Welcome to Austin! Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s nothing quite like spending a hot Texas day floating down the San Marcos River with Frontera Tours. Join me as I walk you through a typical day on this fun and relaxing river adventure.
Morning Check-In
The day starts bright and early at the Austin Visitors Center, where the Frontera Tours team is ready to welcome you with big smiles and an abundance of enthusiasm. Check-in is smooth and organized; we will load your coolers for you with tons of ice provided by the team. Remember, it’s BYOB, so stock up on cans of your favorite drinks—glass and styrofoam are a no-go on the river. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
The Bus Ride Down
Once everyone’s checked in and the coolers are iced, it’s time to hop on the air-conditioned bus for a comfortable ride down to the San Marcos River. This 45-minute journey is filled with lively chatter and laughter as the group gets acquainted. The guides, full of local knowledge and tips, set the tone for the day with their entertaining stories and handy advice on what to expect. The anticipation builds as the scenic Texas landscape rolls by, making the drive as enjoyable as the float itself. Your guides will even bring you beer from your cooler to enjoy on the trip!
Selecting the Perfect Tube
Upon arrival at the river, you’ll disembark and the real fun begins. Frontera Tours provides all the essentials: your choice of tubes, including cooler tubes to keep your drinks easily accessible as you float. The guides help everyone select the right tube and ensure it's properly inflated. Tubes with handles and cup holders are a favorite for their added comfort and convenience.
Floating Down the River
And then, you’re off! The San Marcos River is known for its clear, cool waters, maintaining a refreshing 72 degrees year-round. The float lasts about three to four hours, offering plenty of time to relax and soak up the beautiful natural surroundings. The river is lined with majestic cypress trees, their ancient roots visible along the banks. Keep an eye out for turtles basking in the sun and fish darting through the water below.
One of the highlights of the float is Shotgun Island, the perfect spot to pause, reapply sunscreen, and of course, shotgun a beer if you’re so inclined. This midpoint stop is also a great opportunity to mingle with other floaters and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with a shared adventure. The river’s gentle flow ensures a leisurely pace, making it easy to relax and enjoy the moment without a care in the world.
The Bus Ride Back
After a blissful float, you’ll reach the endpoint where the Frontera Tours team is waiting to help you out of the water and back to the bus. The return trip to Austin is filled with the tired but happy chatter of satisfied floaters sharing their favorite moments from the day. The guides often share a few more stories and provide tips on other great local spots to check out during your stay.
Back in Austin
Arriving back at the Austin Visitors Center, you’ll feel both relaxed and rejuvenated. Whether you’re heading out for more Austin adventures or calling it a day, floating the river with Frontera Tours is an experience you’ll treasure. It’s the perfect way to beat the heat, enjoy some downtime, and make unforgettable memories.
So, grab your friends, pack your cooler, and get ready for a quintessential Texas experience with Frontera Tours. Happy floating!
For more details and booking, visit Frontera Tours.
