A Guide for Paddle Boarding Tempe Town Lake

Tempe Town Lake, nestled in the heart of Arizona, offers a unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for paddle boarding Tempe Town Lake enthusiasts. With its expansive waters and picturesque skyline, the lake serves as a perfect backdrop for both seasoned paddlers and beginners looking to dive into the sport. This guide provides essential information on paddle boarding at Tempe Town Lake, from where to launch your board to where to relax after a day on the water.

DISCLAIMER: Before traveling to a paddle location, ensure that the location still allows for paddle boarding and make yourself aware of any rules and regulations in place.

An Overview Of Tempe Town Lake

If you ask anyone in the Phoenix Metro area where to go paddle, they're likely to suggest Tempe Town Lake.

Tempe Town Lake is a man-made reservoir situated in the northern part of downtown Tempe, where the Salt River and Indian Bend Wash meet. It is also located at the northwest corner of Mill Avenue and Rio Salado Parkway in Arizona.

This stunning two-mile-long lake boasts picturesque bridges, year-round events and festivals, and breathtaking views. The lake receives most of its water from the Colorado River. It's the most convenient paddle boarding Tempe Town Lake place within the Phoenix Metro area.

• Water types: Calm water, but the water is not the cleanest. The water is very still, making this an excellent spot for those just getting the hang of paddle boarding.
• Skill levels: This location is better suited for beginning to intermediate paddlers. For people with more paddling expertise, this may not be the most exhilarating paddle.
• Amenities:
  • Tempe Town Lake Marina has no parking restrictions or fees, but it's worth checking for any events that may limit parking options.
  • Various parks, shopping districts, and office buildings enclose the lake. While there are various drop-in spots from small docks along the lake's perimeter, the Tempe Town Lake Marina is the most convenient.

Riverbound notes: Watercraft must follow a counter-clockwise pattern around the lake. Lights are required to be attached to your board if paddling before sunrise or after sunset. Either a PFD or leash must be worn while SUPing.

Can You Paddle Board on Tempe Town Lake?

Yes, paddle boarding Tempe Town Lake is an allowed activity. It is one of the most popular water activities on the lake.

All types of watercraft, including paddle boards, require a permit to be used on Town Lake. You can obtain permits at either the Tempe Public Library or the Pyle Adult Recreation Center. However, if you rent a watercraft from Riverbound Sports, a local outfitter, they will provide permits with all rentals.

Where to Paddle Board at Tempe Town Lake?

If you love being near the lake, sunset is the perfect time to visit.

Source: freepik

There are two convenient launch points for paddle boarding:

• Boat Beach: You can launch your boat from the beach or the marina at Tempe Town Lake. If you prefer to park your car near the lawn area on the lake's north, you can conveniently set your board on the grass.
• Small Boat Ramp: If you prefer a shorter walk, there is also a small boat ramp nearby that you can reach on foot.

How Much is Paddle Boarding at Tempe Town Lake?

A paddle boarding Tempe Town Lake trip will require a permit. The cost for an annual permit is $50, but if you’re a resident of Tempe, it’s reduced to $25. Non-residents can purchase a daily permit for $10. You can obtain permits at the Tempe Library or the Pyle Adult Recreation Center, or you can buy your permit online.

⇒ Once you’ve paid for the permit, there are no additional fees for paddle boarding on the lake.

Is Swimming Allowed at Tempe Town Lake?

Swimming is not permitted in Tempe Town Lake. The lake is primarily designated for other water activities, such as paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, and sailing. While you can’t take a dip in the water, you can still enjoy the scenic beauty and tranquility of this urban oasis. So grab your SUP board and explore the calm waters of Tempe Town Lake!

Where to Stay When Paddle Boarding at Tempe Town Lake?

There are many lodging options to stay near Tempe Town Lake, including hotels, vacation rentals, and campgrounds. Some nearby hotels are:

Source: freepik

1. AC Hotel by Marriott Phoenix Tempe/Downtown

This modern hotel is only a 5-minute walk from the lake and offers a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and a bar. The rooms are stylish and comfortable, with free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, and smart TVs.

• The rates start from $169 per night.
• Address: 100 E Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281

2. Tempe Mission Palms Hotel

This upscale hotel is located in the heart of downtown Tempe, close to shops, restaurants, and entertainment. The hotel features a heated outdoor pool, a hot tub, a fitness center, and a restaurant. The rooms are spacious and elegant, with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and balconies.

• The rates start from $199 per night.
• Address: 60 E 5th St, Tempe, AZ 85281

3. Hyatt Place Tempe/Phoenix Airport

This budget-friendly hotel is only a 10-minute drive from the lake and offers a free shuttle service to the airport. The hotel has an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a 24/7 market. The rooms are cozy and functional, with free Wi-Fi, sofa beds, and mini-fridges.

• The rates start from $89 per night.
• Address: 1413 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281

If you prefer a more homey feel, you can also check out some of the vacation rentals available on Airbnb or VRBO. You can find apartments, condos, or houses that can accommodate different group sizes and budgets. Some of the popular rentals near the lake are:

4. Tempe Town Lake Condo

This cozy condo is right on the lakefront and offers stunning views of the water and the city. The condo has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full kitchen, a living room, and a balcony.

• It can host up to six guests and costs $125 per night.
• Address: 1005 W 5th St, Tempe, AZ 85281

5. Tempe Town Lake Retreat

This spacious house is located in a quiet neighborhood just a few minutes from the lake. The house has four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a dining room, and a backyard with a pool and a grill.

• It can host up to 10 guests and costs $300 per night.
• Address: Tempe Town Lake, Tempe, AZ 85280

6. Tempe Town Lake Studio

This charming studio is part of a historic building close to downtown Tempe and the lake. The studio has a queen bed, a bathroom, a kitchenette, a desk, and a TV.

• It can host up to two guests and costs $65 per night.
• Address: Tempe Town Lake, Tempe, AZ 85280

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also camp near the lake at one of the nearby campgrounds. Some of the options are:

7. Lost Dutchman State Park

This scenic park is located at the base of the Superstition Mountains, about 30 miles from the lake. The park offers tent and RV sites, as well as cabins. The park has restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and hiking trails.

• The rates start from $15 per night for tent sites and $30 per night for RV sites.
• Address: 6109 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119

8. Usery Mountain Regional Park

This beautiful park is situated on the east side of the Valley, about 20 miles from the lake. The park has 73 campsites, all with water and electric hookups. The park also has restrooms, showers, dump stations, and a nature center.

• The rates are $32 per night for all sites.
• Address: 3939 N Usery Pass Rd, Mesa, AZ 85207

9. Desert Shadows RV Resort

This luxury resort is located in north Phoenix, about 25 miles from the lake. The resort has over 600 RV sites, all with full hookups and cable TV. The resort also has a heated pool, a spa, a fitness center, a golf course, and a restaurant.

• The rates start from $49 per night for standard sites and $59 per night for premium sites.
• Address: 19203 E Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119

Where to Eat When Paddle Boarding at Tempe Town Lake?

If you're looking for a satisfying meal after a fun-filled paddle boarding Tempe Town Lake day, you won't be disappointed by the variety of restaurants available near Tempe Town Lake. Whether you're craving a hearty burger, a refreshing salad, or some mouth-watering sushi, there's something for everyone. Some of the most popular options in the area include:

Source: freepik

1. The Handlebar Tempe

This casual pub offers American fare, craft beers, and a large patio with lake views. You can try their burgers, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers. The prices are reasonable, and the service is friendly.

• The Handlebar Tempe is located at 680 S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281.

2. Rula Bula Irish Pub

This cozy pub serves authentic Irish food, drinks, and live music. You can savor their fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, corned beef, and Guinness. The atmosphere is lively and festive, especially on weekends.

• Rula Bula Irish Pub is located at 401 S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281.

3. Culinary Dropout

This trendy restaurant features a gastropub menu, cocktails, and a spacious outdoor area with games and fire pits. You can enjoy their fried chicken, meatloaf, mac and cheese, and salads. The servings are plentiful, and the tastes are strong.

• The address of Culinary Dropout is 149 S Farmer Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281.

Paddle Boarding Tempe Town Lake with iROCKER

This is an ideal experience for paddle boarding Tempe Town Lake enthusiasts that combines the thrill of water sports with the beauty of Arizona's landscapes.

Ready for your next paddle boarding adventure? Download the Blue Adventure app to find SUP locations at Tempe Town Lake and beyond. Explore now and dive into your next blue adventure!