the overall enjoyment of a fishing trip at Willow Beach.
Family Fun and Water Activities
+1Beyond the beach, kayaking and paddleboarding are major draws. Families can rent equipment or join guided tours to explore the river and its scenic surroundings. The opportunity to see local wildlife, like ducks, adds to the charm for younger visitors.
+1For those looking for a more relaxed experience, simply enjoying the scenic views and the cool river breeze is a great way to spend the day. The beach also offers amenities like parking and restrooms, making it a convenient spot for a family outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit