The 4 Best Kayak & Paddleboard Tours in Nashville

1.Kayak Rental in Downtown Nashville with Shuttle

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 151 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $59Our pick

Meet River Queen Voyages beside the Bridge Building, ride a shuttle to Shelby Park, then paddle a calm three-mile stretch back toward downtown. Your kayak, paddle, life jacket, and safety briefing are included. This self-guided trip suits beginners and takes about two hours.

“The weather was beautiful for this experience. First time I’d ever been kayaking. I was nervous but the staff assured me I would be safe & enjoy it! They were right. Me & my wife both had a blast doing this. We plan to definitely do this again sometime in the future. We did this for our 7 year wedding anniversary & I’m glad we did it!!!”

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2.Nashville Guided Kayak Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 149 reviews · from $49

Meet at Shelby Bottoms Nature Center, take the complimentary shuttle to the launch point, and paddle about three miles with guides such as Josh, Sarah, Dan, or Melissa. Expect calm water, skyline views, basic instruction, small groups, and a return to the meeting point.

“Our guide was very patient with our group. Most were inexperienced kayaker. It was a lovely time. Would do it again”

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3.Nashville Guided Paddleboard Tour along Cumberland River

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 54 reviews · from $49Top rated

Start at Shelby Bottoms Nature Center for a two-hour guided paddle on the Cumberland River. Josh, Dan, or another Big Willies guide provides safety instruction, gear, water, and sunscreen. Beginners are welcome, and windy weather may mean switching to a kayak.

“Our guide was super helpful! We fell a couple times (our balance isnt the best) But we had soo many laughs! We love that they take picture so that the memories are there to look back at later! Highly Recommend”

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4.Downtown Kayak Rental with Shuttle

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 23 reviews · 1 hour · from $45Best value

Meet River Queen Voyages at 2 Victory Ave, ride the shuttle to Shelby Park, and paddle three miles back downtown in about an hour. You’ll get a kayak, paddle, life jacket, short lesson, and help at the water. The route is calm, scenic, and ideal for first-time kayakers.

“Brilliant activity, if you're lucky you'll catch some wildlife include beautiful little turtles. The scenery of the Nashville skyline is second to none. Just remember sun screen on your legs when it's sunny cause I burned pretty bad not thinking 😂”

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